Electronic cigarette with liquid reservoir

Abstract

An electronic cigarette including an housing that has a mouthpiece with an aerosol outlet, and an atomizer disposed within an atomizing chamber. The atomizer selectively generates an aerosol of the liquid in response to suction pressure at the aerosol outlet. The atomizing chamber has an air inlet, an atomizer outlet coupled to the aerosol outlet, and a first wick aperture. A liquid reservoir is disposed within the housing, which is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber. A wick disposed through the first wick aperture between the liquid reservoir and the atomizing chamber and it is configured to transfer the liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic cigarette cartridge apparatus, comprising:
 a housing having a mouthpiece with an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizer disposed within an atomizing chamber, and operable to selectively generate an aerosol of the a liquid in response to electric current flowing therethrough; 
 said atomizing chamber having an air inlet, an atomizer outlet coupled to said aerosol outlet, and a first wick aperture, and a second wick aperture; 
 a liquid reservoir disposed within said housing and sealably separated from said atomizing chamber,; and 
 a wick disposed in contact with the liquid in the liquid reservoir through said first wick aperture between said liquid reservoir and said atomizing chamber and said second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer and configured to transfer the liquid by capillarity from said liquid reservoir to said atomizer; 
 wherein said atomizer outlet and said aerosol outlet are coupled by a chimney. 
 
     
     
       2. The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of said housing and coupled to deliver air to said atomizing chamber air inlet. 
 
     
     
       3. The apparatus of  claim 2 , and wherein said inlet vent is coupled to said atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit. 
     
     
       4. The apparatus of  claim 3 , and wherein said conduit sealably passes through said liquid reservoir. 
     
     
       5. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said chimney sealably passes through said liquid reservoir. 
     
     
       6. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said atomizer is a resistive heating element. 
     
     
       7. The apparatus of  claim 6 , and wherein said wick is partially engages said resistive heating element. 
     
     
       8. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said atomizer has a tubular form defining an open central passage. 
     
     
       9. The apparatus of  claim 8 , and wherein said wick passes through said open central passage. 
     
     
       10. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said atomizing chamber further comprises a second wick aperture, and wherein a first end of said wick passes through said first wick aperture and a second end of said wick passes through said second wick aperture. 
     
     
       11. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said wick is fabricated as a bundle of heat resistant fibers. 
     
     
       12. The apparatus of claim  11  1, and wherein said wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers, and wherein said bundle of heat resistant fibers is fiberglass. 
     
     
       13. The apparatus of claim  11  1, and wherein said wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers, and wherein said bundle of heat resistant fibers is fabricated from a material selected from; aramid, fluorocarbon, sulfide, melamine, polyimide, carbon, and glass. 
     
     
       14. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said liquid reservoir is formed as an annular cavity between the an interior of said housing and said atomizing chamber. 
     
     
       15. The apparatus of  claim 1 , and wherein said liquid reservoir includes an external access opening,  for enabling addition of liquid into said liquid reservoir. 
     
     
       16. The apparatus of  claim 15 , and wherein said external access opening is a removable mouthpiece. 
     
     
       17. A method, comprising:
 transferring liquid from a liquid reservoir of an electronic cigarette cartridge to an atomizing chamber of the cartridge with a wick extending between the liquid reservoir and the atomizing chamber, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds and is sealed from an interior of the atomizing chamber;   generating an aerosol of the liquid in the atomizing chamber; and   channeling the aerosol from an outlet of the atomizing chamber to an aerosol outlet of the electronic cigarette cartridge with a chimney coupled to the outlet of the atomizing chamber and to the aerosol outlet.    
     
     
       18. The method of claim 17, where the liquid reservoir is without a porous material for storing the liquid.  
     
     
       19. The method of claim 17, wherein transferring liquid from a liquid reservoir to an atomizing chamber with a wick comprises transferring the liquid by capillarity with the wick.  
     
     
       20. The method of claim 17, wherein generating an aerosol of the liquid comprises generating aerosol with an electrically powered atomizer in the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       21. The method of claim 17, wherein channeling the aerosol with a chimney comprises channeling the aerosol with the chimney through the liquid reservoir, the chimney being sealed from the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wick extends between the liquid reservoir and an interior of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir adjacent the wick is free from porous material.  
     
