U.S. patent application number 17/431899 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-05 for electronic smoking device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Fontem Holdings 1 B.V.. Invention is credited to Ramon Alarcon.
Application Number | 20220132934 17/431899 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006148498 |
Filed Date | 2022-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220132934 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Alarcon; Ramon |
May 5, 2022 |
ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICE
Abstract
An electronic smoking device is disclosed comprising a chip that
includes a fluid inlet. The fluid inlet can include a depression
formed in a first surface of the chip. A fluidic channel can extend
from the fluid inlet through the chip to a fluid outlet formed in a
second surface of the chip. A heating element can be disposed on
the second surface of the chip proximate to the fluid outlet.
Inventors: |
Alarcon; Ramon; (Los Gatos,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fontem Holdings 1 B.V. |
Amsterdam |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006148498 |
Appl. No.: |
17/431899 |
Filed: |
February 19, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
February 19, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2020/051404 |
371 Date: |
August 18, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62807441 |
Feb 19, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
131/329 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A24F 40/10 20200101;
A24F 40/57 20200101; A24F 40/46 20200101; A24F 40/485 20200101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 40/485 20060101
A24F040/485; A24F 40/46 20060101 A24F040/46; A24F 40/10 20060101
A24F040/10; A24F 40/57 20060101 A24F040/57 |
Claims
1. An electronic smoking device, comprising: a chip that includes a
fluid inlet, wherein the fluid inlet includes a depression formed
in a first surface of the chip; a fluidic channel extending from
the fluid inlet through the chip to a fluid outlet formed in a
second surface of the chip; and a heating element disposed on the
second surface of the next to the fluid outlet.
2. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein the first
surface of the chip and the second surface of the chip are on a
same side of the chip.
3. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein the first
surface of the chip and the second surface of the chip are on
different sides of the chip.
4. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein the fluidic
channel extends from the fluid inlet through the chip to a
plurality of fluid outlets formed in the second surface of the
chip.
5. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of fluidic channels extending from the fluid inlet
through the chip to a plurality of fluid outlets, wherein the fluid
outlets are in fluid communication with the plurality of fluidic
channels.
6. The electronic smoking device of claim 5, wherein each of the
plurality of fluidic channels includes a plurality of fluid
outlets.
7. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, further comprising a
fluid tank that includes a fluid tank outlet in fluid communication
with the fluid inlet.
8. The electronic smoking device of claim 7, wherein the fluid tank
includes a vent.
9. The electronic smoking device of claim 7, wherein the electronic
smoking article is configured to: pass fluid from the fluid tank
outlet through the fluid inlet, fluidic channel, and out of the
fluid outlet; and vaporize the fluid upon contact between the fluid
and the heating element.
10. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein a temperature
sensor is disposed next to the heating element.
11. An electronic cigarette, comprising: a fluid tank that includes
a fluid outlet; a silicon chip heating assembly that includes a
fluid inlet in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the
fluid tank, wherein the fluid inlet is in fluid communication with
a plurality of fluidic channels that extend from the fluid inlet
through the silicon chip; a plurality of fluid outlets formed in a
surface of the silicon chip and in fluid communication with the
plurality of fluidic channels; and a heating element disposed on
the surface of the silicon chip proximate to the plurality of fluid
outlets.
12. The electronic cigarette of claim 11, wherein the heating
element is deposited on the surface of the silicon chip.
13. The electronic cigarette of claim 11, wherein the fluid outlet
of the cartomizer is connected to the fluid inlet of the silicon
chip heating assembly via a removable connection.
14. The electronic cigarette of claim 11, wherein the fluid tank
includes a vent.
15. The electronic cigarette of claim 14, wherein the plurality of
fluid outlets are exposed to an air path in fluid communication
with a mouth piece of the electronic cigarette.
16. The electronic cigarette of claim 15, wherein a barrier
separates the vent from the air path.
17. An electronic cigarette, comprising: a fluid tank that includes
a fluid outlet; a silicon chip heating assembly disposed in-line
with the fluid tank, wherein the silicon chip heating assembly
includes a fluid inlet formed on a first side of the silicon chip
in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the fluid tank; a
plurality of fluidic channels that extend through the silicon chip
from the fluid inlet to a plurality of fluid outlets formed on a
second side of the silicon chip; a heating element disposed on the
second side of the silicon chip proximate to the plurality of fluid
outlets formed on the second side of the silicon chip; and a power
source configured to provide power to the heating element.
18. The electronic cigarette of claim 17, wherein: fluid is
vaporized via the heating element; and an air path is in fluid
communication with a mouth piece and the plurality of fluid outlets
formed on the second side of the silicon chip.
19. The electronic cigarette of claim 17, further comprising a seal
disposed between the fluid tank and the silicon chip.
20. The electronic cigarette of claim 17, wherein the heating
element is a single heating element that traverses back and forth
between the plurality of fluid outlets formed on the second side of
the silicon chip.
Description
BACKGROUND
a. Field of the Disclosure
[0001] This disclosure relates to an electronic smoking device.
b. Background Art
[0002] Electronic cigarettes are a popular alternative to
traditional smoking articles that burn tobacco products to generate
smoke for inhalation. Unlike traditional tobacco-based smoking
articles, electronic cigarettes generate an aerosol-based vapor for
inhalation, which can generally emulate smoke of traditional
tobacco-based smoking articles. The aerosol-based vapor can
generally be created through heating of a liquid that contains
additives, for example, nicotine. The heater can be powered by a
power source, such as a battery. In some instances the battery can
be rechargeable.
