An e-vapor device may include a cartridge configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein. The e-vapor device may additionally include a dispensing body including a ratchet assembly and configured to receive a vaporizer to interact with the ratchet assembly. The vaporizer is configured to access the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge via a coupling action and to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor. The ratchet assembly is configured to undergo a mechanical incrementation with each coupling action to facilitate a simultaneous removal of the cartridge with the vaporizer coupled thereto after a designated number of coupling actions. Accordingly, the overuse of the vaporizer and the adverse sensory effects associated therewith can be reduced or prevented.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to electronic vapor devices including self-contained articles including pre-vapor formulations.

Description of Related Art

Some e-vapor devices include a first section coupled to a second section via a threaded connection. The first section may be a replaceable cartridge, and the second section may be a reusable fixture. The threaded connection may be a combination of a male threaded member on the first section and a female threaded receiver on the second section. The first section includes an outer tube (or housing) extending in a longitudinal direction and an inner tube within the outer tube. The inner tube may be coaxially positioned within the outer tube. The second section may also include the outer tube (or housing) extending in a longitudinal direction. The e-vapor device includes a central air passage defined in part by the inner tube and an upstream seal. Additionally, the e-vapor device includes a reservoir. The reservoir is configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation and optionally a storage medium operable to store the pre-vapor formulation therein. The reservoir is contained in an outer annulus between the outer tube and the inner tube. The outer annulus is sealed by the seal at an upstream end and by a stopper at a downstream end so as to prevent leakage of the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir.

SUMMARY

An e-vapor device may include a cartridge configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein. The e-vapor device may additionally include a dispensing body including a ratchet assembly and configured to receive a vaporizer to interact with the ratchet assembly. The vaporizer is configured to access the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge via a coupling action and to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor. The ratchet assembly is configured to undergo a mechanical incrementation with each coupling action to facilitate a simultaneous removal of the cartridge with the vaporizer coupled thereto after a designated number of coupling actions.

The cartridge may be in a form of a mouthpiece. The cartridge may be a hermetically-sealed container. The cartridge may be sealed with a ball check valve arrangement.

The vaporizer may be configured to press against a ball structure of the ball check valve arrangement to release the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge during the coupling action. The vaporizer may be configured to unite with the cartridge via a snap-fit arrangement during the coupling action.

The ratchet assembly may be configured to rotate in response to the coupling action as part of the mechanical incrementation. The ratchet assembly may be configured to initially latch onto the vaporizer during the coupling action and to incrementally disengage from the vaporizer with each coupling action such that the vaporizer is released from the ratchet assembly after the designated number of coupling actions. Alternatively, the ratchet assembly may be configured to incrementally engage the vaporizer to the cartridge with each coupling action such that the vaporizer is conjoined to the cartridge after the designated number of coupling actions. The ratchet assembly may be configured to facilitate the simultaneous removal of the cartridge with the vaporizer coupled thereto after two to ten coupling actions (e.g., three to six coupling actions).

The e-vapor device may further include a mouthpiece structure configured to house the cartridge and to connect with the dispensing body such that the cartridge is between the mouthpiece structure and the dispensing body. An outer surface of the cartridge may be configured to conform to an inner surface of the mouthpiece structure. The cartridge may be integrated with the mouthpiece structure.

An e-vapor device may include a cartridge configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein, the cartridge being a sealed container. The e-vapor device may additionally include a dispensing body including a mouthpiece end and a vaporizer at an opposing base end. The base end is configured to couple with the cartridge such that the pre-vapor formulation is in fluidic communication with the vaporizer. The vaporizer is configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor.

The cartridge may be sealed with a ball check valve arrangement. The dispensing body may further include a battery between the mouthpiece end and the vaporizer.

An e-vapor device may include a cartridge including a plurality of compartments, each of the plurality of compartments configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein. The e-vapor device may additionally include a dispensing body including a vaporizer. The cartridge may be rotatably-mounted on the dispensing body via the vaporizer. The cartridge is configured to rotate around the vaporizer such that one of the plurality of compartments is aligned so as to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer.