     
       24. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first wick aperture is circular.  
     
     
       25. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an atomizing assembly comprising a body and the atomizer, the atomizing assembly comprising a first recess formed therein that aligns with the first wick aperture in the atomizing chamber and provides a compressive fit around the wick.  
     
     
       26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the first wick aperture and the first recess cooperate to define a circular aperture.  
     
     
       27. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture each comprise a fixed width slot terminating in a curved end, the fixed width configured to receive the wick.  
     
     
       28. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds and is sealed from an interior of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       29. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chimney is sealed to the atomizer outlet.  
     
     
       30. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a sealed path from the atomizer outlet, through the chimney to the aerosol outlet.  
     
     
       31. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chimney and atomizing chamber are cylindrical and the maximum exterior diameter of the chimney is less than the maximum interior diameter of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       32. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is elongate, and the maximum transverse exterior dimension of the chimney is less than the maximum transverse interior diameter of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       33. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the atomizing chamber and the chimney are formed as a single unit.  
     
     
       34. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a transparent material through which the liquid in the liquid reservoir can be viewed from the exterior of the apparatus.  
     
     
       35. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an insert in the housing, the insert comprising the aerosol outlet.  
     
     
       36. The apparatus of claim 1, coupled to a power supply portion, wherein the power supply portion comprises a pressure sensor configured to detect negative pressure within the power supply portion and energize the atomizer.  
     
     
       37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the power supply portion comprises an LED positioned at a tip end of the power supply portion, the LED configured to illuminate in response to the pressure sensor detecting negative pressure in the power supply portion.  
     
     
       38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the LED comprises an amber LED configured to emulate burning ash when illuminated.  
     
     
       39. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chimney is sealed to the atomizer outlet, the chimney and atomizing chamber are cylindrical, and the apparatus comprises a sealed path from the atomizer outlet, through the chimney to the aerosol outlet.  
     
     
       40. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds and is sealed from an interior of the atomizing chamber, the atomizing chamber and the chimney are formed as a single unit, and the apparatus comprises a sealed path from the atomizer outlet, through the chimney to the aerosol outlet.  
     
     
       41. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir;   a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       42. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir; 
 a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and 
 a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.  
   
     
     
       43. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid;   a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       44. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid; 
 a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and 
   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       45. A cartridge comprising:
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture each forming an opening between the atomizing chamber and a liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid; the atomizing chamber further comprising an atomizer outlet;   a wick partially disposed within the atomizing chamber, the wick having a first wick end extending out of the atomizing chamber through the first wick aperture into the liquid reservoir and a second wick end extending out of the atomizing chamber through the second wick aperture into the liquid reservoir, the wick configured to draw the atomization liquid into the atomizing chamber by capillarity; and   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer configured to receive electric current from a battery to facilitate generation of an aerosol by vaporizing the atomization liquid drawn into the atomizing chamber by the wick;   wherein the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet are coupled by a chimney.    
     
     
       46. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid;   a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       47. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid; 
 a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and 
 a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.  
   
     
     
       48. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid;   a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       49. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid; 
 a chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing; 
   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       50. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir;   a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the liquid reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element;   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer, the wick comprising a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture; and   an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in a pair of circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.    
     
     
       51. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir; 
 a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the liquid reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; 
 a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer, the wick comprising a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture; and 
 an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in a pair of circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
   
     
     
       52. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber, the atomizing chamber defining an open central passage;   a non-porous liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir;   a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the liquid reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet, wherein liquid reservoir is also partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney;   a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element;   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick passing through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber, the wick comprising a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture; and   an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in a pair of circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit, the atomizing assembly comprising the atomizer.    
     
     
       53. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber, the atomizing chamber defining an open central passage; 
 a non-porous liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid, the liquid reservoir comprising a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir; 
 a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the liquid reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet, wherein liquid reservoir is also partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney; 
 a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; 
 a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick passing through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber, the wick comprising a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture; and 
 an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in a pair of circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit, the atomizing assembly comprising the atomizer.  
   
     
     
       54. A cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing;   a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet;   an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber;   a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid;   a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet;   an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and   a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.    
     
