US20250338891A1

US20250338891A1 - Vaping systems and methods

Info

Publication number: US20250338891A1
Application number: US19/269,783
Authority: US
Inventors: Alex Kwon; Alex Gordon; Steven Hwang
Original assignee: Singular X Inc
Current assignee: Singular X Inc
Priority date: 2023-02-07
Filing date: 2025-07-15
Publication date: 2025-11-06

Abstract

A system for diffusing an inhalable substance comprises a power supply including a cartridge interface. The cartridge interface mates with a first power supply interface of a proprietary cartridge, and the system also includes an adaptor including a second power supply interface and a foreign cartridge interface. The second power supply interface mates with the cartridge interface, and the foreign cartridge interface mates with a power coupler of a foreign cartridge.

Description

CLAIM FOR PRIORITY

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/903,796, filed Oct. 1, 2024, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/671,136 filed on May 22, 2024 and entitled, “POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR VAPING DEVICES,” which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional App. No. 63/468,149 filed on May 22, 2023 and entitled, “POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR VAPING DEVICES,” and priority to U.S. Provisional App. No. 63/535,437 filed on Aug. 30, 2023 and entitled, “POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR VAPING DEVICES.” The entire contents of the Ser. Nos. 18/903,796, 18/671,136, 63/468,149, and 63/535,437 applications are herein incorporated by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional patent application No. 63/681,460, filed Aug. 9, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/434,296, filed Feb. 6, 2024, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional App. No. 63/443,906, filed Feb. 7, 2023.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to vaping, aerosolization, or diffusion devices and power supply systems for such devices.