The cartridge may be disk-shaped. The plurality of compartments are fluidically-isolated from each other. The vaporizer may be configured to remain stationary during a rotation of the cartridge.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1is a perspective view of an e-vapor device with a mouthpiece/cartridge configuration according to an example embodiment. Referring toFIG. 1, an e-vapor device100includes a mouthpiece structure102that is removably connected to a dispensing body104. The mouthpiece structure102and the dispensing body104are shaped so as to provide a relatively smooth transition between their respective surfaces when joined together to form the e-vapor device100. In an example embodiment, the e-vapor device100may have a flattened form so as to be wider than it is tall. Additionally, the dispensing body104may constitute a majority of the length of the e-vapor device100. The back of the e-vapor device100(e.g., upper surface shown inFIG. 1) may be flatter than the underside of the e-vapor device100. For instance, the underside of the e-vapor device100may have a belly that is fuller more extended) at the adjoining portions of the mouthpiece structure102and the dispensing body104than at the end portions of the e-vapor device100.

The mouthpiece structure102may include a cartridge that is configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation (e.g., e-liquid) therein. A pre-vapor formulation is 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 glycerine and propylene glycol. The cartridge may be a hermetically-sealed container. The cartridge will be discussed in further detail in connection with subsequent figures. The vapor generated is drawn out of the e-vapor device100via the proximal end of the mouthpiece structure102(which is opposite to the end that is connected to the dispensing body104). The mouthpiece structure102may taper toward the proximal end to form a snout-like configuration, which defines an outlet for the vapor. The dispensing body104may also taper toward the distal end (which is opposite to the end that is connected to the mouthpiece structure102) to form a flattened tail-like structure. However, it should be understood that the mouthpiece structure102, the dispensing body104, and the overall e-vapor device100are not limited to the above examples and, thus, may have other suitable shapes, configurations, and forms (e.g., symmetrical shape).

The mouthpiece structure102may be integrated with the cartridge so as to engage with (and disengage from) the dispensing body104as a combined structure. In such an instance, the cartridge will not separate from the mouthpiece structure102during a normal operation of the e-vapor device100. As a result, detaching the mouthpiece structure102from the dispensing body104will also result in the removal of the cartridge. Consequently, the mouthpiece structure102may be a single-use structure that is discarded with the cartridge (e.g., when replacing the cartridge).

Additionally, rather than a combined structure, the cartridge itself may be in a form of the mouthpiece structure102so as to be a single structure (instead of a plurality of integrated elements) that is configured to be attached/detached from the dispensing body104. The cartridge may be the mouthpiece structure102, and the mouthpiece structure102may be the cartridge (instead of integrating an element that will function as the mouthpiece structure102with another element that will function as the cartridge to form a combined structure). In such an example, the internal volume of the mouthpiece structure102(other than the vapor passage extending therethrough) may contain the pre-vapor formulation.

Alternatively, the mouthpiece structure102may be an independent element that houses the cartridge such that the cartridge may be separated from the mouthpiece structure102during a normal operation of the e-vapor device. For example, the cartridge may be configured to initially connect to the dispensing body104prior to connecting the mouthpiece structure102to the dispensing body104(and/or to the cartridge). The removal of the mouthpiece structure102and the cartridge may occur in the reverse order of their connection to the dispensing body104. For instance, to replace the cartridge of the e-vapor device100, the mouthpiece structure102may be initially detached from the dispensing body104to expose the cartridge, and then the cartridge may be detached from the dispensing body104. After connecting the replacement cartridge to the dispensing body104, the mouthpiece structure102may be reconnected to the dispensing body104so as to cover the cartridge.

Because the mouthpiece structure102may be configured as a permanent or semi-permanent element of the e-vapor device100and, thus, does not need to be discarded each time the cartridge is replaced, the mouthpiece structure102may be provided with aesthetic effects. Notably, the mouthpiece structure102may, in addition to its intended functionality, provide a visual or other sensory appeal to the adult vaper. In particular, the mouthpiece structure102may be formed of an ornamental material (e.g., wood, metal, ceramic, plastic) and/or include designs (e.g., patterns, images, characters). Thus, the mouthpiece structure102may be customized so as to provide an expression of personality and individuality by an adult vaper.

The dispensing body104may include a ratchet assembly and is configured to receive a vaporizer to interact with the ratchet assembly. The ratchet assembly will be discussed in further detail in connection with subsequent figures. The vaporizer is configured to access the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge via a coupling action and to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor. In an example embodiment, the ratchet assembly is configured to undergo a mechanical incrementation with each coupling action (between the vaporizer and the cartridge) to facilitate a simultaneous removal of the cartridge with the vaporizer coupled thereto after a designated number of coupling actions. As a result, the potential for overuse of the vaporizer and the adverse sensory effects stemming therefrom) can be reduced or prevented.