[0003] However, electronic cigarettes may not deliver a same
experience as traditional cigarettes. For example, electronic
cigarettes can have a relatively slow rate of vaporization, which
can tend to produce an inconsistent quality of vapor. This may be
due to the use of a wick that transports liquid from a disposable
cartridge to the vaporizing element. The "wicking" method of fluid
transport can be a relatively slow method, which can limit the rate
at which the user can smoke the cigarette. Additionally, the wick
can limit the ability to control and monitor the amount of nicotine
delivered to the user. Finally, the wick construction can be more
difficult to assemble and automate manufacturing of, has limited
quality, and can be contaminated.
SUMMARY
[0004] In various embodiments, an electronic smoking device can
comprise a chip that includes a fluid inlet. The fluid inlet can
include a depression formed in a first surface of the chip. A
fluidic channel can extend from the fluid inlet through the chip to
a fluid outlet formed in a second surface of the chip. A heating
element can be disposed on the second surface of the chip next to
the fluid outlet.
[0005] In various embodiments, an electronic cigarette can comprise
a fluid tank that includes a fluid outlet. A silicon chip heating
assembly can include a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the
fluid outlet of the fluid tank. The fluid inlet can be in fluid
communication with a plurality of fluidic channels that extend from
the fluid inlet through the silicon chip. A plurality of fluid
outlets can be formed in a surface of the silicon chip and can be
in fluid communication with the plurality of fluidic channels. A
heating element can be disposed on the surface of the silicon chip
next to the plurality of fluid outlets.
[0006] In various embodiments, an electronic cigarette can comprise
a fluid tank that includes a fluid outlet. A silicon chip heating
assembly can be disposed in-line with the fluid tank. The silicon
chip heating assembly can include a fluid inlet formed on a first
side of the silicon chip in fluid communication with the fluid
outlet of the fluid tank. A plurality of fluidic channels can
extend through the silicon chip from the fluid inlet to a plurality
of fluid outlets formed on a second side of the silicon chip. A
heating element can be disposed on the second side of the silicon
chip next to the plurality of fluid inlets formed on the second
side of the silicon chip. A power source can be configured to
provide power to the heating element.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1A depicts an isometric top and side view of a
cartomizer for storing and vaporizing liquid media, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 1B depicts an isometric bottom and side view of the
cartomizer in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the
present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 1C depicts a side-view of the cartomizer in FIG. 1A, in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 1D depicts an isometric top and side view of an
electronic cigarette, in accordance with embodiments of the present
disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2A depicts a cross-sectional side view of an electronic
smoking device (ESD), in accordance with embodiments of the present
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 2B depicts a structural top-view of an ESD in FIG. 1A,
in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD,
in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIGS. 4A to 4D depict embodiments of a barrier that can
direct the air flow through the ESD, in accordance with embodiments
of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 5 depicts a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD,
in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference
numerals are used to identify identical components in the various
views, FIG. 1A depicts an isometric top and side view of a
cartomizer 101 for storing and vaporizing liquid media, in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In an
example, the cartomizer 101 can be a cartomizer for an electronic
cigarette, which can be connected with a power source (e.g.,
battery) to provide power for an electronic smoking device
contained within the cartomizer 101. In an example, the electronic
smoking device can be an atomizer, in some embodiments. The
cartomizer 101 can include a mouth piece 102 with an outlet 103,
which can be configured for delivery of a vapor to a user.
[0017] The mouth piece 102 can be sized and configured to provide a
user with a particular type of experience. For instance, adjusting
a size and/or shape of the outlet 103 and/or a passageway within
the mouthpiece can result in a change in velocity of vapor exiting
the outlet 103 and/or a change in particle size of the liquid media
contained in the vapor. In some examples, the mouth piece 102 can
comprise a pattern 104, which can be associated with a particular
user experience associated with the mouth piece 102 and/or
cartomizer 101. The pattern 104 can be used by a user to identify
the particular user experience associated with the mouth piece 102
and/or cartomizer 101.
[0018] The cartomizer 101 can include an outer tube 105 that is
connected with the mouth piece 102. In an example, the mouth piece
102 can be connected with the outer tube 105 by press-fitting the
mouth piece 102 into the outer tube 105 and/or through use of an
adhesive applied between the outer tube 105 and the mouth piece
102, although other connecting technologies may be used. In some
embodiments, the mouth piece 102, as well as other components of
the cartomizer 101, can be connected with the outer tube 105 via a
snap connecter, as discussed herein. The mouth piece 102 can
include a stepped portion 106 (or annular ledge) that can engage
the proximal longitudinal end of the outer tube 105 to prevent the
mouth piece 102 from being pushed into the outer tube further than
a defined amount.
[0019] The cartomizer 101 can include a battery connector 107
(e.g., a threaded connector as shown or a frictionally-engaged
connector or other connector) that is configured to connect with a
complementary connector comprising part of or associated with a
housing for a battery or other power source that is capable of
providing power to an atomizer comprising part of the cartomizer
101. In an example, the battery connector 107 can be connected with
the outer tube 105 by press-fitting the battery connector 107 into
the outer tube 105 and/or, for example, through use of an adhesive
applied between the outer tube 105 and the battery connector 107.
The battery connector 107 can include a stepped portion 109 (or
annular ledge), much like the mouth piece 102 that can engage the
distal longitudinal end of the outer tube 105 to prevent the
battery connector 107 from being pushed into the outer tube 105
further than a defined amount.
