Patent Description:
<CIT> describes vaporizer apparatuses. The vaporizer may include a cartridge and a reusable component. The cartridge includes a tank configured to hold a liquid vaporizable material therein, a heater (e.g. a wick and coil assembly) configured to heat the vaporizable material in the tank, and an air tube extending from the tank to a mouthpiece. Contacts are configured to connect with contacts on the reusable component to provide power to activate the wick and coil assembly. It is described how the Seebeck effect alone or the Seebeck effect in conjunction with a resistance measurement can be used for temperature control of a heating element that has a material transition (junction) at the position where temperature is to be controlled. <CIT> also discloses a cartridge comprising a heater-thermocouple.

The features of the invention are provided in the independent claims, to which reference should now be made. Additional, optional features are provided in the dependent claims.

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 as defined by the scope of the appended claims 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. 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," "attached to," "adjacent to," or "covering" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, attached to, adjacent 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, and so forth may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Therefore, a first element, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (for example, "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element or feature 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. Therefore, the term "below" may encompass both an orientation of above and below.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. 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, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or groups thereof.

When the terms "about" or "substantially" are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value includes a manufacturing or operational tolerance (for example, ±<NUM> percent) around the stated numerical value. Moreover, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision of the geometric shape is not required but that latitude for the shape is within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, regardless of whether numerical values or shapes are modified as "about," "generally," or "substantially," it will be understood that these values and shapes should be construed as including a manufacturing or operational tolerance (for example, ±<NUM> percent) around the stated numerical values or shapes.

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.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, or as is apparent from the discussion, terms such as "processing" or "computing" or "calculating" or "determining" or "displaying" or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical, electronic quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

In the following description, illustrative embodiments may be described with reference to acts and symbolic representations of operations (for example, in the form of flow charts, flow diagrams, data flow diagrams, structure diagrams, block diagrams, and so forth) that may be implemented as program modules or functional processes including routines, programs, objects, data structures, and so forth, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The operations be implemented using existing hardware in existing electronic systems, such as one or more microprocessors, Central Processing Units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific-integrated-circuits (ASICs), SoCs, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, or the like.

One or more example embodiments may be (or include) hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. Such hardware may include one or more microprocessors, CPUs, SoCs, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs, computers, or the like, configured as special purpose machines to perform the functions described herein as well as any other well-known functions of these elements. In at least some cases, CPUs, SoCs, DSPs, ASICs and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processing circuits, processors and/or microprocessors.

Although processes may be described with regard to sequential operations, many of the operations may be performed in parallel, concurrently or simultaneously. A process may correspond to a method, function, procedure, subroutine, subprogram, and so forth. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.

As disclosed herein, the term "storage medium", "computer readable storage medium" or "non-transitory computer readable storage medium," may represent one or more devices for storing data, including read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other tangible machine readable mediums for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other mediums capable of storing, containing or carrying instructions and/or data.

Furthermore, at least some portions of example embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in a machine or computer readable medium such as a computer readable storage medium. When implemented in software, processors, processing circuits, or processing units may be programmed to perform the necessary tasks, thereby being transformed into special purpose processors or computers.

A code segment may represent a procedure, function, subprogram, program, routine, subroutine, module, software package, class, or any combination of instructions, data structures or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, and so forth may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, and so forth.

<FIG> is a front view of a nicotine e-vaping device according to an example embodiment. Referring the <FIG>, a nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may include a sleeve section <NUM> configured to receive a nicotine cartridge <NUM> (discussed in more detail below with respect to <FIG>). The sleeve section <NUM> is connected to a battery section housing <NUM> via a knurled connector <NUM>. A light pipe <NUM> may be exposed by the knurled connector <NUM> such that the exposed surface of the light pipe <NUM> constitutes an external surface of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. The exposed surface of the light pipe <NUM> may also be between the sleeve section <NUM> and the battery section housing <NUM>. The combination of at least the sleeve section <NUM> and the battery section housing <NUM> may be collectively regarded as the device housing of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. When the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> is fully assembled/engaged, a mouthpiece <NUM> is disposed at the proximal end of the sleeve section <NUM>, while an end cap <NUM> is disposed at the distal end of the battery section housing <NUM>. The mouthpiece <NUM> (part of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>) may have a tapered form such that the width at its proximal end is less than the diameter of the sleeve section <NUM>.

The proximal end and the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> (and/or its constituent parts) may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. In particular, as used herein, "proximal" (and, conversely, "distal") is in relation to an adult vaper during vaping, and "downstream" (and, conversely, "upstream") is in relation to a flow of the nicotine vapor.

The sleeve section <NUM> defines a plurality of air inlets <NUM>. As illustrated, each of the air inlets <NUM> may have a hexagonal shape and may be arranged in a staggered array so as to resemble a honeycomb pattern. However, it should be understood that other shapes and arrangements are possible. For instance, in lieu of (or in addition to) a hexagonal shape, the air inlets <NUM> may include triangular, quadrilateral (for example, square, diamond), pentagonal, and/or circular shapes. Furthermore, instead of an axial arrangement along a partial length of the sleeve section <NUM>, the air inlets <NUM> may be arrayed in a circumferential arrangement around the sleeve section <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may include at least ten total air inlets <NUM> (for example, at least twenty total air inlets <NUM>).

<FIG> is a side view of the nicotine e-vaping device of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, opposite sides of the sleeve section <NUM> may define a first array of the air inlets <NUM> and a second array of the air inlets <NUM> such that both arrays are partially visible in the side view. In an example embodiment, the first array of the air inlets <NUM> is fully visible based on a front view of the sleeve section <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, while the second array of the air inlets <NUM> is fully visible based on a rear view of the sleeve section <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, which is discussed below.

The mouthpiece <NUM> may have a wedge-like or chisel-like appearance based on the side view of <FIG>. However, it should be understood that other shapes and configurations are possible. For example, in one instance, the mouthpiece <NUM> may instead have a cylindrical form. In another instance, the mouthpiece <NUM> may have a frustoconical form or shape of a truncated cone.

A port <NUM> may be disposed near the distal end of the battery section housing <NUM> so as to be adjacent to the end cap <NUM>. In the side view of <FIG>, the port <NUM> may be visible as just a recess in the battery section housing <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the port <NUM> facilitates the charging of and/or communication of information to/from the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. The port <NUM> will be discussed in more detail in connection with <FIG>.

The light pipe <NUM> is configured to transmit light emitted from at least one internal light source (for example, LED) so as to provide one or more visual indications. In particular, the light transmitted by the light pipe <NUM> may visually notify an adult vaper of a state of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. For instance, the visual indications by the light pipe <NUM> may include (but are not limited to) the following information: whether the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> is on, whether nicotine vapor is being generated, whether the battery is low, whether charging is taking place or completed, and/or whether the nicotine pre-vapor formulation is low or depleted.