FIG. 2is a partially exploded view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 2, the dispensing body104is configured to receive a vaporizer106. The vaporizer106may be cylindrically shaped with one or more guide structures on its outer side wall. The one or more guide structures may be in the form of one or more parallel ridges that extend along a partial length of the vaporizer106. For instance, the ridges may be in the form of two parallel strips on opposite sides of the vaporizer106, wherein the strips extend longitudinally from an end of the vaporizer106(that will be received by the dispensing body104) along a partial length of the vaporizer106(e.g., along one-third to two-thirds a length of the vaporizer106), although example embodiments are not limited thereto. When assembled, the mouthpiece structure102is configured to engage the concave end of the vaporizer106as well as the dispensing body104.

FIG. 3is another partially exploded view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 3, the dispensing body104includes a recess configured to accommodate the cylindrical shape of the vaporizer106and the guide structures on the outer side wall thereof so as to interact with a ratchet assembly within the dispensing body104. The depth of the recess is such that the vaporizer106protrudes therefrom when in a neutral, resting position in the recess. In an example embodiment, the guide structures on the outer side wall of the vaporizer106also protrude from the recess when the vaporizer106is at equilibrium therein (e.g., in the absence of an external force pushing the vaporizer106into the recess). Because at least the surface defining the opening to the recess may be contoured to correspond to the circular cross-section of the vaporizer106and the guide structures on the outer side wall thereof, the vaporizer106may remain aligned in the recess and, thus, prevented from rotating therein while the guide structures overlap with the surface defining the opening to the recess. On the other hand, below the surface defining the opening to the recess, the volume of the recess may have a cylindrical shape that is larger than the cylindrical shape of the vaporizer106in order to accommodate the guide structures on the outer side wall thereof. As a result, the vaporizer106will be able to rotate if the vaporizer106is pushed into the dispensing body104such that the guide structures no longer overlap with the surface defining the opening to the recess.

Alternatively, the volume of the recess addition to the surface defining the opening thereto) may also correspond to the cylindrical shape of the vaporizer106and the guide structures on the outer side wall thereof such that the vaporizer106will remained aligned and, thus, unable to rotate while in the recess (regardless of whether an external force is applied to push vaporizer106into the dispensing body104such that the guide structures are below the surface defining the opening to the recess). However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited to the above, and other suitable configurations are possible depending on the intended interaction between the vaporizer106and the dispensing body104and/or the ratchet assembly (which will be discussed in further detail below).

FIG. 4is a partial, cross-sectional view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 4, the mouthpiece structure102is configured to house the cartridge108and to connect with the dispensing body104such that the cartridge108is between the mouthpiece structure102and the dispensing body104. An outer surface of the cartridge108may be configured to conform to an inner surface of the mouthpiece structure102. The mouthpiece structure102and the cartridge108may be configured as two independent elements that are designed to be separated during a normal operation of the e-vapor device100. In such an instance, the mouthpiece structure102may be reusable, while the cartridge108may be disposable.

Alternatively, the mouthpiece structure102and the cartridge108may be integrated so as to form a single, combined structure that is not designed to be separated during a normal operation of the e-vapor device100. In such an instance, the combined mouthpiece structure102and cartridge108may be disposable. Furthermore, the cartridge108itself may be in the form of the mouthpiece structure102(and vice versa) such that an internal volume therein (other than the vapor passage118) may be filled with the pre-vapor formulation.

The cartridge108may connect with the vaporizer106via a number of possible configurations. Additionally, the mouthpiece structure102may engage with the dispensing body104to fortify the connection between the cartridge108and the vaporizer106. Suitable attachment structures that may be provided on the applicable surfaces of the e-vapor device100to be joined include mating member/recess type arrangements and magnetic arrangements, although example embodiments are not limited thereto.

For instance, the attachment structure may include a mating member that is formed on a first surface of the e-vapor device100and a corresponding recess that is formed on a second surface of the e-vapor device100. In a non-limiting embodiment, the mating member may be a rounded structure to facilitate the engagement/disengagement of the attachment structure, while the recess may be a concave indentation that corresponds to the curvature of the rounded structure. The mating member may also be spring-loaded so as to retract (via spring compression) during an initial insertion and to protract (via spring decompression) when mating member becomes aligned with the corresponding recess. The engagement of the mating member with the corresponding recess may result in an audible click, which notifies the adult vaper of a proper connection.

