Power Optimization Electronic Cigarette Device

Abstract

A power optimization electronic cigarette device is configured to be reusable for a limited number of refills through use of an easily accessible liquid refilling structure, before ultimately becoming disposable. The electronic cigarette device takes advantage of multiple heating wires that can be selectively operated to vaporize the liquid solution. The selective use of one heating wire, from two or more heating wires serves to extend the life span thereof. A sensor detects the air flow generated from inhaling through the electronic cigarette and triggers the heating wires to generate heat while the electronic cigarette is in use. In another power optimization function, the electronic cigarette device comprises a circuit board that detects available power in a battery, and an illumination member that variably illuminates to indicate remaining battery power. The electronic cigarette also provides a USB charging port for recharging the battery.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

NONE.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to electronic cigarettes, and more particularly relates to a power optimization electronic cigarette device. More so, the present disclosure relates to an electronic cigarette device that is reusable for a limited number of refills through use of a liquid solution refilling structure, before ultimately becoming disposable. Still more particularly, the electronic cigarette device optimizes battery power consumption through use of multiple heating wires that can be selectively operated to vaporize the liquid solution.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following background information may present examples of specific aspects of the prior art (e.g., without limitation, approaches, facts, or common wisdom) that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present disclosure, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon.

Generally, an electronic cigarette (“e-cigarette”) is a smoking apparatus that mimics a traditional tobacco cigarette smoking, by producing smoke replacement that may be similar in its physical sensation, general appearance, and sometimes flavor (i.e., with tobacco fragrance, menthol taste, added nicotine etc.). A battery portion of the electronic cigarette includes a controller and battery for powering the device and a cartomizer portion generates vapor and/or an aerosol mist (individually or collectively, “airborne substance”) that is a replacement for cigarette smoke, In particular, the cartomizer may use heat (e.g. a heating element), ultrasonic energy, or other means to vaporize, evaporate, and/or atomize a liquid solution or e-liquid (for example including propylene glycol, or glycerin, for example including taste and fragrance ingredients) into an airborne substance that mixes with air inhaled through the e-cigarette into a user's mouth.

Oftentimes, a component in the cartomizer portion that generates the airborne substance is referred to as an aerosol mist generator. The electronic cigarette may be powered by a power source, such as a battery which provides current for the heating. The power source may be difficult to regulate and result in a shorter lifespan for the electronic cigarette by requiring re-charging. The e-liquid may be kept in a small container, and during the puff some of it is heated while being dose to and around a heating coil. The heated e-liquid loses its high viscosity, and then is prone to atomization and some evaporation and/or vaporization, generating the “smoke” to be inhaled by the user. It is known in the art that some electronic cigarettes are of the disposable variety. Disposable electronic cigarettes are not used once the e-liquid is exhausted.

The problem with these electronic cigarettes is that they are not refillable, and thus not reusable, even a small number of times. Some other electronic cigarettes are designed to be reusable and last for a long time. However, they are much more expensive than disposable e-cigarettes. Furthermore, the prior art electronic cigarettes do not have switchable heating elements and a light-emitting diode (“LED”) illumination that indicates power capacity of the battery. Even though the above cited electronic cigarettes meet some of the needs of the market, a power optimization electronic cigarette device that is reusable for a limited number of smokes through use of a liquid solution refilling structure, before ultimately becoming disposable; optimizes battery power consumption through use of multiple heating wires that can be selectively operated to vaporize the liquid solution; and includes a sensor that detects air flow from inhaling the cigarette before triggering operation of the heating wires, a circuit board assembly that detects available battery power through use of a sensor and alerts to an illumination member that variably illuminates to indicate the remaining power for the battery, and a USB charging port is still desired.

Accordingly, there is a need for a new type of e-cigarettes that are refillable with e-liquid and become disposable after a small number of refills. The new type of e-cigarettes is less costly to consumers and also reduces electronic waste compared to single-use disposable e-cigarettes. Furthermore, there is a need for a new type of e-cigarettes that are reusable and disposable and include switchable heating elements. In addition, there is a need for a new type of e-cigarettes that are reusable and disposable and include switchable heating elements and an LED indicator.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic cigarette device comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, and an electrical system. The mouthpiece is disposed at a proximal end of the device and defines a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening being adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's mouth via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening. The housing defines a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway. The electrical system comprises a battery, a heating wire, and at least one illumination member. The heating wire is adapted and configured to produce heat when an electric current flows through the heating wire. The electrical system is adapted and configured to detect a charge level of the battery, and, when the device is in use, to transmit electric current from the battery to the heating wire to cause the heating wire to produce heat to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so as to render airborne at least a portion of the substance, so as to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway. The electrical system is adapted and configured to, when the detected charge level is no less than a first threshold charge level, transmit current from the battery to the at least one illumination member so as to cause the at least one illumination member to emit a first color of light. The electrical system is adapted and configured to, when the detected charge level is less than the first threshold charge level and no less than a second threshold charge level, transmit current from the battery to the at least one illumination member so as to cause the at least one illumination member to emit a second color of light different from the first color of light.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, an electronic cigarette device comprises a mouthpiece at a proximal end of the device, a housing, a battery, a first heating wire, a second heating wire, a switch, and a manual switch actuator. The mouthpiece is disposed at a proximal end of the device and defines a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening being adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's oral cavity via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening. The housing defines a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway. The first heating wire is adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the first heating wire, to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway. The second heating wire is adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the second heating wire, to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway. The switch has a first switch position and a second switch position, the switch being adapted and configured to, when in the first switch position, complete a first circuit to transmit current from the battery through the first heating wire, and when in the second switch position, complete a second circuit to transmit current from the battery through the second heating wire. The manual switch actuator is mounted to the housing so as to be manually movable by a user to and from a first switch actuator position and a second switch actuator position. The manual switch actuator is operatively connected to the switch so as to cause the switch to move to the first switch position when the manual switch actuator moves to the first switch actuator position and to cause the switch to move to the second switch position when the manual switch actuator moves to the second switch actuator position.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, an electronic cigarette device comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, a liquid container, a heating wire, a rechargeable battery, and a battery charging port. The mouthpiece is disposed at a proximal end of the device and defines a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's oral cavity via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening. The housing has a proximal end and a distal end, the housing comprising a proximal housing member connected to a distal housing member, the proximal housing member extending from the proximal end of the housing to the distal housing member, and the distal housing member extending from the proximal housing member to the distal end of the housing, the housing defining a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway. The liquid container defines a fluid chamber adapted and configured to contain an e-liquid, the liquid container defining at least one inlet hole in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and the housing air passageway to permit e-liquid in the fluid chamber to pass from the fluid chamber to the housing air passageway, the liquid container comprising at least a portion of the proximal housing member. The heating wire is adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the heating wire. The rechargeable battery is adapted and configured to supply current to the heating wire to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway. The battery charging port is disposed within and exposed to the exterior of the housing, the battery charging port being adapted and configured to receive a charging plug, the battery charging port being electrically connected to the battery to transmit a charging current from the charging plug to the battery to recharge the battery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this disclosure will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself, and the manner in which it may be made and used, may be better understood by referring to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views and in which:

