WO2023170583A1

WO2023170583A1 - Pod loopback with device lockout

Info

Publication number: WO2023170583A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/052158
Authority: WO
Inventors: Corey Charles Holton IRELAND
Original assignee: 2792684 Ontario Inc
Current assignee: 2792684 Ontario Inc
Priority date: 2022-03-07
Filing date: 2023-03-07
Publication date: 2023-09-14
Anticipated expiration: 2024-09-07
Also published as: CA3151174A1

Abstract

A vaping device and associated pod make use of an new electrical interface to enable a functional subsystem within the vaping device to be subject to lockout in the absence of a pod. The electrical interface enabling lockout does not require participation of a processor executing lockout routines, but instead uses the routing of electrical connections to allow for lockout. The pod makes use of a loopback contact that engages with lockout electrodes on the device to enable the locked out functional subsystem in the device.

Description

Pod Loopback with Device Lockout

Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Canadian Patent Application Serial No. 3,151,174 filed March 7, 2021 and entitled “Pod Loopback with Device Lockout”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0002] This application relates generally to a mechanism within a vaping pod to enable otherwise disabled features in a vaping device and more particularly to a pod having a loopback connection for use in conjunction with an electronic cigarette or vaporizer which has a feature disabled without access to the loopback connection.

Background

[0003] Electronic cigarettes and vaporizers are well regarded tools in smoking cessation. In some instances, these devices are also referred to as an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS). A nicotine based liquid solution, commonly referred to as e-liquid, often paired with a flavoring, is atomized in the ENDS for inhalation by a user. In some embodiments, e-liquid is stored in a cartridge or pod, which is a removable assembly having a reservoir from which the e-liquid is drawn towards a heating element by capillary action through a wick. In many such ENDS, the pod is removable from the device, is designed to be disposable, and is often sold pre-filled.

[0004] In some ENDS, a refillable tank is provided, and a user can purchase a vaporizable solution with which to fill the tank. This refillable tank may not be removable, and is often not intended for replacement. A fillable tank allows the user to control the fill level as desired. Disposable pods are typically designed to carry a fixed amount of vaporizable liquid, and are intended for disposal after consumption of the e-liquid. The ENDS cartridges, unlike the aforementioned tanks, are not typically designed to be refilled. Each cartridge stores a predefined quantity of e-liquid, often in the range of 0.5mL to 3mL. In ENDS systems, the e-liquid is typically composed of a combination of any of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and flavorings. In systems designed for the delivery of other compounds, such as cannabinoids different compositions may be used. [0005] In the manufacturing of the disposable cartridge, different techniques are used for different cartridge designs. Typically, the cartridge has a wick that allows e-liquid to be drawn from the e-liquid reservoir to an atomization chamber. In the atomization chamber, a heating element in communication with the wick is heated to encourage aerosolization of the e-liquid. The aerosolized e-liquid can be drawn through a defined air flow passage towards a user’s mouth.

[0006] Figures 1A, IB and 1C provide front, side and bottom views of an exemplary pod 50. Pod 50 is composed of a reservoir 52 having an air flow passage 54, and an end cap assembly 56 that is used to seal an open end of the reservoir 52. End cap assembly has wick feed lines 58 which allow e-liquid stored in reservoir 52 to be provided to a wick (not shown in Figures 1 A-C). To ensure that e-liquid stored in reservoir 52 stays in the reservoir and does not seep or leak out, and to ensure that end cap assembly 56 remains in place after assembly, seals 60 can be used to ensure a more secure seating of the end cap assembly 56 in the reservoir 52. In the illustrated embodiment, seals 60 may be implemented through the use of o-rings.

[0007] As noted above, pod 50 includes a wick that is heated to atomize the e-liquid. To provide power to the heater 74, electrical contacts 62 are placed at the bottom of the pod 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical contacts 62 are illustrated as circular.

[0008] Because an ENDS device is intended to allow a user to draw or inhale as part of the nicotine delivery path, an air inlet 64 is provided on the bottom of pod 50. Air inlet 64 allows air to flow into a pre-wick air path through end cap assembly 56. The air flow path extends through an atomization chamber and then through post wick air flow passage 54.

[0009] Illustrated atop pod 50 is a mouthpiece 68 that is spaced apart from the top of pod 50 by absorptive pad 66. Absorptive pad 66 may be formed of a number of different materials, but it is often formed of a material such as cotton. When large droplets of e-liquid form, typically as a result of condensation, absorptive pad 66 provides a mechanism for removing them from the airflow path, and preventing these droplets from being delivered to the user. Mouthpiece 68 can also be used to modify the airflow path by limiting the locations that airflow can exit the pod 50. By locating apertures off center, an airflow exiting the post-wick airflow path 54 is required to curve, which may drive large droplets towards the absorptive pad 66.

[0010] Figure 2 illustrates a cross section taken along line A in Figure IB (without the inclusion of the mouthpiece 68 for clarity). This cross section of the device is shown with a complete (non-sectioned) wick 72 and heater 74. End cap assembly 56 resiliently mounts to an end of air flow passage 54 in a manner that allows air inlet 64 to form a complete air path through pod 50. This connection allows airflow from air inlet 64 to connect to the post air flow path through passage 54 through atomization chamber 70. Within atomization chamber 70 is both wick 72 and heater 74. When power is applied to contacts 62, the temperature of the heater 74 increases and allows for the volatilization of e-liquid that is drawn across wick 72.

[0011] Typically the heater 74 reaches temperatures well in excess of the vaporization temperature of the e-liquid. This allows for the rapid creation of a vapor bubble next to the heater 74. As power continues to be applied the vapor bubble increases in size, and reduces the thickness of the bubble wall. At the point at which the vapor pressure exceeds the surface tension the bubble will burst and release a mix of the vapor and the e-liquid that formed the wall of the bubble. The e-liquid is released in the form of aerosolized particles and droplets of varying sizes. These particles are drawn into the air flow and into post wick air flow passage 54 and towards the user.

[0012] Figure 3 is an illustration of an alternate embodiment of pod 50 without the inclusion of a mouthpiece. Pod 50 is similar to the earlier embodiments in the presence of features such as post wick airflow passage 54 in reservoir 52. However, in place of O-rings, a resilient cap 76 is employed that covers end cap 56 to provide both sealing against e-liquid egress and to provide sealing of the interface between the post-wick airflow passage 54 and the atomization chamber 70 within the end cap 56. Other elements within the end cap 56 and pod 50 remain the same.

[0013] A conventional vaping device 80 is illustrated as a cross section of a functional representation in Figure 4A and from a top view in Figure 4B. The device 80 has a shell that protects internal components, but also defines a cavity 82 into which a pod 50 can be inserted. Cavity 82 has a base 84 through which electrodes 86 extend. Electrodes 86 may be implemented as spring loaded pins, such as so-called pogo pins. When pod 50 is inserted, electrodes 86 make contact with the electrical contacts 62 of pod 50. Pod 50 typically does not make contact with the base 84 which allows for the creation of an airflow path through the cavity 82 to the airflow inlet 64. Within device 80 is a battery 88 that stores power that can be delivered to pod 50 through electrodes 86. The connection between the battery 88 and the electrodes 86 can be switched by a processor / control circuitry 90 in response to a signal indicative of use, typically generated by pressure sensor 92 or a physical button (not illustrated). When a user draws on pod 50, the airflow between pod 50 and the cavity base 84 triggers pressure sensor 92. Pressure sensor 92 generates a signal indicating a detected change in pressure and sends that signal to the processor 90. In response to the receipt of this signal, processor 90 closes switch 94, allowing power in battery 88 to be applied across contacts 86. This results in power being applied to the heater 74 in pod 50. It should be understood that other components, such as a signal generator used to provide a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to electrodes 86 have been omitted from this illustration.

[0014] In embodiments such as Figure 4A, it has been observed that the pressure sensor 92 can be triggered by a change in atmospheric pressure, without the presence of a pod. This can result in power being applied across unprotected electrodes. This sort of problem may occur during air-shipping of devices, and in addition to some safety related issues, it may result in a depletion of the battery during shipping. This can result in a user purchasing a new device that has been depleted through the shipping process, which results in a poor initial user experience.

[0015] A similar problem may occur for other electrical subsystems within a device 80. There may be no need for various systems to be operational at different times, but it is left to the manufacturer of the device to implement software routines to disable these functions or subsystems. Some devices can detect the presence of a pod based on whether the electrodes 86 are an open circuit or a closed circuit, which largely identifies whether a pod 50 has been inserted. This detection can then be used by the processor 90 to prevent different behaviors. However, this leaves this part of the design to be completely in the hands of the device designers, who may not be sufficiently motivated to provide a mechanism to disable device subsystems such as wireless interfaces. Furthermore, a software only implemented deactivation of a system cannot typically be verified by a user requiring the user to trust the vendor that various subsystems will not be activated without the presence of a pod.

[0016] It would therefore be beneficial to have a mechanism to allow for the lockout of various subsystems without necessarily involving a software driven check for pod presence.

Summary

[0017] It is an object of the aspects of the present invention to obviate or mitigate the problems of the above-discussed prior art. [0018] A novel electrical interface between a pod for storing atomizable liquids and a device for powering the atomization of the liquids within the pod provides a lockout mechanism that prevents activation of an electronic subsystem or components within the device without insertion of the pod. On the device side of the interface, a component or subsystem is locked out from operation without a pod being inserted into the device. The locked out component is configured to have at least one of its connections to other parts of the device interrupted. The interruption is provided by having a connection to another component routed through a lockout electrode. This results in an open circuit without the presence of the pod. On the pod-side of the interface, there is a loopback contact, which is positioned to connect to the lockout electrode or electrodes on the device. This loopback contact is substantially electrically isolated from other elements within the pod. This substantial electrical isolation allows for the loopback contact to enable the lockedout component by bridging the interrupted connection.

[0019] In some embodiments, the locked out component can be in the pod, with the loopback contact in the device. In other embodiments, there can be more than one locked out component, each using a loopback contact (possibly a unique loopback contact) to facilitate enablement with connection between the pod and device.

[0020] In some embodiments the vaping device may support connections to accessories, and the electrical interface between the accessory and the device may provide for similar lockout functionality, with at least one side of the interface providing a loopback contact for enabling the connection of a locked out component to another component.

[0021] The below discussed aspects of the present invention should not be considered to be exhaustive, and instead should be understood to be illustrative. The ordering of the recitation of various aspects should not be construed as denoting importance, novelty or value. Instead there should be no weight provided to the order in which aspects are defined. Various embodiments are described in conjunction with a single aspect. It should be understood that these embodiments can be combined with other embodiments of the same aspect so as to stack the features of different embodiments. Additionally, it is contemplated that the embodiments recited with respect to one aspect can be applied to other aspects with suitable modifications that will be well understood by those skilled in the art. An exhaustive recitation of the applicability of one embodiment to each aspect is avoided for the sake of brevity and clarity, but is not intended to be limiting in any manner. [0022] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pod for storing an atomizable liquid. The pod is configured to physically and electrically interface with a device for delivering power from a battery to the pod. This device allows for atomization of the stored atomizable liquid so that that atomized liquid can be delivered to a user. The pod comprises first, second and third electrical contacts. The first and second electrical contacts are operably connected to a heater. The first and second contacts are positioned to allow for a connection to first and second electrodes on the device for the receipt of power to allow for the activation of the heater that can facilitate the atomization of the stored atomizable liquid. The third electrical contact is substantially electrically isolated from other electrical components within the pod.