As referred to herein, a nicotine pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that may be transformed into a nicotine vapor. For example, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation may include a liquid, solid, and/or gel formulation. These may include, for example and without limitation, water, oil, emulsions, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, nicotine, natural or artificial flavors, vapor formers such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and/or any other ingredients that may be suitable for vaping. During vaping, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> is configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation to generate a nicotine vapor. Nicotine vapor, nicotine aerosol, and nicotine dispersion can be used interchangeably and refer to the matter generated or outputted by the devices disclosed, claimed, and/or equivalents thereof, wherein such matter may contain nicotine. In an example embodiment, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may be regarded as an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS).

Referring back to <FIG>, the light pipe <NUM> may be on an opposite side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> from the port <NUM>. However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, in some embodiments, the light pipe <NUM> may be on the same side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> as the port <NUM> (for example, rear side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>). Conversely, in other embodiments, the port <NUM> may be on the same side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> as the light pipe <NUM> (for example, front side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>).

<FIG> is a rear view of the nicotine e-vaping device of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the second array of air inlets <NUM> in the rear side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may be as described in connection with the first array of air inlets <NUM> in the front side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Therefore, the relevant disclosures of the air inlets <NUM> already discussed above will not be repeated in the interest of brevity. However, in some embodiments, the second array of air inlets <NUM> in the rear side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be different from the first array of air inlets <NUM> in the front side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> shown in <FIG> (or vice versa). For instance, instead of the three staggered rows of seven, eight, and seven air inlets <NUM> per array, the number of rows and/or the number of air inlets <NUM> per array may be modified so as to depart from the twenty-two air inlets <NUM> per array (or the forty-four total air inlets <NUM> for the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>).

The port <NUM> is configured to receive an electric current (for example, via a USB/mini-USB/USB-C cable) from an external power source so as to charge an internal power source within the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. In addition, the port <NUM> may also be configured to send data to and/or receive data (for example, via a USB/mini-USB/USB-C cable) from another nicotine e-vaping device or other electronic device (for example, phone, tablet, computer). Furthermore, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may be configured for wireless communication with another electronic device, such as a phone, via an application software (app) installed on that electronic device. In such an instance, an adult vaper may control or otherwise interface with the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> (for example, locate the nicotine e-vaping device, check usage information, change operating parameters) through the app.

Although the port <NUM> is shown as being located on the rear side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> in <FIG>, it should be understood that other locations are also possible. For instance, in some embodiments, the port <NUM> may be located instead on the front side of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> in <FIG>. Additionally, in other embodiments, the port <NUM> may be located on the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> so as to be accessible through the end cap <NUM>.

<FIG> is a proximal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the mouthpiece <NUM> defines a vapor outlet <NUM>. During vaping, the nicotine vapor generated is drawn from the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> through the vapor outlet <NUM>. Although the vapor outlet <NUM> is shown as being centered so as to coincide with a central longitudinal axis of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>, it should be understood that the vapor outlet <NUM> may be off-centered (for example, offset from the central longitudinal axis) in some instances. Additionally, although only one vapor outlet <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. In particular, in some embodiments, the mouthpiece <NUM> may define a plurality of vapor outlets <NUM>. For instance, the mouthpiece <NUM> may define two vapor outlets <NUM>, which may extend in parallel (for example, longitudinally) or in a diverging manner. In another instance, the mouthpiece <NUM> may define three vapor outlets <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the three vapor outlets <NUM> may be aligned in a linear arrangement such that a vapor outlet <NUM> in the middle extends longitudinally while the other two vapor outlets <NUM> extend in a diverging manner. Alternatively, all three vapor outlets <NUM> may extend in parallel.

It should also be understood that the positioning, arrangement, and quantity of the one or more vapor outlets <NUM> may be further varied depending on the configuration of the mouthpiece <NUM>. In particular, in example embodiments where the mouthpiece <NUM> has a cylindrical form or a frustoconical form (instead of a flattened form), additional options may exist for the positioning, arrangement, and quantity of the one or more vapor outlets <NUM>. For instance, when space permits, an embodiment with three vapor outlets <NUM> may have a triangular arrangement for the vapor outlets <NUM>. Similarly, an embodiment with four vapor outlets <NUM> may have a triangular arrangement with a central vapor outlet <NUM> or, alternatively, a quadrilateral (for example, square, diamond) arrangement. Likewise, an embodiment with more vapor outlets <NUM> may have a quadrilateral arrangement, a pentagonal arrangement, a hexagonal arrangement, a heptagonal arrangement, or an octagonal arrangement, which may or may not include a central vapor outlet <NUM>.

As shown in the drawings, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a generally cylindrical form and a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a generally polyhedron form with a polygonal cross-section. The selection of the general overall form of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> make take into account various factors, including (but not limited to) aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturing considerations. For instance, instead of a cylindrical form, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a polyhedron form to provide a more contemporary look and/or to prevent or reduce the likelihood of unwanted rolling (for example, anti-roll design).

A polyhedron form for the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may include a triangular prism, a cuboid, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, or an octagonal prism. With a form resembling a triangular prism, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a triangular cross-section (for example, shape of an equilateral triangle). With a form resembling a cuboid, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a square cross-section or a rectangular cross-section. With a form resembling a pentagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a pentagonal cross-section. With a form resembling a hexagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a hexagonal cross-section. With a form resembling a heptagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have a heptagonal cross-section. With a form resembling an octagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have an octagonal cross-section.

<FIG> is a distal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, an end cap <NUM> and a button <NUM> are disposed at the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. The end cap <NUM> may be engaged with the battery section housing <NUM> via an interference fit (which may also be referred to as a press fit or friction fit). For instance, the outer sidewall of the end cap <NUM> may be engaged with the corresponding inner sidewall of the battery section housing <NUM>. Additionally, the outer sidewall of the end cap <NUM> may be knurled to enhance the engagement. In an example embodiment, the end cap <NUM> also defines an opening configured to accommodate the button <NUM>. In such an instance, the end cap <NUM> is a stationary structure, while the button <NUM> is a mobile structure which is movable (for example, depressible) relative to the end cap <NUM>.

The button <NUM> may be a power button for the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. In particular, when pressed, the button <NUM> may activate a power supply within the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. Although the button <NUM> is shown as being located at the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, in some embodiments, the button <NUM> may be located instead on the front of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> (for example, so as to be on the same side as the light pipe <NUM>).