FIG. 1 is a frontal view of an exemplary power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a sectioned side view of the power optimization electronic cigarette device shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a sectioned proximal-side view of the power optimization electronic cigarette device shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A-4C are views of an exemplary housing of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 4A is a perspective view, FIG. 4B is a side elevation view, and FIG. 4C is a side sectioned view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C are views of an exemplary mouthpiece of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 5A is a perspective view, FIG. 5B is a side elevation view, and FIG. 5C is a frontal view, in accordance with the present disclosure,

FIGS. 6A-6B are views of an exemplary inlet rod of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a sectioned side view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective views of an exemplary wicking member of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A-8B are views of an exemplary proximal connector of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 8A is a perspective view, and FIG. 8B is a proximal plan view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary battery of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 10A-10C are views of an exemplary heating wire subassembly of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a side elevation view, and FIG. 10C is a frontal view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 10D is a view of an electrical system of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, shown without device housing or airflow components.

FIG. 10E is a view of the heating wire subassemblies of the electrical system shown in FIG. 10D.

FIG. 10F is a schematic diagram of the connectivity of the electrical system shown in FIG. 10D.

FIGS. 11A-11B are views of an exemplary insulative wire support tube of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 11A is a perspective view, and FIG. 11B is a side elevation view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary silica gel O-ring of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 13A-13D are views of an exemplary silica gel inlet seal of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 13A is a perspective view, FIG. 13B is a distal end view, FIG. 13C is an elevated side view, and FIG. 13D is a sectioned side view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary switch circuit board and USB port of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a side view of a sensor and light board in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a sensor and light board in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary switch of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 18A-18D are views of an exemplary stationary cover member of a distal cover of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 18A is a distal perspective view, FIG. 18B is a proximal plan view, FIG. 18C is a distal plan view, and FIG. 18D is a side elevation view. in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 19A-19D are views of an exemplary rotatable cover member of a distal cover of power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 19A is a perspective view, FIG. 19B is a proximal plan view, FIG. 19C is a side elevation view, and FIG. 19D is a bottom view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary distal connector of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 21A-21C are views of an exemplary outlet seal of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 21A is a perspective view, FIG. 21B is a side elevation view, and FIG. 21C is a sectioned side view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 22A-223 are views of an exemplary insulative silica gel stationary seal of a power optimization electronic cigarette device, where FIG. 22A is a perspective view, and FIG. 22B is a side elevation view, in accordance with the present disclosure.

A person of ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that elements of the figures above are illustrated for simplicity and clarity, and are not necessarily drawn to scale. The dimensions of some elements in the figures may have been exaggerated relative to other elements to help understanding of the present teachings. Furthermore, a particular order in which certain elements, parts, components, modules, steps, actions, events and/or processes are described or illustrated may not be actually required. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, for the purpose of simplicity and clarity of illustration, some commonly known and well-understood elements that are useful and/or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment may not be depicted in order to provide a clear view of various embodiments in accordance with the present teachings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, unless otherwise clearly stated, the terms “upper” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are therefore not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

A power optimization electronic cigarette device 100 is referenced in FIGS. 1-22B. The device 100 includes heating wires 300a-b, shown in FIGS. 3 and 10D, which can be selectively operated to vaporize and/or atomize the liquid solution 212 into an inhalable mist. The connectivity of an electrical system 150 which is adapted to be housed within a housing 102 of the assembled device 100, is best seen in FIG. 101, in which the electrical system is shown without the housing 102. In particular, a positive terminal of a battery 222 is electrically connected to a sensor and light circuit board 1504 of a sensor and light board assembly 306 through a system supply wire 220. The sensor and light circuit board 1504, in turn, is electrically connected to the battery 222 through the system supply wire 220, and to a switch circuit board 224 of a switch board assembly 305 through a plurality of transmission wires 230, which are collectively indicated at 230 in each of FIGS. 2A, 10D-F, 15, and 16 and further identified in FIG. 10F as a switch board supply wire 232 and heating current supply wires 234a and 234b.

