Patent ID: 12239164

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to example embodiments thereof. These example embodiments are described so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in the specification, and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, “the”, include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As described hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to aerosol delivery devices or vaporization devices, said terms being used herein interchangeably. Aerosol delivery devices according to the present disclosure use electrical energy to heat a material (preferably without combusting the material to any significant degree and/or without significant chemical alteration of the material) to form an inhalable substance; and components of such devices have the form of articles that most preferably are sufficiently compact to be considered hand-held devices. That is, use of components of preferred aerosol delivery devices does not result in the production of smoke—i.e., from by-products of combustion or pyrolysis of tobacco, but rather, use of those preferred systems results in the production of vapors resulting from volatilization or vaporization of certain components incorporated therein. In preferred embodiments, components of aerosol delivery devices may be characterized as electronic cigarettes, and those electronic cigarettes most preferably incorporate tobacco and/or components derived from tobacco, and hence deliver tobacco derived components in aerosol form.

Aerosol generating devices of certain preferred aerosol delivery devices may provide many of the sensations (e.g., inhalation and exhalation rituals, types of tastes or flavors, organoleptic effects, physical feel, use rituals, visual cues such as those provided by visible aerosol, and the like) of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe that is employed by lighting and burning tobacco (and hence inhaling tobacco smoke), without any substantial degree of combustion of any component thereof. For example, the user of an aerosol generating device of the present disclosure can hold and use that piece much like a smoker employs a traditional type of smoking article, draw on one end of that piece for inhalation of aerosol produced by that piece, take or draw puffs at selected intervals of time, and the like.

Aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure also can be characterized as being vapor-producing articles or medicament delivery articles. Thus, such articles or devices can be adapted so as to provide one or more substances (e.g., flavors and/or pharmaceutical active ingredients) in an inhalable form or state. For example, inhalable substances can be substantially in the form of a vapor (i.e., a substance that is in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical point). Alternatively, inhalable substances can be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas). For purposes of simplicity, the term “aerosol” as used herein is meant to include vapors, gases, and aerosols of a form or type suitable for human inhalation, whether or not visible, and whether or not of a form that might be considered to be smoke-like.

Aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure most preferably comprise some combination of a power source (i.e., an electrical power source), at least one control component (e.g., means for actuating, controlling, regulating and ceasing power for heat generation, such as by controlling electrical current flow the power source to other components of the article—e.g., a microcontroller or microprocessor), a heater or heat generation member (e.g., an electrical resistance heating element or other component, which alone or in combination with one or more further elements may be commonly referred to as an “atomizer”), a liquid composition (e.g., commonly an aerosol precursor composition liquid capable of yielding an aerosol upon application of sufficient heat, such as ingredients commonly referred to as “smoke juice,” “e-liquid” and “e-juice”), and a mouthpiece or mouth region for allowing draw upon the aerosol delivery device for aerosol inhalation (e.g., a defined airflow path through the article such that aerosol generated can be withdrawn therefrom upon draw).

More specific formats, configurations and arrangements of components within the aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure will be evident in light of the further disclosure provided hereinafter. Additionally, the selection and arrangement of various aerosol delivery device components can be appreciated upon consideration of the commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices, such as those representative products referenced in the background art section of the present disclosure.

In various implementations, the present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for aerosol delivery devices that provide visual indication of one or more characteristics of the device. For example, in some implementations a cartridge of an aerosol delivery device may include a liquid composition that includes a distinctive characteristic such as, for example, a particular flavorant included in the liquid composition, or a specific strength of nicotine contained in the liquid composition, although any characteristic of the liquid composition may be considered a distinctive characteristic. The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for aerosol delivery devices wherein, in some implementations, the cartridge is configured to be removably coupled with the control device, and wherein when the cartridge is coupled with the control device at least one feature of the cartridge, or at least one feature of the control device, or at least one feature of both the cartridge and the control device, provides a visual indication associated with the distinctive characteristic. For example, in some implementations visual indication may comprise a color associated with the distinctive characteristic. For the purposes of the current description, the term “color” should be interpreted broadly, for example covering any color or any shade of the same color. It should also be noted that in some implementations, certain colors may be commonly associated with particular distinctive characteristics; however, in other implementations, certain colors may be associated with particular distinctive characteristics according to an index or guide, which may be provided or made available to a user.

An example implementation of an aerosol delivery device100of the present disclosure is shown inFIG.1. As illustrated, the aerosol delivery device100includes a control device200and a removable cartridge300. Although only one cartridge is shown in the depicted implementation, it should be understood that, in various implementations, the aerosol delivery device100may comprise an interchangeable system. For example, in one or more implementations, a single control device may be usable with a plurality of different cartridges. Likewise, in one or more implementations, a single cartridge may be usable with a plurality of different control devices.

In various implementations, the control device200includes an outer housing202that defines an outer wall204, which includes a distal end206and a proximal end208. As will be discussed in more detail below, the aerosol delivery device100of the depicted implementation also includes an indication window240defined in the outer housing202and through which a user is provided with visual indication associated with a distinctive characteristic of the cartridge100.

FIG.2illustrates a partial cross-section view of the control device200of the aerosol delivery device100ofFIG.1. As shown in the figure, the control device200also includes a cartridge receiving chamber212that is defined by an inner frame wall214. The control device200further includes a battery216positioned within the outer housing202and also includes an external connection element218. In the depicted implementation, the external connection element218is positioned at the distal end206of the outer housing202. Electrical connectors220are positioned in the cartridge receiving chamber212and, as illustrated, are present in sides of the inner frame wall214. It should be understood that in other implementations, the electrical connectors may be positioned in other locations of the inner frame wall214, such as, for example the bottom of the inner frame wall214. In another example, the electrical connectors220may be positioned at a point on the sides of the inner frame wall214between the proximal end208of the outer housing202and the bottom wall of the inner frame wall214. Further, the electrical connectors220may be positioned between a midpoint of the sidewalls and the proximal end208of the outer housing202(i.e., in an upper half of the sidewalls). Alternatively, the electrical connectors220may be positioned between a midpoint of the sidewalls and the bottom wall of the inner frame wall114(i.e., in a lower half of the sidewalls). Moreover, in still other implementations, the electrical connectors may be present at any position of the inner frame wall214. As also illustrated inFIG.2, the proximal end208of the outer housing202includes an opening210that provides access to the cartridge receiving chamber212defined by the inner frame wall214.