SUMMARY

A system for vaporizing an inhalable substance includes a power supply and an adaptor. The power supply, which may comprise a proprietary power supply, includes a cartridge interface that couples a power supply interface of a proprietary cartridge containing the inhalable substance to the power supply. The adaptor includes a power supply interface that mates with the cartridge interface and at least one foreign cartridge interface (e.g., a 510 connector, an interface proprietary to the foreign cartridge (e.g., another configuration of threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, etc.), etc.) that mates with a power coupler of a foreign cartridge. In some embodiments, the system may include a plurality of adaptors with different foreign cartridge interfaces. The system may also include a proprietary cartridge and/or one or more foreign cartridges.
The terms “diffuse,” “diffusing,” “diffusion,” and similar terms, as used herein, refer to converting an inhalable substance from an initial, consolidated state, such as in a liquid state or a solid state, into an airborne substance. “Diffuse,” “diffusing,” “diffusion,” etc., may mean vaporization, in which the inhalable substance undergoes a phase change from its initial, consolidated state to a gaseous state, or vapor. “Diffuse,” “diffusing,” “diffusion,” etc., may also include aerosolization, in which the inhalable substance is dispersed in a gaseous medium, such as air. Aerosolization may include nebulization, which forms a fine mist from the inhalable substance to facilitate inhalation of the inhalable substance. Similarly, a “diffused substance,” as used herein, encompasses vapors and aerosols, including mists (i.e., nebulized substances).
As used herein, a “proprietary power supply” is a power supply available from a particular source, or brand, with a cartridge interface that is specifically configured to mate with “proprietary cartridges” from the same source, or brand. Conventionally, the cartridge interfaces of proprietary power supplies have prevented the power supplies from being used with cartridges from other sources, which are the “foreign cartridges” referred to herein.
The cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply and the cartridge interface of the proprietary cartridge, when mated, physically couple the proprietary power supply and the proprietary cartridge to each other. In addition, the mated cartridge interface and power supply interface establish electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the proprietary cartridge. Mating of the proprietary cartridge with the proprietary power supply facilitates use of the proprietary cartridge (e.g., diffusion of an inhalable substance carried by the proprietary cartridge, etc.) and optionally enables use of the power supply to control operation of the proprietary cartridge (e.g., the manner in which the inhalable substance is diffused, etc.).
Similarly, the cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply and the power supply interface of the adaptor, when mated, and the at least one foreign cartridge interface of the adaptor and the power coupler of the foreign cartridge, when mated, physically couple and establish electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the foreign cartridge. Mating of the foreign cartridge with the adaptor and mating of the adaptor with the proprietary power supply facilitates use of the foreign cartridge (e.g., diffusion of an inhalable substance carried by the foreign cartridge, etc.) and optionally enables use of the proprietary power supply to control operation of the foreign cartridge (e.g., the manner in which the inhalable substance is diffused, etc.).
A method for diffusing an inhalable substance may include selecting a cartridge containing an inhalable substance for use with a power supply, such as a proprietary power supply. When the cartridge is a proprietary cartridge, the method further includes mating a power supply interface of the proprietary cartridge with a cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply. When the cartridge is a foreign cartridge, the method further includes identifying an adaptor with a power supply interface that will mate with the cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply and a foreign cartridge interface that will mate with a power coupler of the foreign cartridge, mating the power supply interface of the adaptor with the cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply, and mating the power coupler of the foreign cartridge with the foreign cartridge interface of the adaptor. The method also includes supplying power from the proprietary power supply to the cartridge to enable the cartridge to diffuse the inhalable substance.
Identification of the adaptor may comprise identifying the adaptor from a plurality of available adaptors with a plurality of foreign cartridge interfaces of a plurality of different configurations. For example, identifying the adaptor may comprise identifying an adaptor with the foreign cartridge interface comprising a 510 connector or a foreign cartridge interface proprietary to the foreign cartridge.
Mating the power supply interface of the proprietary cartridge with the cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the proprietary cartridge. Mating the power supply interface of the adaptor with the cartridge interface of the proprietary power supply and mating the power coupler of the foreign cartridge with the foreign cartridge interface of the adaptor establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the foreign cartridge. A manner in which the inhalable substance is diffused may be controlled by the proprietary power supply and/or the adaptor.
Another system of this disclosure may include a power supply and a plurality of cartridges that are specifically designed for use with the power supply. The power supply may comprise a proprietary power supply and each cartridge of the plurality of cartridges may comprise a proprietary cartridge. Thus, the power supply and each cartridge may be available from the same source.
The power supply may include a cartridge interface. A first cartridge of the plurality of cartridges may include a first power supply interface that interchangeably mates with the cartridge interface of the power supply. A second cartridge of the plurality of cartridges may include a second power supply interface that also interchangeably mates with the cartridge interface of the power supply. The first cartridge interface and the second cartridge interface may have identical configurations.
The first cartridge may include a first diffusing element. The second cartridge may include a second diffusing element. The first diffusing element and the second diffusing element may be different from each other. For example, the first diffusing element and the second diffusing element may be different types of diffusing elements—a first type of diffusing element and a second type of diffusing element, respectively. As an example, the first type of diffusing element may comprise an atomizer (e.g., an atomizer in communication with a center airflow lumen, etc.), while the second type of diffusing element may comprise a vaporizer, such as a heating element (e.g., a heating element associated with a vaporization surface, etc.).