The electronic cigarette device 100 further includes an air pressure sensor/switch 1503, comprising an air pressure sensor and an electrical switch, the air pressure sensor being operatively connected to the switch so as to cause the switch to close or remain closed when the air pressure sensor detects pressure below a threshold air pressure, and to open or remain open when the air pressure sensor detects pressure at or above the threshold air pressure. The air pressure sensor/switch 1503 is operatively connected to the sensor and light circuit board 1504 to alternately connect and disconnect the system supply wire 220 to and from the switch board supply wire 232. Thus, only when the air pressure sensor/switch 1503 detects a pressure drop associated with a user drawing air through device 100, the air pressure sensor/switch 1503 will dose, thus completing a circuit and allowing current to be transmitted from the sensor and light circuit board 1504 to the switch circuit board 224 through the switch board supply wire 232. The switch board supply wire 232, depicted schematically in FIG, 10F, comprises at least one of a plurality of transmission wires 230 connected between the sensor and light circuit board 1504 and the switch circuit board 224, shown in FIGS. 2A, 10D, and 10E. The switch circuit board 224 is adapted and configured to feed the received current back to the sensor and light circuit board 1504 through a heating current supply wire 234a or 234b, comprising two of the transmission wires 230, specifically identified in the schematic circuit diagram of FIG. 10F, which respectively correspond to a selected one of the heating wires 300a-b. The sensor and light circuit board 1504 is adapted and configured to further direct the received current through a respective one of two heating lead wires 225a and 225b, which is connected to (or in an alternative embodiment not shown, constitutes a portion of) a respective one of heating wires 300a-b, as shown in FIG. 10D, to direct current therethrough and thereby generate heat. Allowing a user to switch to the other heating wire after one is worn out is believed to increase the useful lifespan of the device 100, while also reducing power consumption.

The device 100 also includes a mouthpiece 108, shown in FIG. 5A. As seen in FIG. 2A, the mouthpiece 108 detachably attaches to a container 210 via a mouthpiece connector 110, which may, for example, be a threaded connector. The mouthpiece 108 is the portion of the device that a user can insert into her/his mouth during the inhalation of the atomized liquid solution 212. The mouthpiece 108 defines a mouthpiece air passageway 502 running therethrough from a proximal mouthpiece opening 503 to a distal mouthpiece opening 504, which serves to enable passage of air through the housing 102 as air is drawn in by the smoker. In one alternative embodiment, the amount and speed of air flow permitted into the atomizer is adjustable through a size adjustable mouthpiece air passageway.

Additionally, the device 100 provides a visual indicator of the level of the power capacity of the battery 222, or other power source used therein. At least one illumination member 1502 illuminates with variable colors, intensities, and patterns to indicate the remaining battery power. Additional functionalities provided by the device 100 may include an integrated USB port 1400 for charging the battery 222, as shown mounted to the proximal side of the switch circuit board 224 in FIGS. 3 and 14.

The device 100 is reusable for a limited number of refills of the liquid solution 212, before ultimately becoming disposable. This is possible due to the location and accessibility of a liquid solution container 210. The liquid solution container 210 is defined at least in part by at least a portion of a proximal housing member 101 of the housing 102 and at least a portion of an inlet tube 208. The proximal housing member 101 may be permanently connected to a distal housing member 103, which houses the battery 222 and the switch and sensor and light board assemblies 305, 306. The liquid solution container 210 has a cylindrical outer sidewall 217 and an annular distal end wall 219 formed by portions of the proximal housing member 101 the annular distal end wall 219 being connected to and extending radially inwardly from the cylindrical outer sidewall 217 and circumscribing a hole 221. Preferably, the proximal housing member 101 is transparent, at least over the portions of the proximal housing member 101 that comprise the outer sidewall 217 and distal end wall 219 of the liquid solution container 210, so that a level of liquid solution, as well as the color of light from a battery power capacity level indicator light (illumination member 1502, described further below), are discernible through portions of the proximal housing member 101 to a person of normal, unaided vision. For example, at least portions, or the entirety of the proximal housing member 101 may be formed of borosilicate glass. In this manner, a user can readily see when the liquid solution 212 is low and ready to be replenished, thereby creating a more consistent and optimal atomization, promoting a mist that offers a full flavor. In one embodiment, the liquid solution 212 may include an e-liquid having a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, and flavorings.

The hole 221 in the proximal housing member 101 is adapted to receive the inlet tube 208. In the assembled device 100, a proximal portion 602a of the inlet tube 208 is inserted through the hole 221 so that a distal portion 602b of the inlet tube 208 abuts a distal side of the distal end wall 219. A portion of the inlet tube 208 thus comprises a cylindrical inner sidewall 223 of the container 210 that is generally coaxial with and spaced radially inwardly of the outer sidewall 217 of the container 210. An annular fluid chamber 213 is thus defined by container 210, the fluid chamber 213 extending radially from the outer sidewall 217 to the inner sidewall 223 and longitudinally from distal end wall 219 to an annular container opening 226, shown in FIG. 2A, that extends radially from a proximal end of at least one of the outer sidewall 217 and the inner sidewall 223 to the other wall. When the mouthpiece 108 is attached to the container 210, the mouthpiece connector 110 covers the container opening 226, such that the fluid chamber 213 can be exposed by detaching the mouthpiece connector 110 from the container 210 and removing the mouthpiece 108 and mouthpiece connector 110 from the container 210. Thereafter, the liquid solution 212, such as an e-liquid, can be introduced into the fluid chamber 213 of the liquid solution container 210.

As shown in FIG. 1, the device 100 comprises an elongated housing 102, having a generally uniformly circular cylindrical outer surface, which serves as the protective cover that contains the components. In alternative embodiments, an elongated rectangular, triangular, or irregular outer surface may also be used. The outer surface of the housing 102 also serves as a gripping surface, such that the device 100 can be held, manipulated, and smoked. Turning now to FIG. 4A, the housing 102 includes a distal housing member 103 providing a substantially rigid sidewall 104 that defines a cavity 400, The sidewall 104 extends between a proximal end 106c and an opposing distal end at the distal end 106b of the housing 102. FIGS. 4B-4C are side views and sectional views, respectively of the distal housing member 103. The distal housing member 103 is operatively coupled to the proximal housing member 101 via, for example, a permanent interference fit connection. Thus, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, a distal skirt 105 of the proximal housing member 101 is inserted into a proximal end of the distal housing member 103 to form a permanent interference fit when the device 100 is assembled. Alternatively, the distal housing member 103 may be detachably connected to the proximal housing member 101, such as by a threaded or otherwise detachable connection.