The various components of an aerosol delivery device according to the present disclosure can be chosen from components described in the art and commercially available. Examples of batteries that can be used according to the disclosure are described in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0028766 to Peckerar et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In various implementations, the control device200may also include a light source230and at least one aperture232(seeFIG.1) defined in the outer wall204of the control device200and through which light from the light source230may be visible. In some implementations, the light source230may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED) capable of providing one or more colors of light. In some implementations, the light source may be configured to illuminate in only one color, while in other implementations, the light source may be configured to illuminate in variety of different colors. In still other implementations, the light source may be configured to provide white light. As illustrated inFIG.2, the light source230may be positioned directly on a control component234(such as, for example a printed circuit board (PCB)) on which further control components (e.g., a microcontroller and/or memory components) may be included. In various implementations, the aperture232may be provided in any desired shape and may particularly be positioned near the distal end206of the control device200. In some implementations, the aperture232may be completely open or may be filled, such as with a light guide material, or may be covered with a transparent or translucent member (e.g., glass or plastic) on one or both of the inner surface and the outer surface of the outer wall204of the control device200. The aerosol delivery device100may also include a control mechanism for controlling the amount of electric power to the heat generation element during draw. Representative types of electronic components, structure and configuration thereof, features thereof, and general methods of operation thereof, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,947,874 to Brooks et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,040,314 to Nguyen et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 8,205,622 to Pan; U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos. 2009/0230117 to Fernando et al., 2014/0060554 to Collet et al., and 2014/0270727 to Ampolini et al.; and U.S. Pub. No. 2015/0257445 to Henry et al.; which are incorporated herein by reference.

In various implementations, further indicators (e.g., a haptic feedback component, an audio feedback component, or the like) can be included in addition to or as an alternative to the light source. Additional representative types of components that yield visual cues or indicators, such as light emitting diode (LED) components, and the configurations and uses thereof, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,192 to Sprinkel et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 8,499,766 to Newton and U.S. Pat. No. 8,539,959 to Scatterday; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2015/0020825 to Galloway et al.; and U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2015/0216233 to Sears et al.; which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. It should be understood that not all of the illustrated elements are required. For example, an LED may be absent or may be replaced with a different indicator, such as a vibrating indicator.

In various implementations, an airflow sensor, pressure sensor, or the like may be included in the device. For example, as illustrated inFIG.2, the control device200may include a sensor236on the control component234. Configurations of a printed circuit board and a pressure sensor, for example, are described in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2015/0245658 to Worm et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In various implementations, the sensor236may be positioned anywhere within the control device200so as to subject to airflow and/or a pressure change that can signal a draw on the device and thus cause the battery216to delivery power to the heater in the cartridge300. Alternatively, in the absence of an airflow sensor, the heater may be activated manually, such as via a push button that may be located on the control body200and/or the cartridge300. Additional representative types of sensing or detection mechanisms, structure and configuration thereof, components thereof, and general methods of operation thereof, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,261,424 to Sprinkel, Jr.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; and PCT WO 2010/003480 to Flick; which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

In some implementations, an input element may be included with the aerosol delivery device (and may replace or supplement an airflow or pressure sensor). The input may be included to allow a user to control functions of the device and/or for output of information to a user. Any component or combination of components may be utilized as an input for controlling the function of the device100. For example, one or more pushbuttons may be used as described in U.S. Pub. No. 2015/0245658 to Worm et al., which is incorporated herein by reference. Likewise, a touchscreen may be used as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/643,626, filed Mar. 10, 2015, to Sears et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As a further example, components adapted for gesture recognition based on specified movements of the aerosol delivery device may be used as an input. See U.S. Pub. 2016/0158782 to Henry et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In some implementations, an input may comprise a computer or computing device, such as a smartphone or tablet. In particular, the aerosol delivery device may be wired to the computer or other device, such as via use of a USB cord or similar protocol. The aerosol delivery device may also communicate with a computer or other device acting as an input via wireless communication. See, for example, the systems and methods for controlling a device via a read request as described in U.S. Pub. No. 2016/0007561 to Ampolini et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In such embodiments, an APP or other computer program may be used in connection with a computer or other computing device to input control instructions to the aerosol delivery device, such control instructions including, for example, the ability to form an aerosol of specific composition by choosing the nicotine content and/or content of further flavors to be included.

Although other implementations may differ, in the depicted implementation, the cartridge receiving chamber212is separate from the outer housing202. In such a manner, the cartridge receiving chamber212is not merely an interior space that is defined by the outer housing202. Rather, the inner frame wall214defining the cartridge receiving chamber212may exist independently and separately from the outer housing202. An opening of the chamber may coincide with an opening at the proximal end208of the outer housing202. Thus, in the depicted implementation, the inner frame wall214may be a completely different element that is attached to the outer housing202. In other implementations, however, the inner frame wall and the outer housing may be continuously formed. In either case, the sidewalls forming the inner frame wall are present interior to and separated from the outer housing.

In various implementations, the outer housing202may be formed of any suitable material, such as a metal, plastic, ceramic, glass, or the like. Preferably, the inner frame wall214is formed of the same material as used to form the outer housing202; however, different materials may be used. Choice of materials as noted above may also extend to the outer housing for any further control device(s) that are included in the device.

An example implementation of a cartridge300for use in an aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.3and4. In particular,FIG.3is a perspective view of a cartridge according to example implementations of the present disclosure, andFIG.4is a partial cross-section view of the cartridge illustrated inFIG.3. As shown inFIG.3, the cartridge300includes a tank302that is defined by an outer tank wall304that includes a proximal end306and a distal end308that is closed. As such, the tank302may be characterized in that the tank wall304is a sidewall that is continuous around the tank, and the distal end308defines a bottom wall. The tank302is also configured to contain a liquid composition324for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge300also includes a mouthpiece310that is defined by an outer mouthpiece wall312that includes a proximal end314that defines an end surface317with an exit portal315defined therein, and a distal end316that engages the proximal end306of the tank302.

For aerosol delivery systems that are characterized as electronic cigarettes, the aerosol precursor composition may incorporate tobacco or components derived from tobacco. In one regard, the tobacco may be provided as parts or pieces of tobacco, such as finely ground, milled or powdered tobacco lamina. Tobacco beads, pellets, or other solid forms may be included, such as described in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2015/0335070 to Sears et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In another regard, the tobacco may be provided in the form of an extract, such as a spray dried extract that incorporates many of the water soluble components of tobacco. Alternatively, tobacco extracts may have the form of relatively high nicotine content extracts, which extracts also incorporate minor amounts of other extracted components derived from tobacco. In another regard, components derived from tobacco may be provided in a relatively pure form, such as certain flavoring agents that are derived from tobacco. In one regard, a component that is derived from tobacco, and that may be employed in a highly purified or essentially pure form, is nicotine (e.g., pharmaceutical grade nicotine).