[0023] In an embodiment of the first aspect, each of the first, second and third electrical contacts are positioned within an end cap sealing an open end of the pod. Optionally, the first and second electrical contacts are aligned along a major axis of the pod, and are each located approximately 7mm from the center of the end cap. In another embodiment, third electrical contact is an annular ring which may optionally be centered on an external face of the end cap and has an internal diameter of approximately 4.90mm and an external diameter of approximately 6.86mm. In another embodiment, the first and second electrical contacts are positioned to interact with electrodes situated between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm apart, center to center, on a major axis of the vaporizer device. In some embodiments, the third electrical contact is positioned to interact with first and second lockout electrodes on the vaporizer device and optionally the first and second lockout electrodes are situated approximately 3.25mm apart center to center, offset from a major axis of the vaporizer device by approximately 2.52mm. In another embodiment, the third electrical contact is positioned to interact with first and second lockout electrodes situated approximately 6mm apart center-to-center on a major axis of the vaporizer device.

[0024] In another embodiment, the first and second electrical contacts reside within a first plane and the third electrode is located outside the first plane. In some embodiments, the first plane defines the bottom of the pod. In other embodiments, the first and second electrical contacts are positioned on a bottom face of the pod, and the third electrode is positioned on a face different than the bottom face. In another embodiment, the third electrical contact is at least partially annular. In a further embodiment, the pod further comprises an aperture connected to an airflow passage through the pod, wherein the third electrical contact at least partially surrounds the aperture. In another embodiment, the aperture is connected to an airflow passage through the pod, the aperture is defined by an inner surface of the third electrical contact which is annular in shape.

[0025] In some embodiments, the third electrical contact has first and second parts connected to each other. Optionally, the first part of the third electrical contact is positioned to contact a first lockout electrode of the vaporizer device and the second part of the third electrical contact is positioned to contact a second lockout electrode of the vaporizer device. In some such embodiments, the connection between the first and second parts has at least one of a resistance, a capacitance and an inductance. In another embodiment, the connection between the first and second parts is one of a conductor and a semiconductor.

[0026] In another embodiment, the atomizable liquid is an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant. In a further embodiment, the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid. In some embodiments, the pod further comprises a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid as a free liquid. In another embodiment, the pod comprises a reservoir having a cartomizer matrix for storing the atomizable liquid.

[0027] In some embodiments, the third contact is substantially centered on the end cap. In further embodiments the third contact may be substantially smaller than the surface of the end cap in which it is situated. In some embodiments, a metallic third contact is positioned within an end cap that may be formed of a material such as plastic or resin.

[0028] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pod for storing an atomizable liquid for use with a device, such as a vaporizing device. The pod comprises an airflow path through the pod, a reservoir and an atomization system. The airflow path through the pod has an outlet on a top surface of the pod, and a metallic airflow inlet on a base of the pod. The base of the pod may be a surface opposite to the top of the pod. The reservoir stores the atomizable liquid. The atomization system allows for the atomization of the atomizable liquid stored in the reservoir so that the atomized liquid can be entrained within an airflow through the airflow path.

[0029] In an embodiment, the atomizable liquid is an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant. In another embodiment, the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid. In some embodiments, the atomizable liquid is stored as a free liquid within the reservoir. In other embodiments, the atomizable liquid is stored in a cartomizer matrix within the reservoir. [0030] In some embodiments, the metallic inlet is formed from at least one of nickel and copper, and may optionally be plated in another metal such as gold. In some embodiments, the metallic inlet is set into an end cap sealing an open end of the reservoir, and optionally the metallic inlet may comprise a capillary seal having machined apertures. In some embodiments, the metallic inlet is ferromagnetic and conductive. In other embodiments, the metallic inlet is an annular ring that may optionally be centered on the base of the pod, the ring having at least one of an internal diameter of approximately 4.9mm and an external diameter of approximately 6.86mm.

[0031] In some embodiments, the atomization system is connected to first and second contacts on the base of the pod and the first and second contacts connect the atomization system to a battery within the vaporizing device. Optionally, the first and second contacts are positioned to interact with electrodes situated between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm apart, center to center, on a major axis of the vaporizer device.

[0032] In another embodiment, the first and second contacts reside within a first plane and the metallic inlet is outside the defined plane. The first plane, in some embodiments, defines the bottom of the pod. In another embodiment, the metallic inlet is substantially electrically isolated from electrical components within the pod.

[0033] In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vaporizing device for storing an atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod. The device comprises a battery, control circuitry for controlling a first set of electrodes, and a second set of electrodes. The battery is configured to store power for delivery to the first set of electrodes. The control circuitry regulates the delivery of power from the battery to at least a first electrode in the first set of electrodes. The delivery of power is regulated in accordance with the receipt of a signal indicative of use, which may be received from a pressure sensor in some embodiments. The second set of electrodes is different than the first set of electrodes and connects a component subject to lockout to another element within the vaporizing device. In some embodiments the second set of electrodes comprises one electrode, while in other embodiments it comprises more than one electrode.

[0034] In an embodiment of the third aspect, the first set of electrodes is comprised of the first electrode and a second electrode for delivering power to a heater within a pod, and the second set of electrodes comprises a third and fourth electrode electrically connected to each other upon insertion of a pod, to connect two components within the device. [0035] In one embodiment, the second set of electrodes, upon insertion of a pod into the device, is part of a connection between at least one of: the pressure sensor to the battery; the pressure sensor to the control circuitry; a wireless subsystem to the battery; a wireless subsystem to an antenna; and a wireless subsystem to a processor.

[0036] In another embodiment, the control circuitry comprises a processor for executing stored instructions to carry out control processes. In another embodiment, the control circuitry is connected to at least one of a signal generator and a switch.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second set of electrodes have a longer length than the first set of electrodes.

[0038] In another embodiment, first and second sets of electrodes are situated on an exposed face of a cavity sized to receive the removable pod. Optionally, the exposed face has a major axis with a length between approximately 23.7mm and approximately 23.99mm and a minor axis with a length between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 14.8mm. The first set of electrodes comprises first and second electrodes situated along the major axis and the first and second electrodes are spaced apart from each other by between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm center-to-center. In another embodiment, the second set of electrodes comprises third and fourth electrodes spaced apart between approximately 3mm and approximately 3.25mm center-to-center and the second set of electrodes are offset from the major axis by between approximately 2.52mm and approximately 2.6mm. In a further embodiment, the second set of electrodes comprises third and fourth electrodes situated along the major axis and spaced apart from each other 6mm center-to-center.

[0039] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vaping system for atomizing an atomizable liquid. The vaping system comprises first and second components. The first component has first and second lockout electrodes. The second component is configured to both mate to the first component and to electrically connect to the first component through an electrical interface. This electrical interface has a loopback contact sized and positioned to connect the first and second lockout electrodes of the first component when the first and second components are mated.

[0040] In an embodiment of the fourth aspect, the first component is a vaping device, and the second component is a pod storing the atomizable liquid. In some embodiments, the pod comprises a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid as a free liquid, while in other embodiments, the pod comprises a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid within a cartomizer matrix. In another embodiment, the first and second lockout electrodes are connected to different subsystems in the first component. In some embodiments, the first lockout electrode is connected to a pressure sensor and the second lockout electrode is connected to a battery. In another embodiment, the first and second lockout electrodes form an interrupted path connecting at least one of a pressure sensor to control circuitry; a wireless subsystem to a battery; a wireless subsystem to an antenna; and a wireless subsystem to a processor.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first component is a pod storing the atomizable liquid, and the second component is the vaping device. In some embodiments, the vaping system further comprises a third component for mating with one of the first component and the second component, and for electrically connecting to the one of the first and second components through a second electrical interface. In some embodiments, the second electrical interface comprises a second pair of lockout electrodes and a second loopback contact. In some embodiments, the third component mates with the first component and the second pair of lockout electrodes are situated on the first component. In another embodiment, the third component mates with the first component and is configured to store the atomizable liquid, optionally in a reservoir as free liquid, or within a cartomizer matrix within the reservoir. In another embodiment, the first component is a vaping device and the second component is a power cell.

[0042] In the fourth aspect, and its above embodiments, the atomizable liquid may be an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant. In some embodiments, the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid.

[0043] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vaporizing device. The vaporizing device is for atomizing an atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod. The vaporizing device comprises a control circuitry and a first, second and third electrode. The control circuitry regulates the delivery of power from a battery to the first electrode in accordance with receipt of a signal indicative of use. The first electrode is configured to support a connection to a first contact in the removable pod. The second electrode is configured to connect to a second contact in the removable pod to provide a connection to electrical ground. The third electrode is configured to connect to a third contact in the removable pod, and is connected to a ground connection of a subsystem within the vaporizing device. The insertion of a pod, having a third contact connected to or integrated with the second contact allows the subsystem to be connected to ground.

[0044] In some embodiments, the subsystem is one of a pressure sensor, a processor associated with the control circuitry, a wireless communication subsystem, and an antenna. In some embodiments, the subsystem does not operate while not connected to ground. In some embodiments, the signal indicative of use is received from a pressure sensor. In other embodiments, the control circuitry comprises a processor for executing stored instructions to carry out control processes.

[0045] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vaporizing device for atomizing and atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod. The vaporizing device comprises a battery, a set of lockout electrodes and control circuitry. The battery is used to store power. The lockout electrodes are configured to connect an output of a first component of the vaporizing device to an input of the first component upon insertion of the removable pod. The control circuitry regulates the delivery of power from the battery to at least a first electrode in a first set of electrodes, different than the lockout electrodes, in accordance with receipt of a signal indicative of use.

[0046] Embodiments of the fifth aspect may include those recited above with respect to the third and fourth aspects. In some embodiments the first component is a processor. In some embodiments, the control circuitry is embodied within a processor configured to execute stored instructions. In further embodiments, the processor is configured to regulate the delivery of power from the battery to at least the first electrode in accordance with a signal indicative of use from a pressure sensor and upon confirmation that the output of the first component is connected to the input of the first component.

[0047] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an adapter plate for attachment to both a vaporizing device and a pod for storing an atomizable liquid. The adapter plate comprises a base plate and an electrically conductive surface. The base plate is sized to fit within a cavity of the vaporizing device. The electrically conductive surface is positioned on the base plate to connect to a pair of electrodes on the vaporizing device.

[0048] In an embodiment of the sixth aspect, the adapter plate further comprises first and second passthrough contacts for respectively connecting to first and second electrodes on the vaporizing device, and sized to connect to first and second electrical contacts on the pod to allow for delivery of power from the first and second electrodes to the first and second electrical contacts. In another embodiment, the base plate comprises first and second passthrough apertures sized and positioned on the base plate to allow first and second electrodes on the vaporizing device to connect to first and second electrical contacts om the pod to allow for delivery of power from the first and second electrodes to the first and second electrical contacts.