[0020] The battery connector 107 can establish both a physical
connection between the cartomizer 101 and a housing for a power
source and an electrical connection between the power source (e.g.,
the battery in the housing) and the cartomizer 101. In an example,
the physical connection can be established by a first threaded
portion 108, which can be configured to threadingly connect with a
complimentary threaded portion associated with the battery. The
first threaded portion 108 of the connector 107 can be constructed
from an electrically conductive material (e.g., metal). The
connector 107 may further comprise, for example, a center connector
111, which may also be constructed from an electrically conductive
material. As discussed further below, the first threaded portion
109 and the center connector 111 may be electrically insulated from
each other by an annular insulator grommet 110. Thus, the connector
107, via the first threaded portion 108 and the center connector
111, can facilitate an electrical connection between a first
terminal (e.g., positive terminal) and a second terminal (e.g.,
negative terminal) of the battery.
[0021] FIG. 1B depicts an isometric bottom and side view of the
cartomizer 101 in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the
present disclosure. The cartomizer 101 includes the mouth piece
102, the stepped portion 106 of the mouth piece 102, the outer tube
105, the battery connector 107, the threaded portion 108 of the
battery connector 107, and the stepped portion 109 of the battery
connector 107. FIG. 1B further illustrates details associated with
the battery connector 107, which can include an annular insulator
grommet 110 that is inserted into an axial cylindrical opening of
the battery connector 107. The annular insulator grommet 110 can
include an axial cylindrical opening, in which a center battery
connect 111 can be inserted. The annular insulator grommet 110 can
be formed from an insulative material that separates the center
battery connect 111 from the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped
portion 109. For example, the annular insulator grommet 110 can be
formed of a plastic, rubber, ceramic, etc., which can prevent a
short from occurring between the center battery connect 111 and the
threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion 109.
[0022] In some embodiments, the center battery connect 111 can
include an axial cylindrical opening 112 in the center battery
connect 111 that is in communication with the inner surface of the
inner tube 118. In an example, a first terminal of the battery can
be connected with the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion
109 and a second terminal of the battery can be connected with the
center battery connect 111. For instance, a positive terminal of
the battery can connect to the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped
portion 109 and a negative terminal of the battery can connect to
the center battery connect 111.
[0023] FIG. 1C depicts a side-view of the cartomizer 101 in FIG.
1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The
cartomizer 101 includes the mouth piece 102 with stepped portion
106. The mouth piece 102 can be connected with the outer tube 105
and can include stepped portion 106. In addition, the cartomizer
101 can include battery connector 107 that has a threaded portion
108 and stepped portion 109. The battery connector 107 can include
an axial cylindrical opening in which an insulator grommet 110 (as
shown in FIG. 1B) can be inserted to provide an insulative layer
between a center battery connect 111 inserted in an axial
cylindrical opening of the insulator grommet 110 and the threaded
portion 108 of the battery connector 107. In addition, the
cartomizer 101 can include an air inlet 113 through which air can
be drawn into the cartomizer 101. In some embodiments, the
cartomizer 101 can include more than one air inlet 113. For
example, air can be drawn through an axial cylindrical opening of
the center battery connect 111.
[0024] FIG. 1D depicts an isometric top and side view of an
electronic cigarette, in accordance with embodiments of the present
disclosure. The electronic cigarette includes a cartomizer 101 that
is connected with a battery assembly 114. The battery assembly 114
can include a power source (e.g., battery) that is used to power a
heater in connection with the electronic cigarette, as discussed
herein. The connection between the cartomizer 101 and the battery
assembly 114 can be a threaded connection and/or a
frictionally-engaged connection or other type of connection that is
configured to connect the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly
114. In an example, the threaded connection can include a first
threaded portion on the cartomizer 101 and a complimentary threaded
portion on the battery assembly 114. The frictionally-engaged
connection can include two complementary connectors that are
configured to frictionally engage one another, as discussed herein.
Upon connection of the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly 114,
a joint 115 can be formed between the cartomizer 101 and the
battery assembly 114.
[0025] FIG. 1D further depicts the mouth piece 102 of the
cartomizer 101. The mouth piece 102 includes the outlet 103 where
vapor exits the electronic cigarette, as a user draws from the
mouth piece 102. As discussed herein, the stepped portion 106 of
the mouth piece 102 can engage the proximal end of the outer tube
105, thus preventing the mouth piece 102 from being pushed into the
outer tube 105 further than a defined amount. In addition, the
mouth piece 102 can comprise the pattern 104, such that a user can
identify the particular user experience associated with the mouth
piece 102 and/or cartomizer 101.
[0026] In some embodiments, the battery assembly 114 can include a
light assembly 116 on a tip of the battery assembly 114 distal to
the cartomizer 101. The light assembly 116 can include a light
filter and a light emitting diode (LED). As a user draws on the
mouth piece 102, the LED can generate light which passes through
the light filter. In an example, the light filter can disperse the
light generated by the LED and/or can impart a particular color to
the light generated by the LED.
[0027] FIG. 2A cross-sectional side view of an electronic smoking
device (ESD) 125, in accordance with embodiments of the present
disclosure. FIG. 2B depicts a structural top-view of the ESD 125 in
FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
The ESD 125 can include a chip, which can be a silicon chip 126, as
depicted in FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, the chip can be made from
a material other than silicon. In some embodiments, the silicon
chip 126 can be a wafer with a length (defined by line BB) and
width (defined by line CC in FIG. 1B) that are greater than a
thickness (defined by line AA) of the silicon chip 126. Although
the thickness CC can be greater than the length BB or width CC, in
some embodiments. The silicon chip 126 can include various features
that can facilitate the flow of a fluid through the silicon chip
126. For example, the silicon chip 126 can include one or more
fluidic channels 128-1, 128-2, 128-3, 128-4, as shown in FIG. 2B.
