Patent Publication Number: US-2022218026-A1

Title: Method of making e-vaping device with insert

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/125,399, filed on Sep. 7, 2018, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     Example embodiments generally relate to an electronic vaping (e-vaping) device with an insert. 
     Related Art 
     An e-vaping device uses a heater to at least partially volatilize a pre-vapor formulation. 
     SUMMARY 
     At least one example embodiment is directed toward a device. 
     In one example embodiment, the device includes at least one first section including, an airflow passage, a first reservoir configured to contain at least one first pre-vapor formulation, a heater in communication with the first reservoir and the airflow passage, the heater being configured to at least partially vaporize the at least one first pre-vapor formulation, and an insert in communication with the airflow passage, the insert being downstream of the heater, the insert including, a matrix including one or more portions of a filler material, the filler material being a plant-based cellulose material, the one or more portions defining interstices; at least one first containing structure containing the matrix, the at least one first containing structure contacting at least side surfaces of the matrix, and at least one first consumable substance infused within the filler material, the at least one first consumable substance including at least one of nicotine, at least one first flavorant, at least one second pre-vapor formulation, a sub-combinations thereof, or a combinations thereof. 
     In one example embodiment, the filler material includes plant-based cellulose material. 
     In one example embodiment, the filler material includes cellulose material. 
     In one example embodiment, the filler material includes a non-tobacco material and does not include any material from tobacco. 
     In one example embodiment, the filler material includes tobacco. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure contacts at least a side surface of the matrix. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix in a longitudinal direction thereby containing the matrix, and at least one end of the matrix is not wrapped by the containing structure. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix in a longitudinal direction thereby containing the matrix, and at least two ends of the matrix are not wrapped by the containing structure. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is a wrapping wrapped around the matrix thereby containing the matrix. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure includes paper. 
     In one example embodiment, the paper includes tipping paper. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure includes the same material as the filler material. 
     In one example embodiment, the nicotine is synthetic. 
     In one example embodiment, the nicotine is derived from tobacco. 
     In one example embodiment, the first pre-vapor formulation and the second pre-vapor formulation include the same ingredients. 
     In one example embodiment, the first pre-vapor formulation and the second pre-vapor formulation include different ingredients. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert is a removable insert. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert is configured to insert into an end of the device, and a part of the insert is configured to extend out of the device when the insert is inserted into the end of the device. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes a filter. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix thereby containing the matrix, and the containing structure is also wrapped around the filter. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes a space between the matrix and the filter. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix thereby containing the matrix, and the containing structure is also wrapped around the filter and the space. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes a flow restrictor. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix thereby containing the matrix, and the containing structure is also wrapped around the flow restrictor. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes a filter and a flow restrictor. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure is wrapped around the matrix thereby containing the matrix, and the containing structure is also wrapped around the filter and the flow restrictor. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes a space, and the containing structure is also wrapped around the space. 
     In one example embodiment, the first pre-vapor formulation does not include nicotine. 
     In one example embodiment, the first pre-vapor formulation includes nicotine. 
     In one example embodiment, the one or more portions of a filler material include cut portions of the filler material. 
     In one example embodiment, the one or more portions of a filler material include a folded portion of the filler material. 
     In one example embodiment, the device further includes a control system in electrical communication with the heater, the control system being configured to detect at least one first parameter, the at least one first parameter being at least one of a resistance of the heater, a temperature of the heater, a draw of air in the airflow passage, a sub-combination thereof, or a combination thereof, and the control system being configured to send an electrical current to the heater based on the at least one first parameter. 
     In one example embodiment, the control system being configured to detect at least one first parameter, the at least one first parameter being at least one of a resistance of the heater, a temperature of the heater, a draw of air in the airflow passage, a sub-combination thereof, or a combination thereof, and the control system being configured to send the electrical current to the heater based on the at least one first parameter. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes, a flow restriction section with a first end and a second end, the first end of the flow restriction section being connected to the matrix, the flow restriction section defining an internal void space with a flow restrictor in the internal void space, the flow restrictor being spaced apart from the first end and the second end of the flow restriction section, a non-consumable filter connected to the second end of the flow restriction section, and wherein the at least one first containing structure contacts at least side surfaces of the flow restriction section and the non-consumable filter to contain the matrix, the flow restriction section and the non-consumable filter together, wherein the insert is configured to selectively insert into a distal end of the at least one first section to cause the non-consumable filter to extend from the at least one first section. 
     In one example embodiment, the control system is configured to detect at least one first parameter, the at least one first parameter being at least one of a resistance of the heater, a temperature of the heater, a draw of air in the airflow passage, a sub-combination thereof, or a combination thereof, and the control system being configured to send the electrical current to the heater based on the at least one first parameter. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert further includes, a filter connected to the second end of the flow restriction section. 
     In one example embodiment, the containing structure contacts at least a side surface of the matrix, at least a side surface of the flow restrictor and at least a side surface of the filter to contain the matrix, the flow restrictor and the filter together. 
     In one example embodiment, the insert is configured to removably insert into an end of the device, and a portion of the filter is configured to extend out of the device when the insert is inserted into the end of the device. 
     In one example embodiment, the device further includes a second reservoir in fluid communication with the matrix of the insert, the second reservoir being configured to contain at least one of nicotine, the at least one first flavorant, the at least one second pre-vapor formulation, a sub-combination thereof, or a combinations therefore. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated. 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration of an insert containing a matrix, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 2A  is an illustration of a roll of filler material, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 2B  is an illustration of a sheet of filler material being shredded into strands, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing a matrix, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing a matrix, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing the matrix and a reservoir, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing the matrix and a reservoir, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing a matrix, including a bypass airflow, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a diagram of a device with an insert containing the matrix and a reservoir, including a bypass airflow, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 9A  is an illustration of a side-view of a matrix in an insert that is in the form of an insertable rod, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 9B  is an illustration of a side-view of the matrix in an insert that is in the form of another insertable rod, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is a diagram of a device with the matrix in an insertable rod, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a flow chart of a method of making an insert containing a matrix, in accordance with an example embodiment; and 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart of a method of making a device including the insert containing the matrix, in accordance with an example embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein. 
     Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures. 
     It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations or sub-combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. 
     It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments. 
     Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature&#39;s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated  90  degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. 
     When the words “about” and “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value include a tolerance of ±10% around the stated numerical value, unless otherwise explicitly defined. 
     Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. 
     Hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more Central Processing Units (CPUs), one or more microcontrollers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more System-on-Chips (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), or any other device or devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner. 