<FIG> is a front view of the nicotine e-vaping device of <FIG> when the nicotine cartridge and the device body are not engaged. Referring to <FIG>, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> includes a nicotine cartridge <NUM> and a device body <NUM>, wherein the device body <NUM> is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. The nicotine cartridge <NUM> includes a housing configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM>. When the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is engaged with the device body <NUM>, a majority of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be hidden from view by the sleeve section <NUM> while the mouthpiece <NUM> remains visible (for example, as shown in <FIG>). The nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may also be visible through the device body <NUM> via the air inlets <NUM> in the sleeve section <NUM>. During vaping, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> is heated to generate a nicotine vapor which is drawn from the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> via the mouthpiece <NUM>.

The nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be regarded as a consumable which is replaced once the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> therein is depleted. The level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be visually ascertained through the air inlets <NUM> in the sleeve section <NUM>. In some instances, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may additionally provide a notification (for example, via the light pipe <NUM>) when the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is deemed depleted. In other instances, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may also provide an indication (for example, via the light pipe <NUM>) that another unacceptable condition exists. Examples of other unacceptable conditions include (but are not limited to) a poor electrical connection and/or an unauthorized nicotine cartridge or an authorized nicotine cartridge that is no longer deemed appropriate for vaping (for example, an overly long period of time, such as a year, has passed since vaping first occurred with the nicotine cartridge).

The form of the device body <NUM> may correspond to the form of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> (for example, generally cylindrical form for both the device body <NUM> and the nicotine cartridge <NUM>). However, in other instances, the form of the device body <NUM> may be different from the form of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. For instance, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may have a cylindrical form, while the device body <NUM> may have one of the different forms disclosed herein (for example, cuboid form) or vice versa. Therefore, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may have an overall form (which is influenced primarily by the device body <NUM>) that is different from the form of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded view of the nicotine cartridge in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> includes a mouthpiece <NUM>, a first seal <NUM>, a tank <NUM>, a second seal <NUM>, and a vaporizer <NUM>. The tank <NUM> defines a reservoir <NUM> configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> when the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is assembled. In addition, the sidewall of the tank <NUM> may define at least one vapor channel extending therethrough. As illustrated, the sidewall of the tank <NUM> defines vapor channels 132a and 132b (which may also be referred to as first vapor channel 132a and second vapor channel 132b). In an example embodiment, the vapor channels 132a and 132b may be defined within opposite sides of the sidewall of the tank <NUM> (for example, diametrically opposed) such that the reservoir <NUM> is between the vapor channels 132a and 132b. The vapor channels 132a and 132b may also be parallel to each other and to a longitudinal axis of the tank <NUM>. The tank <NUM> may be formed of a transparent material to permit a viewing of the contents therein (for example, nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM>).

The first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM> are configured to seal or close off the reservoir <NUM>. The first seal <NUM> defines apertures 122a and 122b (which may also be referred to as first aperture 122a and second aperture 122b). As a result, when the first seal <NUM> is engaged with the tank <NUM> to seal the proximal side of the reservoir <NUM>, the apertures 122a and 122b will be aligned with the vapor channels 132a and 132b, respectively. With such an engagement, the nicotine vapor generated by the vaporizer <NUM> during vaping can travel up the vapor channels 132a and 132b and through the apertures 122a and 122b, respectively, to the mouthpiece <NUM> and out the vapor outlet <NUM>. When the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is assembled, the first seal <NUM> may be obscured from view by the mouthpiece <NUM> (which also engages with the tank <NUM>). Additionally, the first seal <NUM> may be formed of or include a resilient material of construction (for example, silicone).

The second seal <NUM> is configured to engage with the tank <NUM> to seal the distal side of the reservoir <NUM>. In particular, the second seal <NUM> is configured to seal the distal side of the reservoir <NUM> by closing off the opening <NUM> the tank <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second seal <NUM> is formed of a resilient material (for example, silicone) and includes a head portion, a body portion, and a neck portion between the head portion and the body portion. The diameter of the head portion of the second seal <NUM> is larger than the diameter of the opening <NUM> and smaller than the diameter of the body portion of the second seal <NUM>, while the diameter of the neck portion of the second seal <NUM> may correspond to the diameter of the opening <NUM>. As a result, when the head portion of the second seal <NUM> is urged through the opening <NUM> in the tank <NUM>, the neck portion of the second seal <NUM> can be resiliently seated in the opening <NUM> in a liquid-tight manner, while the head portion of the second seal <NUM> is within the reservoir <NUM> and the body portion of the second seal <NUM> is outside the reservoir <NUM>. In such an instance, by gripping the opposing surfaces of the tank <NUM> defining the opening <NUM>, the head portion and the body portion of the second seal <NUM> can help to ensure that the second seal <NUM> provides the desired sealing while maintaining its proper positioning.

Therefore, the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM> are configured to engage the tank <NUM> such that the reservoir <NUM> is sealed and isolated from the vapor channels 132a and 132b. The combination of the first seal <NUM>, the tank <NUM>, and the second seal <NUM> may also be collectively referred to as a housing of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second seal <NUM> may be configured as a puncturable structure that completely covers the opening <NUM> in the tank <NUM> (when in an unpunctured/unpierced state). In such an embodiment, the reservoir <NUM> may remain sealed until the vaporizer <NUM> is received by and engaged with the tank <NUM> (for example, during assembly, before vaping) such that the tip of the vaporizer <NUM> pierces the second seal <NUM> and extends through the opening <NUM> and into the reservoir <NUM> to access the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> therein (for example, as shown in <FIG>).

<FIG> is a first exploded view of the vaporizer in <FIG>. <FIG> is a second exploded view of the vaporizer in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the vaporizer <NUM> includes a vaporizing module <NUM>, which may be held at least partly within a catch ring <NUM> and a bayonet connector <NUM>. The catch ring <NUM> defines an opening <NUM> configured to accommodate the vaporizing module <NUM>. Similarly, the bayonet connector <NUM> defines an opening <NUM> configured to receive the vaporizing module <NUM>. When the vaporizer <NUM> is assembled, the catch ring <NUM> will engage with the bayonet connector <NUM> so as to surround and hold the vaporizing module <NUM>. Additionally, the tip or piercing portion of the vaporizing module <NUM> will protrude beyond the rim of the catch ring <NUM>, while the remaining portion of the vaporizing module <NUM> will be substantially or completely hidden from view within the bayonet connector <NUM> depending on the angle. In an example embodiment, the vaporizing module <NUM> may be retained by/within the catch ring <NUM> and the bayonet connector <NUM> via an interference fit.