One or both of the first cartridge and the second cartridge may contain (define, integrally carry, etc.) a reservoir for a substance to be inhaled. One or both of the first cartridge and the second cartridge may be disposable. The power supply interfaces of the first cartridge and second cartridge may interchangeably mate with the cartridge interface of the power supply to enable the first cartridge and the second cartridge to be directly coupled to the power supply, as opposed to the need for a separate, reusable intermediate element to indirectly couple the first cartridge or second cartridge to the power supply.
A method for diffusing an inhalable substance with such a system includes selecting a cartridge that diffuses the inhalable substance in a desired manner. For example, a first cartridge with a first type of diffusing element (e.g., an atomizer, etc.) or a second cartridge with a second type of diffusing element (e.g., a vaporizer, etc.) may be selected. The cartridge that has been selected, which may contain (e.g., define, integrally carry, etc.) a reservoir, may be coupled directly to the power supply. Coupling of the cartridge to the power supply may include mating a power supply interface of the cartridge with a cartridge interface of the power supply. Such a method may also include supplying power from the power supply to the cartridge to enable the diffuser of the cartridge to diffuse the inhalable substance.
Also disclosed are systems, devices, and/or methods of use thereof regarding vaping devices and power supply systems for vaping devices. In various aspects, a battery deck system for a vaping device includes a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, and at least one battery contained within the housing. The battery deck system may also include at least one threaded connection in the proximal end of the housing for receiving an oil tank having a threaded connection. Further, the battery deck system may include a plurality of targets in the proximal end of the housing for receiving an oil tank having a plurality of pogo connectors (e.g., pogo pins or pogo targets). A target or pogo target may include a flat or concave metal surface, which typically has no moving parts. Targets may be separate components in the complete connector assembly, or in the case of printed circuit boards may be a plated area of the board.
The battery deck system may additionally include a control module for controlling an operational function of the at least one battery. For example, upon connection of the oil tank having a threaded connection and/or connection of the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins, the control module changes the operational function of the at least one battery to match an operational need of the oil tank having a threaded connection and/or an operational need of the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins.
In some embodiments, an interchangeable power supply system for oil tanks may include a power supply and a first interface comprising a threaded connection in electrical communication with the power supply, the first interface for receiving an oil tank having a threaded connection. The interchangeable power supply system may also include a second interface comprising a plurality of pogo targets in electrical communication with the power supply, the second interface for receiving an oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins. Further, the interchangeable power supply system may include a control module for detecting a type of oil tank received by the first and/or second interfaces and for controlling an operational function of the power supply according to the type of oil tank detected.
In some embodiments, an interchangeable power supply system for vaping devices may include a battery unit. The battery unit may include a power supply element to store and supply power, and a first interface comprising a thread for connection with a vaping device that requires a thread. The interchangeable power supply system may also include a second interface comprising at least one pogo pin connection for connecting with a vaping device that requires a pogo pin connection. The battery unit may be selectively and interchangeably connectable with, and able to power, multiple types of vaping devices via one or more of the first interface and second interface.
In some configurations, an interchangeable power supply system, such as a battery deck assembly, is provided for various vaping devices having various heating core technologies. The power supply system is configured to power multiple types of vaping devices based on the individual device's connection requirements. Additionally, in some configurations, the power supply system features an integrated machine learning module that enables the system to learn and/or recognize various attributes of how a user vapes a particular vaping device.
In various aspects, a vaping eco-system may include an oil tank having a heating core technology and a power supply. The power supply may include a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, and a contact pad build at the proximal end of the housing. The contact pad build may include a plurality of electrical connections, one or more magnetic connections or other physical connections, and one or more air channels. The power supply may further include a power source in electrical communication with the plurality of electrical connections, and a control module for selectively powering the plurality of electrical connections based on the heating core technology of the oil tank.
In various aspects, a vaping eco-system may include an oil tank having a heating core technology and a power supply. The power supply may include a housing having a proximal end and a distal end. The power supply may also include a first electrical connection at the proximal end and a second electrical connection at the proximal end, the second electrical connection different from the first electrical connection. Additionally, the power supply may include a power source in electrical communication with the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection, and a control module for selectively powering the first electrical connection or the second electrical connection based on the heating core technology of the oil tank. In some configurations, the heating core technology includes an SMT heating core. In other configurations, the heating core technology includes a center post heating technology.
Other aspects of the disclosed subject matter, as well as features and advantages of various aspects of the disclosed subject matter, should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the ensuing description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially exploded view of one example of a vaping device having an interchangeable power supply assembly and an oil tank;

FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the proximal end of the interchangeable power supply assembly of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 illustrates an assembled view of another example of a vaping device having an interchangeable power supply assembly and an oil tank;

FIG. 4 illustrates another example of an interchangeable power supply;

FIG. 5A illustrates another example of an interchangeable power supply and FIGS. 5B to 5E illustrate vaping devices incorporating the interchangeable power supply of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5F illustrates two (2) types of oil tanks connected to the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 1 to 5A;

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate examples of the internal configurations of oil tanks for use with the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 1 to 5A;

FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate views of the proximal end of an interchangeable power supply for use with any of the oil tanks disclosed herein;

FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) or control module of a power supply system for vaping devices, according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 8-12 illustrate flowcharts of example methods for powering a vaping device, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 13A illustrates another embodiment of a vaping device having an interchangeable power supply and an adaptor and FIG. 13B illustrates an oil tank for use with the vaping device;

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the adaptor of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14C illustrates an exploded, bottom perspective view of the adaptor of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view of the adaptor;

FIG. 16A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the adaptor of FIGS. 14A and 14B taken through the line A-A and FIG. 16B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the adaptor taken through the line B-B;

FIG. 17A illustrates another embodiment of an interchangeable power supply for a vaping device, and FIG. 17B illustrates dimensions of FIG. 17A;

FIG. 17C illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the interchangeable power supply, and FIG. 17D illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the interchangeable power supply;

FIG. 18 illustrates an exploded view of the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17D;

FIG. 19A illustrates an oil tank having a center post that can be accommodated by the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17C;

FIG. 19B illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the oil tank, and FIG. 19C illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the oil tank;

FIG. 20 illustrates an exploded view of the oil tank of FIGS. 19A-19C;

FIG. 21A illustrates a post-less oil tank that can be accommodated by the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17C;

FIG. 21B illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the oil tank, and FIG. 21C illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the oil tank;

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of the oil tank of FIGS. 21A-21C;

FIG. 23 illustrates the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17C connected to the oil tank of FIGS. 19A-19C;

FIG. 24A illustrates a first cross-sectional view of FIG. 23 , and FIG. 24B illustrates a second cross-sectional view of FIG. 23 ;

FIG. 25A illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the oil tank of FIGS. 21A-21C connected to the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17C, and FIG. 25B illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the oil tank of FIGS. 21A-21C connected to the interchangeable power supply of FIGS. 17A-17C;

FIG. 26 illustrates dimensions of the oil tank with a center post of FIGS. 19A-19C;

FIG. 27 illustrates dimensions of the post-less oil tank of FIGS. 21A-21C;

FIG. 28 illustrates dimensions of the vaping device of FIG. 23 ;

FIG. 29 illustrates another embodiment of a vaping device;

FIG. 30 is an exploded orthogonal view of an embodiment of a system that includes a proprietary power supply and an adaptor;

FIG. 31 is a top view of an embodiment of the adaptor shown in FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 32 is a top view of another embodiment of the adaptor shown in FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 33 is an orthogonal view showing a bottom of an embodiment of a proprietary cartridge that is configured to mate with the proprietary power supply of FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 34 is an orthogonal view showing a bottom of an embodiment of a foreign cartridge that is configured to mate with the embodiment of the adaptor depicted by FIG. 31 ;

FIG. 35 is an orthogonal view from a bottom of another embodiment of a foreign cartridge that is configured to mate with the embodiment of the adaptor depicted by FIG. 32 ;

FIG. 36 is an exploded orthogonal view of another embodiment of a system for diffusing an inhalable substance;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a vaping device having a first embodiment of a hard concentrate pod, according to examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is a top, perspective view of the hard concentrate pod of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 39 is a bottom, perspective view of the hard concentrate pod;

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the hard concentrate pod;

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod taken through the line 5-5 in FIG. 38 ;

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod taken through the line 6-6 in FIG. 38 ;

FIG. 43 is a close-up, cross-sectional view of the ceramic heating element aligned with a void;

FIG. 44A is a perspective view of the pod housing from the pod of FIGS. 38 through 42 ;

FIG. 44B is a cross-sectional view of the pod housing taken through the line 8-8 in FIG. 44A;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the chamber having one or more voids;

FIG. 46 is a partially exploded view of the chamber and the pod housing;