Hereinafter, the one or more fluidic channels are generally
referred to as fluidic channels 128. The fluidic channels can be
formed within the silicon chip 126, through which fluid can flow.
In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can have a circular
cross section. However, the cross section of the fluidic channels
128 can be other shapes, such as an oval, square, rectangle, etc.
The fluidic channels 128 can be subterranean channels in some
embodiments. For example, the fluidic channels 128 can be formed
between outer surfaces (e.g., top and bottom) of the silicon chip
126, such that fluid can travel through the fluidic channels
128.
[0028] The silicon chip 126 can include a fluid inlet 127, through
which fluid can enter the fluidic channels 128. The fluid inlet 127
can include a depression formed in a first surface 129 of the
silicon chip 126. The depression can be a circular depression,
square depression, or other shaped depression, and can be formed by
patterning the silicon chip such that silicon is not deposited in
the depression or the silicon is removed from the depression, as
further discussed herein. In some embodiments, the fluid inlet can
be formed in a similar manner as to how the fluidic channels are
formed, as further discussed herein, For example, the fluid inlet
and/or fluidic channels can be formed using a porous silicon
fabrication process. The depression associated with the fluid inlet
127 can extend into the first surface 129 of the silicon chip 126
and can have walls that are parallel, in some embodiments, as shown
in FIG. 1A. However, in some embodiments, the walls of the
depression can be divergent. For example, the walls of the
depression can be flared towards the first surface 129 of the
silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, the walls of the depression
can be dished out towards the first surface 129 of the silicon chip
126 (e.g., forming a bowl shaped depression). As such, a wider
opening can be associated with the fluid inlet and fluid can be
more easily collected by the wider opening. In an example, the
fluid can pass into the fluid inlet 127 where the perimeter of the
fluid inlet meets the first surface and can pass through the fluid
inlet 127 as a diameter of the opening is reduced to a size similar
to or the same as that of a diameter of the fluidic channel
128.
[0029] The silicon chip 126 can include one or more fluid outlets
133 formed in a second surface of the silicon chip 126. The fluidic
channels 128 can extend from the fluid inlet 127 through the
silicon chip 126 to the one or more fluid outlets 133-1, 133-2,
133-3, hereinafter referred to in the plural as fluid outlets 133,
formed in the second surface of the silicon chip 126. In some
embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can extend from the fluid
inlet 127 through the silicon chip 126 to a plurality of fluid
outlets 133 formed in the second surface of the silicon chip 126.
As shown in FIG. 1A, the silicon chip 126 includes three fluid
outlets 133 that are in fluid communication with the fluidic
channels 128. In some embodiments, more or less than three fluid
outlets 133 can be in fluid communication with the fluidic channels
128. In an example, fluid can flow from the fluid inlet 127,
through the fluidic channels 128 and out of the one or more fluid
outlets 133.
[0030] In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128, the fluid
inlet 127, and the fluid outlets 133 can be formed in the silicon
chip 126 using a porous silicon fabrication process. In an example,
a buried layer can be formed in the silicon chip 126 with a
material that can be altered and removed without affecting the
surrounding material or structure, as described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,242,863, entitled Silicon Diaphragm Piezoresistive Pressure
Sensor and Fabrication Method of the Same, which is hereby
incorporated by reference. In an example, the buried layer can be
covered with a surface material that can be unaffected by a process
used to remove the buried layer. To remove the buried layer, the
layer can first be converted into porous silicon by anodization.
After this stage, the porous silicon can fill the fluid inlet 127,
the fluidic channels 128, and the fluid outlets 133, along with
various other subterranean features associated with the silicon
chip. The porous silicon can be removed via an etching step. For
example, the porous silicon can be removed by applying a solution
of potassium hydroxide to the porous silicon. As a result, the
porous silicon is removed, leaving behind the fluid inlet 127, the
fluidic channels 128, and the fluid outlets 133, along with the
various other subterranean features associated with the silicon
chip.
[0031] In some embodiments, one or more heating element passes
134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can form a heating element 134, which
can be disposed on the second surface of the silicon chip 126 next
to the one or more fluid outlets 133. The heating element 134 can
comprise a conductive material, in some embodiments, which can be
deposited onto the surface of the silicon chip 126 via a deposition
process, such as thermal evaporation and/or metal vapor deposition.
The heating element 134 can be deposited onto the surface of the
silicon chip 126, such that the heating element 134 is made from a
single heating element that traverses back and forth between and
next to the plurality of fluid outlets formed on the second side of
the silicon chip 126. Thus, the heating element 134 make a number
of heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 between the
fluid outlets 133. For example, the heating element 134 can make a
first pass 134-1, a second pass 134-2, a third pass 134-3, a fourth
pass 134-4 between the fluid outlets 133. If made from a single
heating element, the entire heating element 134 can be under a same
control. For example, a single electrical input can power the
heating element 134. For instance, by increasing or decreasing
power to the heating element 134 via one power source, a
temperature of the heating element 134 can be controlled via a
single power lead. Alternatively, each pass of the heating element
134 can be individually controlled. For example, individual power
leads can be connected to each heating element passes 134-1, 134-2,
134-3, 134-4.
[0032] In some embodiments, the heating element 134 can be disposed
next to the fluid outlets 133, such that fluid expelled from the
fluid outlets 133 comes within a close proximity to or contacts the
heating element 134 and heat generated by the heating element 134
can be transferred to the fluid expelled from the fluid outlets
133. The heat transferred to the fluid can cause the fluid to be
vaporized, enabling a user to inhale the vaporized fluid.