In the depicted implementation, the liquid composition, sometimes referred to as an aerosol precursor composition or a vapor precursor composition or “e-liquid”, may comprise a variety of components, which may include, by way of example, a polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, or a mixture thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extract, and/or flavorants. Representative types of aerosol precursor components and formulations also are set forth and characterized in U.S. Pat. No. 7,217,320 to Robinson et al. and U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos. 2013/0008457 to Zheng et al.; 2013/0213417 to Chong et al.; 2014/0060554 to Collett et al.; 2015/0020823 to Lipowicz et al.; and 2015/0020830 to Koller, as well as WO 2014/182736 to Bowen et al, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other aerosol precursors that may be employed include the aerosol precursors that have been incorporated in VUSE® products by R. J. Reynolds Vapor Company, the BLU™ products by Fontem Ventures B.V., the MISTIC MENTHOL product by Mistic Ecigs, MARK TEN products by Nu Mark LLC, the JUUL product by Juul Labs, Inc., and VYPE products by CN Creative Ltd. Also desirable are the so-called “smoke juices” for electronic cigarettes that have been available from Johnson Creek Enterprises LLC. Still further example aerosol precursor compositions are sold under the brand names BLACK NOTE, COSMIC FOG, THE MILKMAN E-LIQUID, FIVE PAWNS, THE VAPOR CHEF, VAPE WILD, BOOSTED, THE STEAM FACTORY, MECH SAUCE, CASEY JONES MAINLINE RESERVE, MITTEN VAPORS, DR. CRIMMY'S V-LIQUID, SMILEY E LIQUID, BEANTOWN VAPOR, CUTTWOOD, CYCLOPS VAPOR, SICBOY, GOOD LIFE VAPOR, TELEOS, PINUP VAPORS, SPACE JAM, MT. BAKER VAPOR, and JIMMY THE JUICE MAN.

The amount of aerosol precursor that is incorporated within the aerosol delivery system is such that the aerosol generating device provides acceptable sensory and desirable performance characteristics. For example, it is highly preferred that sufficient amounts of aerosol forming material (e.g., glycerin and/or propylene glycol), be employed in order to provide for the generation of a visible mainstream aerosol that in many regards resembles the appearance of tobacco smoke. The amount of aerosol precursor within the aerosol generating system may be dependent upon factors such as the number of puffs desired per aerosol generating device. In one or more embodiments, about 1 ml or more, about 2 ml or more, about 5 ml or more, or about 10 ml or more of the aerosol precursor composition may be included.

In various implementations, the liquid composition324includes a distinctive characteristic. In the depicted implementation, the distinctive characteristic comprises one or more flavorants that are included in the liquid composition324. As used herein, reference to a “flavorant” refers to compounds or components that can be aerosolized and delivered to a user and which impart a sensory experience in terms of taste and/or aroma. Example flavorants include, but are not limited to, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, cream, tea, coffee, fruit (e.g., apple, cherry, strawberry, peach and citrus flavors, including lime and lemon), maple, menthol, mint, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, nutmeg, clove, lavender, cardamom, ginger, honey, anise, sage, rosemary, hibiscus, rose hip, yerba mate, guayusa, honeybush, rooibos, yerba santa, bacopa monniera, gingko biloba, withania somnifera, cinnamon, sandalwood, jasmine, cascarilla, cocoa, licorice, and flavorings and flavor packages of the type and character traditionally used for the flavoring of cigarette, cigar, and pipe tobaccos. Syrups, such as high fructose corn syrup, also can be employed. Example plant-derived compositions that may be suitable are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,107,453 and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2012/0152265 both to Dube et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. The selection of such further components are variable based upon factors such as the sensory characteristics that are desired for the smoking article, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass any such further components that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art of tobacco and tobacco-related or tobacco-derived products. See, e.g., Gutcho, Tobacco Flavoring Substances and Methods, Noyes Data Corp. (1972) and Leffingwell et al., Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products (1972), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. It should be noted that reference to a flavorant should not be limited to any single flavorant as described above, and may in fact, represent a combination of one or more flavorants.

As shown inFIG.4, the cartridge300further includes a heater320and a liquid transport element322that extends between the heater and the liquid composition324contained within the tank302. In various implementations, the heater320and liquid transport element322may be configured as separate elements that are fluidly connected or may be configured as a combined element. Moreover, the heater320and the liquid transport element322may be formed of any construction as otherwise described herein. The cartridge300also includes one or more electrical contacts325that are configured to electrically connect the heater320with the battery216and/or control component234of the control device200.

In various implementations, the liquid transport element322may be formed of one or more materials configured for transport of a liquid, such as by capillary action. In some implementations, for example, a liquid transport element may be formed of fibrous materials (e.g., organic cotton, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabrics, glass fibers), porous ceramics, porous carbon, graphite, porous glass, sintered glass beads, sintered ceramic beads, capillary tubes, or the like. The liquid transport element322thus may be any material that contains an open pore network (i.e., a plurality of pores that are interconnected so that fluid may flow from one pore to another in a plurality of direction through the element). As further discussed herein, some implementations of the present disclosure may particularly relate to the use of non-fibrous transport elements. As such, fibrous transport elements may be expressly excluded. Alternatively, combinations of fibrous transport elements and non-fibrous transport elements may be utilized. Representative types of substrates, reservoirs or other components for supporting the aerosol precursor are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,528,569 to Newton; U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos. 2014/0261487 to Chapman et al. and 2014/0059780 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Pub. No. 2015/0216232 to Bless et al.; which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Additionally, various wicking materials, and the configuration and operation of those wicking materials within certain types of electronic cigarettes, are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al.; which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some implementations, the liquid transport element322may be formed partially or completely from a porous monolith, such as a porous ceramic, a porous glass, or the like. Example monolithic materials suitable for use according to embodiments of the present disclosure are described, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/988,109, filed Jan. 5, 2016, and US Pat. No. 2014/0123989 to LaMothe, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. In some implementations, the porous monolith may form a substantially solid wick.

In various implementations, the heater320may comprise one or more different materials configured to produce heat when electrical current is applied therethrough. In some implementations, the heater320may be a wire coil. Example materials from which the wire coil may be formed include Kanthal (FeCrAl), Nichrome, Molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), Molybdenum disilicide doped with Aluminum (Mo(Si,Al)2), titanium, platinum, silver, palladium, alloys of silver and palladium, graphite and graphite-based materials (e.g., carbon-based foams and yarns). In further implementations, the heater320may be formed from conductive inks, boron doped silica, and/or ceramics (e.g., positive or negative temperature coefficient ceramics). Other types of heaters may also be utilized, such as laser diodes or microheaters. A laser diode can be configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation at a specific wavelength or band of wavelengths that can be tuned for vaporization of the aerosol precursor composition and/or tuned for heating a liquid transport element via which the aerosol precursor composition may be provided for vaporization. The laser diode can particularly be positioned so as to deliver the electromagnetic radiation within a chamber, and the chamber may be configured to be radiation-trapping (e.g., a black body or a white body). Suitable microheaters are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,881,737 to Collett et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Microheaters, for example, can comprise a substrate (e.g., quartz, silica) with a heater trace thereon (e.g., a resistive element such as Ag, Pd, Ti, Pt, Pt/Ti, boron-doped silicon, or other metals or metal alloys), which may be printed or otherwise applied to the substrate. A passivating layer (e.g., aluminum oxide or silica) may be provided over the heater trace. The heater320in particular may be configured to be substantially flat. Such heaters are described in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2016/0345633 to DePiano et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In the depicted implementation, the outer tank wall304is configured to be at least partially transparent or translucent so that the liquid composition324contained therein is visible externally. As such, in some implementations, the entire outer tank wall304may be transparent or translucent. Alternatively, in some implementations, only a single side of the outer tank wall304may be transparent or translucent while the remaining portions of the outer tank wall may be substantially opaque. In some embodiments, the outer tank wall304may be substantially opaque, and a strip (e.g., about 1 mm wide to about 20 mm wide or about 2 mm wide to about 18 mm wide or about 5 mm wide to about 15 mm wide) extending from the proximal end306of the tank302to the distal end308of the tank may be transparent or translucent. In further implementations, the outer tank wall304may be colored. In some implementations, the color can be configured so that the liquid composition324within the tank302is still visible, such by using a transparent or translucent outer tank wall. In other implementations, the tank wall can be configured so that the outer tank wall304has substantially opaque color.