FIG. 47 is a top, perspective view of the pod of FIG. 38 , where a portion of the cap has been removed to show a capsule contained within a void of the chamber of FIG. 45 , where the chamber is interfacing with the pod housing;

FIGS. 48A and 48B show alignment of the capsule over the heating element;

FIG. 49 is a top, perspective view of a second embodiment of a hard concentrate pod for use with a vaping device;

FIG. 50 is an exploded view of FIG. 49 ;

FIG. 51A is a top, partially exploded view of the hard concentrate pod of FIG. 49 ;

FIG. 51B is a bottom, partially exploded view of the hard concentrate pod of FIG. 49 ;

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod taken through the line 16-16 in FIG. 49 ;

FIG. 53 is a close-up, cross-sectional view of the ceramic heating element aligned with a void;

FIG. 54 is the cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod from FIG. 52 with the top of the pod housing removed, showing the chamber interfacing with the base of the pod housing;

FIG. 55 is a bottom, perspective view of the tray from the hard concentrate pod of FIGS. 49 through 54 ;

FIG. 56 is the cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod taken through the line 16-16 in FIG. 49 showing an air flow path through the hard concentrate pod;

FIG. 57 is a top, perspective view of a third embodiment of a hard concentrate pod for use with a vaping device;

FIG. 58A is a bottom, perspective view of FIG. 57 , including a distal cover, and FIG. 58B is a bottom, perspective view of FIG. 57 without the distal cover;

FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 57 ;

FIG. 60 is an exploded view of the hard concentrate pod of FIG. 57 ;

FIG. 61 is a flowchart of a method according to examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 62 illustrates a diagram of a transport section of a porous media;

FIG. 63 schematically illustrates capillary rise in an inclined and cylindrical tube;

FIG. 64 schematically illustrates heat transfer among components of a vaporizing device or system, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 65 graphically illustrates a heated section and transport section of a vaporizing device, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 66A and 66B graphically illustrate temperature and vaporization rates as a function of time and input power;

FIG. 67 schematically illustrates particle formation and growth in various phases of matter;

FIG. 68 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a vaporizing device, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 69A illustrates a first close-up view of the vaporizing device of FIG. 68 ;

FIG. 69B illustrates a second close-up view of an atomizer of FIG. 68 and FIG. 69A;

FIG. 70A illustrates a top view and FIG. 70B illustrates a lateral cross-section view of an embodiment of a radially graded porous structure;

FIG. 71A illustrates a perspective view of an untreated material and FIG. 71B illustrates a perspective view of a treated material;

FIGS. 72-74 illustrate flowcharts of embodiments of methods, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 75 is a flowchart of one example method of disposing a power supply;

FIG. 76 illustrates a perspective view of a vaping device having a power unit connectable to a plurality of differing sized pod modules;

FIG. 77 illustrates an exploded, top perspective view of the power unit and a single pod module;

FIG. 78A illustrates a top, perspective view of the power unit and FIG. 78B illustrates a close-up, top perspective view of a first end of the power unit;

FIG. 79 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the power unit of FIG. 78A;

FIG. 80 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a controller of the power unit;

FIG. 81 schematically illustrates another view of the controller of the power unit;

FIG. 82 illustrates a first flowchart of receiving inputs related to (i) a vaping operation, (ii) a low battery threshold, (iii) a short-circuit threshold, and (iv) a connection of the pod module;

FIG. 83 illustrates a second flowchart of receiving inputs related to a charging operation of the power unit;

FIG. 84 illustrates a first circuit diagram for circuits included in the power unit and in communication with the controller;

FIG. 85A illustrates a circuit diagram for a USB charge input circuit within the power unit and in communication with the controller;

FIG. 85B illustrates a circuit diagram for a charging management circuit within the power unit and in communication with the controller;

FIG. 86A illustrates a circuit diagram for an output and input port circuit within the power unit and in communication with the controller;

FIG. 86B illustrates a circuit diagram for an output detection circuit within the power unit and in communication with the controller;