       FIG. 1  is an illustration of an insert  104  containing a matrix  100 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  includes cut strands  102  of a filler material  105  (see  FIG. 2A /B). The strands  102  define interstices  101  that provide avenues for airflow traveling through the matrix  100 . In another example embodiment, in lieu of cutting the filler material  105  into strands  102  to form the matrix  100 , or in addition to the cut strands  102  that form the matrix  100 , filler material  105  can be folded, layered, bunched together, otherwise combined and/or compressed into the matrix  100 . 
     In some example embodiments, the filler material  105  may also be perforated to increase a porosity and/or flow paths through the filler material  105  that is combined to form the matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  is a porous material, that may be a composite material made from tobacco, non-tobacco materials, or both tobacco and non-tobacco materials. In some example embodiments, the matrix  100  is provided with or without flavors, and the matrix  100  is provided with or without nicotine. 
     In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  is contained (e.g., bound together) by a containing structure  103 . The matrix  100  and containing structure  103  may combine to form the insert  104  or a part of the insert  104 . An insert  104  can be in various shapes or sizes and may include other elements. In an example embodiment, the insert  104  is in the shape of a plug that is sized to be fitted into a housing  6   b , or on the end of a housing  6   b , of a device (as shown in  FIGS. 3-8 ). In an example embodiment, the insert  104  is sized to include enough matrix  100 , and a concentration of nicotine and/or flavoring (described below) within the matrix  100  to provide a determined number of draws and/or a determined number of draws over a desired duration of time. 
     In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  fully circumscribes the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, the containing structure  103  does not cover all sides of the matrix  100 , and may for instance define openings for an entrance and exit airflow on ends  100   a  of the matrix  100 . The containing structure  103  may be made from more than one material. In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  may include a soft and/or porous covering. In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  may include a covering made from cellulose, plant-based cellulose, fabric, cotton, fibers, threads, other suitable textiles, paper, tipping paper, or combinations or sub-combinations of these materials, etc. In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  may include a hard shell made from metal, metal alloys, one or more polymers, plastics, resins, etc., where the hard shell may or may not essentially circumscribe the matrix  100 . In the event the containing structure  103  is a hard shell that covers all sides of the matrix  100 , at least one or more openings and/or perforations in the shell may be included to allow airflow to contact and/or flow through at least a portion of the matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, the ends  100   a  and/or sides  100   b  of the matrix  100  are covered with a containing structure  103  that is made from a porous material, and may include a mesh, such as a metal, plastic, resin and/or polymer mesh. The ends  100   a  and/or sides  100   b  of the matrix  100  may also, in an example embodiment, be covered by a containing structure  103  that is a soft and/or porous covering made from cellulose, plant-based cellulose, fabric, cotton, fibers, threads, other suitable textiles, paper, tipping paper, or combinations or sub-combinations of these materials, etc. In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  is made from the filler material  105 . 
     The containing structure  103  and/or the matrix  100  of some example embodiments is suitable for allowing airflow to pass along and/or through at least a portion of the matrix  100 . In some example embodiments, the containing structure  103  may allow airflow to pass through at least a portion of the containing structure  103 , itself. In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  does not include a containing structure  103 . 
     In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  and/or the matrix  100  can be in the shape of a cylinder, a rod, a disc, a flat surface, a square, a rectangle, or any other desirable shape. In an example embodiment, matrix  100  may be in the shape of a cylinder, and containing structure  103  may be wrapped around the cylinder without covering ends  100   a . Other shapes or cross-sectional configurations may be used. In another embodiment, the insert  104  does not include a containing structure  103 , and instead, for example, the insert  104  includes only the matrix  100  consisting of portions of the filler material  105 , either in the form of strands  102 , and/or in another form other than strands  102 . 
     Physical Characteristics of Matrix/Insert According to Some Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is packed such that the density and porosity of the matrix  100  form an insert  104  with a resistance to draw (RTD) of about 5 mm of water to about 40 mm of water. In an example embodiment, the RTD of the insert  104  is about 18 mm of water to 25 mm of water. Any other density and/or porosity may be used to lead to a desired RTD. For example, in some embodiments, the RTD of the insert  104  may be below 5 mm of water or above 40 mm of water. It should be understood that in some embodiments the RTD of the insert  104  lessens over time as the insert  104  is in used. 
     Filler Material According to Some Example Embodiments 
       FIG. 2A  is an illustration of a roll  105   a  of filler material  105 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In this embodiment, the filler material  105  is a flat-sheet-like material, where the filler material  105  may be processed and/or stored onto rolls  105   a  for convenience. The roll  105   a  may optionally include a mandrel  105 b that may support the roll  105   a  of the filler material  105 . 
     In other example embodiments, the filler material  105  is a block of material, an extruded material, or a material that is in a shape other than a flat sheet. 
       FIG. 2B  is an illustration of a sheet  105   c  of the filler material  105 , in accordance with an example embodiment. The sheet  105   c  may remain attached to a roll  105   a  during further processing of the filler material  105 , or the sheet  105   c  may be cut from the roll  105   a . Optionally, the sheet  105   c  of filler material  105  is formed and stored as the sheet  105   c , such that the sheet  105   c  is not part of a roll  105   a . In another embodiment, the filler material  105  may be formed and processed as a block of material, or another shape of the filler material  105 , such that the filler material  105  is not in the form of the sheet  105   c.    
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is shredded into the strands  102 . The strands  102  are combined to form the matrix  100  ( FIG. 1 ). In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  has an initial sheet thickness of about 100 micrometers and a density of about 87 g/cm 2 , prior to being cut or shredded into the strands  102 . In an example embodiment, the sheet  105   c  of filler material  105  is porous, with a pore size that is about 10-12 micrometers, or about 11 micrometers. In an example embodiment, the strands  102  of the filler material  105  have a width of about 1-3 mm, with the understanding that the thickness of the strands  102  may correspond to the sheet  105   c  thickness of the filler material  105  in the event the strands  102  are formed by starting with a sheet  105   c  of the filler material  105 . The filler material  105  can be considered a ‘functional filler material’ from the standpoint that it can include flavoring and/or nicotine, as described herein. The ranges of values in these example embodiments are not limiting and may be below or above these ranges. 
     It should be understood that the strands  102  may be formed via other processes, other than shredding. For instance, cutting, dicing, or other processes may be used to form the strands  102 . In another embodiment, the strands  102  are formed via extrusion, such that the filler material  105  is not necessarily in a sheet-like form, prior to the formation of the strands  102 . In another embodiment, as discussed above, the filler material  105  is folded or bunched together to form the matrix  100 , where the folded and/or bunched together filler material  105  may or may not also be perforated, either before or after forming the matrix  100 . In yet another embodiment, the filler material  105  may be processed so that shredded and/or cut strands  102  of the filler material  105  are combined with folded and/or bunched together filler material  105  that is not cut and/or shredded, in order to form the matrix  100 . 