     
       55. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising a rechargeable battery; and   a cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion; the cartridge comprising:
 a cartridge housing; 
 a mouthpiece end comprising an aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizing chamber disposed within the cartridge housing proximate a lower end of the cartridge housing opposite the mouthpiece end, the atomizing chamber comprising an atomizer outlet and an atomizing chamber air inlet; the atomizing chamber further comprising a first wick aperture and a second wick aperture at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber; 
 a liquid reservoir at least partially defined by an interior of the cartridge housing and an exterior of the atomizing chamber, the liquid reservoir configured to contain an atomization liquid; 
 a chimney formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber, the chimney forming at least part of an aerosol outlet path sealably passing through the reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet; 
 an atomizer disposed within the atomizing chamber, the atomizer comprising a resistive heating element; and 
 a wick in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir through the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture, the wick disposed between the liquid reservoir and the atomizer.  
   
     
     
       56. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       57. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       58. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the chimney is formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       59. The cartridge of claim 41, further comprising a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       60. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       61. The cartridge of claim 41, further comprising an atomizer assembly comprising the atomizer, the atomizer assembly closing the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       62. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       63. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the wick comprises a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       64. The cartridge of claim 63, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element, and wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       65. The cartridge of claim 63, further comprising an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in opposed circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
     
     
       66. The cartridge of claim 65, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       67. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       68. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       69. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       70. The cartridge of claim 41, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       71. The cartridge of claim 41, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       72. The cartridge of claim 71, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       73. The cartridge of claim 72, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       74. The cartridge of claim 41, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       75. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the chimney is formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       76. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       77. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       78. The cartridge of claim 43, further comprising a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       79. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       80. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       81. The cartridge of claim 43, further comprising an atomizer assembly comprising the atomizer, the atomizer assembly closing the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       82. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       83. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture are at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       84. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the wick comprises a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       85. The cartridge of claim 84, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element, and wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       86. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       87. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       88. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       89. The cartridge of claim 43, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       90. The cartridge of claim 43, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       91. The cartridge of claim 90, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       92. The cartridge of claim 91, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       93. The cartridge of claim 43, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       94. The cartridge of claim 45, further comprising:
 a cartridge housing having a lower end and the mouthpiece end, the mouthpiece end being opposite the lower end;   wherein the atomizing chamber is disposed within the cartridge housing proximate the lower end of the cartridge housing.    
     
     
       95. The cartridge of claim 94, wherein the liquid reservoir is within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       96. The cartridge of claim 95, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       97. The cartridge of claim 94, wherein the atomizing chamber further comprises an atomizing chamber air inlet, and wherein the atomizing chamber air inlet is closer to the lower end of the cartridge housing and the atomizer outlet is closer to the mouthpiece end.  
     
     
       98. The cartridge of claim 97, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       99. The cartridge of claim 94, further comprising a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and an interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       100. The cartridge of claim 45, wherein the chimney passes through the liquid reservoir between the atomizer outlet and the aerosol outlet.  
     
     
       101. The cartridge of claim 45, wherein the chimney is formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       102. The cartridge of claim 45, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       103. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture are disposed on opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       104. The cartridge of claim 103, further comprising an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in opposed circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
     
     
       105. The cartridge of claim 104, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       106. The cartridge of claim 104, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises an electrical coupler via which the electric current passes from the battery to the atomizer.  
     
     
       107. The cartridge of claim 45, wherein the atomizer comprises a resistive heating element.  
     
     
       108. The cartridge of claim 107, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       109. The cartridge of claim 107, wherein the resistive heating element comprises nickel-chromium.  
     