FIG. 87 is a flowchart of one method of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 88 is a flowchart of another method of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Vaping devices typically include a cartridge or oil tank that contains an atomizer (e.g., heating core technology, coils, surface-mount technology heating cores, etc.) and an oil or liquid to be vaporized by the atomizer, and a power supply, such as a battery. The power supply provides power (e.g., electrical current) to the atomizer to heat and vaporize the oil or liquid. Often, the oil tanks and power supplies are unique to a brand or manufacturer of the vaping devices. That is, the oil tank of a brand or manufacturer can typically be used only with that brand's power supply. Put another way, vaping devices are often proprietary to brands or manufacturers and cannot be interchanged with vaping devices of another brand or manufacturer.
For example, many brands design their oil tanks with unique features that are specific to that brand's power supplies. Some of the unique features may be the size and/or shape of the oil tank that matches the size and/or shape of the power supply. Additionally, the unique features may be the type of electrical connection between the oil tank and power supply.
Even for vaping devices with some degree of interchangeability, another issue with current vaping devices is an inability of the power supply to recognize a foreign oil tank (i.e., an oil tank from another brand or manufacturer than the power supply). Put another way, the power supplies of current vaping devices lack the ability to communicate with a non-proprietary or foreign oil tank. The power supply may either (i) supply no power to the oil tank because the power supply doesn't recognize a connection has been made or (ii) supply too much power because the power supply doesn't recognize the connection as a non-proprietary connection.
In either case, supplying no power or supplying too much power, the vaping device is rendered inoperable. Specifically, if the power supply fails to provide power to the oil tank, no vapor will be produced and the device will be inoperable. If the power supply provides too much power, the atomizer may short-circuit and/or burn the oil rather than vaporizing it, also rendering the device inoperable.
Referring to FIGS. 1-2 , a vaping device 200, or a system for diffusing an inhalable substance, is depicted and may include an interchangeable power supply assembly 100 and an oil tank 20 or cartridge. As illustrated, the oil tank 20 includes a proximal end 21, a distal end 22, and a body 23 extending therebetween. The distal end 22 may include a threaded connection 25, such as a 510 threaded connection. “510 thread” refers to the ten, 0.5 mm threads that are typically on tanks that are compatible with batteries, and a 510 threaded connection can refer to any connection that is capable of receiving an oil tank. The body 23 may define a reservoir for holding an oil or liquid to be vaporized by an atomizer. Alternatively, the body 23 may be for holding dry, herbal substances to be vaporized by the atomizer. In some embodiments, the atomizer is contained within the distal end 22 of the oil tank 20.
The interchangeable power supply assembly 100, sometimes referred to as a battery deck system, may include a housing 10 with a proximal end 11 and a distal end 12. The housing 10 may house a printed circuit board assembly or control module (see control module 40 of FIG. 7 ) and a battery. The housing 10 may include various features that allow the housing 10 to receive or interface with a variety of different types of oil tanks 20.
The proximal end 11 of the housing 10 may include a contact pad build 33 for interfacing with the oil tank 20 (see FIG. 6C). The contact pad build 33 allows the interchangeable power supply system 100 to interface with a variety of oil tanks 20. For example, the contact pad build 33 allows the interchangeable power supply system 100 to interface with a 510 threaded oil tank, a postless oil tank, capsules containing rosin or other concentrates, pod oil tanks, rig modules for concentrates, and other oil tanks. In some embodiments, the contact pad build 33 may include one or more electrical connections 14 disposed at or near the proximal end 11 of the housing 10. The one or more electrical connections 14 may be disposed on a top surface 19 of the proximal end 11 of the housing 10. The one or more electrical connections 14 may facilitate the transfer of power from a battery or power source (not illustrated) stored within the housing 10 to the heating element of the oil tank 20. The one or more electrical connections 14 may include a threaded connection, pogo pin connections or targets, pogo pin connections, conduction components, any appropriate electrical connector, and/or combinations thereof.