[0049] In some embodiments, the base plate is non-conductive. In further embodiments, the adapter plate is configured to attach to the pod. In some embodiments, the adapter plate is configured to attach to the vaporizing device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying figure in which:

Figure 1 A is a front view of a prior art pod for use in an electronic nicotine delivery system;

Figure IB is a side view of the pod of Figure 1A;

Figure 1C is a bottom view of the pod of Figure 1 A;

Figure 2 is a cross section of the pod of Figures 1 A and IB along cut line A in Figure IB;

Figure 3 is a cross section view of an alternate embodiment of the pod illustrated in Figures 1 A-C and 2;

Figure 4A is a functional cross section view of a vaping device;

Figure 4B is a top view of the vaping device illustrated in Figure 4A;

Figure 5 is a bottom view of a novel pod according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6A is a functional cross section view of a vaping device of an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6B is a top view of the vaping device illustrated in Figure 6A;

Figure 7A is a cross section of an endcap for use in a pod according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7B is a cross section view of an alternate embodiment of an endcap;

Figure 8A is a bottom view of a pod according to an embodiment;

Figure 8B is a bottom view of a pod according to an embodiment; Figure 8C is a bottom view of a pod according to an embodiment;

Figure 9 is a functional cross section view of an embodiment of a vaping device;

Figure 10 is a functional cross section view of an embodiment of a vaping device;

Figure 11 is a functional cross section view of an embodiment of a vaping device;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a pod according to an embodiment with a loopback contact not located on the endcap;

Figure 13 is a cross section view of a pod and device according to an embodiment where the base of the pod has multiple levels;

Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of the connection of a pressure sensor through lockout electrodes 166;

Figure 15 is a perspective cross section of an endcap and pod according to an embodiment;

Figure 16 is a bottom view of a pod with a centered loopback contact and an offset air inlet;

Figure 17 is a bottom view of a pod with a loopback contact incorporated within a check valve;

Figure 18A is a top view of a device according to an embodiment for use with a number of pod designs including that illustrated in Figure 5;

Figure 18B is a bottom view of a pod designed to work with the device illustrated in Figure 18 A;

Figure 19A is a top view of a device according to an embodiment for use with a number of pod designs including that illustrated in Figure 5;

Figure 19B is a bottom view of a pod designed to work with the device illustrated in Figure 19 A;

Figure 20 is a representative illustration of a vaping device having two interfaces using lockout electrodes and corresponding loopback contacts;

Figures 21 A-21D illustrate embodiments of electrical isolation of a loopback contact from other components of the pod;

Figure 22 is a functional illustration of an electrical configuration of a pod and vaping device according to an embodiment;

Figure 23 is an illustration of the base of a pod; Figure 24A is a top view of an adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 24B is a side view of the adapter of Figure 24B;

Figure 24C is a bottom view of the adapter of Figures 24A and 24B; and

Figure 25 illustrates an embodiment of the connection of a processor through lockout electrodes in a device according to an embodiment.

[0051] Where possible, in the above figures, like reference numerals have been used for like elements across the figures.

Detailed Description

[0052] In the instant description, and in the accompanying figures, reference to dimensions may be made. These dimensions are provided for the enablement of a single embodiment and should not be considered to be limiting or essential. Disclosure of numerical range should be understood to not be a reference to an absolute value unless otherwise indicated. Use of the terms about or substantively with regard to a number should be understood to be indicative of an acceptable variation of up to ±10% unless otherwise noted.

[0053] In conventional designs for vaping devices, the interface between the pod and the device have their functions as isolated from each other as much possible. The device typically has a battery and possibly a processor, so there may be connections between the device and the pod that support power delivery, and in some cases authentication devices or circuits are placed within the pod so that the device can determine information about the pod and its contents. Components within the device may provide power to the pod, or may make use of a communications interface with the pod to interrogate the pod. In some conventional designs, the device may interact with elements in the pod to determine information such as a pod identifier, or even to perform a temperature measurement of the heating element. It should be understood that in conventional devices, some functions are implemented in the pod, while other functions are implemented in the device. There may be communication between these functions, but the functions are effectively contained within either the pod or the device.

[0054] In the following discussion, a novel interface between a vaping device and a pod is disclosed. This interface allows for functional elements that were previously restricted to implementation in the device to be implemented using connections that span the device-pod interface. In some of the disclosed embodiments, issues associated with the above described prior art are mitigated through the use of this novel interface.

[0055] Figure 5 provides a bottom view of a pod 100 with an embodiment of the novel pod-side interface. Figure 6A is a cross section view of a device 150, with an embodiment of the novel device-side interface, designed to connect to pod 100. Figure 6B illustrates a top view of the device 150 of Figure 6A. These three figures will be discussed in conjunction with each other to provide an understanding of the operation of the interface between device 150 and pod 100.

[0056] Device 150 has a cavity 152 for receiving pod 100. When inserted, pod 100 may rest above cavity floor 154. Pod 100 has an outer edge defined by the walls of reservoir 102, and its base is defined by end cap 106, within which are first and second electrical contacts 108a and 108b. An inlet 104 to the airflow passage is also defined in the end cap 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet 104 is surrounded by a third electrical contact 110. This third electrical contact 110 is isolated from other elements within pod 100. When pod 100 is inserted into cavity 152, electrical contacts 108a and 108b can make contact with electrodes 156. This allows the heater within pod 100 to be provided with power from battery 158 within device 150. As illustrated, the interface between pod 100 and device 150 allows for the pod 100 to be inserted in two orientations. For this reason, the alignment of electrodes 156 and contacts 108a and 108b is designed for this reversibility. It should be noted that embodiments in which the interface requires a defined orientation of the pod 100 to the device 150 (typically using a keyed interface) can also be implemented using suitable modifications to at least one of the pod 100 and device 150. In the current context, reversibility is associated with the pod 100 having rotational symmetry about a vertical axis, allowing the pod 100 to be rotated 180° about the vertical axis and be inserted into the device 150. This effectively allows the pod 150 to be oriented correctly when the major axis of the pod 100 is aligned with the major axis of the device 150.

[0057] The ability of a pod 100 to sit flush with the cavity base 154 is a function of both the design of the pod 100 and the design of the device 150. If pod 100 sits flush with the cavity base 154, it may need design alterations to allow for air inlet 104 to be side mounted instead of base mounted. The ability of a pod 100 to sit flush with cavity base 154 may be limited by the ability of electrodes 156 and 166 to compress sufficiently upon insertion of pod 100 to allow for the pod 100 to sit flush. In many implementations, electrodes 156 and 166 may be implemented as compressible pins, such as pogo pins, which may thus prevent pod 100 from sitting flush if any of contacts 108a 108b and 110 are on the base of the pod 100.

[0058] When pod 100 is inserted into cavity 152, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, it will rest above cavity base 154 which allows an airflow path between the device 150 and pod 100, so that airflow can pass into inlet 104. Where a conventional vaping device responds to a signal from pressure sensor 162, in the illustrated embodiment, pressure sensor 162 is effectively electrically unattached within device 150 until a pod 100 is inserted, and the third electrical contact 110 forms a bridge between electrodes 166. For a pod 100 with a side mounted air inlet 104, the pod 100 and device 150 may be designed to allow the pod 100 to sit flush with the cavity base 154.

[0059] Thus, the third electrical contact 110 can be seen as an analog to a loopback connection. It allows the bridging of the connection between electrodes 166 to allow for an otherwise locked out component in the device 150 to be connected to the rest of the device. As illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B, the pressure sensor 162 is not connected to the processor 160 until the pod 100 is inserted, and third electrical contact 110 bridges lockout electrodes 166. Thus, without pod 100, pressure sensor 162 cannot transmit a signal indicative of use to the processor 160. By including part of the connection between an electrical subsystem, in this case the pressure sensor 162, and other elements of device 150, the electrical subsystem can be locked out until insertion of the pod 100.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6A, processor 160 controls switch 164 to allow power from battery 158 to be delivered across contacts 156. Without pressure sensor 162 being enabled through the presence of loopback electrical contact 110 completing the circuit across electrodes 166, the processor 160 does not receive the required input to enable power delivery.

[0061] The pod 100 of Figure 5 may, in some embodiments, be formed with a long side (also referred to as a major axis) dimension of 22.35mm and a short side (also referred to as a minor axis) dimension of 13.17mm. The electrical contacts 108a and 108b may each have a diameter of 5mm, and each can be centered about a point 7mm from the center of end cap 106. The loopback contact 110 can be annular in shape and effectively centered within the end cap 106. In some embodiments the annular contact 110 may have an internal diameter of about 4.9mm and an external diameter of about 6.86mm. It should be understood that these dimensions are given only for the purposes of an example, and should not be considered as limiting. As noted above there may be a tolerance of at least ±10%, or of at least ±0.10mm. [0062] The device 150 of Figures 6A and 6B should be understood to be designed to receive a compatible pod, such as pod 100 of Figure 5. With respect to Figure 6B, it should be understood that the cavity 152 having base 154, may in some embodiments have a wider dimension of between approximately 23.7mm and approximately 23.99mm and a shorter dimension of between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 14.8mm. In one embodiment, electrodes 156 can be located along a centerline along the wider dimension (e.g. along a major axis). The two electrodes 156 are spaced apart between about 13.50mm and about 15.5mm center-to-center. Also situated along the centerline are loopback electrodes 166 which are spaced apart 6mm center-to-center. Not illustrated in this drawing is an air passage in the base 154 that leads to pressure sensor 162. The location of the air passage to the pressure sensor 162 is a design choice that may vary implementation to implementation. In another embodiment, the electrodes 156 may be spaced apart between 13.5mm to 15.5mm center-to-center. It should be noted that given the sizes and locations of contacts 108a and 108b on pod 100, changes in the positioning of the electrodes 156 of this magnitude will not necessitate a change in positioning of the contacts on pod 100.

[0063] It should be understood that the shape of contacts 108a, 108b and 110 are not necessarily germane to their function within pod 100. The shapes and sizes of the contacts, and any of their exposed faces can be varied without departing from the inventive design presented here. Similarly, the electrodes 156 and 166 of device 150 are typically illustrated as so-called pogo pins which compress upon insertion of pod 100. This should be understood to be an implementation specific design decision, as other designs for electrodes can be used to provide the described functions.

[0064] With respect to the illustration of Figure 5, it can be seen that in one embodiment, the loopback contact 110 surrounds the air inlet 104. Figures 7A and 7B show the end cap 106 in profile indicating alternative embodiments of the configuration of the end cap 106. As can be seen in Figure 7A, end cap 106 has an air inlet 104 that leads to an airflow path through the pod 100. Inlet 104 is here shown as having its beginning being formed by the loopback contact 110. This provides some structural stability to the inlet. An inlet formed of metal will typically be stronger than other pod components that are made of materials such as plastic. The electrical contacts 108 are exposed on an exterior face of end cap 106, and they are connected to the heater 114 which is wrapped around wick 112. Thus, when the device 150 applies power across electrodes 156, power is carried across contacts 108 and through the heater 114 to allow for the atomization of the e-liquid carried by the wick 112.

[0065] Figure 7B illustrates an alternate embodiment of end cap 106 with a loopback contact 110 being provided in separate pieces on the exterior of end cap 106. These separate pieces of loopback contact 110 are electrically connected to each other, but the complete electrode is electrically isolated from the rest of the end cap 106 and the remainder of pod 100. It should be understood that the connection between segments of loopback contact 110 will introduce resistance and other connectivity impairments regardless of the type of connecting wire used, but these should be understood to be simply a part of the loopback electrode 110.