[0033] In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be disposed
next to the heating element 134. In an example, the temperature
sensor can provide an indication of how hot the vapor and/or
heating element 134 is to a temperature control device. The
temperature control device can be in communication with the
temperature sensor and also in communication with the heating
element 134. Upon receipt of the temperature data from the
temperature sensor, the temperature control can adjust power
provided to the heating element 134 to adjust a temperature of the
heating element 134 to ensure that the fluid is vaporized by the
heating element 134. In some embodiments, upon receipt of the
temperature data from the temperature sensor, power can be turned
on or off to the heating element 134 by the temperature control.
For example, if a temperature exceeds a threshold, power provided
to the heating element 134 can be turned off/on. In some
embodiments, upon receipt of the temperature data from the
temperature sensor, the temperature control can vary an amount of
power provided to the heating element 134. For example, power can
be provided to the heating element 134 by the temperature control
and can be varied in a range from zero percent to one-hundred
percent, where zero percent is a minimum amount of power and
one-hundred percent is a maximum amount of power.
[0034] In some embodiments, an amount of fluid that passes through
each of the fluid outlets 133 can vary by a particular amount. For
example, a greater amount of fluid may pass through the first fluid
outlet 133-1 than the third fluid outlet 133-3. In some
embodiments, the heating element passes 134-1, 134-2 may be hot
enough to vaporize the lesser amount of fluid that passes through
the third fluid outlet 133-3, but heating element passes 134-3,
134-4 may be cooled by the greater amount of fluid that passes
through the first fluid outlet 133-1. This can cause droplets of
fluid to remain un-vaporized by the heating element passes 134-3,
134-4 and to pass into a user's mouth, in some cases. Accordingly,
in some embodiments, an amount of power to each of the heating
element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can be controlled
individually. In an example, each of the heating element passes
134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can be separate heating elements that
are each provided with an individual power lead configured to power
each of the separate heating elements.
[0035] In some embodiments, fluid can be expelled through the fluid
outlets 133 passively. For example, fluid can be expelled through
the fluid outlets 133 without use of electricity. For instance, as
air is drawn across the fluid outlets 133, surface tension, which
usually maintains the fluid in the fluid outlets and/or fluidic
channel 128-1 can be broken, causing the fluid to flow through the
fluid outlets 133. In some embodiments, an area of low pressure can
be created around the fluid outlets 133, as air is drawn past the
fluid outlets 133, which can cause the fluid to be expelled from
the fluid outlets 133.
[0036] In some embodiments, the ESD 125 can include a sensor that
detects when a user has puffed on the ESD 125. For example, the
sensor can be a microphone and/or an air flow sensor that can
detect the flow of air. In an example, the sensor can be in
communication with a controller that provides power to the heating
element 134 to vaporize the fluid. As the heating element 134 is
heated, the fluid contained within the fluid outlets 133 can be
vaporized and drawn into the air path, through which air travels.
As the fluid is vaporized, more fluid can be drawn through the
fluidic channel 128 via capillary effect and into the fluid outlets
133.
[0037] In some embodiments, the ESD 125 can include a fluid tank
130. The fluid tank 130 can include a fluid outlet 132 that can be
in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip
126. In some embodiments, a diameter of the fluid outlet 127 can be
smaller, a same size, and/or larger than a diameter of the fluid
inlet 127. The fluid tank 130 can hold an amount of juice, which
can be passed from the fluid tank outlet 132, through the fluid
inlet 127 on the silicon chip 126, through the fluidic channel
128-1, and out of the fluid outlets 133. The fluid can then be
vaporized by coming into contact or close proximity to the heating
element 134 of the ESD 125.
[0038] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can include a filter
disposed in the fluid outlet 132. For example, as fluid passes out
of the fluid outlet 132, the fluid can be filtered of particulate
matter. In some embodiments, a filter can be disposed within and/or
across the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip 126 and/or between
the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip and the fluid outlet 132 of
the fluid tank 130 and/or in the fluid inlet and/or across the
fluid inlet. By including a filter, particulate matter can be
filtered from the juice, which can prevent clogging of the fluid
inlet 127, fluidic channels 128, and/or fluid outlets 133. The
filter can be a screen and/or membrane, in some embodiments. In
some embodiments, the filter can be a semipermeable membrane or
valve that can allow juice to flow into the fluid inlet, but not
out of the fluid inlet 127.
[0039] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can be removable
from the silicon chip 126. For example, once a fluid stored within
the fluid tank 130 is depleted, the fluid tank 130 can be removed
and a new fluid tank 130 can be connected with the silicon chip
126. Accordingly, it may be beneficial to include a filter in the
fluid tank 130 instead of or in addition to a filter included in
the fluid inlet 127. As previously discussed, the filter included
in the tank 130 can filter particulate matter from the fluid. If
the filter included in the fluid tank 130 becomes clogged, the
filter can be replaced with the fluid tank 130 when a new fluid
tank 130 and filter are connected to the silicon chip 126. This can
prevent a filter disposed within and/or across the fluid inlet 127
from being clogged and blocking fluid flow through the fluidic
channels 128.
[0040] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can include a vent
131, which can allow air to enter the fluid tank 130. As fluid
passes out of the fluid tank 130 and into the fluidic channels 128,
air can be drawn in through the vent 131 to equalize a pressure in
the fluid tank 130 with atmospheric pressure, in an example. Thus,
as a fluid level in the fluid tank 130 decreases, a situation where
a vacuum lock is caused in the tank can be avoided, allowing fluid
to leave the fluid tank freely.