The bayonet connector <NUM> (which is part of the vaporizer <NUM> and, therefore, part of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>) facilitates a connection between the nicotine cartridge <NUM> and the device body <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the bayonet connector <NUM> defines a pair of slots <NUM> each configured to receive a corresponding engagement member. Each of the slots <NUM> includes a longitudinal portion 174a and a circumferential portion 174b. Additionally, the circumferential portion 174b may include a furrow 174c to help retain a corresponding engagement member. The establishment of a bayonet connection between the nicotine cartridge <NUM> and the device body <NUM> will be discussed in more detail herein.

<FIG> is an exploded view of the vaporizing module in <FIG>. <FIG> is an exploded view of the vaporizing module in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the vaporizing module <NUM> includes a first module cover <NUM>, a module housing <NUM>, and a heater-wick subassembly <NUM>. The module housing <NUM> defines a chamber <NUM>, which may also be referred to as a heating chamber or a vaporization chamber. In an example embodiment, the module housing <NUM> may be formed of a transparent material to permit a viewing of the contents within the chamber <NUM>. The first module cover <NUM> is configured to engage with a proximal end of the module housing <NUM>. The heater-wick subassembly <NUM> is configured to engage with the opposing distal end of the module housing <NUM>. In this manner, the open ends of the module housing <NUM> may be bounded (for example, capped) by the first module cover <NUM> and the heater-wick subassembly <NUM>.

The first module cover <NUM> includes a cap portion <NUM> and a piercing portion <NUM> that protrudes from the cap portion <NUM>. The cap portion <NUM> of the first module cover <NUM> defines a plurality of apertures <NUM>, which may be evenly spaced from each other and disposed as a circular arrangement around the piercing portion <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the cap portion <NUM> defines eight apertures <NUM>. However, it should be understood that the quantity, shape, and/or arrangement of the apertures <NUM> in the cap portion <NUM> may be varied as appropriate to achieve the desired passage of the aerosol therethrough from the chamber <NUM>. For instance, in the alternative, the cap portion <NUM> may define only two apertures <NUM>, wherein each has an elongated shape and is arranged in a diametrically opposed manner so as to be aligned with the vapor channels 132a and 132b in the tank <NUM> when the vaporizer <NUM> is engaged with the tank <NUM>. With regards to assembling the vaporizing module <NUM>, the cap portion <NUM> of the first module cover <NUM> has an outer side surface configured to engage with a corresponding inner side surface of the module housing <NUM>.

The piercing portion <NUM> defines an orifice <NUM> which may extend longitudinally through the first module cover <NUM>. For instance, the orifice <NUM> in the piercing portion <NUM> may coincide with a central longitudinal axis of the first module cover <NUM>. In addition, the piercing portion <NUM> defines holes <NUM> in its sidewall. The holes <NUM> may be regarded as extending transversely through the piercing portion <NUM> so as to be orthogonal to the orifice <NUM>. Although a pair of holes <NUM> are illustrated in <FIG>, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, the piercing portion <NUM> may instead define a different number (for example, three, four) of holes <NUM> in its sidewall. Furthermore, the piercing portion <NUM> may have an angled proximal surface that tapers to a pointed end or tip so as to facilitate an insertion of the piercing portion <NUM> through the second seal <NUM>, through the opening <NUM> in the tank <NUM>, and into the reservoir <NUM>. When the vaporizer <NUM> is in fluidic communication with the reservoir <NUM>, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> enters the vaporizing module <NUM> via the orifice <NUM> and/or the holes <NUM> in the piercing portion <NUM>.

The heater-wick subassembly <NUM> includes a second module cover <NUM> which may function as a base or support for the other parts of the heater-wick subassembly <NUM>. As a result, the other parts of the heater-wick subassembly <NUM> may be mounted or secured to the second module cover <NUM> in an integrated manner. In an example embodiment, the second module cover <NUM> may be formed of a conductive material. For instance, the conductive material may include steel (for example, <NUM> stainless steel). With regards to assembling the vaporizing module <NUM>, the second module cover <NUM> has an outer side surface configured to engage with a corresponding inner side surface of the module housing <NUM>.

The heater-wick subassembly <NUM> additionally includes a wick <NUM> configured to draw or transport the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM> into the vaporizing module <NUM>. The wick <NUM> may be a fibrous structure with pores/interstices designed for capillary action. In an example embodiment, the wick <NUM> may have a cord-like form wherein strands of fiber are braided, twisted, and/or woven together. When the vaporizing module <NUM> is assembled, a proximal portion of the wick <NUM> may extend into the first module cover <NUM>, while a distal portion of the wick <NUM> may be supported/held by the second module cover <NUM>.

For instance, the proximal portion of the wick <NUM> may be disposed within the piercing portion <NUM> of the first module cover <NUM> so as to substantially occupy the orifice <NUM> (for example, <FIG>), therefore helping to modulate a supply of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM>. As a result, the possibility of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> flowing in excess into the chamber <NUM> (via the orifice <NUM> and/or the holes <NUM>) may be reduced or prevented. Instead, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> may be drawn into the chamber <NUM> substantially on an as needed basis. In particular, when the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the wick <NUM> is heated to generate a nicotine vapor (and, therefore, depleted) during vaping, the wick <NUM> will draw additional nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM> to replenish the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> depleted within the wick <NUM>. The nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM> may enter the first module cover <NUM> through the orifice <NUM> and/or the holes <NUM> before being drawn into the wick <NUM> via capillary action. On the other hand, when vaping is not occurring, the drawing of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM> by the wick <NUM> may slow or stop once the wick <NUM> is saturated. In addition, a seepage of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> into the apertures <NUM> may be reduced or prevented by the engagement of the first module cover <NUM> and the second seal <NUM>.

An integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> is arranged so as to be in thermal contact with the wick <NUM>. The nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> is configured such that the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> will be activated during vaping to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> in the wick <NUM> to generate a nicotine vapor. The integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be designed to undergo Joule heating (which is also known as ohmic/resistive heating) upon the application of an electric current thereto. Stated in more detail, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be formed of conductors (resistive materials) and configured to produce heat when an electric current passes therethrough. The electric current may be supplied from a power source (for example, battery) within the device body <NUM>.

The integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> is in a form of a helical coil that wraps (for example, spirals) around the wick <NUM>. For example, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may wrap around a lower portion of the wick <NUM> (for example, around a portion of the wick <NUM> not protruding into the piercing portion <NUM>). Additionally, in such an instance, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be oriented such that the axis of its helix is at an angle (for example, neither parallel nor orthogonal) relative to the longitudinal axis of the vaporizing module <NUM>. The integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> will be discussed in more detail herein.