     Filler Material: Non-Tobacco Cellulose Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is a non-tobacco cellulose. In particular, the non-tobacco cellulose is cast or made into the filler material  105 , where the filler material  105  may be in the form of the sheet-like (paper-like) layer  105   c  that may or may not be rolled. In an example embodiment, the cellulose is a water-insoluble organic polymer material that is made from plant material, plant-based material, plant cell walls, vegetable fibers, cotton, polysaccharide, chains of glucose units (monomers), cellulose acetate, combinations of these materials, sub-combinations of these materials, etc. In another embodiment, the cellulose is partially water-soluble and made from the same materials, or combinations, or sub-combinations of the materials, etc. 
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is about 30% to 99% alpha-cellulose material made from plant material, about 0.01% to 2% ash and the remainder is hemicellulose. In an example embodiment, the hemicellulose is a plant based material that includes beta-cellulose, gamma-cellulose, biopolymers, or combinations, or sub-combinations, thereof. In some examples, the primary strength and water-insoluble properties of the filler material  105  may be derived from the content of alpha-cellulose within the filler material  105 . In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is more than 98% alpha-cellulose material made from plant material, about 0.01% to 2% ash and the remainder is hemicellulose—where this filler material  105  embodiment is water-insoluble. The ranges of values in these example embodiments are not limiting and may be below or above these ranges. 
     Filler Material: Tobacco Cellulose and Non-Tobacco Cellulose Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is a plant-based tobacco cellulose. In particular, the tobacco cellulose is cast or made into the filler material  105 , where in an example embodiment the filler material  105  is in the form of a sheet-like (paper-like) layer  105   c  that may or may not be rolled  105   a . In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is a tobacco cellulose that may or may not include tobacco extract. In an example embodiment, the cellulose is a non-tobacco cellulose that includes a tobacco extract. In an example embodiment, the tobacco cellulose is a water-insoluble material, or alternatively a partially water-soluble material. 
     In an example embodiment, the filler material  105  is about 30% to 99% tobacco cellulose, about 0.01% to 2% ash and the remainder is hemicellulose. In another embodiment, the filler material  105  is more than 98% tobacco cellulose, and about 0.01% to 2% ash, and is water-insoluble. The ranges of values in these example embodiments are not limiting and may be below or above these ranges. 
     Flavoring According to Some Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, flavoring, a flavorant, or a flavor system, is included in the filler material  105  and/or in the strands  102  of the matrix  100  in order to release an aroma and/or flavors during operation, including in some cases, upon heating and/or as an airflow passes through insert  104 . In an example embodiment, the flavoring includes volatile tobacco flavor compounds. Flavoring may also include flavors besides tobacco, or in addition to tobacco flavoring. The flavoring may be a flavorant that is a natural flavorant or an artificial flavorant. For instance, a flavorant may include tobacco flavor, tobacco extract, menthol, wintergreen, peppermint, herb flavors, fruit flavors, nut flavors, liquor flavors, roasted, minty, savory, cinnamon, clove, and any other desired flavors, and combinations or sub-combinations thereof. In an example embodiment, the flavoring is added to the filler material  105 , either before or after the filler material  105  is processed into a sheet-like material, or before or after the filler material  105  is shredded, or otherwise transformed, into the strands  102 . In some example embodiments, this may be accomplished by dipping the filler material  105  and/or the strands  102  in the flavoring, dispersing the flavoring onto the filler material  105  and/or strands  102 , or otherwise exposing the filler material  105  and/or strands  102  to the flavoring. 
     In an example embodiment, the flavoring is infused into the filler material  105  during an initial formation and/or processing of the filler material  105 . In an example embodiment, the flavoring is also or alternatively infused into the filler material  105  after the initial formation and/or processing of the filler material  105  and/or strands  102 . In another embodiment, the filler material  105  and/or strands  102  of the matrix  100  are left unflavored, such that flavoring is not included in the matrix  100 . 
     In an example embodiment, a flavoring system is included in a reservoir  106  in proximity to the matrix  100 , where the reservoir  106  is in fluid communication with the matrix  100 , as described below in relation to examples described in  FIGS. 5-6 and 8 . The flavoring system can be in lieu of, or in addition to, a flavoring system that is infused within the strands  102  of the matrix  100 . 
     Flavoring: Non-Tobacco Flavoring According to Some Example Embodiments 
     In addition to the examples disclosed above, in an example embodiment the flavoring/flavorant added to either the non-tobacco cellulose filler material  105  and/or the tobacco extract filler material  105 , or the strands made from the filler material  105 , can include a ‘tobacco flavoring’ that is not tobacco. That is to say, this flavoring is not a tobacco extract, it is not derived from tobacco, and does not include any tobacco material in any form—and yet, this aromatic flavoring sensorially mimics (e.g., smells and/or tastes like) tobacco. 
     Nicotine for Some Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, nicotine is included in the strands  102  of the matrix  100 . In one example embodiment, about 1-15 mg of nicotine is included in the matrix  100 . Less or more nicotine may be used in other example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  contains enough nicotine that the initial (first) five “draws” of the matrix  100  includes about 100-500 micrograms of nicotine per draw. A “draw” is defined to be about  55  cm 3  of fluid that flows for a period between about 3-5 seconds. Less or more nicotine may be used in the matrix in other example embodiments to obtain other results. 
     In an example embodiment, nicotine is added to the filler material  105 , either before or after the filler material  105  is processed into a sheet-like layer, or before or after the filler material  105  is shredded, or otherwise transformed, into the strands  102 . In some example embodiments, this may be accomplished by dipping the filler material  105  and/or the strands  102  in the nicotine, dispersing the nicotine onto the filler material  105  and/or strands  102 , or otherwise exposing the filler material  105  and/or strands  102  to the nicotine. 
     In an example embodiment, the nicotine is infused into the filler material  105  during an initial formation and/or processing of the filler material  105 . In an example embodiment, the nicotine is also or alternatively infused into the filler material  105  after the initial formation and/or processing of the filler material  105  and/or strands  102 . In another embodiment, nicotine is not included in the filler material  105 , the strands  102  or the matrix  100 . 
     In an example embodiment, nicotine may be included in a reservoir  106  in proximity to the matrix  100 , where the reservoir  106  is in fluid communication with the matrix  100 , as described below in relation to examples described in  FIGS. 5-6 and 8 . This reserve of nicotine can be in lieu of, or in addition to, nicotine that is infused within the strands  102  of the matrix  100 . 