In another example, the attachment structure may include a magnetic arrangement. For instance, a first magnet may be arranged in a first surface of the e-vapor device100and a second magnet may be arranged in a second surface of the e-vapor device100. The first and/or second magnets may be exposed or hidden from view behind a layer of material. The first and second magnets are oriented so as to be attracted to each other, and a plurality of pairs of the first and second magnets may be provided to ensure a proper connection between the desired surfaces.

In an example embodiment, the cartridge108may be structured to have a lower protruding portion (that is opposite the end adjacent to the vapor outlet of the mouthpiece structure102) that is configured to engage with the concave end of the vaporizer106. The cartridge108may be configured to unite with the vaporizer106via a friction-fit arrangement or a snap-fit arrangement, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. In addition, a coupling action may occur so that the vaporizer106can access (e.g., be in fluidic communication with) the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge108. The coupling action may occur simultaneously with or subsequent to the connection of the cartridge108to the vaporizer106.

Access to the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge108is restricted by a seal110. The seal110may be in a form of a ball check valve arrangement. In such an instance, the vaporizer106may include an access member that is configured to press against a ball structure of the ball check valve arrangement to release the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge108during the coupling action. The access member of the vaporizer106may draw the pre-vapor formulation (e.g., via capillary action) from the cartridge108into the vaporizer106. Because the ball structure of the ball check valve arrangement is spring-biased, the ball structure will press against an inner surface of the outlet of the cartridge108to reseal the cartridge108when the cartridge108is detached from the vaporizer106(e.g., during replacement of the cartridge108). In another example, the seal110may be an impermeable material that is designed to be pierced by the access member of the vaporizer106in order to access the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge108.

The coupling action may involve pressing the mouthpiece structure102against the dispensing body104to obtain the proper connection. In particular, the cartridge108may be pushed against the corresponding portion of the vaporizer106to establish the requisite fluidic communication therebetween. During the operation of the e-vapor device100, air may enter via an inlet114and exit via an outlet116. The vapor may be dispensed via the vapor passage118. The force applied to achieve the coupling action may result in a temporary, longitudinal displacement of the vaporizer106. The vaporizer106interacts with the ratchet assembly112in the dispensing body104, and a spring may be arranged under the ratchet assembly112. The ratchet assembly112may include a toothed structure and a pawl configured to engage the teeth of the toothed structure so as to permit only a one-way advancement (e.g., one direction of movement) of the toothed structure.

As noted above, the ratchet assembly112may be configured to undergo a mechanical incrementation with each coupling action between the cartridge108and the vaporizer106. In particular, when a new cartridge108is loaded in the e-vapor device100by pushing the new cartridge108against the corresponding portion of the vaporizer106to perform the coupling action, the force from the pushing will additionally cause the vaporizer106and the ratchet assembly112to undergo a temporary, longitudinal displacement into the dispensing body104via the spring while also causing the ratchet assembly to mechanically advance. For example, the ratchet assembly112may be configured to rotate in response to the coupling action as part of the mechanical incrementation. With the mechanical incrementation, the ratchet assembly112is configured to initially engage and hold the vaporizer106and to subsequently release the vaporizer106for simultaneous removal with the cartridge108after a designated number of mechanical incrementations.

In an example embodiment, the ratchet assembly112may be configured to initially latch onto the vaporizer106during the coupling action and to incrementally disengage from the vaporizer106with each coupling action such that the vaporizer106is released from the ratchet assembly112after the designated number of coupling actions. In particular, the ratchet assembly112may include a rim structure that is configured to rotate and obstruct the guide structures on the outer side wall of the vaporizer106when the vaporizer106undergoes a temporary, longitudinal displacement into the dispensing body104during a coupling action. As a result, the cartridge108, when spent, will be detached from the e-vapor device100without also removing the vaporizer106. The rim structure of the ratchet assembly112may be configured to rotate with each coupling action (e.g., insertion of a new cartridge108) until a notched section (or similar arrangement) is reached that corresponds to each guide structure of the vaporizer106, which will allow the guides structures to pass through via the notched sections, thereby releasing the vaporizer106for removal with the cartridge108. Accordingly, the vaporizer106can be discarded after utilization with a designated number of cartridges108, thus reducing or preventing the overuse of the vaporizer106and the potentially unpleasant sensory effects associated therewith.