In one non-limiting embodiment, the housing 102 is defined by a tubular shape. The tubular shape of the housing 102 is dimensioned approximately like a standard cigarette—between 70-120 mm long. The housing 102 may also be constructed from stainless steel, including SUS304 steel. However, in other embodiments, other metal or polymer material may also be used. The cavity 400 is sized and dimensioned to enable passage of air flow from the distal end 106b to the proximal end 106a.

In one implementation, the mouthpiece 108 includes a pair of concave sidewalls joined at a wide end 500a to form an opening 504, and joined at a narrow end 500b to form the mouthpiece air passageway 502. Air flow and mist from the atomized liquid solution freely pass through the opening 504 and the mouthpiece air passageway 502. Specifically, the structure of the mouthpiece 108 is configured to enable the lips to purse while sucking/inhaling through the mouthpiece air passageway 502. This configuration is sized to fit comfortably into the mouth of the smoker, and allow for sucking and inhaling motions by the lips, i.e. smoking articulations by the mouth.

Turning to FIG. 21A, the device 100 can also provide an outlet seal 216 disposed between the wide end 500a of the mouthpiece 108 and the proximal, outlet end of the inlet tube 208. The outlet seal 216 is configured to enable more efficient air flow, and prevent seepage of the liquid solution 212 from the mouthpiece 108 (See FIG. 21A). As FIGS. 21B-21C show, the outlet seal 216 has a wide base 2100, and a narrow tube 2102 that fits into the proximal end of the inlet tube 208 and defines an outlet seal air passageway 2103 in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway 502 and with a heating wire support pipe air passageway 203, described further below.

However, variously shaped and constructed sealing components may also be used between any combination of the discussed components to prevent leakage of liquid solution 212, and to create a tighter cavity for the air flow. Furthermore, in order to assist the user in a comfortable smoking experience, the mouthpiece 108 may be fabricated from a plastic resin material configured to help inhibit high temperatures. In one non-limiting embodiment, the plastic resin material comprises a cyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate glycol.

As mentioned above, the annular fill opening 226 of the fluid chamber 213 is exposed after the mouthpiece connector 110 is detached from the inlet tube 208. Liquid solution 212 can then be introduced into the fluid chamber 213 through the annular fill opening 226. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the proximal portion 602a of the inlet tube 208 extends along the length of the liquid solution container 210 and comprises its inner sidewall 223, the fluid chamber 213 thus being formed between the inlet tube 208 and portions of the proximal housing member 101 that comprise the outer sidewall 217 and distal end wall 219 of the container 210. A sectioned view of the inlet tube 208 is shown in FIG. 6B, with the narrow proximal portion 602a and the wide distal portion 602b together defining a continuous inlet tube volume 600 that extends longitudinally through both portions. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the distal portion 602b comprises a flange that abuts a distal side of the distal end wall 219 of the container 210 when the device 100 is assembled. The inlet tube 208 further incorporates a set of inlet holes 214. The inlet holes 214 allow the liquid solution 212 to flow into the inlet tube volume 600. In one implementation, the inlet tube 208 is made of copper. In other embodiments, other materials may be used for fabrication of the inlet tube 208.

As shown in FIG. 7, the device 100 utilizes a wicking member 204 for regulating the flow of the liquid solution 212. The wicking member 204 is disposed inside the inlet tube 208 and absorbs the liquid solution 212 that has flown into the inlet tube 208 through the inlet holes 214. The wicking member 204 is configured to absorb some amount of the liquid solution 212, prior to atomization thereof. The wicking member 204 is in the form of a sleeve having a longitudinal through hole 702.

For enhanced connectivity of the structure, as shown in FIG. 8A , a proximal connector 110 is provided to detachably connect the mouthpiece 108 and the inlet tube 208. The proximal connector 110 has a threaded inner surface 800 and an outer gripping surface 802, as shown in FIG. 8A. The outer gripping surface 802 may optionally be ribbed (not shown), to facilitate gripping and turning the proximal connector 110 to attach and detach it from the inlet tube 208. In one non-limiting embodiment, the proximal connector 110 comprises a copper material and an electroplated surface. However, in alternative embodiments, other materials and connecting features are possible.

As illustrated in HG. 9, the device 100 provides a battery 222 that is operatively disposed in the cavity of the housing 102. The battery 222 is configured to generate electrical power for heating the heating wires 300a-b, and powering components, such as the sensor and various circuit boards, described below. The battery 222 is replaceable and, in some embodiments, rechargeable. In one non-limiting embodiment, the battery 222 is operable for about 850 milliamp hours (mAh). In other embodiments, the battery 222 is a coin battery 222. However, any internal or external power source may also be used.

Referring to FIG. 3, the device 100 includes heating wire subassemblies 206a-b for atomizing the liquid solution 212. As described here, the heating wire subassemblies 206a-b are supported by an insulative heating wire support pipe 202, the heating wire support pipe defining a heating wire support pipe air passageway 203 extending longitudinally therethrough, in fluid communication with the outlet seal air passageway 2103, described previously, and with an inlet seal air outlet passageway 201, described further below. Each heating wire subassembly 206a-b includes a respective heating wire 300a-b wound around a respective support pin 207a-b to form a respective heating coil 301a-b, as illustrated in FIG. 10A for heating wire subassembly 206a. The two support pins 207a-b are supported in respective guide holes 209a-b formed in an heating wire support pipe 202, the guide holes 209a-b being oriented so that the heating coils 301a-b are disposed perpendicular to each other when the support pins 207a-b are supported therein, each heating coil 301a-b being disposed at least substantially within the heating wire support pipe air passageway 203 (see FIG. 11A), to allow heat from the heating coil 301a-b to render airborne, such as by vaporization or atomization, an inhalable substance to produce an inhalable stream of air and the airborne substance within the heating wire support pipe air passageway 203 The heating wire support pipe 202 further includes wire guide channels 215a-b formed on its peripheral surface, The heating wire subassemblies 206a-b are configured to have their respective heating wires 300a-b alternately energized, so that the heating coils 301a-b alternately heat the liquid solution 212 for atomization. Each heating wire subassembly 206a-b is operatively connected to the battery 222, receiving electrical power, or current, which is selectively directed through the heating wires 300a-b, thereby generating heat in the respective heating coils 301a-b, due to the electrical resistance of the material of the heating wires 300a-b.