[0066] Figures 8A-C illustrate alternate configurations of the presence of loopback contact 110 on pod 100. In each of these embodiments, the pod 100 has a reservoir 102 that is sealed through the use of end cap 106. Through pod 100 is an airflow path having an inlet 104. [0067] In Figure 8 A, a pair of loopback contacts 110 which are isolated from each other are provided. On a corresponding device, there would be a pair of electrodes 166 designed to connect to one of the two locations. By providing a redundant loopback contact 110, the pod 100 retains reversibility so that the user does not need to be concerned about orienting the pod 100 prior to insertion into the device 150. An embodiment that used only one of the loopback contacts 110 would still work but would result in a pod that had a single direction of insertion into the device.

[0068] Figure 8B illustrates an embodiment of pod 100 in which a pair of loopback contacts 110 are provided, and they are electrically connected to each other. Similar to Figure 7B, this configuration of the loopback contact allows for a different placement of the contact pins that may act as lockout electrodes 166 on device 150. In this illustrated embodiment, one of the lockout electrodes 166 can connect to one of the first and second parts of the loopback contact 110, while the other lockout electrode can connect to the other of the first and second parts.

[0069] In Figure 8C, an embodiment of pod 100 is illustrated that makes use of a different shape of loopback contact 110 where it is rectangular instead of being circular or annular. The shape of loopback contact 110 does not need to have an impact on the functioning of the pod 100 to unlock the locked out component within device 150. It should be seen that in some embodiments, there is an optional second loopback contact 110, illustrated in dashed lines, that may be optionally connected to the first loopback contact 110. Placement of the loopback contact 110 on one side of the end cap 106 may result in a pod that has a required insertion direction into the device, while the illustrated optional element can be used to allow for reversible insertion directions.

[0070] As noted above, different electrical subsystems can be locked out through this novel architecture. Some vaping devices 150 make use of a wireless interface 168 to allow the vaping device 150 to communicate with a mobile device. This allows for logging of information, including in some systems, the location and time at which a device is employed. This data can be aggregated to determine where users are when they make use of vaping devices. Some users may be concerned about the ability of the device location to be tracked and logged on a mobile device even when not in use. To address this, the embodiment of Figure 9 connects the wireless interface 168 of device 150 using electrodes 166. Without a pod 100 with a loopback contact 110, the wireless interface is not able to connect to the processor 160. In this way, a hardware lockout of an electrical subsystem can be used to alleviate user privacy concerns.

[0071] As a further example, electrodes 166 can be used to enable a lockout of power delivery across contacts 156. One of contacts 156 is connected to battery 158 as in previous embodiments. However, the second terminal of the battery is connected through switch 164, which is controlled by processor 160, to electrodes 166. For power to be delivered to the second contact 156, a pod 100 with loopback contact 110 has to be inserted to bridge the connection between electrodes 166.

[0072] Figure 10 illustrates an alternate embodiment of device 150. In this embodiment, the device subsystem that is subject to lockout is the power delivery to the heating system. Device 150 is again formed of a shell that defines a cavity 152 having a base 154. Along the base 154 are a pair of electrodes 156 used to deliver power to the heater within a corresponding pod. Lockout electrodes 166 are also present on the base 154 of the cavity 152. Device 150 has a pressure sensor 162 that upon detection of a user drawing on a pod inserted into cavity 152 provides, to the control circuitry / processor 160, a signal indicative of use of the device. The processor 160 can then control switch 164 to close the connection between battery 158 and one of the lockout electrodes 166. When there is no pod present, there is no power supplied across the two electrodes 156. When a pod 100 is inserted into cavity 152, electrodes 166 are bridged. This connects battery 158 to both electrodes 156, with one of the connections provided through electrodes 166 and connection 170. By having one of the electrodes 156 connected to a lockout electrode 166, power is only supplied to the electrical contacts of a pod when a suitable pod is inserted. It should be understood that in some implementations, electrodes 156 may be connected to other elements that have not been illustrated for the purposes of clarity of description. The embodiment of Figure 10 can allow for both a processor based pod detection using the connectivity between electrodes 156, and the physical interruption of the path to proving power across the electrodes. This can allow for supplementary protection for power delivery within the device 150. In some embodiments, the loopback contact 110 within the pod 100 can be designed to carry a defined power, and can be designed as a fuse so that it can break and prevent excess power delivery to the heater 114.

[0073] Figure 11 illustrates an exemplary functional illustration of a more generic version of the device 150. As before, device 150 has a cavity 152 sized for receiving a compatible pod. The cavity has a base 154, through which are accessible contacts 156 which are typically used to electrically connect with a pod to allow power from the battery 158 to be applied to the heater. The delivery of power from the battery 158 is modulated by switch 164 which is controlled by processor 160 in response to an input from pressure sensor 162. A component subject to lockout 172 has an electrical connection to another part of device 150 that runs through electrodes 166. When electrodes 166 are connected, component 172 is able to be connected to other parts of device 150, but without the insertion of a pod 100 having a loopback contact 110, component 172 remains locked out and a function of device 150 is unavailable.

[0074] It should be understood that a component subject to lockout 172 may have multiple different types of connections that can be selected for routing across electrodes 166. As illustrated in previous figures, a data connection to the processor may be routed across this connection, preventing a component 172 from communicating with the processor 160, resulting in an effective lockout. In other embodiments, a component that draws power from the battery 158 may have its electrical power carried across electrodes 166. This provides a different, but equally effective lockout. This is illustrated in this figure by the component to be locked out 172 having a connection through electrodes 166 without showing the completed routing. It will be understood that in some embodiments, a wireless communication module may be subjected to lockout by having the connection between the module and an antenna run through electrodes 166.

[0075] In the previous illustrations of the pod 100, the third contact 110 was placed on the same surface of end cap 106 as the electrical contacts 108a and 108b. The particular location of loopback contact 110 is a design decision that is largely made in conjunction with the decision of how and where electrodes 166 are placed. Figure 12 illustrates an alternate design of pod 100, which has a reservoir 102 for storing e-liquid and an end cap 106 for sealing the reservoir 102. While electrical contacts 108a and 108b (here associated with a connection to the heater) are on the exterior surface of the end cap 106 along with the airflow path 104, the loopback contact 110 is placed on the side of the pod, here illustrated as being on the exterior wall of reservoir 102. This would allow for electrodes 166 of device 150 to be mounted on the sidewall of the cavity 152.

[0076] In Figure 13, a further embodiment of pod 100 and device 150 are provided using the generic locked out component 172 as previously discussed. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 13, electrodes 166 are longer than the electrodes 156 that are associated with providing power from the battery 158 to the heater through contacts 108a and 108b on pod 100. This difference in height between electrodes 156 and electrodes 166 is reflected in a difference in height between surfaces in end cap 106. A lower surface, here illustrated as being associated with outer edges of end cap 106 houses contacts 108a and 108b, while the air inlet to the pod 100, and the loopback contact 110 are on a raised surface of end cap 106. It should be understood that the terms higher, lower and raised are being used in the context of the illustrated orientation. If the orientation of the endcap is inverted, as illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, the sections that are considered raised and lowered may be different.

[0077] By using a recess in end cap 106, the loopback contact 110 and the contacts 108a and 108b can be situated on different planes. Although there is no strict requirement for these planes to be parallel, there may be aesthetic or other design rationales for making use of a recess in the exterior surface of end cap 106 that creates two substantially parallel planes on which the different contacts can be situated.

[0078] It should be understood that while the embodiment illustrated in Figure 13 shows the air inlet and loopback contact 110 elevated with respect to the electrical contacts 108a and 108b, in other embodiments the elevation difference could be reversed. [0079] In the above illustrations of device 150, it has been stated that many electrical subsystems have more than one possible connection that can be passed through electrodes 166. Figure 14 illustrates one such example using pressure sensor 162. It should be understood that the pressure sensor typically has three different connections, a high voltage (also referred to as V_cc), a ground connection (that is often connected to a ground plane that it shares with one of the battery terminals) and a data line. In some previous illustrations, the data line leading to a processor 160 is the one that is shown as interrupted through electrodes 166. In another embodiment, the V_cc connection is interrupted by electrodes 166. As such, pressure sensor 162 is effectively unpowered until a pod 100 having a loopback contact 110 is inserted. This configuration effectively locks out the pressure sensor 162 by preventing the delivery of power to the sensor 162 until the pod 100 is inserted. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the connections outlined above with respect to Figure 14 may be done with the expectation of a voltage drop across lockout electrodes 166 of between ImV and 3mV during the operation of the pressure sensor. V_cc is typically defined by the state of the battery 158, and may be expected to be in the range of about 4.2V to about 3.6V, or in some embodiments about 4.2V to about 3.0V. In some embodiments, the device may include circuitry to test the voltage drop across electrodes 166 to determine if the voltage drop is within the expected range. This may be done to ensure that the device 150 is operating with a pod 100 that is designed to operate within similar operating parameters.

[0080] It should be understood that this can be extended to other systems, including the processor 160 itself, which could be prevented from operating without the presence of pod 100. In such configurations, it should be understood that the device 150 may benefit from having a charge controller separate from the processor 160 so that the battery 158 can be charged without the presence of a pod 100 in the cavity 152.

[0081] Figures 15 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the end cap 106 that seals an open end of a reservoir 102 to form a pod 100. Electrical contacts 108a and 108b connect to the heater, which is not shown in this figure, and they are arranged to connect to electrodes 156 on device 150. There is an airflow path through the pod 100, that in other figures was denoted by element 104. This airflow inlet 104 has been previously illustrated as being surrounded by loopback contact 110. In this illustrated embodiment, the loopback airflow inlet 116 takes the place of both the loopback contact 110 and the airflow inlet 104. Between the airflow inlet 116 and other parts of the airflow path is a capillary seal 118 that makes use of a set of small holes to allow air to pass through in one direction, but prevents e-liquid from exiting under normal conditions. In some embodiments loopback airflow inlet 116 will also provide the functionality of capillary seal 118. As this component can be machined, the holes in the capillary seal 118 could be made to be smaller than is possible using conventional plastic molding techniques at the same or similar cost. By using a loopback airflow inlet 116 made of a conductive material (such as a metal), added capillary sealing ability can be provided to the loopback airflow inlet 116. Additionally, some quality assurance measures can be increased, as injection molding can result in small plastic tags and other protrusions impairing airflow through the capillary seal 118. By replacing the element with a metallic piece, these remnants from the molding process can be reduced or even eliminated.

[0082] The pod 100 of Figure 15 may, in some embodiments, be formed with a long side dimension of 22.35mm and a short side dimension of 13.17mm. The electrical contacts 108a and 108b may each have a diameter of 5mm, and each can be centered about a point 7mm from the center of end cap 106. The loopback airflow inlet 116 can be approximately annular in shape with an internal diameter of about 4.90mm and an external diameter of about 6.86mm, while being centered within the end cap 106. In some embodiments, the external diameter may range from about 6.86mm to 7.00mm. It should be understood that these dimensions are given only for the purposes of an example, and should not be considered as limiting. As noted above there may be a tolerance of at least ±10%, or of at least ±0.1mm. [0083] With respect to the embodiment of Figure 15, it should be well understood that the loopback airflow inlet 116 is an air inlet situated on the base of the pod 100. In the illustrated embodiment, it is inline with an airflow path through the pod that passes over the heater and wick that act as an atomization system. The airflow path through pod 100 begins at a metallic inlet 116 on the base of the pod (which in a typical embodiment is provided by end cap 106). The airflow path through pod 100, continues past the atomization system and terminates at an outlet at the top of the pod 100. As air passes through the airflow path, it can entrain atomized liquid as it passes over the atomization system. A mouthpiece may be situated atop the pod. Within the pod 100 is a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid that is atomized by the atomization system. This reservoir may store free liquid (e.g. the reservoir may directly store the atomizable liquid or a set of precursors to the atomizable liquid) or it may contain a matrix, such as a cartomizer matrix, for storing the atomizable liquid. Such a cartomizer matrix may be formed of any of a number of different materials including those such as cotton, hemp, linen, wool, and nylon. In some embodiments, the cartomizer matrix may be a sponge formed of fibers such as nylon that may be blown into a mold to form a desired shape. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the use of a cartomizer matrix may allow for the use of a less viscous e-liquid to be stored within the reservoir without incurring the same risk of leakage from the pod 100. The metallic inlet 116 may be formed of a number of metals or metallic alloys. In some embodiments, the inlet 116 may be ferromagnetic, while in others the inlet may be formed of a non-ferromagnetic metal. Thus, the inlet 116 may be formed of nickel, copper, or alloys such as brass. The inlet 116 may also be coated with another metal such as gold. Inlet 116 should be electrically conductive, and may optionally be ferromagnetic.