     Example Embodiments with Pre-Vapor Formulation 
     In an example embodiment, the flavoring and/or nicotine is included in a pre-vapor formulation, and then the pre-vapor formulation with the flavoring and/or nicotine is infused into the filler material  105 . In another embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation is infused into the filler material  105  separately from the flavoring and/or nicotine. 
     In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation is 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 at least one vapor former such as glycerin and propylene glycol. 
     In an example embodiment, the at least one vapor former of the pre-vapor formulation includes diols (such as propylene glycol and/or 1,3-propanediol), glycerin and combinations, or sub-combinations, thereof. Various amounts of vapor former may be used. For example, in some example embodiments, the at least one vapor former is included in an amount ranging from about 20% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation to about 90% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation (for example, the vapor former is in the range of about 50% to about 80%, or about 55% to 75%, or about 60% to 70%), etc. As another example, in an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation includes a weight ratio of the diol to glycerin that ranges from about 1:4 to 4:1, where the diol is propylene glycol, or 1,3-propanediol, or combinations thereof. In an example embodiment, this ratio is about 3:2. Other amounts or ranges may be used. 
     In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation also includes water. Various amounts of water may be used. For example, in some example embodiments, water may be included in an amount ranging from about 5% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation to about 40% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation, or in an amount ranging from about 10% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation to about 15% by weight based on the weight of the pre-vapor formulation. Other amounts or percentages may be used. For example, in an example embodiment, the remaining portion of the pre-vapor formulation that is not water (and nicotine and/or flavoring compounds), is the vapor former (described above), where the vapor former is between 30% by weight and 70% by weight propylene glycol, and the balance of the vapor former is glycerin. Other amounts or percentages may be used. 
     In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation includes at least one flavorant in an amount ranging from about 0.2% to about 15% by weight (for instance, the flavorant may be in the range of about 1% to 12%, or about 2% to 10%, or about 5% to 8%). In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation includes nicotine in an amount ranging from about 1% by weight to about 10% by weight (for instance, the nicotine is in the range of about 2% to 9%, or about 2% to 8%, or about 2% to 6%). In an example embodiment, the portion of the pre-vapor formulation that is not nicotine and/or a flavorant, includes 10-15% by weight water, where the remaining portion of the non-nicotine and non-flavorant portion of the formulation is a mixture of propylene glycol and a vapor former where the mixture is in a ratio that ranges between about 60:40 and 40:60 by weight. Other combinations, amounts or ranges may be used 
     Device with Insert According to Some Example Embodiments 
       FIG. 3  is a diagram of a device  60  with an insert  104  containing a matrix  100 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the device  60  is an e-vaping device. In an example embodiment, the device  60  includes a first section  70  that is a cartridge. In an example embodiment, the first section  70  includes a reservoir  20  that contains a pre-vapor formulation  22  (such as the pre-vapor formulation described above). In an example embodiment, the reservoir  20  is in fluid communication with a heater  14  in the first section  70 . In particular, a structural transport  18  may allow the pre-vapor formulation  22  to travel from the reservoir  20  to the heater  14 . In an example embodiment, the structural transport  18  includes a physical structure at least partially utilizing capillary action, gravity, piezoelectric power, solar power, absorption, osmosis, a pressure gradient, applied pressure, other modes of fluid transfer, or combinations/sub-combinations thereof, to allow, cause and/or force the pre-vapor formulation  22  to travel from the reservoir  20  to the heater  14 . 
     In an example embodiment, the device  60  includes a second section  72 . In an example embodiment, the second section  72  is a power section. The second section  72  may be connectable to the first section  70 . In an example embodiment, the second section  72  includes a control system  1 . In an example embodiment, the control system  1  includes a controller  90  that is operationally connected to a power supply  94  and at least one sensor  92 , such as a pressure sensor and/or a temperature sensor. The sensor(s)  92  can be located in the first section  70  or the second section  72 . In an example embodiment, the at least one sensor  92  is operationally constructed to measure one or more of the following: a resistance of the heater  14 , a temperature of the heater  14  and/or a draw of airflow through the device  60 . In an example embodiment, the controller  90  of the control system  1  receives an input signal, or signals, from sensor(s)  92 , and the controller  90  controls operations of the device  60 , including supplying an electrical current from the power supply  94  to the heater  14  to vaporize the pre-vapor formulation based at least in part on the signal(s) from the sensor(s)  92 . In an example embodiment, the control system  1  is operationally and electrically connected to the heater  14  via electrical leads  26  that allow the control system  1  to selectively send the electrical current to the heater  14 . Both sections  70 / 72  can include the respective housing  6   b / 6   a , where the sections may be connected by a connecting structure  75 . The vapor thus formed is evacuated out of the device  60  via a mouth-end insert  8 . In an example embodiment, one or more air inlets  40  are included in the housing  6   a  and/or housing  6   b  (either in the first section  70 , or a second section  72  of the device  60 ). The housings  6   a / 6   b  in  FIG. 3  may be the same or different shapes, such as for example cylindrical, square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, curved, irregular, etc. In an example embodiment, the air inlet(s)  40  are used to establish an airflow path through the device  60  that may exit the mouth-end insert  8 , where the heater  14  and insert  104  are in, or otherwise exposed to, the airflow path. In an example embodiment, the control system  1  is in fluid communication with the airflow path. 
     In an example embodiment, the first section  70  includes the insert  104 . In the first section  70 , the insert  104  is positioned to cause the matrix  100  to reside in or near a path of vapor flow  124  that is defined by the device  60 . Vapor  124  leaving the heater  14  passes across the matrix  100 , or directly through the matrix  100 , in order to create a downstream vapor  124   a  that includes entrained flavoring, nicotine and/or the pre-vapor formulation from the matrix  100 , as described below in more detail. Vapor, aerosol and dispersion are used interchangeably and are meant to cover any matter generated or output by the devices and/or elements of the devices claimed and equivalents thereof. 