In various implementations, the control device200may be configured so that at least a portion of the tank302is visible when the cartridge300is engaged with the control device200. As noted above, in some implementations, at least a portion of the outer tank wall304may be configured to be at least partially transparent or translucent so that the liquid composition324contained therein is visible externally, and the outer wall204of the control device200may be configured to include an indication window240through which a portion of the outer tank wall304and any liquid composition324present in the tank302can be visible when the cartridge300is engaged with the control device200.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the indication window240of the depicted implementation is configured as an elongated oval shaped cut-out in the outer wall204of the control device200and is located near the proximal end208of the control device200; however, it should be understood that in other implementations, the indication window my have any other shape and/or location. For example, in some embodiments, the indication window240may be configured as a notch extending from the proximal end208of the outer wall204of the control device200a distance toward the distal end206of the device. In other embodiments, the indication window240may be configured so as not to have any open borders and thus may expressly exclude a notch configuration as noted above. In some implementations, the indication window240may be completely open, and in other implementations, the indication window may have a transparent member (e.g., glass or plastic) positioned in the opening defined by the indication window or covering the indication window on one or both of the inner surface and outer surface of the outer wall204of the control device200. It should be noted that in some implementations, the indication window may be formed in part by the cartridge and in part by the control device. For example, in some implementations, the cartridge may include a portion of the indication window (e.g., a top portion of an indication window), and the control device may include a separate portion of the indication window (e.g., a bottom portion of the indication window).

In various implementations, the mouthpiece310of the cartridge300may be configured for engagement with the tank302. For example, as illustrated inFIG.4, the distal end316of the mouthpiece310may include a rim wall330that is at least partially inset from the outer mouthpiece wall312. The rim wall330may be configured to engage an interior of the proximal end306of the outer tank wall304. In some implementations, the rim wall330may have a length of about 1 mm to about 20 mm, about 2 mm to about 18 mm, or about 5 mm to about 15 mm. In some implementations, the rim wall330may engage the outer tank wall304via a friction fit alone, or the rim wall may be substantially permanently attached to the outer tank wall, such as through welding or gluing.

In some implementations, the mouthpiece310may define an open interior space through which formed vapor may combine with air to form an aerosol for output through the exit portal315of the mouthpiece310. In one or more implementations, the mouthpiece310may include one or more further interior walls that can be arranged to define one or more compartments within the mouthpiece. For example, the mouthpiece may include an interior upper wall between the proximal end and the distal end of the mouthpiece and also include an interior lower wall between the interior upper wall and the proximal end of the mouthpiece. More particularly, as seen inFIG.4, the mouthpiece310may include an interior upper wall332between the proximal end314and the distal end316of the mouthpiece310. Further, the mouthpiece310may include an interior lower wall334between the interior upper wall332and the distal end316of the mouthpiece310.

In various implementations, two or more walls in the mouthpiece may be configured to define a vaporization chamber within which the heater may be positioned. As shown inFIG.4, the outer mouthpiece wall312, the interior upper wall332, and the interior lower wall334define a vaporization chamber340wherein the heater320is positioned. In some implementations, the one or more electrical contacts325may be positioned within the portion of the outer mouthpiece wall312defining the vaporization chamber340; however, it is understood that one or more electrical leads may extend from the heater320to one or more electrical contacts positioned at a different portion of the outer mouthpiece wall or positioned in the outer tank wall304. One or more walls of the mouthpiece may also include one or more openings for passage therethrough of one or more further elements of the cartridge300or passage of formed vapor/aerosol. For example, the interior upper wall332may include a vapor opening336through which vapor formed in the vaporization chamber340may pass toward the first exit portal315. In some implementations, the vapor opening336in the interior upper wall332may be substantially centrally located therein and may be substantially aligned with the heater320along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge300. As a further example, the interior lower wall334may include a wick aperture338through which the first liquid transport element322(e.g., a wick) can pass between the heater320and the liquid composition324in the tank302.

In various implementations, two or more walls in the mouthpiece may be configured to define a cooling chamber within which formed aerosol can be allowed to expand and/or cool before passing through the exit portal. As shown inFIG.4, for example, the outer mouthpiece wall312and the interior upper wall332define a cooling chamber342that receives formed vapor/aerosol from the vaporization chamber340. As such, the vapor/aerosol formed by the heater320passes from the vaporization chamber340through the vapor opening336and into the cooling chamber342. In some implementations, the vaporization chamber340and the cooling chamber342may be configured to have a defined relative volume ratio. For example, in some implementations, the volume ratio of the vaporization chamber340to the cooling chamber342can be about 2:1 to about 1:4, about 1:1 to about 1:4, or about 1:1.5 to about 1:3.

If desired, the mouthpiece310may also include one or more elements configured to reduce or prevent leakage of condensed liquids therefrom. For example, in some implementations, all or a part of the interior of the mouthpiece wall312and/or the interior upper wall332defining the cooling chamber342may be formed from or include an absorptive or adsorptive material configured to hold liquid. Alternatively or additionally, all or a part of the interior of the mouthpiece wall312and/or the interior upper wall332defining the cooling chamber342may be configured to direct liquid back toward the vaporization chamber340, such as through the addition of microchannels or the like.

In one or more implementations, the cartridge300may be configured such that the mouthpiece wall312includes a flange positioned between the proximal end314and the distal end316thereof. For example, referring toFIGS.3and4, the mouthpiece310includes a flange350that extends circumferentially from the mouthpiece wall312around substantially the entirety of the mouthpiece310. In some implementations, the distance that the flange350extends from the mouthpiece wall310can be substantially uniform around the entire circumference of the mouthpiece310. In other implementations (such as the depicted implementation) the distance that the flange350extends from the mouthpiece wall312may vary at one or more points around the circumference of the mouthpiece310. The overall cartridge300or the mouthpiece310separately can be defined in relation to a longitudinal axis (L), a first transverse axis (T1) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a second transverse axis (T2) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and is perpendicular to the first transverse axis.