[0041] In some embodiments, the vent 131 can be a one way vent. For
example, in some embodiments, the vent can allow air into the fluid
tank 130, while keeping fluid in the tank 130. For instance, in
some embodiments, the vent 131 can be a semi-permeable membrane
that can allow air to pass through the membrane but is not
permeable to the fluid contained in the fluid tank 130.
[0042] In some embodiments, a barrier 135 can separate the vent 131
from the air path that is routed through the ESD 125. For example,
air can be routed from an air inlet 113 through the air path of the
ESD 125, across the heating element 134, and out of a mouth piece.
As air is drawn across the heating element of the ESD 125 via a
user sucking on the mouth piece of the ESD 125, a pressure within
the ESD 125 can be affected. As such, the air path can be separated
from the vent via the barrier 135. The barrier 135 can be made from
a material that is impermeable to air, in some embodiments, to
prevent air passing through the air path causing a change in
pressure in the fluid tank 130.
[0043] In some embodiments, the barrier 135 can direct air flow in
relation to the heating element 134 and/or fluid outlets 133. In an
example, the barrier 135 can include a design such as that
discussed in relation to FIGS. 4A to 4D.
[0044] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can be connected to
the silicon chip 126 via a removable connection. For example, the
removable connection can include a frictional fit connection, a
threaded connection, among other types of removable connections. In
some embodiments, a seal 136 can be disposed between the fluid tank
130 and the silicon chip 126. The seal can create a fluid tight
seal between mating surfaces of the fluid tank 130 and the silicon
chip 126.
[0045] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip
heating assembly (e.g., that includes the silicon chip 126 and the
heating elements 134-1, 134-2, . . . 134-4) can both be included in
the cartomizer 101. For example, the cartomizer 101 can be
connected to the battery assembly 114, which can provide power to
the heating element 134 on the silicon chip 126. When the fluid
tank 130 and the silicon chip 126 are included in the cartomizer
101, the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip 126 can remain
connected, such that the fluid outlet 132 remains in fluid
communication with the fluid inlet 127. In some embodiments, the
fluid tank 130 can be included in the cartomizer and the silicon
chip heating assembly can be included in a different component of
the electronic cigarette that is separate from the cartomizer 101
and the battery 114. In an example, the cartomizer 101 can be
connected to the silicon chip heating assembly via a removable
connection and the battery assembly 114 can be connected to the
silicon chip 126 and heating element 134 via a removable
connection. In some embodiments, the silicon chip heating assembly
can be included in the battery assembly 114 and the fluid tank 130
can be included in the cartomizer 101. The cartomizer and the
battery assembly can be attached via a removable connection, such
that when the cartomizer is connected to the battery assembly, the
fluid tank 130 is in fluid communication with the silicon chip 126.
Fluid communication of the two components can be enabled by the
seal 136.
[0046] In some embodiments, the silicon chip heating assembly can
be optimized by controlling at least one of a length of the fluidic
channels 128 and a viscosity of the fluid passing through the
fluidic channels 128. In an example, if a length of the fluidic
channels 128 is increased beyond a certain amount, it can be
difficult to draw fluid from the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon
chip 126 and the fluid outlet 132 of the fluid tank 130 through the
fluidic channels 128 to the fluid outlets 133 in the silicon chip
126. In addition, if a viscosity of the fluid stored in the fluid
tank 130 is too high, it may be difficult to draw the fluid through
the fluidic channels 128 to the fluid outlets 133 in the silicon
chip 126. As such, control of at least one of the length of the
fluidic channels 128 and the viscosity of the fluid passing through
the fluidic channels 128 can be used to optimize the flow of fluid
through the silicon chip 126. Additionally, other variables such as
a volume of the fluidic channels 128 (e.g., width and length) can
be controlled to optimize the flow of fluid through the silicon
chip 126.
[0047] As previously discussed, FIG. 2B depicts a structural
top-view of the ESD 125 in FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments
of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, the ESD 125 can
include a silicon chip 126 with a thickness (defined by line AA in
FIG. 2A), length (defined by line BB in FIG. 2A), and width
(defined by line CC). The silicon chip 126 can include the fluid
inlet 127, which is shown as a circular depression in the surface
of the silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, the seal 136 can be
disposed around the fluid inlet 127 to create a fluid tight seal
between the fluid tank 130 (as seen in FIG. 2A) and the silicon
chip 126.
[0048] In some embodiments, the silicon chip 126 can include a
plurality of fluidic channels 128 that can be formed within the
silicon chip 126, through which fluid can flow. The plurality of
fluidic channels 128 can extend from the fluid inlet 127 to a
plurality of fluid outlets 133 and can thus be in fluid
communication with the plurality of fluidic channels 128 and the
plurality of fluid outlets 133. The plurality of fluid outlets 133
can therefore be in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 127,
which can allow for fluid to pass from the fluid inlet 127 through
each of the plurality of fluidic channels 128 to each of the fluid
outlets 133. Although four fluidic channels 128 are shown in FIG.
2B, the silicon chip 126 can include more or less than four fluidic
channels 128.
[0049] In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can intersect
different points of the fluid inlet 127. For example, as shown in
FIG. 2B, the fluidic channels 128 intersect the fluid inlet 127 on
one side of the fluid inlet 127. However, the fluidic channels 128
can intersect the fluid inlet 127 at different points and/or on
different sides of the fluid inlet 127.