Alternatively, the ratchet assembly112may be configured to incrementally engage the vaporizer106to the cartridge108with each coupling action such that the vaporizer106is conjoined to the cartridge108after the designated number of coupling actions. In such an instance, the cartridge108may be fluidically connected to the vaporizer106during the coupling action without establishing a mechanical connection therebetween that would be sufficient to allow the cartridge108and the vaporizer106to be simultaneously removed. Instead, the ratchet assembly112can be configured to establish such a mechanical connection after a designated number of coupling actions.

FIG. 5is a partial, cross-sectional view of a simultaneous removal of the mouthpiece structure and vaporizer of the e-vapor device inFIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 5, the ratchet assembly112may be configured to facilitate the simultaneous removal of the mouthpiece structure102with the vaporizer106coupled thereto after two to ten coupling actions (e.g., three to six coupling actions or four to five coupling actions). As a result, the cartridge108may be removed along with the mouthpiece structure102and at the same time as the vaporizer106. In an example embodiment, each coupling action may correspond to the connection of a new cartridge108to the vaporizer106. For instance, the e-vapor device100may be configured such that an adult vaper may replace the cartridge108three times (for every one time the vaporizer106is replaced), and upon depletion of the third replacement cartridge108, the vaporizer106may be pulled out together with the depleted third replacement cartridge108and discarded. The frequency of replacement for the vaporizer106may depend on the pre-vapor formulation of the cartridge108and/or operating parameters of the e-vapor device100. There is no particular limit on the number of cartridges108and vaporizers106that can be used during the life of the e-vapor device100, since the total will depend on a variety of factors, including the vaping environment and handling habits of the adult vaper.

FIG. 6is a perspective view of the mouthpiece structure and vaporizer that were simultaneously removed inFIG. 5. Referring toFIG. 6, the mouthpiece structure102with the vaporizer106coupled thereto are intended to be discarded when detached from the dispensing body104. As a result, the cartridge108(e.g.,FIG. 5) within the mouthpiece structure102will be discarded as well. As discussed supra, the e-vapor device100is designed such that the vaporizer106will be removed after a certain number of cartridges108have been used. With such a design, an adult vaper does not need to consciously track the number of cartridges108used for purposes of determining when the vaporizer106should be replaced. Rather, the vaporizer106will be automatically removed with the cartridge108(and the mouthpiece structure102depending on the example embodiment) in accordance with the device design (e.g., replace the vaporizer together with the removal of the fourth or fifth cartridge). Otherwise, the vaporizer106will remain in the dispensing body104if the replacement time has not yet been reached in accordance with the device design. Consequently, the risk of overusing the vaporizer106(which can result in an undesirable taste) can be reduced or prevented.

FIG. 7is a perspective view of the mouthpiece structure inFIG. 6without the vaporizer coupled thereto. Referring toFIG. 7, the mouthpiece structure102has a lower protruding portion that is configured to engage with the concave end of the vaporizer106. The lower protruding portion is on an opposite end of the mouthpiece structure102from the vapor outlet. The vapor passage118extends through the mouthpiece structure102to the vapor outlet. Access to the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge108(within the mouthpiece structure102) is restricted by a seal110. The seal110may be in a form of a ball check valve arrangement. For instance, such an arrangement may include a ball structure that is spring-biased such that the ball structure will press against an inner surface of the outlet at the lower protruding portion so as to seal the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge108. Because a spring-biased ball structure is used in this instance, the pre-vapor formulation can be readily resealed within the cartridge108when the cartridge108is detached from the vaporizer106(e.g., during replacement of the cartridge108). In another example, the seal110may be an impermeable material that is designed to be pierced by the access member of the vaporizer106in order to access the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge108.