The overall cartridge300and/or the mouthpiece310thus may be defined in relation to a total length along the longitudinal axis (L), a total width along the first transverse axis (T1), and a total depth along the second longitudinal axis (T2). The length may be greater than the width, which in turn may be greater than the depth. The distance that the flange350extends away from the mouthpiece wall312may be greater along the second transverse axis (T2) than along the first transverse axis (T1). Thus, in some implementations, the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange350across the mouthpiece310along the first transverse axis (T1) may be greater than the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second transverse axis (T2); the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange350across the mouthpiece310along the first transverse axis (T1) may be substantially equal to the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second transverse axis (T2); or the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange350across the mouthpiece310along the first transverse axis (T1) may be less than the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second transverse axis (T2). In particular implementations, a distance (d2) between the mouthpiece wall312and an outer edge of the flange350as measured along the second transverse axis (T2) may be greater than a distance between the mouthpiece wall and an outer edge of the flange as measured along the first transverse axis (T1). Said distances particularly may be as measured at about a midpoint of each of the first transverse axis (T1) and the second transverse axis (T2).

In various implementations, the electrical contacts325, when present in the mouthpiece wall312, may be positioned longitudinally between the flange350and the distal end316of the mouthpiece310. Further, in some implementations, the flange350may be substantially in line with the interior upper wall332. As such, the flange350may be substantially parallel with and/or may be substantially in the same horizontal plane with the interior upper wall332. In some implementations, the flange350may be positioned above the vaporization chamber340and above the heater320along the longitudinal axis (L) of the mouthpiece310.

In various implementations, the flange350may interact with a corresponding lip on the control device200to ensure proper connection of the cartridge300with the control device200. For example, referring toFIG.2, the control device200may be configured so that the opening210at the proximal end208thereof includes a recess with a first inwardly projecting lip221. The recess thus may comprise a rim wall222that is substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the device100. The rim wall222may extend downwardly from the proximal end208a short distance, which distance may substantially correspond to a thickness of the flange350of the cartridge300and/or the thickness of a further element that may be present adjacent the flange. For example, in some implementations, the rim wall222forming the downwardly extending recess may have a height (i.e., as measured from a top surface of the inwardly projecting lip221to the first device proximal end208) of about 1 mm to about 8 mm, about 1 mm to about 6 mm, or about 1 mm to about 5 mm. The inwardly projecting lip221may have a width (i.e., the distance the lip extends inward from the rim wall222to a terminal end) of about 1 mm to about 8 mm, about 1 mm to about 6 mm, or about 1 mm to about 5 mm. In some implementations, the inwardly projecting lip221may have a substantially constant width around the entire circumference of the opening210. In other embodiments, the inwardly extending lip221may be discontinuous and thus may be formed of one or a plurality of inwardly extending lips spaced around the opening210.

In various implementations, the flange350of the mouthpiece310is configured to be at least partially received within the recess formed by the rim wall222so as to contact the inwardly projecting lip221. As such, a bottom surface of the flange350may be substantially in contact with the inwardly projecting lip221, and an outer edge of the flange may be substantially adjacent the rim wall222.

In some implementations, the flange350and/or the inwardly projecting lip221may be configured to bias the cartridge300into connection with the control device200. For example, a magnetic connection may be utilized. As illustrated inFIG.4, the cartridge300may include a magnet352positioned adjacent a bottom surface of the first flange350. In various implementations, the magnet352may extend substantially completely around the circumference of the mouthpiece310or may be discontinuous so as be configured as one or a plurality of discrete magnets. In various implementations, the magnet352may be adhered to the mouthpiece wall312, may be adhered to the flange350, or may be adhered to both the mouthpiece wall312and the flange350. The inwardly projecting lip221may be formed of a metal or other material to which the magnet352will be attracted by magnetic force. In further implementations, the magnet352may be positioned on the control device200. Specifically, the magnet352may be adhered to the inwardly extending lip221. In such implementations, the flange350may be formed of a metal or other material to which the magnet352will be attracted by magnetic force. In further implementations, a magnet may be present on the cartridge300as well as the control device200. As such, a magnet present adjacent the lower surface of the flange350on the cartridge300may be attracted by magnetic force to a magnet present adjacent the upper surface of the inwardly projecting lip221on the control device200. When a magnet is present on the mouthpiece310, it is preferable that the combined thickness of the magnet and the flange350is substantially identical to the height of the rim wall222on the control device200so that an upper surface of flange is substantially flush with the proximal end208of the device when the cartridge and the device are engaged.

In various implementations, the aerosol delivery device100and/or the control device200of the aerosol delivery device100may further include an external connector configured for electrical contact with each of the device external connection element (e.g., device external connection element218). The external connector may include a first connector end and a second connector end interconnected by a union, which may be, for example, a cord of variable length. In various implementations, the first connector end may be configured for electrical and, optionally, mechanical connection with the control device. In particular, the first connector end may include an inset wall that can be received within a well present at the distal end206of the control device200. The external connector may include a plurality of electrical pins interior to the inset wall configured for making a charging and/or information transferring connection with the device external connection element218. In some implementations, the control device200may include a mechanical connector (e.g., a mechanical connector242) adjacent the control device external connection element218. In some implementations, the mechanical connector242may be a magnet or a metal (or like element) that is adapted for magnetic attraction to a magnet. The first connector end of the external connection may then likewise include a mechanical connection element that may be positioned between the inset wall and the electrical pins. In various implementations, the mechanical connection element may be a magnet or a metal (or like element) that is adapted for magnetic attraction to a magnet. The second connector end may be configured for connection to a computer or similar electronic device or for connection to a power source. For example, the second connector end may have a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection; however, a different connection may also be provided and/or an adapter may likewise be included (e.g., a USB/AC adapter). For example, an adaptor including a USB connector at one end and a power unit connector at an opposing end is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2014/0261495 to Novak et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

Yet other features, controls or components that can be incorporated into aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,148 to Harris et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,289 to Watkins et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,954,979 to Counts et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 8,365,742 to Hon; U.S. Pat. No. 8,402,976 to Fernando et al.; U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos. 2010/0163063 to Fernando et al.; 2013/0192623 to Tucker et al.; 2013/0298905 to Leven et al.; 2013/0180553 to Kim et al., 2014/0000638 to Sebastian et al., 2014/0261495 to Novak et al., and 2014/0261408 to DePiano et al.; which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

In various implementations, a single control device (e.g., control device200) may be interchangeably connectable with a plurality of cartridges (e.g., cartridge300). Likewise, a single cartridge may be interchangeably connectable with a plurality of control devices. In various implementations of the present disclosure, the liquid composition of a particular cartridge may include a distinctive characteristic, and a color may be associated with that distinctive characteristic. In the depicted implementation, the distinctive characteristic is a flavorant. For example, in one implementation, the color green may be associated with a mint flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in a cartridge. In another implementation, the color red may be associated with an apple flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in a cartridge. In any event, the present disclosure provides that at least one indication feature of the cartridge, or at least one indication feature of the control device, or at least one indication feature of both the cartridge and the control device, produces a visual indication of the color associated with the flavorant.