In one embodiment, shown in HG. 10E, each heating wire subassembly 206a operatively connects to a respective one of two cathode posts 211a-b of the sensor and light circuit board 1504, through a permanent connection of the respective heating lead wires 225a-b to respective cathode posts 211a-b, and a permanent connection of the respective heating wires 300a-b to the respective heating lead wires 225a-b. When a respective cathode post 211a-b is energized with current, the current is directed through the respective heating wire 300a-b to a common ground wire 236, shown in FIGS. 10D-E and depicted schematically in FIG. 10F. The heating wires 300a-b have electrical resistance, so that heat is generated when electric current flows through the respective heating coils 301a-b. This heat in turn generates vapor and/or mist from the e-liquid.

Each heating wire support pin 207a-b is, at least partially, wrapped with a wicking material 218, such as cotton, as shown in FIGS. 10D-E. The wicking material 218 is used to wick the liquid solution 212 from the wicking member 204, through the respective guide holes 209a-b, and into the heating wire support pipe air passageway 203, to be heated by the respective heating coil 301a-b and thus rendered airborne (such as by being vaporized or atomized) to be carried in an inhalation air flow along an air flow path P shown in FIG. 2B. In one embodiment, the two heating wires 300a-b are supported on the insulative wire support heating wire support pipe 202, with the heating wires 300a-b being seated in a respective one of wire guide channels 215a-b. The wire guide channels 215a-b may have such orientations as may be convenient for guiding wires 300a-b away from respective guide holes 209a-b. In one implementation, the heating wire support pipe 202 is made of white fiberglass, whose conductive thermal resistance serves to insulate the surrounding air, liquid solution, and device components from the heat of the energized heating coil 301a or 301b.

The heat from the heating wires 300a-b is sufficient to atomize the liquid solution 212 into a mist. In one non-limiting embodiment, the heating wires 300a-b comprise a nickel-chromium alloy material, It is the electrical power from the battery 222 that actuates the heating wires 300a-b to generate heat, In one embodiment, only one heating wire 300a, 300b is selected to be electronically connected with the battery 222 and be heated until it is worn out and can no longer generate sufficient heat for atomizing the e-liquid. Then, the other heating wire 300a, 300b is electrically connected to the battery 222. Dual heating elements, embodied as heating wires 300a-b, extend the life span of the device 100, and thus avoid the immediate disposal of the device 100 when one heating element reaches the end of its life.

The heating wire support pipe 202 is further illustrated in FIGS. 11A-B. The heating wire support pipe 202 is utilized for carrying and orienting the first and second heating wires 300a, 300b. The insulative wire support heating wire support pipe 202 is disposed longitudinally inside the channel 702 of the wicking member 204 and makes contact with the surface of the channel 702. The insulative wire support heating wire support pipe 202 is made of white fiberglass material. The fiberglass material is known in the art to withstand and insulate against the high temperatures resulting from the heat generated by the heating coils 301a-b.

To prevent leakage of the liquid solution 212 between the components, the device 100 provides various silica gel seals, For example, illustrated in FIG. 12 is an O-ring seal 302, at least one of which is disposed between the inlet tube 208 and the container 210, as shown in FIG. 2A. The O-ring seal 302 is configured to help prevent leakage of the liquid solution 212.

Yet another seal structure is an inlet seal 200, shown in FIG. 13. As illustrated in FIG. 2, inlet seal 200 that is disposed adjacently to the first O-ring seal 302. The inlet seal 200 is configured to help prevent leakage of the liquid solution 212 from the wicking member 204. The inlet seal 200 may define at least one air flow passageway. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13C, the inlet seal 200 defines at least one inlet seal air inlet passageway 1300 that is configured to permit passage of air flow from the cavity 400 into the inlet seal 200, along a portion of an inhalation air flow path P, illustrated in FIG. 2B, which extends from the distal end 106b of the housing 102 to the proximal end 106a of the housing 102. The size of the inlet seal air inlet passageways 1300 helps regulate the amount of air flow through the device 100. FIG. 13D is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary inlet seal 200 having a generally cone-shaped distal head 1302 and a proximal stem 1304, the distal head 1302 having a narrow distal end 1303 and a wide proximal end 1305, and the proximal stern 1304 being generally coaxial with and extending proximally from the proximal end 1305 of the distal head 1302. The at least one seal passageway 1300 extends generally radially inwardly from an outer periphery of the cone-shaped distal head 1305 to meet an inlet seal air outlet passageway 201, significantly larger in diameter than the inlet seal air inlet passageway 1300. The inlet seal air outlet passageway 201, in turn, is in fluid communication with the heating wire support pipe air passageway 203. to permit air to flow from the interior of the distal housing member 103 through seal passageway 1300 to the inlet seal air outlet passageway 201, and from the inlet seal air outlet passageway 201 to the heating wire support pipe air passageway 203 when a user inhales through the mouthpiece 108. In addition, the inlet seal 200 comprises wire channels 1301 (four are included, as seen in FIG. allowing for two alternate orientations of the inlet seal 200) to permit the respective heating lead wires 225a-b to extend therethrough from the sensor and light circuit board 1504 to connect to the respective heating wires 300a-b. In one embodiment, the O-ring seal 302 and the inlet seal 200 comprise a silica gel material that is configured to withstand high temperatures. However, other materials may also be used in other embodiments.