[0084] Where Figures 5 and 15 illustrate how the loopback contact and airflow inlet can be arranged concentrically or can be integrated with each other, it should be understood that in some embodiments, such as those illustrated in Figures 8A-C, the loopback contact 110 does not need to be set in conjunction with the airflow inlet 104. Figure 16 illustrates a further embodiment of a pod 100, having a reservoir 102 and an end cap 106. Electrical contacts 108a and 108b are located as previously illustrated. However, a central location for the loopback contact 110 is illustrated, with an off center airflow inlet 104. This may necessitate changes to the airflow paths within pod 100, but still allows for the functionality of a corresponding device to be supported.

[0085] In the above illustrated embodiments, it will be understood that the loopback contact 110 can be integrated with another element so that dual features are being provided. Figure 15 illustrated how the loopback contact can be integrated with an airflow inlet. Figure 17 illustrates an embodiment where a pod 100 is comprised of a reservoir 102 and an end cap 106. The airflow inlet 104 and electrical contacts 108a and 108b are located as previously illustrated. A loopback contact 110 is shown, with a check valve 120 also illustrated. The check valve 120 can be made with a metal fitting, so that it can operate as a loopback contact as well. This allows for a valve 120 to be integrated into a pod 100 to allow for refilling the pod, but to also serve as a loopback contact. In some embodiments, the loopback check valve 120 could be centered within the endcap 106 with an off-center airflow inlet 104.

[0086] In the above discussions, the loopback contact has been described as being made of a conductive material, typically a metal. It should be understood that different materials can be used so long as the loopback contact allows for completion of the circuit in the complementary device. In some embodiments, the loopback contact can be implemented using a semiconductor material. In such a configuration, the loopback contact can be configured so that in use, power is applied in a manner that allows the semiconductor material to be sufficiently conductive to allow for a connection between the electrodes on the device.

[0087] There are a number of other device designs that can be used so that they are physically compatible with a pod 100 as illustrated in Figure 5. As the configuration of device 150 changes, the configuration of alternate embodiments of pod 100 can also change. Figure 18A illustrates a top view of one such device 150. The cavity 152 of device 150 has both a major axis 180 and a minor axis 182. In many designs, electrodes, such as electrodes 156 used to deliver power into the pod, are situated on the major axis, as illustrated. This aids in allowing reversibility of a pod. Also illustrated is the circumference of a circle 184 that corresponds to electrical contact 110 in Figure 5 or to the conductive loopback air inlet 116 in Figure 15. It should properly be understood that this circle may be more accurately represented by a ring with an inner and an outer radius. It is illustrated as a circle 184 for the purposes of a simplified illustration. Located on the circumference of circle 184 are lockout electrodes 166. This allows for a pod, such as that illustrated in Figures 5 and 15 to complete the circuit by connecting lockout electrodes 166.

[0088] Some embodiments of device 150, will have a major axis 180 that is between approximately 22.7mm and approximately 23.99mm, and a minor axis 182 that is between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 14.80mm. Electrodes 156 are located on the major axis, and are spaced 13.50mm apart center-to-center, equidistant from the center of the base 154. The lockout electrodes 166 are located on the circumference of circle 184, and may have center points that are situated between approximately 2.52mm and approximately 2.6mm from the major axis 180. The lockout electrodes are aligned so that they form a line parallel to the major axis and are spaced apart between approximately 3.00mm and approximately 3.25mm center-to-center. In general the tolerance on these measurements may be one of at least ±10% or at least ±0.1mm. It should be understood that as with all the provided sizes and locations of the contacts, the measurements may vary so long as the contacts are placed so that they are positioned to interface with the respective electrode on the device. Thus, the center point of a contact may be differently positioned if the contact is made larger or smaller. The positioning of the contacts on a pod 100 should be thus understood to be defined by the requirement to interact with an electrode on device 150, allowing for both flexibility in positioning and size.

[0089] Figure 18B illustrates an alternate embodiment of pod 100. This embodiment is similar to that of Figure 8C, but more clearly shows the placement of loopback contacts 110 with respect to the placement of lockout electrodes 166 on the circumference of a defined circle. Reservoir 102 is sealed through the insertion of end cap 106. Within end cap 106 is the opening for the airflow passage 104, electrical contacts 108a and 108b used to provide power to the heater. It can be observed that in this particular embodiment, electrical contacts 108a and 108b along with the airflow passage are oriented along the major axis 122 of pod 100. Airflow passage 104 is situated at the intersection of the major axis 122 and the minor axis 124. Typically arrangements of the elements illustrated in end cap 106 in alignment with the major and minor axes allow for reversibility when it is so required. Contacts 108a and 108b are shown as being equidistant along the major axis from the middle of the end cap 106. Illustrated as circle 126 is the effective placement of what would be the location of loopback contact 110 of Figure 5. Situated to connect two points on this circle 126 is a loopback contact 110, and to allow reversibility of the pod 100 with respect to the device 150, an optional second loopback contact 110 is shown in dashed lines as well. It should be noted that the placement of the contacts 108a and 108b may be varied, along with the size of the exposed face of the contacts. If a pod 100 is designed to operate with a device 150, the placement and sizes of any contact can be varied so long as the contact of pod 100 can interface with the corresponding electrode of device 150. In this example, the placement of the contacts 108a and 108b can be varied so long as the contacts are located within the pod 100 so that they allow for a connection to the fixed location indicated by the positioning of the corresponding electrodes 156 on device 150. Similarly, the placement and size of the third contact 110, 116 can be defined in the context of being able to connect to both lockout electrodes 166.

[0090] In some embodiments, pod 100 will have a major axis 122 of 22.35mm and a minor axis 124 of 13.17mm. The circle 126 may have a diameter of between 4.9mm and 7mm, and in some embodiments the circle 126 will be an annulus with an inner diameter of 4.9mm and an outer diameter of 6.86mm centered within the end cap 106 of pod 100. Electrodes 108a and 108b, in some embodiments, may each have a diameter of approximately 5mm, centered around a point along the illustrated major axis offset from the center of the pod 100 by approximately 7mm. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these measurements are related to a specific embodiment, and are not intended to be anything more than an example. The placement of the loopback contact 110 will connect two locations within the area of the annulus represented by circle 126 and its dimensions will be set in accordance with the location of electrodes 166 in Figure 18 A. In this embodiment, loopback contact 110 will be offset from the major axis 122 by 2.52mm, and it will have a width of at least 3.2mm. In general, the tolerance on these measurements may be one of ±10% or ±0.1mm.

[0091] Figure 19A is a top view of the device 150 according to another embodiment. As before, the base 154 of the device cavity has electrodes 156 aligned along the major axis 180, and equally spaced apart from the minor axis 182. Lockout electrodes 166 are shown as being present on circle 184, but differently oriented than previously illustrated. As with the embodiment illustrated in Figure 18 A, the device 150 of Figure 19A will function with the pod 100 of Figures 5 and 15.

[0092] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the dimensions of this device 150 may be similar to those of Figure 18A, but with the lockout electrodes 166 rotated by 90° about the center of the base 154.

[0093] Figure 19B illustrates an alternate embodiment of pod 100 that makes use of contacts 108a and 108b along with the airflow inlet 104 being oriented along the major axis 122 so as to align with the electrodes 156 on device 150 of Figure 19A. Loopback contact 110 is placed in alignment with the lockout electrodes 166 on device 150 of Figure 19A, so they align with locations on circle 126. An optional second loopback contact 110 is also shown in dashed lines. A second loopback contact 110 may allow for the pod 100 to be reversible when inserted into device 150.

[0094] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the dimensions of this pod 100 will be set to achieve compatibility with device 150 of Figure 19A. In general, the dimensions will be similar to those of the pod 100 of Figure 18B, with the loopback contact(s) 110 rotated by 90° about the center of the end cap 106 of pod 100. Compatibility with the device 150 of Figure 19A can also be achieved through the use of pod 100 as illustrated in either of Figure 15 or Figure 5.

[0095] Although discussed above in the context of a pod-device interface, it should be understood that the use of lockout electrodes and a loopback electrical contact can be extended beyond the pod-device interface. Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment in which vaping device 150 is designed to accommodate both pod 100 as well as a third component, in this illustration a power cell 190. It should be understood that power cell 190 is used as an example, and should not be considered to be restrictive of the function of additional components that can interact with the device 150. Power cell 190 may be a battery that supplements an internal battery within device 150, or it may be a removable primary battery. [0096] Pod 100 and device 150 interact through the physical interface discussed above, and as presented near the top of Figure 20. Pod 100 is sized for insertion into a cavity of device 150 so that the base (defined by end cap 106) of pod 100 interacts with a base 154 of device 150. On end cap 106 are electrical contacts 108 which are arranged to contact electrodes 156 to receive power from a battery to power a heater within pod 100. Also illustrated is a metal airflow inlet 116 located within end cap 106 that allows airflow to enter pod 100, but also serves to bridge lockout electrodes 166 in device 150. As illustrated above, lockout electrodes 166 are part of an electrical path between two elements within device 150, such as a pressure sensor and a battery. The electrical connection between these elements is only completed when pod 100 is inserted into device 150 allowing a third electrical contact, here shown as metal airflow inlet 116, to connect the lockout electrodes 166.

[0097] A similar interface can be used between device 150 and the third component, here shown as power cell 190. In addition to positive and negative terminals 192, 194 which connect to electrodes 184 on the face 182 of device 150, there is provided a third electrical contact 196 that is electrically isolated from other systems in the third component 190. This third electrical contact 196 connects lockout electrodes 186 to complete a connection between two subsystems in device 150.

[0098] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in Figure 20, device 150 is shown with lockout electrodes 166, 186 at each interface. In other embodiments, it is possible for device 150 to house the loopback contact, while another component, such as power cell 190 houses the lockout electrodes. In one embodiment, a battery management system can have its connection to either a power source or control circuitry within power cell 190 connected through a set of lockout electrodes. This means that a battery management system within power cell 190 can be rendered inoperable until power cell 190 is inserted into device 150. [0099] Thus, it should be understood that it is possible to describe some embodiments as a vaping system having at least first and second components. In some embodiments there may be a third component as well. The interface between the first and second components comprises a pair of electrodes on one component that match with a pair of contacts on the other component. This set of electrodes and contacts may be used for the delivery of power from one component to the other. In addition, there is a set of lockout electrodes that connect a pair of components within the component with the lockout electrodes. The electrodes are matched on the other component by a loopback contact that serves to electrically connect the lockout electrodes when the first and second components are mated. Thus, when the first and second components are the pod 100 and the device 150, the device 150 has a pair of electrodes that are used to deliver power to the heater within the pod 100 through connection to a pair of electrical contacts. The lockout electrodes can be used, as described above to lockout a component within the device until insertion of the pod. In another embodiment, the pod 100 may house the lockout electrodes, for example locking out the ability to deliver power across the heater, even if power is applied to contacts 108 unless a pair of lockout electrodes are connected by a loopback contact within the device 150.