In the implementation depicted inFIGS.1-4, for example, an indication feature of the cartridge provides visual indication of the flavorant included in a liquid composition contained in the cartridge. In particular, the cartridge300of the depicted implementation includes an indicator band360(seeFIG.3) that comprises a color associated with a flavorant included in the liquid composition324contained in the cartridge300. It should be noted that, in various implementations, the size, shape, and/or location of the indicator band360of the cartridge300may be configured such that when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200, at least a portion of the indicator band360is visible through the indication window240of the control device200. In some implementations, this may be accomplished via the indicator band360itself; however, in the depicted implementation, the indicator band360further includes a projection362that extends upward from the indicator band360. Although in various implementations a projection may have any configuration, in the depicted implementation, the projection362has a semi-circular configuration such that when the cartridge300of the depicted implementation is coupled with the control device200, and when viewed through the elongated oval shaped indication window240, the projection362appears as substantially circular in the bottom of the indication window240(as shown by example inFIG.1). The indicator band360of the depicted implementation is also configured such that when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200, the level of the liquid composition contained in the cartridge300(e.g., as viewed through the at least partially transparent or translucent tank wall304) is also visible through the indication window234and above the indicator band projection362.

It should be noted that, in some implementations, the projection362may comprise a shape and/or profile that is associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in a cartridge. As such, the shape or profile of the projection362may be visible when the cartridge is coupled with the control device to provide visual indication of the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge. In various such implementations, the shapes or profiles of the projection362may or may not, include a color associated with the flavorant. Thus, in such implementations in which the shapes or profiles do not include a color associated with the flavorant, the shape or profile alone would provide visual indication of the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge.

Although in various implementations, visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic may be accomplished with an indicator of a size and shape that comprises only that portion that may be visible to a user when the cartridge is coupled with the control device, in the depicted implementation, the indicator band of the depicted implementation substantially covers the entire distal end308of the tank302and extends upward in a longitudinal axis direction (L) a distance from the distal end308of the tank302to a substantially horizontal upper edge that includes the projection362. Such a configuration may be useful, for example, for providing clear indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition when the cartridge is not coupled with the control device. In some implementations, this distance may comprise up to approximately 25% of the distance between the proximal end306and the distal end308of the tank302. In other implementations, this distance may comprise between approximately 25% and 50% of the distance between the proximal end306and the distal end308of the tank302. In other implementations, this distance may comprise approximately 50% of the distance between the proximal end306and the distal end308of the tank302. An in still other implementations, this distance may comprise more than 50% of the distance between the proximal end306and the distal end308of the tank302.

In another implementation of the present disclosure, the outer tank wall itself may serve as an indication feature of the cartridge that provides visual indication of a distinctive characteristic of a liquid composition contained in the cartridge. In particular, some implementations need not include an indicator band because the tank wall304(or a portion thereof) may comprise a color associated with a distinctive characteristic of a liquid composition contained in the cartridge300. As such, when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200, at least a portion of the tank wall304comprising the color associated with the distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition may be visible through the indication window240. In an additional implementation, the outer tank wall304may be at least partially transparent and/or translucent and may comprise a colored tint having the color associated with the distinctive characteristic. In such a manner, light may pass through the color tinted outer tank wall304and the indication window240, thus providing visual indication of a color associated with the characteristic.

In another implementation of the present disclosure, the flange, or portion thereof, may serve as an indication feature of the cartridge that provides visual indication of a distinctive characteristic of a liquid composition contained in the cartridge. In particular, in some implementations, a portion of the flange350that is visible when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200(such as, for example, at least a portion of the top surface of the flange) may comprise a color associated with a distinctive characteristic of a liquid composition contained in the cartridge300. As such, when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200, the flange350provides visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic. In still other implementations, the mouthpiece, or a portion thereof, may serve as an indication feature of the cartridge that provides visual indication of a distinctive characteristic of a liquid composition contained in the cartridge. In particular, in some implementations a portion of the mouthpiece310(such as, for example, at least a portion of the exit portal315and/or at least a portion of the end surface317) that is visible when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200may comprise a color associated with the distinctive characteristic. For example, in the depicted implementation the exit portal315and a portion of the end surface317surrounding the exit portal315may comprise a color associated with a flavorant included in a liquid composition contained in the cartridge300. As such, in various implementations, when the cartridge300is coupled with the control device200, the mouthpiece310may provide visual indication of the color associated with a distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition.

FIG.5is a perspective view of a cartridge400according to another example implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, the cartridge400includes a tank402that is defined by an outer tank wall404that includes a proximal end406and a distal end408that is closed. As such, the tank402may be characterized in that the tank wall404is a sidewall that is continuous around the tank, and the distal end408defines a bottom wall. The tank402is also configured to contain a liquid composition for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge400also includes a mouthpiece410that is defined by an outer mouthpiece wall412that includes a proximal end414that defines an end surface417with an exit portal415defined therein, and a distal end416that engages the proximal end406of the tank402.

In various implementations, the cartridge400may have a similar configuration and may include some similar components (and similar configuration and component variations) as that of the cartridge300described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations). As with the implementations described above, the liquid composition contained in the tank402of the depicted implementation includes a distinctive characteristic, which in the depicted implementation is a flavorant. In the depicted implementation, the cartridge400also includes a light source460. In some implementations, the light source460may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED). In the depicted implementation, the light source460is configured to illuminate in the color associated with the flavorant and is located on the tank wall404such that it is visible through the indication window240of the control device200when the cartridge400is installed therein. In such a manner, when the cartridge400is coupled with the control device200, the light source460may illuminate in the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge400. As such, when the cartridge400is coupled with the control device200, the light source460provides visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition. It should be noted that in various implementations in which a light source may be located in the cartridge (such as light source460of cartridge400), the light source may be operatively connected to the power source (e.g., the battery216) either through the same electrical contacts as are used to electrically connect the heater to the power source (such as, for example, electrical contacts similar to electrical contacts325ofFIG.3) or through independent contacts. Therefore, for implementations wherein the light source shares contacts with the contacts of the cartridge used to electrically connect the heater to the power source, the light source may be activated in the same manner as the heater. For implementations in which the light source includes independent contacts, the light source may be activated independently from the heater. For example, in some implementations, the light source may be activated upon coupling the cartridge with the control device. In other implementations, the light source may be activated via a user request and/or in response to a draw.

FIG.6is a perspective view of a cartridge500according to another example implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, the cartridge500includes a tank502that is defined by an outer tank wall504that includes a proximal end506and a distal end508that is closed. As such, the tank502may be characterized in that the tank wall504is a sidewall that is continuous around the tank, and the distal end508defines a bottom wall. The tank502is also configured to contain a liquid composition for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge500also includes a mouthpiece510that is defined by an outer mouthpiece wall512that includes a proximal end514that defines an end surface517with an exit portal515defined therein, and a distal end516that engages the proximal end506of the tank502.