As shown in <FIG>, a first electrical contact <NUM> may be disposed on an upstream side of the second module cover <NUM>. When assembled, the distal end of the second module cover <NUM> extends through an opening defined by the first electrical contact <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first electrical contact <NUM> is structured as a washer with an undulated or wavelike form. The first electrical contact <NUM> may be covered with gold plating. For instance, the first electrical contact <NUM> may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of steel (for example, spring steel) and an exterior formed of gold (for example, as a deposited layer).

A second electrical contact <NUM> may be disposed at the distal end of the heater-wick subassembly <NUM> while extending through the first electrical contact <NUM> and the second module cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second electrical contact <NUM> may be covered with gold plating. For instance, the second electrical contact <NUM> may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of gold (for example, as a deposited layer). The second electrical contact <NUM> also defines a passage <NUM> which allows an airflow into the chamber <NUM>.

When the heater-wick subassembly <NUM> is assembled, a first end of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be electrically connected to the second module cover <NUM>/first electrical contact <NUM>, while the second end of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be electrically connected to the second electrical contact <NUM>. An insulator <NUM> electrically isolates the second electrical contact <NUM> from the second module cover <NUM>/first electrical contact <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the insulator <NUM> is structured as a grommet with a sheath-like form that receives the second electrical contact <NUM> and extends through the second module cover <NUM>/first electrical contact <NUM>. Additionally, in such an instance, the first end of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be secured between the second module cover <NUM> and the insulator <NUM>, while the second end of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be secured between the insulator <NUM> and the second electrical contact <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded view of the heater subassembly in <FIG>. <FIG> is an exploded view of the heater subassembly in <FIG>. In particular, the heater subassembly is the heater-wick subassembly <NUM> without the wick <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM> are connected at a junction <NUM> (which may also be referred to as a "hot" junction). Additionally, the first segment <NUM> is made of a first alloy, and the second segment <NUM> is made of a second alloy (that is different from the first alloy).

As the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> is in a form of a helical structure (that is wrapped around the wick <NUM>), the helical structure includes a plurality of coils. In such an instance, the plurality of coils includes at least one coil corresponding to the first segment <NUM> and at least one coil corresponding to the second segment <NUM>. As a result, the at least one coil of the first segment <NUM> is made of the first alloy, and the at least one coil of the second segment <NUM> is made of the second alloy. Additionally, the at least one coil of the first alloy may be welded to the at least one coil of the second alloy at a junction <NUM>.

The plurality of coils of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be in a form of five to ten total coils (for example, six to nine total coils). For instance, the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may include one coil of the first alloy, and the second segment <NUM> may include five coils of the second alloy. Alternatively, the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may include two coils of the first alloy, and the second segment <NUM> may include four coils of the second alloy.

With regard to orientation, the vaporizing module <NUM> may be regarded as including a housing having a first longitudinal axis, and the helical structure of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be regarded as having a second longitudinal axis that intersects the first longitudinal axis to form an oblique angle. In such an instance, the at least one coil of the first segment <NUM> (which is made of the first alloy) is downstream from the at least one coil of the second segment <NUM> (which is made of the second alloy).

According to an example embodiment, the first alloy is a nickel-aluminum alloy, and the second alloy is a nickel-chromium alloy. For instance, the nickel-aluminum alloy may include <NUM> percent nickel and <NUM> percent aluminum (for example, Alumel), and the nickel-chromium alloy may include <NUM> percent nickel and <NUM> percent chromium (for example, Chromel). With regard to physical properties, the first alloy has a first electrical resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, and the second alloy has a second electrical resistivity and a second thermal conductivity. In an example embodiment, the first electrical resistivity is less than the second electrical resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity. Additionally, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may have a Seebeck coefficient of about <NUM> to <NUM>µV/°C (for example, <NUM>µV/°C, <NUM>µV/°C, <NUM>µV/°C). Furthermore, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may have an overall resistance of about <NUM> to <NUM>Ω (for example, <NUM>Ω).

As noted above, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> is configured to undergo Joule heating (which is also known as ohmic/resistive heating) upon the application of an electric current thereto. In addition, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> has a first segment <NUM> of a first alloy that is connected to a second segment <NUM> of a second alloy (which is different from the first alloy) at a junction <NUM>. As a result of the dissimilar alloys and the associated thermoelectric effect, a voltage is created when the junction <NUM> experiences a change in temperature (for example, such as when Joule heating is occurring to generate a nicotine vapor). This voltage is temperature-dependent and therefore can be used to determine the temperature at the junction <NUM>. For instance, the relationship between voltage and temperature may be determined from empirical studies and stored in a lookup table (LUT). In this manner, the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> can function as both a heater and a thermocouple.

The second module cover <NUM> defines an opening <NUM> and has a proximal rim <NUM> and a distal rim <NUM> around the opening <NUM>. As shown in the drawings, the circumference of the proximal rim <NUM> may be larger than the circumference of the distal rim <NUM>. The proximal rim <NUM> of the second module cover <NUM> may help to hold a distal portion of the wick <NUM> and/or to contain a small quantity of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> that may seep therefrom. In addition, the outer edge of the proximal rim <NUM> may be beveled to facilitate an engagement with the module housing <NUM>.

The first electrical contact <NUM> defines an opening <NUM> and has an annular form which may also be wavelike. During assembly, the first electrical contact <NUM> is engaged with the second module cover <NUM> such that the distal rim <NUM> of the second module cover <NUM> extends through the opening <NUM> in the first electrical contact <NUM>. As a result, when assembled, the first electrical contact <NUM> may be positioned against an underside of the second module cover <NUM> (for example, via an interference fit with distal rim <NUM>).

The insulator <NUM> includes a sheath portion <NUM> and a flange portion <NUM> and also defines an opening <NUM> extending therethrough. During assembly, the insulator <NUM> is inserted through the second module cover <NUM> (as well as through the first electrical contact <NUM>) such that the outer sidewall of the sheath portion <NUM> engages with the sidewall of the opening <NUM> in the second module cover <NUM>. In addition, when assembled, the flange portion <NUM> of the insulator <NUM> may abut the distal rim <NUM> of the second module cover <NUM>.

The second electrical contact <NUM> includes a shaft portion <NUM> and a base portion <NUM> and also defines a passage <NUM> extending therethrough. When assembled, the second electrical contact <NUM> extends through the opening <NUM> in the insulator <NUM> (as well as through the first electrical contact <NUM> and the second module cover <NUM>) such that the passage <NUM> in the second electrical contact <NUM> leads to the chamber <NUM> in the vaporizing module <NUM>. Additionally, the base portion <NUM> of the second electrical contact <NUM> may abut the flange portion <NUM> of the insulator <NUM>. As noted above, the insulator <NUM> electrically isolates the second electrical contact <NUM> from the second module cover <NUM>/first electrical contact <NUM>. Furthermore, the base portion <NUM> also defines a groove <NUM> which extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the second electrical contact <NUM>. In an example embodiment and as will be discussed in more detail herein, the groove <NUM> in the base portion <NUM> is configured to provide access for inflowing air to enter the passage <NUM> in the second electrical contact <NUM> when the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is engaged with the device body <NUM>.