     In an example embodiment, the insert  104  is sized so that sides of the containing structure  103  are pressure-fitted into an outer air passage  9   a , or a second (enlarged) outer air passage  9   b  (notice that  FIG. 3  shows the insert  104  only in the second outer air passage  9   b ), or both in the event the device  60  includes more than one insert  104 . In an example embodiment with an insert  104  without a containing structure  103 , the insert  104  can be sized so that a matrix  100  is pressure-fitted into an outer air passage  9   a ,  9   b  or both. The insert  104  is to be positioned downstream of a heater  14 , and may be located near a mouth-end insert  8  for the device  60 . Alternatively to pressure-fitting, the insert  104  may instead be held in place via an adhesive, set screws, a snap-fit connecting structure, or any other structure necessary to hold the insert  104  in place within the first section  70 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , one or both ends  100   a  of the matrix  100  include a containing structure  103  for the insert  104  that is a screen and/or a porous material, as described above, in order to allow for airflow through the matrix  100  of the insert  104 . Meanwhile, the containing structure  103  on the sides  100   b  of the matrix  100  may be a soft, hard or solid material, as described above, in order to allow the insert  104  to firmly grip and/or be adhered and/or pressure fitted to the housing  6   b  and/or inner passage  10  of the first section  70  and be held in place. 
     In an example embodiment, the insert  104  is affixed within the first section  70 . In this embodiment, the first section  70  may be disposable. In another embodiment, the insert  104  is temporarily held within the first section  70 , such that the insert  104  is removable and replaceable prior to the useful end-life of the first section  70 , allowing the first section  70  to be non-disposable and/or be re-used with replacement inserts  104 . In an example embodiment, the insert  104  may allow for the flavoring system, the nicotine and/or the pre-vapor formulation to be added or recharged within the insert  104  so that the removed insert  104  can then be reinstalled into the first section  70 . In another embodiment, the insert  104  is removable and replaceable with a new insert  104  and, where the insert  104  may be disposable. Or, a containing structure  103  of the insert  104  may be removable, or remain affixed within the first section  70 , where only the matrix  100  may be removed and replaced from the containing structure  103 , such that the containing structure  103  is reusable and the matrix  100  is replaceable. In yet another embodiment, rather than the insert  104  and/or matrix  100  being removable and replaceable, or in addition to the insert  104  and/or matrix  100  being removable and replaceable, the first section  70  may allow for access to the matrix  100  and/or insert  104  in order to allow the flavoring system, nicotine and/or the pre-vapor formulation to be added or recharged within the matrix  100  and/or insert  104 . 
     In an example embodiment, the reservoir  20  contains a supply of the pre-vapor formulation  22  that is heated by heater  14  to generate a vapor, where this pre-vapor formulation  22  supply is separate from a pre-vapor formulation that may be infused into the filler material  105  of the matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation  22  includes flavoring and/or nicotine that is the same as the flavoring and/or nicotine described above, or alternatively that is different than the flavoring and/or nicotine described above, or alternatively the pre-vapor formulation  22  may instead not contain flavoring and/or nicotine. In an example embodiment, the flavoring and/or nicotine may be provided by flavoring and/or nicotine in matrix  100 , as vapor generated by heater  14  flows through the matrix  100 . 
     In an example embodiment, the heater  14  is in communication with the inner passage  10 . In an example embodiment, the inner passage  10  is cylindrical in shape, though the inner passage  10  may also be a different shape and may have, for instance, a cross-sectional profile that is square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, irregular, etc. In an example embodiment, the heater  14  is constructed of an iron-aluminide (e.g., FeAl or Fe 3 Al). 
     As stated above, the heater  14  is upstream of the insert  104 . The heater  14  is configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation  22  in order to produce a vapor  124 , where the vapor  124  is warmed to an extent that the vapor  124  can at least partially extract (e.g., vaporize, elute, etc.) the flavoring, nicotine and/or ingredients of a pre-vapor formulation in the matrix  100 , as the vapor  124  flows across and/or through the matrix  100  to produce the downstream vapor  124   a  that exits the insert  104 . In an example embodiment, the heater  14  is a distance apart from the matrix  100  and/or insert  104 , such that convection indirectly heats the matrix  100 , as well. In an example embodiment, the heater  14  is in a channel with a smaller diameter and/or smaller cross-sectional area for airflow (e.g., inner passage  10 ), relative to the channel (air passage  9   b ) containing the insert  104 . In an alternative embodiment, the channel containing the heater  14  and the insert  104  is a channel with a same diameter and/or a same airflow cross-sectional area. 
     In an embodiment, the heater  14  is in the form of a wire coil, a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a cage of resistive wire, or any other suitable form that is configured to vaporize the pre-vapor formulation  22 . In at least one example embodiment, the heater  14  is formed of any suitable electrically resistive material or materials. In another example embodiment, the heater  14  is a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on an outside surface thereof. 
     In an example embodiment, the mouth-end insert  8  of the first section  70  is permanently affixed on an end of the first section  70 , or alternatively the mouth-end insert  8  is removable. In an example embodiment where the mouth-end insert  8  is removable, this may allow an insert  104  to also be replaceable and/or refillable from an open end of the housing  6   b  provided when the mouth-end insert  8  has been removed. 
     A position of the heater  14  is not limited to the position shown in  FIG. 3 , nor is the precise position of the insert  104  limited to the position shown in  FIG. 3 . For example, the heater  14  may be positioned at a downstream end of the outer air passage  9   a , such that the heater  14  may be closer to the matrix  100  of the insert  104 . In an example embodiment, the heater  14  may protrude out of the outer air passage  9 a and into the second outer air passage  9   b . Meanwhile, the insert  104  may be set closer to the mouth-end insert  8 , or closer to an outer air passage  9   a . Furthermore, the insert  104  may be positioned in the narrower outer air passage  9   a , either in lieu of the insert  104  being positioned in the second outer air passage  9   b , or in addition to an insert  104  also being positioned in the second air passage  9   b . In an example embodiment, more than one insert  104  is included in the first section  70 . In some embodiments, only an outer air passage  9   b , without an air passage  9   a , may be included, with the heater  14  and the insert  104  in fluid communication via the air passage  9   b.    
     In some examples, the heater  14  warms the matrix  100  within the insert  104 , but the heater  14  does not burn and/or combust the matrix  100 . Thus, the matrix  100  in some example embodiments is non-combustible. 
     In an example embodiment, the power supply  94  is a battery, such as a lithium ion battery. The battery may be a Lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, for example a Lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the battery is a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, a Lithium-manganese battery, a Lithium-cobalt battery, a fuel cell or a solar cell. Any other power sources or battery technology may be used. In an example embodiment, second section  72  may be usable until the energy in the power supply  94  of the control system  1  is depleted and/or lowered below a certain threshold. Alternatively, the power supply  94  of the control system  1  may be rechargeable and reusable, and may include circuitry allowing the battery to be chargeable by an external charging device, or may be rechargeable via solar power. In some examples, the circuitry of the control system  1 , when charged, may provide power for a desired (or alternatively, a determined) number of draws, until the energy in power supply  94  is depleted, and/or until the energy in power supply  94  is lowered below a certain threshold, after which the circuitry must be re-connected to an external charging device. 