In various implementations, the cartridge500may have a similar configuration and may include some similar components (and similar configuration and component variations) as that of the cartridge300described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations). As with the implementations described above, the liquid composition contained in the tank502of the depicted implementation includes a distinctive characteristic, which in the depicted implementation is a flavorant. In the depicted implementation, the cartridge500also includes a light source560. In some implementations, the light source560may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED). In the depicted implementation, the light source560is configured to illuminate in the color associated with the flavorant. The cartridge500of the depicted implementation also includes a light guide562that includes two ends, with a first end564being positioned proximate the light source560and a second end566being located on the tank wall504, such that such that it is visible through the indication window240of the control device200when the cartridge500is installed therein. In such a manner, when the cartridge500is coupled with the control device200, the light560and the light guide562may be configured to illuminate in the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge500. As such, when the cartridge500is coupled with the control device200, the light source560and the light guide562(via light guide end566) provide visual indication of the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition. It should be noted that although in the depicted implementation the light source560and the light guide562are centrally located in the cartridge500, in other implementations the light source560and/or the light guide562may be positioned in any position on the cartridge500. Example structures and methods associated with directing light from a light source to a second location visible to a user are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,757,147 to Terry et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 9,980,516 to Ampolini et al., each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some implementations, the light guide may be constructed as a solid or hollow light tube made of a plastic material, such as clear or color tinted acrylic material. In other implementations, the light guide may be constructed of an optical fiber material, such as a glass optical fiber material or a plastic optical fiber material. Other implementations need not include a light guide. For example, in some implementations a light source may be disposed in the cartridge (such as, for example, proximate a distal end of the cartridge), wherein the light source may illuminate the liquid composition such that the liquid composition illuminates and/or light is visible through a sidewall of the cartridge that is tinted in a color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition. In another implementation, the liquid composition itself may comprise a color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition, and thus the illuminated liquid composition may provide visual indication of a color associated with the flavorant.

In some implementations, features of both the cartridge and the control device may provide a visual indication of a color associated with a distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition. For example,FIG.7illustrates partial cross-section view of a control device of an aerosol delivery device according to another implementation of the present disclosure, andFIG.8illustrates a cartridge configured to be received by the control device ofFIG.7. In various implementations, the control device600may have a similar configuration and may include some similar components (and similar configuration and component variations) as that of the control device200described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations). As shown therein, the control device600includes a cartridge receiving chamber612that is defined by an inner frame wall614. The control device600further includes a battery616positioned within the outer housing602and also includes an external connection element618. In the depicted implementation, the external connection element618is positioned at the distal end606of the outer housing602. Electrical connectors620are positioned in the cartridge receiving chamber612and, as illustrated, are present in sides of the inner frame wall614. As also illustrated inFIG.7, the proximal end608of the outer housing602includes an opening610that provides access to the cartridge receiving chamber612defined by the inner frame wall614. In various implementations, the control device600may also include a first light source630and at least one aperture (such as an aperture similar to aperture232inFIG.1) defined in the outer wall604of the control device602and through which light from the light source630may be visible. In some implementations, the first light source630may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED) capable of providing one or more colors of light. As also illustrated inFIG.7, the first light source630may be positioned directly on a control component634(such as, for example a printed circuit board (PCB)) on which further control components (e.g., a microcontroller and/or memory components) may be included. However, it will be appreciated that the light source630may alternatively be located in any position, and thus, in some implementations, may not be located on the control component634. As illustrated inFIG.7, the control device600may also include a sensor636on the control component634. The outer wall604of the control device600may also be configured to include an indication window640through which a portion of an outer tank wall and any liquid composition present in a tank can be visible when a cartridge is engaged with the control device600. In the depicted implementation, the control device600also includes a second light source650, which, in some implementations, may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED) capable of providing one or more colors of light. As noted above, in some implementations, the light source may be configured to illuminate in one color. In other implementations, the light source may be configured to illuminate in variety of different colors.

As shown inFIG.8, the cartridge700includes a tank702that is defined by an outer tank wall704that includes a proximal end706and a distal end708that is closed. As such, the tank702may be characterized in that the tank wall704is a sidewall that is continuous around the tank, and the distal end708defines a bottom wall. The tank702is also configured to contain a liquid composition for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge700also includes a mouthpiece710that is defined by an outer mouthpiece wall712that includes a proximal end714that defines an end surface717with an exit portal715defined therein, and a distal end716that engages the proximal end706of the tank702.

In various implementations, the cartridge700may have a similar configuration and may include some similar components (and similar configuration and component variations) as that of the cartridge300described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations). As with the implementations described above, the liquid composition contained in the tank702of the depicted implementation includes a distinctive characteristic, which in the depicted implementation is a flavorant. The cartridge700of the depicted implementation also includes a light guide762that defines two ends, with a first end764located proximate the distal end708of the cartridge tank702, and a second end766located on the tank wall704such that it is visible through the indication window640of the control device600when the cartridge700is installed therein. In the depicted implementation, for example, when the cartridge700is installed in the control device600, the first end764of the light guide762is configured to be located proximate the second light source650of the control device600.

In such a manner, when the cartridge700is coupled with the control device600, the light source650of the control device may be configured to illuminate, thus illuminating the light guide762such that the second end766of the light guide762displays the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge700. As such, when the cartridge700is coupled with the control device600, the light source650and the light guide end762provide visual indication of the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition. It should be noted that although in the depicted implementation the light source650and the light guide762are substantially centrally located in the control device600and cartridge700, respectively, in other implementations the light source650and/or the light guide762may be positioned in any position within or on the control device600or the cartridge700, respectively. As such, in some implementations (e.g., where the second light source650is also located on or proximate the control component634), the control device600may also include a light guide that includes a first end located proximate the light source650and a second end that is located adjacent the first end764of the cartridge light guide762when the cartridge700is received by the control device600. In such a manner, light from the light source650may be transmitted through the light guide of the control device and the light guide762of the cartridge in order to display the color associated with the flavorant at the second end766of the cartridge light guide762. In some implementations, at least a portion of the distal end of the cartridge may be at least partially transparent and/or at least partially translucent such that light from the light source650may transmit through the liquid composition contained in the cartridge tank702without requiring a light guide762. In such a manner, illumination of a color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition may be visible through the indication window640via the liquid composition itself.

It should be noted that in other implementations, there need not be a separate light source (such as light source650) for providing visual indication of a color associated with the flavorant. Rather, a single light source (such as light source630inFIG.7) may be used for multiple functions. Therefore, while some implementations need not include any light guides, other implementations may utilize one or more light guides to direct light from the single light source. Furthermore, in some implementations there need not be a separate aperture in the control device (such as aperture232inFIG.1) such that all light based indications may occur through the cartridge, with or without the use of any light guides.

It should be noted that whereas in some of implementations above, the light source of the cartridge or the light source of the control device is configured to illuminate in the color associated with the flavorant, in other implementations, the light source of the cartridge or the light source of the control device may be configured to produce a white light, and another feature, such as, for example, a color tinted tank wall of the cartridge or a light guide, may comprise a color associated with the flavorant so that together the two features provide a visual indication of a color associated with the flavorant.