[00100] In the above discussions, the third contact 110 has been referred to as being electrically isolated from other components in the pod 100. This allows the loopback contact 110, to provide a connection to the lockout contacts 166 so that the pressure sensor 162 can be connected to other components in the device 150, such as the battery 158. The electrical structure of the pod 100, as it pertains to the contact 110 will now be discussed with respect to both electrical isolation from other components, and effective electrical isolation from other components. Figure 21 A illustrates the configuration of electrical components within pod 100 according to an embodiment. Within pod 100, is the heater 114, which is connected to electrical contacts 108. This allows power from the device to be applied across the heater 114 to allow for atomization of the liquid within pod 100. Loopback contact 110 (or contact 116 in other embodiments) is present, but is connected to no other components so that when pod 100 is inserted into device 150, it bridges the lockout electrodes 166. As no other component of pod 100 is connected to loopback contact 110, it is electrically isolated from other components within pod 100.

[00101] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, complete electrical isolation is not required, and instead effective isolation is sufficient. To understand some of the mechanisms, the configuration of device 150 as illustrated in Figure 14 will be considered, where the connection between battery 158 and pressure sensor 162 is routed through lockout electrodes 166. Assuming that pressure sensor 162 makes use of direct current (DC) power from battery 158, contact 110 needs to bridge the lockout electrodes 166 so that during the use of the device 150, the pressure sensor 162 is powered. There may be some implementations of the electrical design of pod 100 in which loopback contact 110 is only effectively electrically isolated. Figure 2 IB illustrates one such implementation. Within pod 100, is heater 114 connected between the two contacts 108. Loopback contact 110 is connected to one of the contacts 108 through a diode 130. In the illustrated embodiment, power from battery 158 may be provided to contact 110 when the pod 100 is inserted, but it will not flow from contact 110 to contact 108 due the the presence of the diode 130. The diode 130 effectively isolates the loopback contact 110 from the other electrical components of pod 100, allowing pod 100 to enable the pressure sensor 162 within device 150. It should be understood that the device configuration of Figure 14 is being used only as an example, and should not be considered as limiting.

[00102] The electrical configuration of Figure 21C is similar in structure to that of Figure 2 IB, but in place of diode 130, a resistor 132 is employed. The resistance of resistor 132 (also referred to as the size of the resistance) may vary with respect to the implementation of device 150, but in some embodiments it may be approximately 150Q-200Q. This will present as sufficiently high resistance so that sufficient power from battery 158 will flow through the pressure sensor 162 instead of passing through resistor 132 and contact 108 to a ground. It should be noted that the range of 150Q-200Q should be considered as a minimum resistance for resistor 132. Thus, the presence of a sufficiently high resistance between loopback contact 110 and another electrical component within pod 100 maintains a substantive, or effective, electrical isolation of the loopback contact 110.

[00103] The electrical configuration of Figure 21D is similar in structure to that of Figures 2 IB and 21C, but instead of a resistor or diode, a capacitor 134 is used in a connection between loopback contact 110 and a contact 108. Because the pressure sensor 162 operates using direct current, the voltage applied to the lockout electrode 166 connected to battery 158 is a DC voltage instead of an alternating (AC) voltage. Capacitor 134 functions as an open circuit to DC current, and thus it still causes the loopback contact 110 to be substantially electrically isolated from other electrical components within pod 100.

[00104] It should be understood that there may be other configurations, including those using at least one of diode 130, large resistance such as resistor 132, and capacitor 134 to physically connect the loopback contact 110 to another component, while still leaving it substantially electrically isolated. Such a configuration will still allow the loopback contact 110 to serve as a bridge between the lockout electrodes 166 so that sufficient power from battery 158 can be delivered to pressure sensor 162. In other configurations of device 150, the locked out component is electrically connected by the loopback contact 110 when the loopback contact is substantially electrically isolated from other components.

[00105] In the discussion of Figures 21 A-21D, reference has been made to loopback contact 110 (also referred to as third contact 110). It should be understood that loopback airflow inlet 116 can be substituted for loopback contact 110. Reference was made to only loopback contact 110 for the sake of simplicity of explanation, and should not be seen as restrictive.

[0100] In the above description, within device 150 components subject to lockout 172 have a connection to another element interrupted through the use of lockout electrodes 166. This has been illustrated in different figures as the interruption of the connection of a component, such as the pressure sensor 162 from a connection to the battery 158 (as shown in Figure 14), or the connection to the processor 160. It should be understood that lockout can also be achieved through the use of an interruption of the connection of a component to its ground connection. It should be well understood that the embodiment shown in Figure 14 could be modified so that the connection from the pressure sensor 162 to the electrical ground is routed across lockout electrodes 166, where the pod 100 illustrated in the above figures would serve to connect. In another embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 22, the component subject to lockout 172 is the pressure sensor 162. Pressure sensor 162 is connected to the battery 158 and to the processor or control circuitry 160. The connection between pressure sensor 162 and electrical ground is routed to a sole lockout electrode 166. Because one of the electrodes 156 used to deliver power to the heater 114 within pod 100 is connected to ground, it may be possible to provide a device 150 using only a single lockout electrode 166.

[0101] The electrical connections of pod 100 are shown in Figure 22, while airflow and the storage of atomizable liquids are not shown for the sake of clarity. Heater 114 is illustrated as engaged with wick 112, and is operably connected to contacts 108a and 108b. When power is applied across contacts 108a and 108b, the heater increases in temperature and atomizes the liquid. Lockout electrode 166 connects to contact 136, and is connected to the ground through electrode 156 via a connection between contact 136 and contact 108b. It should be understood that the use of a common connection to a grounded electrode allows for a reduction in the number of lockout electrodes in device 150. Furthermore, it should be understood that the nature of the connection of contact 136 and contact 108b may vary between embodiments. In one embodiment, contacts 136 and 108b could be integrated into a single contact without the need for any wiring based connections. This may require a change in the shape of the contact pad, and may result in differences between the shapes of contact 108a and 108b. Illustrated in dashed lines is an optional second contact 136 connected to contact 108a. This optional second loopback contact would enable the pod 100 to be inserted into device 150 in two orientations. Much as a single contact could be employed as a combination of contacts 136 and 108b, a single contact could be employed as a combination of 108a and the optional second contact 136. In this embodiment, it should be understood that contact 136 provides a connection from lockout electrode 166 to electrical ground (via contact 108b and one of electrodes 156).

[0102] In the embodiments discussed above, it has been noted that pins, such as pogo pins, could be used for the implementation of the electrodes of the device 150, and that flat contact pads (including a flat contact pad on a contact pin) could be used for the implementation of contacts within pod 100. It should be noted that this is a design choice that is not necessarily required, but may provide for reduced cost. It is possible to implement any or all of the contacts within pod 100 using pogo pins or other such elements, and the electrodes of device 150 could be implemented using contact pads or other such elements. The specific manner in which these elements are implemented can vary between implementations and embodiments. [0103] It should be understood that the design of a pod, having an annular loopback contact, and a device having a pair of lockout electrodes, will typically end with a design where the lockout electrodes reside on the circumference of a circle centered in the base of the device cavity. The center of the circle will be determined by an initial design, and will be most clearly illustrated by the location of the annular loopback contact on the pod. After determining the placement of the electrodes along this circumference, the design of a compatible pod may use a loopback contact of a variety of different sizes and shapes. In some embodiments, the presence of the loopback contact not electrically connected to other functions in the pod is sufficient to enable the functions required. The locations of the loopback contact and the airflow inlet can be associated with each other, or they can be independent of each other in different pod designs. [0104] In the above description, in conjunction with the accompanying figures, a vaping device and associated pod have been disclosed to provide a vaping system that locks out an electrical subsystem within the vaping device. The locked out subsystem is enabled through the insertion of a pod with a loopback contact that bridges a pair of lockout electrodes in the device. Within the vaping device, the subsystem that is subject to lockout is connected to another component in the vaping device through the pair of lockout electrodes, when these electrodes are connected through a loopback contact in the pod, the subsystem is enabled. In some embodiments, lockout of the subsystem can be achieved by having the connection between the particular subsystem and the processor routed through the lockout electrodes. In other embodiments, it is the connection between the subsystem and the battery that is routed through the lockout electrodes.

[0105] With respect to the pod, the pod stores an atomizable liquid, such as e-liquid, that can be atomized within the pod through the application of power across first and second electrical contacts that are connected to a heater. The contacts may be connected directly to the heater in some embodiments, while in others there may be other elements between at least one of the contacts and the heater. A direct or indirect connection that facilitates delivery of power to the heater may be referred to as being operably connected. The application of power from the vaping device across these electrodes allows for the atomization of the atomizable liquid adjacent to the heater. In some embodiments the heater is paired with a wick to form an atomization system. The wick may be formed of a material such as cotton, hemp, wool, linen, nylon, rayon, or other such fabric that allows for wicking. In other embodiments, the wick may be formed of fibers such as glass fibers. It should be understood that the exact mechanisms within the atomization system are not necessarily germane to the intended scope of protection outlined within the claims. Exposed on a surface of the pod is a third electrical contact. This contact is effectively isolated from other electrical components within the pod. Effective isolation of the third contact may include having the third contact not electrically connected to other elements, or it may include having the third contact physically connected to other elements in a fashion that sufficiently impedes the electrical connection of the third contact to other elements within the pod. This configuration allows the contact to safely act to bridge lockout contacts on the vaporizer device, thus enabling the locked out component. The first, second and third electrical contacts are, in many embodiments, positioned within an end cap that is designed to be inserted into a reservoir to create a sealed pod. However, in some embodiments, the third contact may be presented on another face of the pod. The size and placement of the electrical contacts in some embodiments of the pod are provided above. [0106] In some embodiments, the third electrical contact, while on the bottom face of the pod, is on a plane different from the plane in which the first and second electrical contacts are situated. In some embodiments these two planes are parallel to each other. This effectively raises the third contact above the first and second contacts in some embodiments. The third electrical contact is, in some embodiments, annular or at least partially annular. The at least partially annular shape of the third electrical contact can allow for the air inlet into the pod to be nested within the space inside the contact. In some embodiments, the annular contact is structured to serve as the inlet to the airflow path.

[0107] In some embodiments, the third electrical contact is formed from first and second pieces that can be linked together. The connection between the first and second pieces may be a conductor, or in some embodiments a semiconductor. A conductor connecting the first and second pieces may demonstrate any of a resistance, a capacitance and an inductance, while a semiconductor connecting the first and second pieces may demonstrate a voltage drop or other non-linear electrical characteristic.