     In an example embodiment, the first section  70  is connectable to the second section  72  via the connecting structure  75 . In an embodiment, the connecting structure  75  can include a threaded connection, a friction fitting, a snap fitting, an adhesive, a removable and/or insertable pin, a magnetic connection, or any other suitable structure that may be used to join the sections  70 / 72  to each other. Optionally, the second section  72  is permanently connected to the first section  70 , such that the second section  72  may be an integral section of the first section  70 . In an example embodiment, the device  60  does not have separate sections  70 / 72 , such that the device  60  is one singular section. Or, alternatively, the device  60  may include more than two sections. In an example embodiment, section  70 , or the sections  70 / 72  collectively, define an airflow path for the device  60 , where the heater  14  and the insert  104  are in communication with this airflow path. 
     Example Operation of Some Example Embodiments: 
     In some examples, airflow through the device  60  may be caused by air being drawn into the air inlet(s)  40  and through the first section  70 . In outer air passage  9   a , the airflow may become entrained (eluted) by vapor that may be produced by the heater  14  heating a pre-vapor formulation  22 . In the second outer air passage  9   b , the vapor  124  may pass through the matrix  100  of the insert  104  in order to allow the vapor to become entrained by added flavoring and/or nicotine from the matrix  100 , prior to the downstream vapor  124   a  exiting the device  60 . As noted, in some embodiments, there may be only one air passage  9   b , and vapor produced by the heater  14  will go directly to said air passage  9   b , where the vapor  124  may pass through the matrix  100  of the insert  104  in order to allow the vapor to become entrained by added flavoring and/or nicotine from the matrix  100 , prior to the downstream vapor  124   a  exiting the device  60 . 
     In an example embodiment, an airflow through the device  60  activates the device  60 . The sensor(s)  92  may be configured to generate an output indicative of an airflow, a magnitude of an airflow, and/or a direction of an airflow, where the controller  90  may receive the output from the sensor(s)  92  and determine if the following internal conditions exist: (1) an airflow exists, if a direction of the airflow indicates a draw of airflow through the device  60  (versus blowing air through the device  60 ), and/or (2) a magnitude of the airflow exceeds a threshold value. If one or more of these internal conditions of the device  60  are met, the controller  90  electrically connects the power supply  94  to the heater  14 , thereby activating the heater  14 . In some example embodiments, only one condition may be sufficient to activate the heater, while in other examples, two conditions or all conditions may have to be met before activating the heater. 
     In an example embodiment, the sensor(s)  92  generate a variable output signal that is in at least a partial correlation with a magnitude of a pressure drop sensed by the sensor(s)  92 . In an example embodiment, the controller  90  may send a variable electrical current to the heater  14  based on the variable output signal from the sensor(s)  92 . The sensor(s)  92  may include a sensor as disclosed in “Electronic Smoke Apparatus,” U.S. application Ser. No. 14/793,453, filed on Jul. 7, 2015, or a sensor as disclosed in “Electronic Smoke,” U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,321, issued on Jul. 7, 2015, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety into this document. Other type of sensors to detect an airflow may be used. 
       FIG. 4  is a diagram of a device  62  with an insert  104  containing a matrix  100 , in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with  FIG. 3  are not described again here, for brevity sake. In an example embodiment, insert  104  includes a filter  1220  that is a non-consumable filter (does not include a consumable substance), and/or that may for instance be a cellulose acetate (CA) filter. A portion of the containing structure  103  and/or insert  104  may be connected to the filter  1220  via any known means and/or structure, including but not limited to an adhesive, a covering or the containing structure  103  (e.g., additional tipping paper covering filter  1220  and the insert  104 , or the containing structure  103  being extended to cover both the insert  104  and filter  1220 , etc.), prongs, pins, etc. The filter  1220  may be circumscribed at least in part by its own covering  1255 , where the covering  1255  may be a foil, tipping paper, or other material that allows the downstream vapor  124   a  to pass through the filter  1220 , at least through an upstream and downstream end of the filter. As noted, in some examples, covering  1255  may cover filter  1220 , containing structure  103  may cover matrix  100 , and both may be then covered by an additional covering connecting the two, or, covering  1255  and containing structure  103  may form part of the same cover that covers both filter  1220  and matrix  100 . In another example, containing structure  103  may cover matrix  100 , and a separate covering may cover the filter  1220  and the containing structure  103 . Other variations may be used that connect filter  1220  and matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, the insert  104  and filter  1220  may be removed from the device  62  as one element, and a replacement insert  104  with filter  1220  may be inserted into the device  62 . In an example embodiment, the filter  1220  takes the place of a mouth-end insert (such as the mouth-end insert  8  of  FIG. 3 ), such that a separate mouth-end insert is not present. 
     In an example embodiment, dilution air (not shown) is introduced into the flow of the downstream vapor  124   a  prior to the downstream vapor  124   a  exiting the device  62 . This may be accomplished, for example, by perforating sides of the covering  1255  of the filter  1220 . 
       FIG. 5  is a diagram of a device  60   a  with an insert  104   a  containing a matrix  100  and a reservoir  106 , in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with the previous embodiments are not described again here, for brevity sake. In an example embodiment, the reservoir  106  contains nicotine, a flavorant and/or a pre-vapor formulation. The reservoir  106  is in fluid communication with the matrix  100  of the insert  104   a . In particular, a wick system  132 , such as a wick, a capillary tube, a narrow channel, or other structure capable of communicating nicotine, a flavorant and/or a pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir  106  to the matrix  100 , is used to provide nicotine, flavorant and/or pre-vapor formulation to the matrix  100  during operation of the device  60   a , and/or is used to replenish the nicotine, flavorant and/or pre-vapor formulation within the matrix  100  during operation of the device  60   a.    
     In an example embodiment, the insert  104   a  is removable in order to allow the reservoir  106  to be re-filled after being depleted. In another embodiment, the reservoir  106  is re-Tillable without the insert  104   a  and/or the reservoir  106  being removed from the first section  70 . In another embodiment, the insert  104   a  is disposable, such that the insert  104   a  may be disposed following depletion of the matrix  100  and/or reservoir  106 . 
     In another embodiment, rather than a separate dedicated reservoir  106  being in fluid communication with the matrix  100 , the reservoir  20  in first section  70  is in fluid communication with the matrix  100 . That is to say, the reservoir  20  is in fluid communication with both the matrix  100  and the heater  14 . 