Turning now to FIG. 22A, the device 100 further includes a sensor and light board seal 304. The sensor and light board seal 304 has a disc-like shape, with flexible ribs 2200 at the periphery to create a seal with the inner surface of the distal housing sidewall 104, an inner circumferential groove 2202 shaped to retain the sensor and light circuit board 1504, and a plurality of longitudinal sensor and light board seal air passageways 2204, spaced radially outwardly and about the circumference of the inner circumferential groove 2202, to permit an inhalation air flow to pass around the sensor and light circuit board 1504, through the sensor and light board seal 304, for example along the air flow path P, shown in FIG. 2B, which passes through one of the air passageways 2204. Variously shaped and constructed sealing components may also be used between any combination of the discussed components to prevent leakage of liquid solution 212, and to create a tighter cavity for the air flow.

The device 100 also includes a USB port 1400, which is mounted to the proximal side of the switch circuit board 224 and adapted to be connected with a USB cable. The USB port 1400 is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the housing 102, such as through an opening 107 in the distal housing member 103, as depicted in FIG. 3, such that docking a cable thereto is facilitated.

Referring to FIG. 15, the device 100 also provides the unique feature of an integrated sensor and light board assembly 306. The sensor and light board assembly 306 is a printed circuit board assembly (“PCBA”) that is disposed in the cavity of the housing 102. The sensor and light board assembly 306 includes a sensor and light circuit board 1504 (a printed circuit board or “PCB”), a battery power capacity level indicator illumination member 1502 (such as an LED), and an air pressure sensor/switch 1503. The sensor and light circuit board 1504 is electronically coupled to the battery 222. The pressure sensor/switch 1503 is adapted to respond to a pressure change caused by airflow that enters the housing 102 through a distal cover 111. The sensor and light circuit board 1504 being configured to sense or otherwise detect (such as by tracking battery output over time to calculate used power capacity) a level of remaining power capacity of the battery 222. Based on the remaining power capacity level of the battery (i.e., the remaining electrical energy that the battery has the capacity to provide, as may be expressed as a percentage of its fully charged capacity, which may also be referred to herein as “charge level”), the illumination member 1502 is turned on in different colors, to direct differently colored light toward the distal end wall 219 of the container 210, In one implementation, when the charge level of the battery 222 is over, for example, 50%, the illumination member 1502 illuminates in green color. When the charge level of the battery 222 is between, for example, 25% and 50%, the color is yellow or amber. When the charge level of the battery 222 is below, for example, 25%, the illumination member 1502 illuminates in red. Alternatively, the sensor and light circuit board 1504 incorporates multiple illumination members 1502 (e.g., separate LEDs), each of which is configured to illuminate in a single color, the circuit board 1504 comprising logic to direct current to a selected LED according to the detected charge level of the battery 222. The color of the light is visible to the user since at least the portion of the proximal housing member 101 that comprises the outer sidewall 217 and the distal end wall 219 of the container 210 is transparent. Thus, light from the illumination member 1502 may further produce an appealing visual effect by shining through and illuminating liquid solution 212 present in the fluid chamber 213. A perspective view of the sensor and light board assembly 306 is illustrated in FIG. 16.

To switch between the heating wires 300a-b for heating the liquid solution 212, the device 100 includes the switch board assembly 305, which comprises a switch 1700 mounted on a switch circuit board 224, as shown in the exploded view of device 100 of FIG. 3. Switch 1700 is also depicted separately in FIG. 17. In an embodiment, the switch circuit board 224 is a PCB. As previously explained, the switch circuit board 224 is configured to direct current to a selected one of the heating wires 300a-b.

The previously introduced distal cover 111 attaches to the distal end 106b of the housing 102 (See FIGS. 1-3, 17-18C). The distal cover 111 is operative to allow a user to control the selective engagement of the heating wires 300a-b with the power supply. The distal cover 111 comprises a stationary cover member 112 and a rotatable cover member 114 that rotatably attaches to a distal side of the stationary cover member 112. The rotatable cover member 114 further comprises a textured panel 1904, which forms a distal end of the assembled device 100 and may look and feel similar to the terminus of a standard tobacco cigarette (FIG. 19D). The textured panel 1904 thus provides a realistic look and feel to the distal end of the electronic cigarette device 100. In one embodiment, the rotatable cover member 114 comprises a plastic resin material configured to resist high temperatures.

The stationary cover member 112 has a generally hollow cylindrical shape and includes a proximal section 1800, a distal section 1802, and a midsection 1807 formed between the proximal section 1800 and the distal section 1802. An outer surface of the proximal section 1800 is adapted and configured to fixedly insert into the distal end 106b of the housing 102, and an inner surface of the proximal section 1800 is adapted and configured to surround the periphery of the switch circuit board 224 so as to prevent the switch circuit board 224 from rotating axially when mounted in the interior of the proximal section 1800.

while the rotatable cover member 114 is adapted and configured to connect rotate in a first direction and a second direction relative to the stationary cover member 112. In addition, the rotatable cover member 114 is operatively connected to a rotatable switch member 1702 of the switch 1700 by a protrusion 116 that engages a slot 1704 of the rotatable switch member 1702. Thus, manual rotation of the rotatable cover member 114 rotates the switch 1700 (or a rotatable component thereof) relative to the switch circuit board, so as to actuate the switch 1700 to trigger the switch circuit board 224.

The rotatable cover member 114 and the stationary cover member 112 include certain complementary features to facilitate their connection and limited relative rotation. In particular, the rotatable cover includes a cylindrical inner wall 1902 that extends proximally from a proximal side of the textured panel 1904, and the stationary cover member 112 includes a generally annular distal section 1802 into which the inner wall 1902 inserts axially to axially align the stationary and rotatable cover members 112, 114. In addition, the rotatable cover member 114 includes a stop 1903 that engages a circumferential stop channel 1803 formed in a distal section 1802 of the stationary cover member 112, so as to permit the stop 1903 to move circumferentially along the stop channel 1803, from a first switch actuator position abutting a first end 1804 to a second switch actuator position abutting a second end 1805 of the stop channel, as the rotatable cover member 114 rotates. The abutment of the stop 1903 against the first and second stop channel ends 1804, 1805 prevents the stop 1903 from moving beyond the circumferential span of the stop channel, thus preventing the rotatable cover member 114 from rotating beyond the extremes of an angular range of rotation,