     
       110. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the chimney is formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       111. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       112. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       113. The cartridge of claim 46, further comprising a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the cartridge housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       114. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       115. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       116. The cartridge of claim 46, further comprising an atomizer assembly comprising the atomizer, the atomizer assembly closing the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       117. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       118. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the wick comprises a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       119. The cartridge of claim 118, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element, and wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       120. The cartridge of claim 118, further comprising an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in opposed circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
     
     
       121. The cartridge of claim 120, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       122. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       123. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       124. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       125. The cartridge of claim 46, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       126. The cartridge of claim 46, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       127. The cartridge of claim 126, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       128. The cartridge of claim 127, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       129. The cartridge of claim 46, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       130. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       131. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       132. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the chimney is formed as a single unit with the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       133. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       134. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       135. The cartridge of claim 48, further comprising an atomizer assembly comprising the atomizer, the atomizer assembly closing the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       136. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       137. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the wick comprises a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       138. The cartridge of claim 137, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element, and wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       139. The cartridge of claim 137, further comprising an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in opposed circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
     
     
       140. The cartridge of claim 139, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       141. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       142. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       143. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       144. The cartridge of claim 48, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       145. The cartridge of claim 48, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       146. The cartridge of claim 145, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       147. The cartridge of claim 146, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       148. The cartridge of claim 48, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       149. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       150. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       151. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       152. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the atomizer assembly closes the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       153. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       154. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element.  
     
     
       155. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       156. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       157. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       158. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       159. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       160. The cartridge of claim 50, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       161. The cartridge of claim 160, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       162. The cartridge of claim 161, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       163. The cartridge of claim 50, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       164. The cartridge of claim 50, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       165. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       166. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the atomizer assembly closes the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       167. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       168. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element.  
     
     
       169. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       170. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       171. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       172. The cartridge of claim 52, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       173. The cartridge of claim 52, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       174. The cartridge of claim 173, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       175. The cartridge of claim 174, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       176. The cartridge of claim 52, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       177. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the liquid reservoir is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       178. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the liquid reservoir is partially defined between the interior of the cartridge housing and the chimney.  
     
     
       179. The cartridge of claim 54, further comprising a resilient seal disposed between an exterior of the chimney and the interior of the housing, the resilient seal sealing an upper end of the liquid reservoir and locating the chimney within the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       180. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the liquid reservoir is not a porous reservoir.  
     
     
       181. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a clear or translucent window to an exterior of the cartridge housing, the clear or translucent window allowing visual determination of a liquid level within the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       182. The cartridge of claim 54, further comprising an atomizer assembly comprising the atomizer, the atomizer assembly closing the lower end of the cartridge housing.  
     
     
       183. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the wick comprises a bundle of heat resistant fibers.  
     
     
       184. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the wick comprises a first wick end passing through the first wick aperture and a second wick end passing through the second wick aperture.  
     
     
       185. The cartridge of claim 184, wherein a middle part of the wick is positioned to be heated by the resistive heating element when current passes through the resistive heating element, and wherein the first wick end and the second wick end are outside the atomizing chamber and in contact with the atomization liquid in the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       186. The cartridge of claim 184, further comprising an atomizing assembly engaged with the atomizing chamber, the atomizing assembly having a pair of semicircular recesses formed therein, the pair of semicircular recesses aligning cooperatively with the first wick aperture and the second wick aperture of the atomizing chamber to result in opposed circular apertures through which the first wick end and the second wick end pass with a compressive fit.  
     
     
       187. The cartridge of claim 186, wherein the atomizing assembly comprises the atomizer.  
     
     
       188. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the wick is configured to transfer the atomization liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer.  
     
     
       189. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the resistive heating element comprises a coiled nickel-chromium heater through which the wick passes.  
     
     
       190. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the atomizing chamber defines an open central passage, and wherein the wick passes through the open central passage between the wick apertures at opposite sides of the atomizing chamber.  
     
     
       191. The cartridge of claim 54, wherein the atomizing chamber comprises an open atomization chamber, and wherein the wick causes capillarity-driven transfer of the atomization liquid from the liquid reservoir to the open atomization chamber in a controlled manner without flooding the open atomization chamber.  
     
     
       192. The cartridge of claim 54, further comprising:
 an inlet vent formed on the exterior of the cartridge housing and coupled to deliver air to the atomizing chamber air inlet.    
     
     
       193. The cartridge of claim 192, wherein the inlet vent is coupled to the atomizing chamber air inlet by a conduit.  
     
     
       194. The cartridge of claim 193, wherein the conduit sealably passes through the liquid reservoir.  
     
     
       195. The cartridge of claim 54, further comprising the atomization liquid.  
     
     
       196. An electronic cigarette comprising:
 a power supply portion comprising the battery; and   the cartridge of claim 45, the cartridge configured for separable attachment to the power supply portion.