       FIG. 6  is a diagram of a device  62   a  with a insert  104   a  containing a matrix  100  and a reservoir  106 , in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with the previous embodiments are not described again here, for brevity sake. This embodiment includes a same insert  104   a  as shown and described in relation to the device  60   a  of  FIG. 5 , though this insert  104   a  also includes the filter  1220  that may be an integral element of the insert  104   a  and/or otherwise connected to insert  104   a.    
       FIG. 7  is a diagram of a device  62   b  with a insert  104  containing the matrix  100 , including a bypass airflow, in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with the previous embodiments are not described again here, for brevity sake. In an example embodiment, a gap exists between the matrix  100  and/or containing structure  103  and an inner surface of the housing  6   b  to allow for bypass air  124   b  to pass across and/or fully circumvent the matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  include holes or penetrations along the sides  100   b  of the matrix  100  to allow the bypass airflow  124   b  to contact at least a portion of the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, the containing structure  103  is porous, mesh, or made from other materials (as described above), along the sides  100   b  of the matrix  100 , to more fully allow the bypass airflow  124   b  to contact the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, the device  62   b  and/or first section  70  may include tubing or other structure, other than or in addition to a gap between the insert  104  and the housing  6   b , in order to provide the bypass airflow  124   b  across and/or around the matrix  100 . It should be understood that, in the event the device  62   b  includes the bypass airflow  124   b , this bypass airflow  124   b  may include an entrained vapor, just as the downstream vapor  124   a  passing through the matrix  100  also includes a vapor, if the bypass airflow  124   b  passes across an exposed surface of the matrix  100 . 
       FIG. 8  is a diagram of a device  62   c  with an insert  104   a  containing a matrix  100  and a reservoir  106 , including the bypass airflow  124   b , in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with the previous embodiments are not described again here, for brevity sake. In this embodiment, the first section  70  includes an insert  104   a  that is the same as the insert  104   a  of the device  62   a  shown and described in relation to  FIG. 6 , though this insert  104   a  includes a gap between the sides of the containing structure  103  and the inner surface of the housing  6   b  to allow for the bypass airflow  124   b  to circumvent the matrix  100 . 
     Insert Examples According to Example Embodiments 
       FIG. 9A  is an illustration of a side-view of a matrix  100  in an insert  406  that is in the form of an insertable rod, in accordance with an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the insert  406  includes at least three sections: a proximal end section  404  that includes the matrix  100 , a middle section  408 , and a distal end section that is a filter  410 . The filter  410  in some example embodiments is a non-consumable filter that does not include a consumable substance (e.g., the  410  is devoid of a consumable substance). The insert  406  has a “plug-space-plug” configuration, from the standpoint that the middle section  408  is largely a section of open (void) space (e.g., wrapped by a tipping paper that can also wrap the other sections). In some examples, the middle section  408  may include a flow restrictor  412 . The flow restrictor  412  may be in the form of a tube with walls  412   a , where an internal surface  412   b  of the tube walls forms a restricted flow channel with a diameter  422 . In an example embodiment, the middle section  408  defines open spaces  414 / 416  that bracket the flow restrictor  412 , such that the flow restrictor  412  does not reach the ends of the middle section  408 . In some examples, the flow restrictor  412  may reach both ends of the middle section  408 , or may reach one end but not both ends of the middle section  408 . The reduced internal diameter  422  of a flow restrictor  412  reduces an airflow cross-sectional area through the flow restriction section  408  to control a RTD and an airflow through the insert  406 . The filter  410  is a filter that may be, for instance, a cellulose acetate (CA) filter. In an example embodiment, the filter  410  (or other filters described in various embodiments) may also contain nicotine, flavorants, etc.. In some embodiments, flavorant beads and/or crushable beads may be included in one or more of the sections. In an example embodiment, an airflow through the insert  406  flows in a direction that causes the airflow to enter and flow through the matrix  100 , before passing through the middle section  408  and the filter  410 . In some examples, an insert  406  may include less than three sections or more than two sections. For example, one example may include a filter section and a matrix section as has been described, or another example may include a section such as  408  and a matrix section, and in other examples more than three sections may be included with additional spaces, sections such as  408 , filter sections and/or matrix sections. 
     In an example embodiment, an insert  406  includes a containing structure  103  that spans the length of the insert  406 , by covering the outer surfaces of the matrix  100 , the middle section  408  and the filter  410  and/or any other sections that may form part of the insert  406 . In an example embodiment, the only wrapping around the matrix  100 , middle section  408 , filter section  410  and/or any other sections that may form part of the insert  406 , is a containing structure  103  without any other wrapping around each of the sections that form part of insert  406  (i.e., the sections being wrapped only by and connected by a single wrapping such as containing structure  103 ). In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  is made from tipping paper. In another embodiment, the containing structure is made from any of the materials described in conjunction with the containing structure  103 , included in the embodiments described herein. In an example embodiment, ends  406   a  of the insert  406  are open (e.g., the containing structure  103  is only wrapped around insert  406  in a longitudinal direction such that the containing structure  103  does not exist on the ends  406   a  of the insert  406 ). In another embodiment, containing structure  103  exists on the ends  406   a  of the insert  406  made from any of the materials for containing structure  103  of the example embodiments described herein. One or more sections may also have their own cover, and then the various sections may be connected together, either by another covering or by other structure. 
     Dimensions and Performance in Some Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, the diameter  420  of an insert  406  is about 7-10 mm, or about 8.6 mm. In an example embodiment, the internal (restricted) diameter  422  of a flow restrictor  412  is about 4-8 mm, or about 5 mm. In an example embodiment, a longitudinal length of an end section  404  with the matrix  100  is about 5-16 mm, or about 6 mm. In an example embodiment, a longitudinal length of a middle section  408  is about 12-25 mm, or about 12 mm. In an example embodiment, spaces  414 / 416  of a section  408  may each have a longitudinal length of about 4 mm. In an example embodiment, a longitudinal length of a filter  410  is about 6-9 mm, or about 6 mm. In an example embodiment, the RTD of the insert  406  is about 30 mm of water or less, or about 26 mm of water or less. In an example embodiment, an insert  406  has the following dimensions: an end section  404  with the matrix  100  has a longitudinal length of about 6 mm, restriction middle section  408  has a longitudinal length of about 12 mm with spaces  414 / 416  that are each about 4 mm long, and a filter  410  has a longitudinal length of about 6 mm—with a RTD of the insert  406  being about 26 mm of water or less. In some example embodiments, the void space within the flow restriction section  408 , and a size of the internal diameter  422  of the flow restrictor  412 , may help control an airflow rate and a RTD of the insert  406 , wherein in some examples a lower RTD may generally allow a greater amount of flavor and/or nicotine to be imparted to the downstream vapor  124   a  exiting the insert  406  (see  FIG. 10 ). The ranges of values in these example embodiments are not limiting and may be below or above these ranges. 