[0050] Each of the fluidic channels 128 can be intersected by one
or more fluid outlets 133. For example, fluidic channel 128-1 can
be intersected by multiple fluid outlets 133-1, 133-2, 133-3,
although the fluidic channels 128 can be intersected by more or
less than three fluid outlets 133. In some embodiments, each
fluidic channel 128 can be intersected by one fluid outlet 133. As
depicted in FIG. 1B, each one of the four fluidic channels 128 is
intersected by three of the 12 fluid outlets 133. In some
embodiments, the silicon chip 126 can include additional fluidic
channels 128, such that each fluidic channel 128 is intersected by
a single fluid outlet 133. For instance, the silicon chip 126 can
include twelve separate fluidic channels 128 that are each
intersected by one fluid outlet.
[0051] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD
145, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The
ESD 145 can include a fluid tank 146 and a silicon chip 147 that is
disposed beneath and in-line with the fluid tank 146. For example,
unlike the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the silicon
chip 147 is disposed beneath the fluid tank 146, rather than along
a side of the fluid tank 146. As such, the amount of space taken up
by the ESD 145 can be decreased. Considerations, such as space, can
be important in an electronic cigarette because available space can
be limited as a result of a size of the electronic cigarette. For
example, a distance between sidewalls 148 of an electronic
cigarette may be a few millimeters. Accordingly, it can be
beneficial to keep a size of internal components to a minimum.
[0052] In some embodiments, as discussed herein, the fluid inlet
150 can be located on a first side of the silicon chip 147 and the
fluid outlets 157 can be located on the second side of the silicon
chip 147, along with the heating element 156. As shown in FIG. 2,
the first side of the silicon chip 147 and the second side of the
silicon chip 147 can be on different sides of the silicon chip 147.
For example, the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid outlets 157, along
with the heating element 156 can be on opposite sides of the
silicon chip 147. As shown in FIG. 2A, the first side of the
silicon chip 125 and the second side of the silicon chip 125 can be
on the same side of the silicon chip. For example, the fluid inlet
127 and the fluid outlets 133, along with the heating element 134
can be on the same side of the silicon chip 126.
[0053] As discussed in relation to FIGS. 1A and 1B, liquid can be
supplied from the fluid tank 146 and can flow out of a fluid outlet
149 and into a fluid inlet 150 of the silicon chip 147. One or more
fluidic channels 151 can connect the fluid inlet 150 to one or more
fluid outlets 157-1, 157-2, 157-3. In an example, the fluid can
flow from each of the one or more fluid outlets 157-1, 157-2, 157-3
and can come within close proximity to heating elements 156-1,
156-2, 156-3, 156-4, which can cause the liquid to be vaporized to
produce vapor, hereinafter collectively referred to as heating
elements 156. As discussed herein, the heating elements 156 can be
formed from one continuous heating element and/or can be individual
heating elements. The individual heating elements can be controlled
separately or in unison, in some embodiments, as discussed
herein.
[0054] As the user sucks on a mouth piece associated with the ESD
145, a sensor can detect air flowing through the ESD 145. The
sensor can provide a signal to a controller, which can activate the
heating elements 156 and cause the fluid to be vaporized. As the
air passes the heating elements 156, the air can mix with the vapor
produced by the vaporization of fluid by the heating elements 156.
The air and vapor mixture can then be carried to the mouth piece of
the electronic smoking device and can be inhaled by the user.
[0055] In some embodiments, the fluid tank 146 can include a vent
158, as discussed in relation to FIGS. 2A and 2B. To isolate the
vent 158 from the air path, a barrier 159, which can be represented
by the dotted line, can separate the vent 158 from the air path. In
some embodiments, the barrier 159 can have a same profile as the
dotted line, which can create a laminar flow. In some embodiments,
the barrier 159 can be formed in various shapes, which can allow
for the air flow to be directed in a particular way (e.g., causing
a turbulent air flow) such that an increased mixing between the air
flow and the vapor occurs. In some embodiments, the barrier 159 can
be formed in a particular way such that currents (e.g., eddy
currents) in the air flow are produced and/or a speed of the air
flow is increased. Thus, by varying a shape of the barrier 159, an
entrainment of vapor can be optimized.
[0056] FIGS. 4A to 4D show embodiments of the barrier 159 that can
direct the air flow through the ESD 145. As shown in FIG. 4A, a
barrier 159-1 can include an undulating design, as shown in FIG.
4A. The undulating design can create eddy currents in the air flow,
which can cause an increased mixing between the air flow and the
vapor produced by the ESD 145. As shown in FIG. 4B, a barrier 159-2
can be flared towards the heating element 156 to decrease a size of
the air path, which can result in an increase in velocity of the
air flow. In addition, a complimentary fin 165 can be disposed
across from the barrier 159-2 to aid in directing the air flow. For
example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the complimentary fin 165 can be
shaped like a ramp to direct the air flow towards the vapor
produced by the heating element 156, although the complimentary fin
165 can have other shapes to modify the air flow. As shown in FIG.
4C, in some embodiments, a base of the barrier 159-3 can include an
extension 166. The air flow can travel along the barrier 159-3
until it reaches the extension 166, which can disrupt the air flow
and cause turbulence in the air flow, which can improve mixing with
the vapor. As shown in FIG. 4D, the barrier can be flat in shape,
with no extensions to alter the air flow. However, the sidewall 148
can include a fin 167 or ramp that can disrupt the air flow and
direct it towards the vapor produced by the heating element, thus
increasing mixing between the air flow and the vapor.
[0057] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD
175, in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present
disclosure. In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can include an
annular tank 176 that includes an air path 177 that axially extends
through the annular tank 176. The annular tank 176 can include one
or more vents 178 and one or more fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2. As
fluid passes through the fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2 out of the
tank, air can pass through one or more vents 178 to maintain a
pressure in the tank 176 to prevent a vacuum lock from occurring,
as discussed herein.