FIG. 8is a perspective view of the vaporizer inFIG. 6without the mouthpiece structure coupled thereto. Referring toFIG. 8, the vaporizer106may be cylindrically shaped with guide structures106aon its outer side wall. Although the vaporizer is shown with two guide structures106a, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. As will be described in more detail below, the guide structures106amay play a role in timing when the vaporizer106should be removed together with the cartridge108in the mouthpiece structure102. In addition, the vaporizer106has a concave end with an access member106bthat is configured to interact with the seal110of the mouthpiece structure102to release the pre-vapor formulation within the cartridge108during the coupling action. The access member106bof the vaporizer106may draw the pre-vapor formulation (e.g., via capillary action) from the cartridge108into the vaporizer106. In a non-limiting embodiment, the access member106bmay be in the form of a relatively slender, tubular structure. When in the form of a tubular structure, the channel extending through the access member106bmay be sized appropriately to achieve the desired capillary effect. Furthermore, the channel may optionally include a wick to help draw or otherwise control the supply of pre-vapor formulation from the cartridge108to the vaporizer106.

FIG. 9is a perspective view of the dispensing body inFIG. 1without the mouthpiece structure coupled thereto. Referring toFIG. 9, the dispensing body104includes a body section104c, a body end plate104b, and an opening104adefined by the body end plate104b. The opening104ain the dispensing body104is designed to receive the vaporizer106and, thus, is shaped to correspond to a circumferential profile of the vaporizer106. For instance, the opening104amay be circular with two oppositely-arranged indentations. In such an instance, the circular shape of the opening104ais designed to accommodate the cylindrical shape of the vaporizer106, while the indentations are designed to accommodate the guide structures106aof the vaporizer106. Similarly, in an example embodiment, the ratchet assembly112within the dispensing body104defines a recess that accommodates the contours of the vaporizer106. The recess defined by the ratchet assembly112may be a cylindrical cavity with two oppositely-arranged indentations and dimensioned similarly (e.g., similar aperture size) to the opening104adefined by the body end plate104bso as to facilitate the seating of the vaporizer106.

FIG. 10is a partially exploded view of the dispensing body inFIG. 9. Referring toFIG. 10, the ratchet assembly112includes an inner race112aand an outer race112b. When the dispensing body104is assembled, the inner race112ais situated within the outer race112b, and the ratchet assembly112is enclosed by the body end plate104band the body section104c. The inner race112ahas a first set of teeth at an end adjacent to the body end plate104band a second set of teeth on a side surface of the inner race112a. The first set of teeth of the inner race112ais configured to engage with a set of teeth on the underside of the body end plate104b. Although not shown in this view, the outer race112bhas an annular set of teeth on its inner sidewall. The second set of teeth of the inner race112ais configured to engage the annular set of teeth within the outer race112b. A spring is arranged between the inner race112aand the outer race112bto alternately engage the inner race112awith the body end plate104band the outer race112b. The operation of the ratchet assembly112will be discussed in further detail below.

FIG. 11is an enlarged view of the ratchet assembly inFIG. 10. Referring toFIG. 11, the inner race112aof the ratchet assembly112has oppositely-arranged indentations on its inner sidewall. The oppositely-arranged indentations of the inner race112aare configured to accommodate the guide structures106aof the vaporizer106. The first set of teeth of the inner race112amay be arranged around the rim of the inner race112aother than at the portions corresponding to the indentations. The outer race112bhas an annular set of teeth on its inner sidewall. The outer race112bmay also be rendered stationary (e.g., so as to not rotate or otherwise move) within the dispensing body104. As discussed in connection withFIG. 10, a spring will be arranged between the inner race112aand the outer race112b.

When a vaporizer106is loaded in the opening104aof the dispensing body104and initially seated in the inner race112a, the vaporizer106will come to rest at a neutral position based on the underlying spring, which is in an uncompressed state. Next, when a mouthpiece structure102is connected to the dispensing body104, the lower protruding portion of the mouthpiece structure102will engage with the vaporizer106while also pushing the vaporizer106and consequently the inner race112aso as to overcome the resilient nature of the spring and transition the spring to a compressed state. As a result, the second set of teeth of the inner race112awill engage with the annular set of teeth within the outer race112b. The second set of teeth of the inner race112amay be offset relative to the annular set of teeth within the outer race112b. In addition, because the second set of teeth of the inner race112aand the annular set of teeth within the outer race112bare angled, the mating of the teeth will cause the inner race112aand the vaporizer106seated therein) rotate. The combination of the vaporizer106being pushed into the dispensing body104and rotated will result in the guide structures106aof the vaporizer106being underneath the body end plate104b(and, thus, no longer aligned with the corresponding indentations of the opening104a).