In the heater subassembly, a first end corresponding to the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be electrically connected to the second module cover <NUM>/first electrical contact <NUM>, while the second end corresponding to the second segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be electrically connected to the second electrical contact <NUM>. In particular, the first end corresponding to the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be secured between the second module cover <NUM> and the insulator <NUM>, while the second end corresponding to the second segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> may be secured between the insulator <NUM> and the second electrical contact <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partially-exploded view of the device body in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the device body <NUM> includes a sleeve section <NUM> and a battery section <NUM>. The sleeve section <NUM> is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge <NUM> when the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is inserted into the device body <NUM> to engage with the battery section <NUM>. Additionally, as illustrated, the sleeve section <NUM> defines an array of inlet openings or air inlets <NUM>. The array of inlet openings or air inlets <NUM> may be in a form of a honeycomb pattern configured to facilitate an intake of ambient air which enters the device body <NUM> and travels toward the power supply (within the battery section <NUM>) before moving inward and then toward the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> in the nicotine cartridge <NUM>.

The battery section <NUM> includes a bayonet adapter <NUM> that is configured to engage with the bayonet connector <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. In particular, to engage the nicotine cartridge <NUM> with the device body <NUM>, the distal end of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> (the end of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> with the bayonet connector <NUM>) is inserted into the sleeve section <NUM> of the device body <NUM> until the slots <NUM> of the bayonet connector <NUM> initially mate with the engagement members of the bayonet adapter <NUM>. Once the initial mating occurs, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> can then be turned/twisted/rotated relative to the device body <NUM> to interlock with the device body <NUM>. As a result, a nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may be provided wherein a bayonet connection is established between the nicotine cartridge <NUM> and the device body <NUM>. The battery section <NUM> of the device body <NUM> also includes a knurled connector <NUM>, a light pipe <NUM>, a battery section housing <NUM>, and an end cap <NUM>, which have been discussed above in connection with earlier figures. As a result, such descriptions will not be repeated herein in the interest of brevity, although additional details may be subsequently provided herein.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the battery section in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the bayonet adapter <NUM> includes at least one engagement member <NUM> configured to mate/interlock with the bayonet connector <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the bayonet adapter <NUM> includes a pair of engagement members <NUM> which protrude from its outer sidewall. Additionally, the engagement members <NUM> may be diametrically opposed from each other. The bayonet adapter <NUM> also defines an opening <NUM> which exposes (for example, so as to provide access to) a pin <NUM>. The bayonet adapter <NUM> and the pin <NUM> of the battery section <NUM> may be regarded as the electrical contacts of the device body <NUM>. In particular, when the device body <NUM> is engaged with the nicotine cartridge <NUM>, the bayonet adapter <NUM> is configured to electrically contact the first electrical contact <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>, while the pin <NUM> is configured to electrically contact the second electrical contact <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM>. The bayonet adapter <NUM> may be formed of a conductive material such as steel (for example, <NUM> stainless steel). The pin <NUM> may be covered with gold plating. For instance, the pin <NUM> may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of gold (for example, as a deposited layer).

The knurled connector <NUM> defines at least one pathway <NUM> for inflowing air (for example, air flowing inward and en route to the vaporizing module <NUM>). The at least one pathway <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> is in fluidic communication with the opening <NUM> in the bayonet adapter <NUM>. In particular, during vaping, air drawn into the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> via the air inlets <NUM> will flow in the annular space between the sleeve section <NUM> and the nicotine cartridge <NUM> toward the battery section <NUM> (for example, in a first longitudinal direction) and then flow inward (for example, in a radial direction) via the at least one pathway <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> to the opening <NUM> in the bayonet adapter <NUM> before flowing through the opening <NUM> (for example, in a second longitudinal direction) to the vaporing module <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the knurled connector <NUM> may be covered with chrome plating. For instance, the knurled connector <NUM> may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of chrome (for example, as a deposited layer).

<FIG> is a partially-exploded view of the battery section of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the dimensions of the engagement members <NUM> of the bayonet adapter <NUM> are configured to correspond substantially to the dimensions of the slots <NUM> in the bayonet connector <NUM>. Additionally, each of the engagement members <NUM> may include a ridge <NUM> to help maintain an established bayonet connection (for example, by interlocking with a corresponding slot <NUM>). For instance, the ridge <NUM> of each engagement member <NUM> is configured to seat within a corresponding furrow 174c of each of the slots <NUM>. The ridge <NUM> may have a linear form that extends radially on the underside of each engagement member <NUM> (for example, from the sidewall of the bayonet adapter <NUM> to the edge of the engagement member <NUM>). Due to the relatively close fit between the engagement members <NUM> of the bayonet adapter <NUM> and the slots <NUM> of the bayonet connector <NUM>, a haptic and/or auditory feedback (for example, audible click) may be produced to notify an adult vaper that the nicotine cartridge <NUM> has been properly coupled to the device body <NUM>.

The knurled connector <NUM> is configured to connect/link the sleeve section <NUM> and the battery section housing <NUM> of the device body <NUM>. As illustrated, the knurling on the exterior sidewall of the knurled connector <NUM> may be in the form of two bands separated by an unknurled section in between, wherein the proximal (for example, upper) band is for engagement with the sleeve section <NUM>, and the distal (for example, lower) band is for engagement with the battery section housing <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the knurling is obscured from view by the sleeve section <NUM> and the battery section housing <NUM> when the device body <NUM> is assembled. The exterior of the sleeve section <NUM> and the battery section housing <NUM> may also be flush with the exposed unknurled section of the knurled connector <NUM> when the device body <NUM> is assembled. The knurling may include straight (for example, longitudinal) ridges. However, it should be understood that other patterns may be suitable. For instance, the knurling may alternatively have an annular pattern, an angled pattern, or a diamond pattern.

As shown in <FIG>, the knurled connector <NUM> defines a pair of pathways <NUM>. The pair of pathways <NUM> may disposed diametrically in the knurled connector <NUM>. As a result, a line extending through the knurled connector <NUM> via the pathways <NUM> may intersect a central longitudinal axis of the knurled connector <NUM> while coinciding with a diameter of the knurled connector <NUM>. Furthermore, the exterior of the knurled connector <NUM> may be recessed (for example, to a greater degree than the knurling) from the rim to a region around each pathway <NUM> to provide an entrance (for example, cove-like point of ingress) to each pathway <NUM> when the sleeve section <NUM> is engaged with the knurled connector <NUM>. In such an instance, the inflowing air during vaping can reach the pathways <NUM> via these recessed entrances.