In particular, when the rotatable cover member 114 rotates in the first direction until the stop 1903 abuts one of the stop channel ends 1804, 1805, the rotatable switch member 1702 reaches a first switch position that triggers the switch circuit board 224 to return current to the sensor and light circuit board 1504 through a heating current supply wire 234a corresponding to the heating wire 300a, thereby causing electric current to flow through heating wire 300a to generate heat in heating coil 301a. When the rotatable cover member 114 and rotatable switch member 1702 rotate in the second direction until the stop 1903 abuts the other of the stop channel ends 1804, 1805, the rotatable switch member 1702 reaches a second switch position that analogously triggers the switch circuit board 224 to return current to the sensor and light circuit board 1504 through a heating current supply wire 234b that corresponds to the heating wire 300b, so as to be directed to the heating wire 300b, so that heat is generated in heating coil 301b. Abutment of the stop 1903 against the first or second stop channel end 1804, 1805 provides a tactile indication to the user that the switch 1700 is in the corresponding first or second switch position, as the user can feel that the rotatable cover member 114 cannot rotate any farther. It will be understood that it is possible to achieve the same or equivalent switching functionality by way of other switch and circuit designs, and such other switch and circuit designs are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

In addition, at least one air inlet notch 1806 is formed in a proximal section 1800 of the stationary cover member 112. The air inlet notch 1806 is sized and dimensioned to enable entry of air into the distal end 106b of the housing 102, whereby air drawn through the air opening of the mouthpiece 108 and the air inlet notch 1806 of the stationary cover member 112 generates the air flow. In one alternative embodiment, the amount and speed of air flow permitted into the atomizer is adjustable through the air inlet notch 1806, which can be size adjusted.

In the assembled device 100, a metallic ring 308 (shown separately in FIG. 20) is disposed adjacent to a distal side of the switch circuit board 224 and retained within and in axial alignment with the distal section 1802 of the stationary cover member 112, a distal end of the metallic ring 308 abutting a proximal face of a radially inwardly extending lip 1808 at a distal end of the distal section 1802. In one non-limiting embodiment, the metallic ring 308 comprises a copper material and an electroplated surface.

In operation, the housing 102 is oriented with the proximal end 106a upwards, and the distal end 106b downward, aligned with the housing 102 in a vertical position, such as shown in FIG. 1. The proximal connector 110 is rotatably removed, such that the mouthpiece 108 detaches from the housing 102. A liquid solution 212, such as a flavored e-liquid, is poured into the fluid chamber 213 to a desired level. Thereafter, the mouthpiece is securely fastened to the inlet tube 208 in preparation for atomizing the liquid solution 212 into an inhalable mist, and/or vaporizing or evaporating the liquid solution into an inhalable vapor.

The housing 102 is held between the fingers, such as between the index and middle fingers, with the proximal end 106a of the housing 102 oriented towards the user's mouth. The user wraps the lips around the mouthpiece 108 and commences to draw in air. The unique resin plastic configuration of the mouthpiece 108, along with the heating element support pipe 202 which insulates the heating wire subassemblies 206a-b, help prevent the lips from burning. The air is drawn through the air inlet notch 1806 in the stationary cover member 112 of the distal cover 111 into a distal region of the distal housing cavity 400, through the sensor and light board seal air passageways 2204 and into a proximal region of the cavity 400, through the inlet seal air inlet passageways 1300 and inlet seal outlet passageway 201 and into the wire support pipe air passageway 203, and finally through the outlet seal air passageway 2103 and into the mouthpiece air passageway 502. Collectively, the distal housing cavity 400 and the air passageways 2204, 1300, 201, 203, 2103, and 502 thus define a device air passageway 109, indicated in FIG. 2B, that extends throughout the interior of the device 100 from the air inlet notch 1806 to the proximal mouthpiece opening 503.

This creates air flow from the distal end 106b to the proximal end 106a—and thereby an air pressure drop—in the interior volume of the housing 102. When a pressure sensor/switch 1503 detects the air pressure drop, consequently actuating the battery 222 to generate electrical power upon detection of the air flow. The activated battery 222, which is connected to each heating wire subassembly 206a-b, results in at least one of the heating wires 300a-b heating up sufficiently to atomize and/or vaporize or evaporate the liquid solution 212 into an inhalable mist and/or vapor.

The power optimization electronic cigarette device 100 is configured to be reusable for a limited number of refills through use of an easily accessible liquid refilling structure, before ultimately becoming disposable. The electronic cigarette device 100 optimizes battery power consumption through use of multiple heating wires that can be selectively operated to vaporize the liquid solution. The pressure sensor/switch 1503 is adapted and configured to detect a pressure drop, resulting from air flow generated from a user inhaling through the electronic cigarette device 100, and to trigger the heating wires 300a-b to generate heat, only when detecting a pressure drop that indicates that the electronic cigarette device 100 is in use. The selective use of one heating wire, selected from two or more heating wires, serves to extend the life span thereof. In another power optimization function, the electronic cigarette device comprises a sensor and light board assembly 306 that detects available battery power capacity, and an illumination member 1502 that variably illuminates to indicate the remaining power capacity of the battery.

These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings. Because many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.

The foregoing description of the disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. The description was selected to best explain the principles of the present teachings and practical application of these principles to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the disclosure in various embodiments and various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It should be recognized that the words “a” or “an” are intended to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any reference to plural elements shall, where appropriate, include the singular.

It is intended that the scope of the disclosure not be limited by the specification, but be defined by the claims set forth below. In addition, although narrow claims may be presented below, it should be recognized that the scope of this invention is much broader than presented by the claim(s). It is intended that broader claims will be submitted in one or more applications that claim the benefit of priority from this application. Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawings disclose additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claim or claims below, the additional inventions are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claim such additional inventions is reserved.