Consequently, when the mouthpiece structure102is disconnected from the dispensing body104(e.g., to replace a depleted cartridge108), the mouthpiece structure102can be disengaged without the vaporizer106being removed at the same time. In the absence of the mouthpiece structure102, the spring will decompress and cause the first set of teeth of the inner race112ato engage with the set of teeth on the underside of the body end plate104b. When the mouthpiece structure102(e.g., new mouthpiece structure102with a full cartridge108) is subsequently connected to the dispensing body104, the cycle repeats and the vaporizer106will be pushed inward and rotated via the inner race112a. In this manner, the vaporizer106can be rotated in increments with the changing of the mouthpiece structure102until the guide structures106aof the vaporizer106become aligned with the corresponding indentations of the opening104aso as to release the vaporizer106for simultaneous removal during the replacement of the mouthpiece structure102. Such a design ensures that the vaporizer106will be replaced regularly (e.g., every five cartridges108) without requiring an additional conscious effort from an adult vaper, thereby enhancing the vaping experience. It should be understood that the ratchet assembly112can be modified as needed in accordance with the teachings herein in order to achieve the predetermined or desired timing/frequency for replacing the vaporizer106.

FIG. 12is a perspective view of an e-vapor device with a cartridge-in-base configuration according to an example embodiment. Referring toFIG. 12, the e-vapor device200includes a base structure212that is connected to a dispensing body204. The dispensing body204includes a mouthpiece end with a mouthpiece structure202and a vaporizer at an opposing base end. The base end is configured to couple with a cartridge208such that a pre-vapor formulation is in fluidic communication with the vaporizer. The cartridge208is configured to hold the pre-vapor formulation therein. The cartridge208may be a sealed container. The vaporizer is configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor.

FIG. 13is a partially exploded view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 12. Referring toFIG. 13, the dispensing body204may taper toward the mouthpiece structure202. The base structure212may be attached to the dispensing body204via a threaded arrangement, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. The cartridge208is configured for insertion into the base structure212and may be secured via a number of suitable arrangements.

FIG. 14is a cross-sectional view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 12. Referring toFIG. 14, access to the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge208may be restricted with a seal210. The seal210may be a ball check valve arrangement, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. The vaporizer206is arranged within the base end of the dispensing body204. A vapor passage218extends within the dispensing body204from the vaporizer206to the mouthpiece structure202. The dispensing body204may further include a battery between the mouthpiece structure202at the mouthpiece end and the vaporizer206at the opposing base end.

FIG. 15is a partial, cross-sectional view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 12. Referring toFIG. 15, the ball structure of the ball check valve arrangement of the seal210is pushed inward when the cartridge208is coupled to the vaporizer206, thereby allowing the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge208to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer206. Air may flow into the vaporizer206via an inlet214. The vapor generated by the vaporizer206is directed through the vapor passage218to the mouthpiece structure202.

FIG. 16is a perspective view of the cartridge, inner collar, and vaporizer inFIG. 15. Referring toFIG. 16, the cartridge208is configured to engage the inner collar at one end, while the vaporizer206is configured to engage the inner collar at an opposing end. When assembled, the cartridge208will be coupled to the vaporizer206(within the inner collar), thereby allowing the pre-vapor formulation in the cartridge208to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer206. A plurality of inlets214for air may extend through a threaded portion of the inner collar, although example embodiments are not limited thereto.

FIG. 17is a perspective view of an e-vapor device with a disk cartridge configuration according to an example embodiment. Referring toFIG. 17, the e-vapor device300includes a dispensing body304having a disk-like or egg-like shape. However, other suitable shapes (e.g., elliptical shape) may also be suitable. The mouthpiece structure302is connected to a side surface of the dispensing body304. The vaporizer306is visible through a top surface of the dispensing body304.

FIG. 18is a side view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 18, the e-vapor device300has a length that is greater than its height. The edges of the e-vapor device300may also be tapered to provide a more sleek appearance, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. A portion of the cartridge308is exposed through the dispensing body304to permit handling by an adult vaper (e.g., rotating the cartridge308to access the various compartments of pre-vapor formulation within).

FIG. 19is a top view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 19, the e-vapor device300has a length that is greater than its width. The cartridge308(the edges of which are partially exposed) is configured to rotate around the vaporizer306. The cartridge308may be provided with ridged side surface to enhance the ease of handling by an adult vaper.