The knurled connector <NUM> also defines an opening <NUM> and a hole <NUM> to accommodate parts of the battery subassembly <NUM>. In particular, when the battery section <NUM> is assembled, the pin <NUM> will extend through the opening <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> and into the opening <NUM> in the bayonet adapter <NUM>. In this assembled state, the proximal end of the pin <NUM> may be at approximately the same level as the engagement members <NUM> of the bayonet adapter <NUM>, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. The hole <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> is configured to expose the light pipe <NUM>. The light pipe <NUM> may include red, green, and blue (RGB) light-emitting diodes (LED), wherein these primary colors can be combined to produce white light as well as numerous other hues of light. As a result, the emitted light can be transmitted by the light pipe <NUM> in a manner that would be visible and useful to an adult vaper.

The battery subassembly <NUM> additionally includes a first printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> configured to mechanically support and electrically connect various parts of the battery section <NUM>, including a first sensor <NUM>, the pin <NUM>, and the light pipe <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first sensor <NUM> may be a combined pressure sensor and temperature sensor. Additionally, the pin <NUM> may be a pogo pin or spring-loaded pin. The light pipe <NUM> may include five light-emitting diodes, although it should be understood that a different number may be implemented. The light pipe <NUM> may be utilized to communicate a variety of types of information to an adult vaper.

For instance, with regard to battery level, an illumination of all five lights by the light pipe <NUM> may indicate a full battery level, while an illumination of fewer lights, such as three lights, may indicate a medium battery level. On the other hand, an illumination of only one light may indicate a low battery level. The color of the one or more lights may also change (for example, change to a warning color such as red) to enhance the recognition of a given indication. Furthermore, the one or more lights may blink to help indicate the urgency of a particular indication. The desired type of information or function may be accessed by pressing the button <NUM> (<FIG>) at the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. In an example embodiment, pressing the button <NUM> once may display the battery level (for example, for <NUM> seconds). In another instance, successively pressing the button <NUM> in a short period of time may result in a different function or display. Specifically, successively pressing the button <NUM> five times may turn on/off the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>. Therefore, the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> may be puff-activated and/or button-activated.

<FIG> is a partially-exploded view of the battery subassembly in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the battery subassembly <NUM> also includes a second printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> configured to mechanically support and electrically connect at least a second sensor <NUM>. The second sensor <NUM> may be a temperature sensor (for example, second temperature sensor). The battery subassembly <NUM> further includes a controller <NUM> which may be mechanically supported and electrically connected by the first printed circuit board <NUM> and/or the second printed circuit board <NUM>. A power supply <NUM> is disposed within the battery section housing <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> may be a rechargeable battery configured to supply an electric current to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> in response to a puff-activation or a button-activation.

At least one of the first sensor <NUM> or the second sensor <NUM> may be configured to measure a voltage difference between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> as a result of the supply of the electrical energy from the power supply <NUM> (for example, when the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> is being heated to generate a nicotine vapor). When both the first sensor <NUM> and the second sensor <NUM> are used to measure the voltage, the measured values may be averaged to obtain an average value. The controller <NUM> may be configured to adjust the supply of the electrical energy to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> based on the voltage difference measured by at least one of the first sensor <NUM> or the second sensor <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the controller <NUM> is configured to look up a temperature of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> based on the voltage difference and to cease the supply of the electrical energy when the temperature exceeds an upper threshold value.

Because the measured voltage at the junction <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> is temperature-dependent, the relationship between voltage and temperature may be determined from empirical studies and organized/stored in a lookup table (LUT). In such an instance, during vaping, the measured voltage can be used by the controller <NUM> to access the temperature at the junction <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> from the lookup table (which may be stored in the controller <NUM> or in a separate memory). If the temperature is determined by the controller <NUM> to exceed an upper threshold value, then an adjustment may be made by the controller <NUM> to scale down the duty cycle (for example, duty cycle of <NUM> percent scaled down to <NUM> percent). On the other hand, if the temperature is determined by the controller <NUM> to be below a lower threshold value, then an adjustment may be made by the controller <NUM> to scale up the duty cycle (for example, duty cycle of <NUM> percent scaled up to <NUM> percent). Such temperature control may be operated in a closed loop. In an alternative embodiment, the relationship between voltage and temperature may be represented as an equation and calculated instead of accessed from a LUT.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body of <FIG> when not engaged. Referring to <FIG>, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is configured for insertion into the sleeve section <NUM> of the device body <NUM> such the slots <NUM> (<FIG>) of the bayonet connector <NUM> initially mate with the engagement members <NUM> of the bayonet adapter <NUM>. In particular, the longitudinal portion 174a (<FIG>) of each slot <NUM> is configured to receive a corresponding engagement member <NUM> until the engagement member <NUM> abuts the end surface of the longitudinal portion 174a. Once this initial mating occurs, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> can then be turned/twisted/rotated (for example, clockwise) relative to the device body <NUM> such that the engagement members <NUM> slide circumferentially within the corresponding circumferential portions 174b of the slots <NUM> until the ridges <NUM> (<FIG>) of the engagement members <NUM> are resiliently seated within the furrows 174c (<FIG>) of the slots <NUM>, thereby resulting in the nicotine cartridge <NUM> being mechanically interlocked with the device body <NUM>.

With regard to electrical engagement, the first segment <NUM> (<FIG>) of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be electrically connected to the bayonet adapter <NUM> of the device body <NUM>, while the second segment <NUM> (<FIG>) of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be electrically connected to the pin <NUM> of the device body <NUM>. In turn, the bayonet adapter <NUM> of the device body <NUM> may be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power supply <NUM>, while the pin <NUM> of the device body <NUM> may be electrically connected to the positive terminal of the power supply <NUM>. The electrical paths from the terminals of the power supply <NUM> to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> will be discussed in more detail herein.

When engaged (mechanically and electrically) with the device body <NUM>, the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be substantially obscured from view with the exception of the mouthpiece <NUM>. With regard to this substantial obscurity, portions of the tank <NUM>, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM>, and the vaporizer <NUM> may be partly visible through the air inlets <NUM> in the sleeve section <NUM> of the device body <NUM>. As a result, when adequate ambient light is present, the level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be visually gauged by an adult vaper. In contrast, when ambient light is not present or not adequate, then the adult vaper may rely on a notification from the light pipe <NUM> that the nicotine pre-vapor formulation <NUM> within the nicotine cartridge <NUM> is low and/or depleted.