[0108] Another expression of the above described pod is that the pod comprises an airflow path through the pod, a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid and an atomization system for atomizing the atomizable liquid. The airflow path may be defined by structures within pod components, such as a reservoir and an end cap. The airflow path will typically terminate at the top of the pod, which may then be fitted with a mouthpiece. The inlet to the airflow path is situated on the base of the pod and is metallic. Examples of the metals and alloys that could be used include nickel, copper and brass. The metallic inlet may also be ferromagnetic in addition to being conductive. The inlet may further be gold plated. In some configurations, the end cap which is inserted into an open end of the reservoir has the metallic inlet set into it, so that the inlet can become part of the base of the pod.

[0109] In both of the immediately above described implementations of the pod, it should be understood that the atomizable liquid may be stored within a reservoir. Within the reservoir, the atomizable liquid may be stored as free liquid, or it may be stored within a matrix, such as a cartomizer matrix. The cartomizer matrix may be formed of natural fibers, or it may be a sponge formed from fibers such as nylon that are blown into a mold to create a sponge. Additionally, in both pods, the atomizable liquid may be an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant, while in other embodiments it may comprise a cannabinoid.

[0110] The vaping device designed to interact with pods described above allows for a component of the vaping device to be locked out without the presence of a pod. The component subject to lockout is typically connected to at least one other component within the vaping device, and this connection is routed through a set of so-called lockout electrodes. When a pod is inserted, the third electrical contact of the pod (which may be the metallic inlet) bridges the lockout electrodes and enables use of the locked out component. The vaping device makes use of control circuitry (such as a processor executing stored instructions) to regulate the delivery of power from a battery to a first electrode. Typically the delivery of power to the first electrode results in a voltage differential between the first electrode and a second electrode. These two electrodes can be referred to as the first set of electrodes. This regulation of the delivery of power is performed in accordance with a signal indicative of use received from a pressure sensor. In some embodiments, this pressure sensor is a pressure switch, and can be integrated into the control circuitry. Typically the pressure sensor generates a signal indicative of use when it detects a change in pressure that is associated with the user inhaling on the device. This ties the delivery of power to a user input indicating that the device should be in use. A second set of electrodes (different than the first set of electrodes) is also present within the device. This second set of electrodes is a part of an electrical path that connects the component subject to lockout to another element or component within the vaporizing device. This electrical path is incomplete without a pod. With the insertion of a pod, the second set of electrodes (the lockout electrodes) are bridged and the locked out component is connected.

[0111] In some embodiments, the second set of electrodes may have a different length than the first set of electrodes, allowing the pod to have the contacts connected to the heater to be at a different height than the loopback contacts. The first and second set of electrodes can be situated on the base of a cavity within the device, the cavity sized to receive the corresponding pod. Specific dimensions of the base of the cavity, and the location of the electrodes has been disclosed above.

[0112] In a further alternate embodiment, a device as described above making use of lockout electrodes may be paired with a modular pod 200. Pod 200, as illustrated in a bottom view in Figure 23, may be internally similar in structure to previously described pods. A reservoir 202 can be used to store atomizable liquid (in some embodiments within a cartomizer, and in other embodiments as a free liquid), and is sealed by the insertion of an end cap 206. Airflow passage inlet 204 is present in the base, as are electrical contacts 208a and 208b which may be connected to a heater or other such atomizer.

[0113] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the base of pod 200 does not have a loopback contact, and thus will not allow the bridging of lockout electrodes in the above described devices. Figure 24A-C illustrates top, front and bottom views of an adapter plate 210 that can be used in conjunction with pod 200 to provide a loopback contact. Figure 24A illustrates a top view of the adapter plate 210 which is sized to engage with the pod 200. A base plate 216 has an aperture 214 that in the illustrated embodiment allows air to flow into inlet 204 of pod 200 when the adapter plate 210 is engaged with pod 200. Additionally, electrical pass through contacts 218a and 218b are positioned within base plate 216 so that they align with contacts 208a and 208b of pod 200. The size and shape of pass through contacts 218a and 218b may be varied so that a mismatch in the size and placement of contacts 208a and 208b of pod 200 with respect to the placement of electrodes within the device can be rectified.

[0114] Figure 24B illustrates a front view of adapter plate 210. Adapter plate 210 is shown having a height so that it can hold pod 200 in an engagement position. On the bottom of adapter plate 210 are external portions of pass through contacts 218a and 218b, as well as a loopback contact 212. When engaged with pod 200, and inserted into a device having lockout electrodes, adapter plate 210 allows for power to be delivered to the atomizer of pod 200 through a connection between pod contacts 208a and 208b and the respective pass through contacts 218a and 218b. The lockout electrodes of the device would make contact with loopback contact 212, allowing for the activation of the locked out component. Thus, a pod 200 inserted into adapter plate 210 will enable the use of a device having lockout electrodes as described above.

[0115] Figure 24C illustrates a bottom view of the adapter plate 210, with base plate 216 housing pass through contacts 218a and 218b, and with airflow passage 214 surrounded by an annular loopback contact 212 substantially centered on the base plate 216.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in other embodiments, in place of pass through contacts 218a and 218b, the electrodes of the device may pass through apertures that allow for a direct connection with electrical contacts 208a and 208b of pod 200. In some embodiments, it may be possible to have one of passthrough contacts 218a and 218b, with the other of contacts 218a and 218b replaced with an aperture. If adapter plate 210 allows space between the base of pod 200 and the base plate 216, it may be possible for loopback contact 212 to be provided as a disc, with aperture 214 either moved to a different location on base plate 216 or be omitted, with airflow into inlet 204 provided through apertures on the sidewall of adapter 210.

[0117] In some embodiments, base plate 216 itself may be conductive, thus integrating loopback contact 212 into the body of base plate 216. In such an embodiment, pass through contacts 218a and 218b may be insulated from base plate 216, or they may be omitted and replaced with apertures that allow for the device electrodes to make direct contact with electrical contacts 208a and 208b on pod 200.

[0118] To engage pod 200, adapter plate 210 may, as shown in Figure 24B have sidewalls that allow for a friction fit with pod 200. Variations of this may involve the use of detents, releasable latches and other such physical structures that would be understood by those skilled in the art to allow releasable or one-time attachment of the adapter plate 210 to the pod 200.

[0119] In another embodiment, a magnetic connection between the endcap 206 and the adapter plate 210 may allow for the adapter plate 210 to not require sidewalls. In some embodiments, the adapter plate may engage with endcap 206 to provide only a loopback contact 212 without overlapping the electrical contacts 208a and 208b, thus negating the need for pass through contacts 218a and 218b.

[0120] The above described dimensions of an end cap, electrical contacts and loopback contact can be applied to the pod 200 and adapter plate 210 of Figures 23 and 24A-C, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0121] In another embodiment, adapter plate 210 can be configured to be connected to the vaping device so that pod 200 can be easily removed from the device and replaced without need for removing and attaching the adapter plate 210 from the individual pods. In such an embodiment, adapter plate 210 may be magnetically affixed to the device, or it may be held in place through a friction fit. Adapter plate 210 may be slightly differently sized, but would still have the same appearance as shown in Figures 24A-C.

[0122] As illustrated above, with respect to a pod having a loopback contact, and an adapter plate, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the loopback contact is substantially smaller than the end cap of the pod, and in further embodiments may be substantially centered on the face of the end cap.

[0123] Figure 25 illustrates a further embodiment of a vaping device 250 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As with other such illustrated vaping devices, other components may be present, but this figure is used to illustrate a further configuration of a device 250 making use of lockout electrodes. Within vaping device 250 is a battery 258 which is shown as connected to the pressure sensor 262. This battery 258 can be used to provide power to any number of other elements, including processor 260, and to a set of electrodes that connect with electrical contacts on a pod. This set of electrodes that connect with electrical contacts on a pod allow for the delivery of power to an atomizer within the pod, such as a heater.

[0124] When a user draws on a pod that has been inserted into device 250, pressure sensor 262 will detect an induced change in pressure, as described above, and will generate a signal indicative of use of the vaping device 250 and pod. This signal indicative of use is provided to processor 260. Processor 260 has both an output and an input connected to lockout electrodes 266. Subsequent to receipt of the signal from pressure sensor 262, processor 260 can transmit a signal through its output connected to lockout electrode 266. If a pod with a properly positioned loopback contact is inserted into device 250, this signal will be received, as the lockout electrodes 266 will form a loop. This allows processor 260 to determine if the lockout electrodes 266 are connected to each other. The processor 260 can be configured to deliver power to the electrodes connecting to the pod atomizer only upon confirmation that the lockout electrodes 266 have been connected to each other. In embodiments in which the electrodes connected to the atomizer allow for a detection of the insertion of the pod, the processor 260, can verify the connection between electrodes 266 upon detection of pod insertion instead of verifying the connection between electrodes 266 for every use of the device 250. In both scenarios, the processor 260 regulates the delivery of power from battery 258 to the atomizer within the pod in accordance with receipt of a signal from the pressure sensor 262 and verification of a connection between electrodes 266. It should be understood that the signal indicative of use, and the signal sent to lockout electrode 266 by processor 160 may, in some embodiments be the change from a low voltage to a high voltage (or the converse). [0125] In earlier described embodiments of device 150 the lockout electrodes 166 were used to create an interruptible connection between components, or subcomponents, within the vaping device 150. This prevents the firing of the device 150 when no pod is inserted. In the embodiments of device 250, the device 250 can be configured to be substantially similar to device 150, but lockout electrodes 266 both connect to a single component or subcomponent that is configured to operate or fully perform a function only when electrodes 266 are connected to each other. This allows for a second mechanism to provide component or subcomponent level lockout by using at least one component that can effectively self-lockout in the absence of a connection of the lockout electrodes.

[0126] Although presented above in the context of use in an electronic nicotine delivery system such as an electronic cigarette (e-cig) or a vaporizer (vape) it should be understood that the scope of protection need not be limited to this space, and instead is delimited by the scope of the claims. Embodiments of the present invention are anticipated to be applicable in areas other than ENDS, including (but not limited to) other vaporizing applications. It should be understood that in ENDS systems, the e-liquid is typically composed of a combination of any of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and flavorings. In systems designed for the delivery of other compounds, such as cannabinoids, different compositions and carriers may be used.

[0127] In the instant description, and in the accompanying figures, reference to dimensions may be made. These dimensions are provided for the enablement of a single embodiment and should not be considered to be limiting or essential. The sizes and dimensions provided in the drawings are provided for exemplary purposes and should not be considered limiting of the scope of the invention, which is defined solely in the claims.

Claims

1. A pod for storing an atomizable liquid, and for physically and electrically interfacing with a vaporizer device for delivering power from a battery to the pod, the pod comprising: first and second electrical contacts operably connected to a heater, the contacts for connecting with corresponding first and second electrodes on the vaporizer device to receive power to activate the heater; and a third electrical contact, substantially electrically isolated from other electrical components within the pod.

2. The pod of claim 1 wherein each of the first, second and third electrical contacts are positioned within an end cap.

3. The pod of claim 2 wherein the end cap is comprised of plastic.

4. The pod of any one of claims 2 and 3 wherein the third electrical contact is smaller than the end cap.

5. The pod of any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein the first and second electrical contacts are aligned along a major axis of the pod, and are each located approximately 7mm from the center of the end cap.

6. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the third electrical contact is an annular ring.

7. The pod of claim 6 wherein the annular ring is centered on an external face of the end cap.

8. The pod of any one of claims 6 and 7 wherein the annular ring has an internal diameter of approximately 4.90mm.

9. The pod of any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the annular ring has an external diameter of approximately 6.86mm.

10. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the first and second electrical contacts are positioned to interact with electrodes situated between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm apart, center to center, on a major axis of the vaporizer device.

11. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the third electrical contact is positioned to interact with first and second lockout electrodes on the vaporizer device.

12. The pod of claim 11 wherein the first and second lockout electrodes are situated approximately 3.25mm apart center to center, offset from a major axis of the vaporizer device by approximately 2.52mm.

13. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the third electrical contact is positioned to interact with first and second lockout electrodes situated approximately 6mm apart center-to-center on a major axis of the vaporizer device.

14. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein the first and second electrical contacts reside within a first plane, and wherein the third electrode is outside the first plane.

15. The pod of claim 14 wherein the first plane defines the bottom of the pod.

16. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the first and second electrical contacts are positioned on a bottom face of the pod, and wherein the third electrode is positioned on a face different than the bottom face.

17. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the third electrical contact is at least partially annular.

18. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 17 further comprising an aperture connected to an airflow passage through the pod, wherein the third electrical contact at least partially surrounds the aperture.

19. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 17 further comprising an aperture connected to an airflow passage through the pod, wherein the aperture is defined by an inner surface of the third electrical contact.

20. The pod of any one of claims 18 and 19 where the third electrical contact is annular and surrounds the aperture.

21. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 20 wherein the third electrical contact comprises a first part and a second part connected to each other.

22. The pod of claim 21 wherein the first part of the third electrical contact is positioned to contact a first lockout electrode of the vaporizer device and the second part of the third electrical contact is positioned to contact a second lockout electrode of the vaporizer device.

23. The pod of any one of claims 21 and 22 wherein the connection between the first and second parts has at least one of a resistance, a capacitance and an inductance.

24. The pod of any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein the connection between the first and second parts is one of a conductor and a semiconductor.

25. The pod of claim 24 wherein the connection between the first and second parts comprises a diode.

26. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 25 wherein the atomizable liquid is an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant.

27. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 26 wherein the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid.

28. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 27 further comprising a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid as a free liquid.

29. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 27 further comprising a reservoir having a cartomizer matrix for storing the atomizable liquid.

30. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 29 wherein the third electrical contact is connected to at least one of the first and second electrical contacts by a diode.

31. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 29 wherein the third electrical contact is connected to at least one of the first and second electrical contacts by a capacitor.

32. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 29 wherein the third electrical contact is connected to at least one of the fist and second electrical contacts by a resistor.

33. The pod of claim 32 wherein the resistor provides a resistance of at least approximately 150Q.

34. The pod of any one of claims 1 to 5 and 10 to 33 wherein the third electrical contact is substantially centered on an external face of the pod.

35. The pod of claim 34 wherein the first and second electrical contacts are positioned on the same external face of the pod as the third electrical contact.

36. The pod of any one of claims 34 and 35 wherein the third contact is substantially smaller than the external face of the pod on which it is centered.

37. A pod for storing an atomizable liquid, for use with an vaporizing device, the pod comprising: an airflow path through the pod, having an outlet on a top of the pod and a metallic airflow inlet on a base of the pod; a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid; and an atomization system for atomizing the atomizable liquid stored in the reservoir for entrainment in an airflow through the airflow path connected to first and second electrical contacts on the base of the pod.

38. The pod of claim 37 wherein the atomizable liquid is an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant.

39. The pod of any one of claims 37 and 38 wherein the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid.

40. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 39 wherein the metallic inlet is formed from at least one of nickel and copper.

41. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 40 wherein the metallic inlet is plated in gold.

42. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 41 wherein the metallic inlet is set into an end cap sealing an open end of the reservoir.

43. The pod of claim 42 wherein the metallic inlet comprises a capillary seal having machined apertures.

44. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 43 wherein the metallic inlet is ferromagnetic and conductive.

45. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 44 wherein the reservoir stores the atomizable liquid as a free liquid.

46. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 44 further comprising a cartomizer matrix within the reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid.

47. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 46 wherein the metallic inlet is an annular ring.

48. The pod of claim 47 wherein the annular ring is centered on the base of the pod and has at least one of an internal diameter of approximately 4.9mm and an external diameter of approximately 6.86mm.

49. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 48 wherein the first and second contacts are configured to connect the atomization system to a battery within the vaporizing device.

50. The pod of claim 49 wherein the first and second contacts are positioned to interact with electrodes situated between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm apart, center to center, on a major axis of the vaporizer device.

51. The pod of any one of claims 36 and 50 wherein the first and second contacts reside within a first plane, and wherein the metallic inlet is outside the first plane.

52. The pod of any one of claims 37 to 51 wherein the metallic inlet is substantially electrically isolated from electrical components within the pod.

53. A vaporizing device for atomizing an atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod, the device comprising: a battery for storing power; control circuitry for regulating the delivery of power from the battery to at least a first electrode in a first set of electrodes in accordance with receipt of a signal indicative of use; and a second set of electrodes, different than the first set of electrodes, connecting a component subject to lockout to another element within the vaporizing device.

54. The vaporizing device of claim 53 wherein the first set of electrodes is comprised of the first and a second electrode for delivering power to a heater within a pod, and the second set of electrodes comprises a third and fourth electrode electrically connected to each other upon insertion of a pod, to connect two components within the device.

55. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 and 54 wherein the second set of electrodes, upon insertion of a pod, connects at least one of: the pressure sensor to the battery; the pressure sensor to the control circuitry; a wireless subsystem to the battery; a wireless subsystem to an antenna; and a wireless subsystem to a processor.

56. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 to 55 wherein the control circuitry comprises a processor for executing stored instructions to carry out control processes.

57. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 to 56 wherein the control circuitry is connected to at least one of a signal generator and a switch.

58. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 to 57 wherein the second set of electrodes have a longer length than the first set of electrodes.

59. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 to 58 wherein first and second sets of electrodes are situated on an exposed face of a cavity sized to receive the removable pod.

60. The vaporizing device of claim 59 wherein: the exposed face has a major axis between approximately 23.7mm and approximately 23.99mm in length and a minor axis between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 14.8mm in length; the first set of electrodes comprises first and second electrodes situated along the major axis and the first and second electrodes are spaced apart from each other by between approximately 13.5mm and approximately 15.5mm center-to-center.

61. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 59 and 60 wherein the second set of electrodes comprises third and fourth electrodes spaced apart between approximately 3mm and approximately 3.25mm center-to-center and the second set of electrodes are offset from the major axis by between approximately 2.52mm and approximately 2.6mm.

62. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 59 and 60 wherein the second set of electrodes comprises third and fourth electrodes situated along the major axis and spaced apart from each other 6mm center-to-center.

63. The vaporizing device of any one of claims 53 to 62 wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive the signal indicative of use from a pressure sensor.

64. A vaping system for atomizing an atomizable liquid, the vaping system comprising: a first component having a first and second lockout electrodes; and a second component, for mating with the first component and for electrically connecting to the first component through an electrical interface having a loopback contact sized and positioned on the second component to connect the first and second lockout electrodes when the first and second components are mated.

65. The vaping system of claim 64 wherein the first component is a vaping device, and the second component is a pod storing the atomizable liquid.

66. The vaping system of claim 65 wherein the pod comprises a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid as a free liquid.

67. The vaping system of any one of claims 65 and 66 wherein the pod comprises a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid within a cartomizer matrix.

68. The vaping system of any one of claims 65 to 67 wherein the first and second lockout electrodes are connected to different subsystems in the first component.

69. The vaping system of claim 68 wherein the first and second lockout electrodes form an interrupted path connecting at least one of: a pressure sensor to control circuitry; a wireless subsystem to a battery; a wireless subsystem to an antenna; and a wireless subsystem to a processor.

70. The vaping system of claim 68 wherein the first lockout electrode is connected to a pressure sensor and the second lockout electrode is connected to a battery.

71. The vaping system of claim 70 wherein the first component is a pod storing the atomizable liquid, and the second component is the vaping device.

72. The vaping system of any one of claims 70 and 71 further comprising a third component for mating with one of the first component and the second component, and for electrically connecting to the one of the first and second components through a second electrical interface.

73. The vaping system of claim 72 wherein the second electrical interface comprises a second pair of lockout electrodes and a second loopback contact.

74. The vaping system of claim 73 wherein the third component mates with the first component and the second pair of lockout electrodes are situated on the first component.

75. The vaping system of any one of claims 69 to 71 further comprising a third component for mating with the first component and configured to store the atomizable liquid.

76. The vaping system of claim 75 wherein the third component is a pod having a reservoir for storing atomizable liquid within a cartomizer matrix.

77. The vaping system of claims 75 and 76 wherein the third component is a pod having a reservoir for storing the atomizable liquid as a free liquid.

78. The vaping system of claims 75 to 77 wherein the first component is a vaping device and the second component is a power cell.

79. The vaping system of claims 65 to 78 wherein the atomizable liquid is an e-liquid comprising at least one of vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine and a flavorant.

80. The vaping system of claims 65 to 79 wherein the atomizable liquid comprises a cannabinoid.

81. A vaporizing device for atomizing an atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod, the device comprising: control circuitry for regulating the delivery of power from a battery to a first electrode in accordance with receipt of a signal indicative of use, the first electrode for connection with a first contact in the removable pod; a second electrode for connection with a second contact in the removable pod, for providing a ground connection to the second contact; and a third electrode, for connection with a third contact in the removable pod, unconnected to ground and connected to a ground connection of a subsystem within the vaporizing device.

82. The vaporizing device of claim 81 wherein the subsystem is one of a pressure sensor, a processor associated with the control circuitry, a wireless communication subsystem, and an antenna.

83. The vaporizing device of claim 82 wherein the subsystem within the vaporizing device does not operate while not connected to ground.

84. The vaporizing device of any one of claim 81 to 83 wherein the signal indicative of use is received from a pressure sensor.

85. The vaporizing device of claims 81 to 84 wherein the control circuitry comprises a processor for executing stored instructions to carry out control processes.

86. A vaporizing device for atomizing an atomizable liquid stored in a removable pod, the device comprising: a battery for storing power; a set of lockout electrodes for connecting an output of a first component to an input of the first component upon insertion of the removable pod; and control circuitry for regulating the delivery of power from the battery to at least a first electrode in a first set of electrodes, different than the lockout electrodes, in accordance with receipt of a signal indicative of use.

87. An adapter plate for attachment to both a vaporizing device and a pod for storing an atomizable liquid, the adapter plate comprising: a base plate sized to fit within a cavity of the vaporizing device; and an electrically conductive surface on the base plate positioned to connect to a pair of electrodes on the vaporizing device.

88. The adapter plate of claim 87 further comprising first and second passthrough contacts for respectively connecting to first and second electrodes on the vaporizing device, and sized to connect to first and second electrical contacts on the pod to allow for delivery of power from the first and second electrodes to the first and second electrical contacts.

89. The adapter plate of claim 87 wherein the base plate comprises first and second passthrough apertures sized and positioned on the base plate to allow first and second electrodes on the vaporizing device to connect to first and second electrical contacts om the pod to allow for delivery of power from the first and second electrodes to the first and second electrical contacts.

90. The adapter plate of one of claims 88 and 89, wherein the base plate is non-conductive.

91. The adapter plate of any one of claims 87 to 90 wherein the adapter plate is configured to attach to the pod.

92. The adapter plate of any one of claims 87 to 89 wherein the adapter plate is configured to attach to the vaporizing device.