FIG. 20is a partially exploded view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 20, the dispensing body304includes a pivotable lid structure that is configured to open/close to receive (or remove) a cartridge308having a disk shape. The cartridge308includes a plurality of compartments309. Although three compartments309are shown inFIG. 20, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, the cartridge308may include two, four, or more compartments309. Each of the plurality of compartments309is configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein. In addition, the plurality of compartments309are fluidically-isolated from each other. As a result, each compartment309of the cartridge308may hold a pre-vapor formulation of a different flavor and/or composition.

The vaporizer306may be structured to be a part of the dispensing body304or the cartridge308. When the vaporizer306is structured to be a part of the dispensing body304, the cartridge308may be structured to have an opening that is configured to engage the vaporizer306. On the other hand, when the vaporizer306is structured to be a part of the cartridge308, the dispensing body304may be configured to allow an engagement with the vaporizer306. The cartridge308may be rotatably-mounted on the dispensing body304via the vaporizer306. The cartridge308is configured to rotate around the vaporizer306such that one of the plurality of compartments309is aligned so as to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer306.

FIG. 21is a partial, cross-sectional view of the e-vapor device inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 21, the vaporizer306is configured to remain stationary during a rotation of the cartridge308. The feed passage311is configured to supply a pre-vapor formulation from the cartridge308to the vaporizer306. Each of the plurality of compartments309includes a feed outlet that is configured to align with the feed inlet of the vaporizer306(upon rotation of the cartridge308) to form the feed passage311. Various arrangements may be used to help ensure a proper alignment of the feed passage311(e.g., mating member/recess type arrangements, magnetic arrangements). A seal310may be provided between vaporizer306and the vapor passage318. During an operation of the e-vapor device300, air may enter the vaporizer306from an opening in its top surface. The vapor generated by the vaporizer306is directed through the vapor passage318to the mouthpiece structure302.

FIG. 22is an enlarged view of the vaporizer inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 22, the vaporizer306has a feed inlet311athat is configured to align with a feed outlet311hof the cartridge308to form the feed passage311for supplying pre-vapor formulation from the cartridge308to the vaporizer306. The vaporizer306is configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor.

FIG. 23is an enlarged view of the cartridge inFIG. 17. Referring toFIG. 23, the cartridge308includes a plurality of compartments309configured to hold pre-vapor formulation. The pre-vapor formulation held in the plurality of compartments309may be of the same type or of a different type (e.g., different flavor, smell, color, strength, and/or base ingredient). Each of the plurality of compartments309has a feed outlet311hthat is configured to align with the feed inlet311aof the vaporizer306to form the feed passage311for supplying pre-vapor formulation from the cartridge308to the vaporizer306.

The e-vapor devices disclosed herein may be provided with memory devices and the associated circuitry so as to allow the receipt, storage, and transmission of information to/from other electronic devices. The smart capability, connecting features, and other related aspects of the mouthpiece structure, cartridge, dispensing body, and overall e-vapor device are additionally discussed in U.S. Application No. 62/151,148, U.S. Application No. 62/151,160, and U.S. Application No. 62/151,179, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Furthermore, the control circuitry may include a heater activation light that is configured to glow when the heater structure (of the vaporizer) is activated. The heater activation light may include an LED and may be arranged at an upstream end of the e-vapor device (distal end relative to an adult vaper) so that the heater activation light takes on the appearance of a burning coal during the application of negative pressure. Alternatively, the heater activation light may be arranged on the side of the e-vapor device so as to be more visible to the adult vaper and/or to provide a desired aesthetic appeal. The heater activation light may have various shapes, sizes, quantities, and configurations. For instance, the heater activation light may have a circular, elliptical, or polygonal shape (for one or more such lights). In another instance, the heater activation light may have a linear or annular form that is continuous or segmented. For example, the heater activation light may be provided as an elongated strip that extends along the body of the e-vapor device. In another example, the heater activation light may be provided as a ring that extends around the body of the e-vapor device. The ring may be in the first section cartridge section) or the second section (e.g., battery section) of the e-vapor device. It should be understood that the heater activation light can be arranged on the end(s) and/or the sides of the e-vapor device. Moreover, the heater activation light can be utilized for e-vapor system diagnostics. The heater activation light can also be configured such that an adult vaper can activate and/or deactivate the heater activation light for privacy, such that, if desired, the heater activation light will not activate during vaping.