     Insert Examples According to other Example Embodiments 
     In an example embodiment, the insert  406  is disposable, such that the insert  406  may be discarded following a depletion of the consumable substance within matrix  100 . 
       FIG. 9B  is an illustration of a side-view of the matrix  100  in an insert  406   b  that is in the form of another insertable rod, in accordance with an example embodiment. Reference numbers in common with  FIG. 9A  are not described again here, for brevity sake. In this embodiment, a flow restrictor  411  is a “hat” flow restrictor. In this embodiment, the flow restrictor  411  relies on a brim  411 a of the flow restrictor  411  to provide the reduced cross-sectional airflow through the restrictor  411 , where an internal surface  411 b of the restrictor  411  defines a channel with the restricted diameter  422 . In an example embodiment, an airflow through the insert  406   b  flows in a direction that causes the airflow to enter and flow through the matrix  100 , before passing through the flow restriction section  408  and the non-consumable filter  410 . 
     Device with Insert According to Some Example Embodiments 
       FIG. 10  is a diagram of a device  64  with a matrix  100  in an insert  406  and/or  406   b , such as those described above. Reference numbers in common with  FIGS. 3 and 9A, 9B  are not described again here, for brevity sake. In an example embodiment, an insert  406  (or  406   b ) is insertable into a distal (downstream) end of a device  64 . In an example device  64  that includes multiple sections—e.g., a first section  74  and a second section  72 —the insert is insertable into a distal (downstream) end of first section  74 . The insert  406  (or  406   b ) may, for instance, be friction-fitted within the end of the device  64 . In an example embodiment, the insert extends, at least partially, from the distal end of the device  64 , such that at least part of the insert remains exposed and extends outside of device  64  once the insert is fully inserted into the device  64 . In an example embodiment where at least part of a filter section  410  of an insert remains outside of the device  64  when the insert is inserted into the device, the filter  410  may act as a mouthpiece for the device  64 . As stated above, the insert  406  (or  406   b ) may be disposable, whereas the device  64  and/or one or more sections thereof (if the device includes multiple sections) need not be disposable. The arrangement of the sections of an insert  406  (or  406   b ) may differ from the order shown in the drawings  9 A and  9 B, and depending on the arrangement, one or more sections other than the filter section may remain outside of the device  64  when the insert is inserted, and may act as a mouthpiece. 
     Example Methods According to Some Embodiments 
       FIG. 11  is a flow chart of a method of making an insert  104  containing a matrix  100 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In step S 400 , filler material  105  is formed from a plant-based cellulose material. As described above, this plant-based cellulose material can either be a non-tobacco cellulose material or a tobacco cellulose. 
     In step S 402 , the filler material  105  is processed to create the matrix  100 . In an example embodiment, this is accomplished by shredding the filler material  105  to form the strands  102  of the filler material  105  (as described above), where the strands  102  are then combined and/or compressed to form the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, either in lieu of forming the strands  102 , or in addition to forming the strands  102 , portions or sheets of the filler material  105  are processed by folding, bunching or otherwise combining and/or compressing the filler material  105  to form the matrix  100  (as described above). In any of these embodiments, the filler material  105  (or strands  102  of filler material  105 ) may also be perforated, at some point in the processing of the filler material  105  or forming the matrix  100 , to increase the interstitial spaces  101  within the matrix  100 . 
     In step S 404 , the matrix  100  is contained (e.g., bound together) to form the insert  104 . As described above, this may be accomplished by holding the matrix  100  together using a containing structure  103 . The containing structure  103  may be made from a metal, metal alloy, polymer, plastic, resin, mesh, cellulose, plant-based cellulose, fabric, cotton, fibers, threads, other textiles, pulp, paper, tipping paper, etc., other suitable materials capable of containing the matrix  100 , or combinations, or sub-combinations, of these materials. In an example embodiment, the containing structure  103  is made from the filler material  105 . In an example embodiment, the matrix  100  is included in a containing structure  103  of an insert  406 / 406   b.    
     In step S 406 , the filler material  105  is infused with a consumable substance. As described above, in an example embodiment the consumable substance includes a flavorant, nicotine and/or a pre-vapor formulation. In an example embodiment, the infusing of the flavorant, nicotine and/or pre-vapor formulation occurs as the filler material  105  is being formed, or after the filler material  105  is formed. In another embodiment, the infusing of the flavorant, nicotine and/or pre-vapor formulation occurs as the filler material  105  is being processed into the matrix  100 , or after the matrix  100  is formed. In another embodiment, the matrix  100  is infused by the flavorant, nicotine and/or pre-vapor formulation by connecting the reservoir to the matrix  100 , where the reservoir  106  contains the flavorant, nicotine and/or pre-vapor formulation. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart of a method of making a device  60  (or, any of the devices disclosed in the instant example embodiments) including an insert  104  (or other inserts described herein) containing a matrix  100 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In step S 500 , the insert  104  and/or matrix  100  is configured to allow an airflow to contact at least a portion of the matrix  100 . As described above, this may be accomplished by wrapping containing structure  103  around matrix  100  in a longitudinal direction without covering upstream and downstream ends of matrix  100 . In another embodiment, containing structure  103  may provide openings, with an inlet and outlet opening to allow the airflow to pass through at least a portion of the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, the containing structure  103  is porous, such that the airflow is free to penetrate the containing structure  103  and flow across, or flow through, at least a portion of the matrix  100 . In another embodiment, or in addition to the other embodiments, at least a portion of the containing structure  103  exposes a portion of the matrix  100  to open air, thereby allowing the airflow to contact and/or pass across at least a surface of the matrix  100 . 
     In step S 502 , the insert  104  and/or matrix  100  is inserted into the housing  6   b  of the device  60  (or, any other of the devices disclosed herein). In step S 504 , an airflow path is established within the device  60 , where the airflow path passes across, or passes through at least a portion of the matrix  100 . This may be accomplished by adding the one or more air inlets  40  to the device  60  and arranging the internal structure of the device  60  to establish the airflow path. In step S 506 , a heater  14  is positioned in the airflow path of the device  60 , upstream of the insert  104  and/or matrix  100 . It should be understood that the steps of this method may apply equally to example methods of making the devices ( 60   a ,  62 ,  62   a ,  62   b ,  62   c  and  64 ) with the insert  104   a  or the inserts  406 / 406   b.    
     Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.