[0058] In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can include a
silicon chip 180 that is connected to the annular tank 176. The
silicon chip 180 can be annular in shape and can have an air path
181 that extends through a center thereof, which can generally line
up with the air path 177 through the annular tank 176. As a user
puffs on an electronic cigarette, air can pass through the air path
177 in the annular tank 176 and through the air path 181 in the
silicon chip 180.
[0059] In some embodiments, the silicon chip 180 can include one or
more fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2, although two fluid inlets are shown
in FIG. 5. Fluid can pass from the fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2 in
the annular tank 176 into the fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2. In some
embodiments, seals 183-1, 183-2 can be placed between the annular
tank 176 and the silicon chip 180. In an example, the seals can be
annular (e.g., o-rings) and can encircle an outer perimeter of the
annular tank 176 and a perimeter of a joint between the air path
177 in the annular tank 176 and the air path 181 in the silicon
chip 180.
[0060] The fluid can pass from the fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2 into
fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2. In some embodiments, the fluidic
channels 184-1 can extend toward the air path 181 in the silicon
chip 180 to fluid outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6, which can be
located on either side of the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180.
In some embodiments, multiple fluid paths can extend from each
fluid inlet 182-1, 182-2 and can extend around each side of the air
path 181 in the silicon chip 180. The fluid outlets (e.g., fluid
outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6) can be formed in a surface of
the silicon chip 180, such that they intersect the fluid paths
184-1, 184-2. Although two fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2 are depicted,
fewer or greater than two fluid inlets can be included in the ESD.
In some embodiments, a plurality of fluid inlets can radially
surround the air path 181. In some embodiments, a plurality of
fluid outlets 181-1, 185-1, . . . 185-6 can radially surround the
air path 181.
[0061] In some embodiments, one or more heating elements 186-1,
186-2, . . . 186-8 can be disposed on the surface of the silicon
chip 180 proximate to the fluid outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6.
In an example, as discussed in relation to FIG. 2A, the inline ESD
175 can include a sensor that detects when a user has puffed on the
ESD 175. For example, the sensor can be a microphone and/or an air
flow sensor that can detect the flow of air. In an example, the
sensor can be in communication with a controller that provides
power to the heating elements 186 to vaporize the fluid. As the
heating elements 186 are heated, the fluid contained within the
fluid outlets 185 can be vaporized and drawn away with the air
flow. As the fluid is vaporized, more fluid can be drawn through
the fluidic channels 184 via a capillary effect and into the fluid
outlets 185.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 5, the air flow can proceed through the air
path 177 in the annular tank 176 and then through the air path 181
in the silicon chip 180. However, in some embodiments, the air flow
can proceed through the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180 and
then through the air path 177 in the annular tank 176.
[0063] In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can be placed
between sidewalls 187 of an electronic cigarette. In some
embodiments, the annular tank 176 and the silicon chip 180 that
includes the heating elements 186 can be included in the cartomizer
101, as shown in FIGS. 1A to 1D. Accordingly, the cartomizer 101
can be connected to the battery assembly 114, which can provide
power to the heating elements 186. In some embodiments, the annular
tank 176 can be included in the cartomizer 101 and the silicon chip
180 can be a separate component from the cartomizer 101 and the
battery 114. In an example, the annular tank 176 can be connected
to the silicon chip 180, which can be connected to the battery
assembly 114. Accordingly, upon connection of the annular tank 176
and the silicon chip 180, fluid can be provided to the heating
elements 186 on the silicon chip 180. In addition, power can be
provided to the silicon chip 180 via the battery assembly 114. In
some embodiments where the silicon chip 180 and the battery
assembly 114 are separate components and can be connected to one
another, the silicon chip 180, and more specifically, the fluid
inlet 182-1, 182-2 and/or the fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2 can
become fouled. For example, the fluid in the fluid inlets 182-1,
182-2 and/or the fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2 can be exposed to
air, which can dry out the fluid and/or cause the fluid to
coagulate. This in turn can cause the silicon chip 180 to become
fouled, which can impair function and/or cause the silicon chip 180
to not function.
[0064] Embodiments are described herein of various apparatuses,
systems, and/or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to
provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure,
function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in
the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It
will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the
embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In
other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements
have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the
embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill
in the art will understand that the embodiments described and
illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be
appreciated that the specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit
the scope of the embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely
by the appended claims.
[0065] Reference throughout the specification to "various
embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," or "an
embodiment", or the like, means that a particular feature,
structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment(s) is included in at least one embodiment. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some
embodiments," "in one embodiment," or "in an embodiment," or the
like, in places throughout the specification, are not necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described
in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in
part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or
more other embodiments without limitation given that such
combination is not illogical or non-functional.
[0066] Although at least one embodiment of an electronic smoking
device has been described above with a certain degree of
particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous
alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the
spirit or scope of this disclosure. All directional references
(e.g., upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward,
rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal,
clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification
purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present
disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the
position, orientation, or use of the devices. Joinder references
(e.g., affixed, attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to
be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a
connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As
such, joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements
are directly connected and in fixed relationship to each other. It
is intended that all matter contained in the above description or
shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as
illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure
can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure as
defined in the appended claims.
[0067] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in
whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference
herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the
incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions,
statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this
disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as
explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material
incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof,
that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which
conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other
disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to
the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated
material and the existing disclosure material.
* * * * *