In various implementations, the light source providing the color associated with the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge (whether located in the cartridge or the control device) may illuminate at a variety of different times and for different periods of time. For example, in some implementations, the light source may illuminate upon coupling a cartridge with a control device and remain illuminated for a predetermined period of time. In other implementations, the light source may illuminate in response to a user request, such as, for example, by pushing a button or tapping the device. In other implementations, the light source may illuminate in response to some motion-based input, such as, for example, by waving the device in the air or by some other motion that may identified using a sensor (e.g., an accelerometer) located in the control device and/or the cartridge. In still other implementations, the light source may illuminate in response to puff detection on the device.

In some implementations, the control device may be configured to determine the flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in a coupled cartridge and illuminate a light source of the cartridge or control device (such as, for example, illuminating a light source of the cartridge or control device in the color associated with that flavorant). For example, in some implementations the control device may be able to read or sense data indicative of the flavorant included in the liquid composition from the cartridge. For example, in some implementations the control device may be configured to measure a resistance or capacitance of a cartridge wherein different resistance or capacitance values are associated with different flavorants included in the liquid composition. In various implementations, a light source of the cartridge or control device may then be controlled to illuminate in the appropriate color associated with the flavorant (or to produce white light for those implementations where another features aids in visual indication of the color). For example, in some implementations, a component of cartridge (e.g., a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip) may be adapted to communicate with the control component of the control device by wired or wireless means. An example of an aerosol delivery system containing an RFID tag is described in U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2017/0020191 to Lamb et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Further, various examples of control components and functions performed thereby are described in U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2014/0096782 to Ampolini et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As noted above, the present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for aerosol delivery devices that provide visual indication of one or more characteristics of the device wherein the visual indication is provided by at least one feature of the cartridge, or at least one feature of the control device, or at least one feature of both the cartridge and the control device. As such, although the foregoing example implementations relate to visual indication of a flavorant included in the liquid composition contained in the cartridge, other example implementations may include visual indication of other characteristics of the cartridge. For example, some implementations may provide visual indication of other features of the liquid composition contained in the cartridge (either alone or in addition to visual indication of a flavorant included in the liquid composition). For example, in some implementations, at least one feature of the cartridge, or at least one feature of the control device, or at least one feature of both the cartridge and the control device may provide visual indication of a relative strength of nicotine contained in the liquid composition.

FIG.9is a perspective view of a cartridge800according to another example implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, the cartridge800includes a tank802that is defined by an outer tank wall804that includes a proximal end806and a distal end808that is closed. As such, the tank802may be characterized in that the tank wall804is a sidewall that is continuous around the tank, and the distal end808defines a bottom wall. The tank802is also configured to contain a liquid composition for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge800also includes a mouthpiece810that is defined by an outer mouthpiece wall812that includes a proximal end814that defines an end surface817with an exit portal815defined therein, and a distal end816that engages the proximal end806of the tank802.

In various implementations, the cartridge800may have a similar configuration and may include some similar components (and similar configuration and component variations) as that of the cartridge300described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations). In the depicted implementation, the liquid composition contained in the tank802includes a distinctive characteristic, which in the depicted implementation is a nicotine component of a specific strength. In various implementations, a portion of the mouthpiece wall812may comprise a color, or a shade of a color, associated with the relative strength of the nicotine component. For example, in some implementations, three different versions of the cartridge800may contain liquid compositions comprising three different nicotine strengths, such as, for example, a low strength, a medium strength, and a high strength. As such, a color or a shade of a color of the mouthpiece wall812may be associated with each different nicotine strength, such as, for example, a light shade of gray for the mouthpiece wall812associated with the low nicotine strength liquid composition, a medium shade of gray for the mouthpiece wall812associated with the medium nicotine strength liquid composition, and a dark shade of gray for the mouthpiece wall associated with a high nicotine strength liquid composition. It should be noted that in other implementations, the characteristic of the cartridge may differ and other features of the cartridge, the control device, or both the cartridge and control device, as similarly described above, may serve to provide visual indication of the characteristic. Thus, as noted above the examples provided herein should not operate to limit the present disclosure.

It should be noted that although the examples described and illustrated herein depict aerosol delivery devices having a removable cartridge with a “pod-mod” design, the present disclosure is equally applicable to any other form of an aerosol delivery device, including, for example, devices having sizes and shapes configured to resemble traditional cigarettes, such as those similar to the device described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,499,766 to Newton, as well as devices that may or may not, include a tank, such as, for example, devices similar to the various VUSE® products produced by R. J. Reynolds Vapor Company, such as devices similar to the Ciro®, Vibe™, and Solo® devices. Thus, for example, aspects of the disclosure may be applied mutatis mutandis to indicate a distinctive characteristic of a liquid contained in a cartridge of aerosol delivery devices in which the cartridge is coupled with a control body in an aligned end to end arrangement (e.g., via a threaded, snap-fit, and/or magnetic connection).

For example,FIG.10illustrates a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device according to another example implementation of the present disclosure. In particular,FIG.10depicts an aerosol delivery device1000that includes a control device1200and a removable cartridge1300. In various implementations, the cartridge1300is configured to be coupled with the control device1200via a threaded, snap-fit, magnetic, and/or other similar connection. In the depicted implementation, the cartridge1300includes a tank1302that is defined by an outer tank wall1304. The cartridge1300of the depicted implementation also includes an atomizer unit1350, which is located on a distal end thereof. In some implementations, the atomizer unit1350maybe separable from the cartridge1300. The tank1302of the depicted configuration is configured to contain a liquid composition for vaporization (e.g., an e-liquid or aerosol precursor composition), which may be configured as otherwise described herein. For example, in the depicted implementation, the liquid composition includes a distinctive characteristic. In many aspects, the cartridge1300and the control device1200may have similar configurations and may include some similar components (and some similar configuration and component variations) as the cartridges and control devices described above. As such, reference is made to the pertinent discussions of these configurations and components (and configuration and component variations

In the depicted implementation, the aerosol delivery device1000includes a light source1360. Although in various implementations the location of a light source may vary (e.g., in some implementations, the light source1360maybe located on, or inside of, the cartridge1300(including on, or inside of, the atomizer1350), and/or the control device1200), in the depicted implementations, the light source1360is located inside the tank1302. In some implementations, the light source1360may comprise, for example, at least one light emitting diode (LED). In the depicted implementation, the light source1360is configured to illuminate in a color associated with the distinctive characteristic of the liquid composition. In such a manner, when the cartridge1300is coupled with the control device1200, visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic may be provided to a user. In other implementations, the outer tank wall1304maybe at least partially transparent and/or translucent and may comprise a colored tint having the color associated with the distinctive characteristic. In such a manner, light may pass through the color tinted outer tank wall, thus providing visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic. It should be noted that in other implementations, one or more light guides may facilitate the visibility of the light source. In such a manner, when the cartridge1300is coupled with the control device1200, one or more light guides may facilitate providing visual indication of the color associated with the distinctive characteristic.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.