Claims

1. An electronic cigarette device comprising

a mouthpiece at a proximal end of the device, the mouthpiece defining a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's mouth via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening;

a housing, the housing defining a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway;

an electrical system, the electrical system comprising a battery, a heating wire, and at least one illumination member;

the heating wire being adapted and configured to produce heat when an electric current flows through the heating wire;

the electrical system being adapted and configured to detect a charge level of he battery, and, when the device is in use, to: transmit electric current from the battery to the heating wire to cause the heating wire to produce heat to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so as to render airborne at least a portion of the substance, so as to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway; when the detected charge level is no less than a first threshold charge level, transmit current from the battery to the at least one illumination member so as to cause the at least one illumination member to emit a first color of light; when the detected charge level is less than the first threshold charge level and no less than a second threshold charge level, transmit current from the battery to the at least one illumination member so as to cause the at least one illumination member to emit a second color of light different from the first color of light.

2. The electronic cigarette device of claim 1, further comprising a liquid container, the liquid container defining a fluid chamber adapted and configured to contain an e-liquid, the liquid container defining at least one inlet hole in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and the housing air passageway to permit e-liquid in the fluid chamber to pass from the fluid chamber to the housing air passageway, the heating wire being adapted and configured to atomize or vaporize at least a portion of the e-liquid in the housing air passageway when the electric current transmitted to the heating wire by the electrical system flows through the heating wire.

3. The electronic cigarette device of claim 2, wherein the housing comprises a proximal housing member connected to a distal housing member, the liquid container comprising at least a portion of the proximal housing member.

4. The electronic cigarette device of claim 3, wherein the illumination member is housed within a cavity defined by the distal housing member, at least a portion of the proximal housing member being transparent to allow light from the illumination member to be visibly transmitted through the transparent portion when the illumination member emits the first color of light and when the illumination member emits the second color of light, so that a person of ordinary unaided vision can discern that the second color of light transmitted through the transparent portion is a different color of light from the first color of light transmitted through the transparent portion.

5. The electronic cigarette device of claim 3, wherein the proximal housing member is permanently connected to the distal housing member, the distal housing member permanently housing the battery.

6. The electronic cigarette device of claim 1, wherein the electrical system further comprises a circuit board, the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to at least one terminal of the battery, and the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to the heating wire.

7. An electronic cigarette device comprising

a mouthpiece at a proximal end of the device, the mouthpiece defining a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's oral cavity via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening;

a housing, the housing defining a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway;

a battery;

a first heating wire, the first heating wire being adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the first heating wire, to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway;

a second heating wire, the second heating wire being adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the second heating wire, to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway;

a switch, the switch having a first switch position and a second switch position, the switch being adapted and configured to, when in the first switch position, complete a first circuit to transmit current from the battery through the first heating wire, and when in the second switch position, complete a second circuit to transmit current from the battery through the second heating wire;

a manual switch actuator, the manual switch actuator being mounted to the housing so as to be manually movable by a user to and from a first switch actuator position and a second switch actuator position, the manual switch actuator being operatively connected to the switch so as to cause the switch to move to the first switch position when the manual switch actuator moves to the first switch actuator position and to cause the switch to move to the second switch position when the manual switch actuator moves to the second switch actuator position.

8. The electronic cigarette device of claim further comprising a liquid container, the liquid container defining a fluid chamber adapted and configured to contain an e-liquid, the liquid container defining at least one inlet hole in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and the housing air passageway to permit e-liquid in the fluid chamber to pass from the fluid chamber to the housing air passageway, each of the first heating wire and the second heating wire being adapted and configured to atomize or vaporize at least a portion of the e-liquid in the housing air passageway when the electric current transmitted to the heating wire by the electrical system flows through the respective one of the first heating wire and the second heating wire.

9. The electronic cigarette device of claim 8, wherein the housing comprises a proximal housing member connected to a distal housing member, the liquid container comprising at least a portion of the proximal housing member.

10. The electronic cigarette device of claim 9, wherein the proximal housing member is permanently connected to the distal housing member, the distal housing member permanently housing the battery.

11. The electronic cigarette device of claim 7, further comprising a circuit board, the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to at least one terminal of the battery, and the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to the first heating wire and to the second heating wire,

12. An electronic cigarette device comprising

a mouthpiece at a proximal end of the device, the mouthpiece defining a mouthpiece air passageway and an outlet opening, the mouthpiece air passageway and outlet opening adapted and configured to allow an inhalable stream of air and an airborne substance to pass through the mouthpiece via the mouthpiece air passageway and into a user's oral cavity via the outlet opening when a user inhales on the mouthpiece through the outlet opening;

a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, the housing comprising a proximal housing member connected to a distal housing member, the proximal housing member extending from the proximal end of the housing to the distal housing member, and the distal housing member extending from the proximal housing member to the distal end of the housing, the housing defining a housing air passageway extending therethrough, the housing air passageway being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece air passageway;

a liquid container, the liquid container defining a fluid chamber adapted and configured to contain an e-liquid, the liquid container defining at least one inlet hole in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and the housing air passageway to permit e-liquid in the fluid chamber to pass from the fluid chamber to the housing air passageway, the liquid container comprising at least a portion of the proximal housing member;

a heating wire, the heating wire being adapted and configured to produce heat when electric current flows through the heating wire;

a rechargeable battery adapted and configured to supply current to the heating wire to heat a substance that is in fluid communication with the housing air passageway, so that at least a portion of the substance so heated becomes airborne to produce said inhalable stream in the housing air passageway;

a battery charging port disposed within and exposed to the exterior of the housing, the battery charging port being adapted and configured to receive a charging plug, the battery charging port being electrically connected to the battery to transmit a charging current from the charging plug to the battery to recharge the battery.

13. The electronic cigarette device of claim 12, wherein the proximal housing member is permanently connected to the distal housing member, the distal housing member permanently housing the battery.

14. The electronic cigarette device of claim 12, further comprising a circuit board, the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to at least one terminal of the battery, and the circuit board being permanently electrically wired to the heating wire.