The removal of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> can be achieved by reversing the motions associated with engagement, such as turning the nicotine cartridge <NUM> in the opposite direction (for example, counterclockwise) and pulling the nicotine cartridge <NUM> away from the device body <NUM>. Because the engagement members <NUM> of the bayonet adapter <NUM> are resiliently seated within the furrows 174c of the slots <NUM>, the force required to untwist and disengage the nicotine cartridge <NUM> may be greater than the force used to twist and engage the nicotine cartridge <NUM>, which may help to ensure that the disengagement of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> from the device body <NUM> is a deliberate action rather than an unintentional occurrence. Furthermore, in the interest of brevity, it should be understood that not all of the labeled parts of <FIG> were specifically mentioned in connection with this section, because such parts were already discussed above and did not merit further repetition or discussion.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body of <FIG> when engaged. Referring to <FIG>, the flow of air to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> and the flow of generated vapor therefrom are shown with dashed lines. In particular, upon the application of a negative pressure to the mouthpiece <NUM> of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>, air is drawn into the air inlets <NUM> (<FIG>) in the sleeve section <NUM> and through an annular space between the sleeve section <NUM> and the nicotine cartridge <NUM> in a direction toward the knurled connector <NUM>. Next, the air flows toward and through the pathways <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM>. The flow of air within the annular space toward the pathways <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> may include a circumferential flow (for example, from the annular space in front of the nicotine cartridge <NUM> around to the side or from the annular space behind the nicotine cartridge <NUM> around to the side). The flow of air through the pathways <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM> is in an inward direction (for example, radial direction toward the central longitudinal axis of the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM>).

Upon passing through the pathways <NUM> in the knurled connector <NUM>, the streams of air then flow to the second electrical contact <NUM> and enter the passage <NUM> through the second electrical contact <NUM> via the grooves <NUM> (<FIG>) in the base portion <NUM> of the second electrical contact <NUM>. The streams of air also converge when flowing through the passage <NUM> in the second electrical contact <NUM>.

The air exiting the passage <NUM> in the second electrical contact <NUM> flows through/past the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> (for example, which was puff-activated) and the wick <NUM> to entrain the generated nicotine vapor. Afterwards, the entrained nicotine vapor passes through the apertures <NUM> (<FIG>) in the first module cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the passage of the nicotine vapor through the first module cover <NUM> may split the vapor into eight streams as a result of the eight apertures <NUM> (<FIG>). The split nicotine vapor then consolidates into two streams which flow through the vapor channels 132a and 132b in the tank <NUM> and also through the apertures 122a and 122b in the first seal <NUM> (<FIG>). After flowing through the first seal <NUM>, the two streams of nicotine vapor converge into one stream to exit through the vapor outlet <NUM> of the mouthpiece <NUM>. However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, as noted above, the mouthpiece <NUM> may have different configurations for the vapor outlet <NUM>, therefore allowing for other variations as to the exiting nicotine vapor flow.

<FIG> is an enlarged view of the cross-section of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the electrical paths from the terminals of the power supply <NUM> (<FIG>) to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> includes a plurality of electrical junctions (J1-J8). J1 is an electrical junction of the printed circuit board (for example, copper of first printed circuit board <NUM>) and the pin <NUM> (for example, gold-plated brass). J2 is an electrical junction of the pin <NUM> (for example, gold-plated brass) and the second electrical contact <NUM> (for example, gold-plated brass). J3 is an electrical junction of the second electrical contact <NUM> (for example, gold-plated brass) and the second segment <NUM> (for example, nickel-chromium alloy) of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>. J4 is an electrical junction of the first segment <NUM> (for example, nickel-aluminum alloy) of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> and the second module cover <NUM> (for example, stainless steel). J5 is an electrical junction of the second module cover <NUM> (for example, stainless steel) and the first electrical contact <NUM> (gold-plated steel). J6 is an electrical junction of the first electrical contact <NUM> (for example, gold-plated steel) and the bayonet adapter <NUM> (for example, stainless steel). J7 is an electrical junction of the bayonet adapter <NUM> (for example, stainless steel) and the knurled connector <NUM> (for example, chrome-plated brass). J8 is an electrical junction of the knurled connector <NUM> (for example, chrome-plated brass) and the printed circuit board (for example, copper of first printed circuit board <NUM>).

Therefore, when the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> is activated (for example, puff-activated), an electric current may be regarded as flowing from the positive terminal of the power supply <NUM> to the printed circuit board <NUM>, from the printed circuit board <NUM> to the pin <NUM>, from the pin <NUM> to the second electrical contact <NUM>, from the second electrical contact <NUM> to the second segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>, from the second segment <NUM> to the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>, from the first segment <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM> to the second module cover <NUM>, from the second module cover <NUM> to the first electrical contact <NUM>, from the first electrical contact <NUM> to the bayonet adapter <NUM>, from the bayonet adapter <NUM> to the knurled connector <NUM>, from the knurled connector <NUM> to the printed circuit board <NUM>, and from the printed circuit board <NUM> to the negative terminal of the power supply <NUM>. It should be understood that the requisite circuits in the nicotine e-vaping device <NUM> are connected to the power supply <NUM>, although such connections are not necessarily illustrated in the drawings.

The electrical junctions (J1-J8) discussed above may be taken into account by the controller <NUM> when determining the temperature at the junction <NUM> of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>. Based on the known materials of electrical junctions (J1-J8), empirical studies can be conducted to generate a calibration curve that covers an expected operating temperature range of the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>. As a result, a factor or correction can be applied to an initial temperature determination by the controller <NUM> so as to achieve a corrected temperature that takes into account the electrical junctions (J1-J8) connected to the integral heater-thermocouple <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A nicotine cartridge (<NUM>) for a nicotine e-vaping device (<NUM>), comprising:
a housing defining a reservoir (<NUM>) containing a nicotine pre-vapor formulation (<NUM>);
a wick (<NUM>) configured to transport the nicotine pre-vapor formulation (<NUM>) by capillary action; and
an integral heater-thermocouple (<NUM>) configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation (<NUM>) in the wick (<NUM>) to generate a nicotine vapor, the integral heater-thermocouple (<NUM>) including a first segment (<NUM>) made of a first alloy and a second segment (<NUM>) made of a second alloy;
wherein the integral heater-thermocouple (<NUM>) is in a form of a helical structure wrapped around the wick (<NUM>), the helical structure including a plurality of coils, the plurality of coils including at least one coil of the first alloy and at least one coil of the second alloy; wherein the first alloy has a first electrical resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, the second alloy has a second electrical resistivity and a second thermal conductivity, characterized in that the first electrical resistivity is less than the second electrical resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity; and
in that the at least one coil of the first alloy is downstream from the at least one coil of the second alloy.