As illustrated, the one or more electrical connections 14 include one or more (e.g., a plurality of) pogo pin connections 16. Pogo pin connections include a pogo pin that mates with a target. In some embodiments, the one or more pogo pin connections 16 include one or more pogo targets for receiving one or more pogo pins of an oil tank 20. In some embodiments, the one or more pogo pin connections 16 include one or more pogo pins for interfacing with one or more pogo targets of an oil tank 20. The electrical connections 14 can also include one or more anodes 15 to selectively power a device connected to a 510 threaded connection. The electrical connections 14 allow for inter-compatibility of various vaping devices and methods with the interchangeable power supply system 100, and also allow for backwards compatibility with existing vaping devices.
In some embodiments, the at least one threaded connection 25 is for receiving a 510 threaded oil tank 20. As illustrated, the oil tank 20 includes a proximal end 21, a distal end 22, and a body 23 extending therebetween. A mouthpiece or other type of vapor outlet may be included at the proximal end 21. The distal end 22 may include a threaded connection 25, such as a 510 threaded connection. The body 23 may define a reservoir for holding an oil or liquid to be vaporized by an atomizer. Alternatively, the body 23 may be for holding dry, herbal substances to be vaporized by the atomizer. In some embodiments, the atomizer is contained within the distal end 22 of the oil tank 20.
In some embodiments, the interchangeable power supply system 100 includes a connector 30. The connector 30 may be for facilitating a connection between an oil tank 20 having a first type of electrical connection (e.g., a threaded connection 25) and a power supply system 100 having a second type of electrical connection (e.g., pogo pin connections 14), where the first type of electrical connection is different from the second type of electrical connection. In some embodiments, the connector 30 facilitates a connection between the oil tank 20 and the power supply system 100, regardless of the type of electrical connection. The connector 30 may provide a magnetic connection between the oil tank 20 and the interchangeable power supply system 100.
FIG. 3 illustrates an assembled view of another example of a vaping device 200 having an interchangeable power supply assembly 100 and an oil tank 20. The interchangeable power supply 100 includes a housing 10 with a proximal end 11 and a distal end 12. The oil tank 20 includes a body 23 having a proximal end 21 and a distal end 22. A connector 30 is disposed between the interchangeable power supply 100 and the oil tank 20. The connector 30 may provide a magnetic connection, a keyed connection, a slotted connection, or another appropriate means of connection between the interchangeable power supply 100 and the oil tank 20.
FIG. 4 illustrates another example of an interchangeable power supply 100. As before, the interchangeable power supply 100 includes a housing 10 with proximal and distal ends 11, 12. As illustrated, the proximal end 11 of the housing 10 defines a cavity 26. In some embodiments, the cavity 26 may be for receiving an oil tank 20. In some embodiments, the cavity 26 may be for holding dry, herbal substances to be vaporized. In such embodiments, the housing 10 of the power supply 100 may house or include an atomizer and the cavity 26 may be in communication with the atomizer, such that powering or heating of the atomizer causes the dry, herbal substance to be vaporized.
The interchangeable power supply system 100 may also include a pipe 27 external to the power supply system 100 and in fluid communication with the cavity 26. The interchangeable power supply system 100 may include a battery 13 which may be external to the housing 10. In some embodiments, the battery 13 is external to the housing 10 and provides power to the power supply system 100 through insertion of the battery 13 in a side cavity of the housing 10 (not illustrated). Upon insertion of the battery 13 to the housing 10, a terminal of the battery 13 will complete an electrical circuit to provide power to an atomizer or other heating element. Thereby, the dry, herbal substance can be vaporized for inhalation by a user.
In some embodiments, the vaping device 200 further includes a protective outer casing. The protective outer casing may define an internal cavity for receiving the oil tank 20 and a portion of the battery deck assembly 100. In some embodiments, the distal end 12 of the battery deck assembly 100 remains outside of the protective casing. In some embodiments, the distal end 12 of the battery deck assembly 100 is visually continuous with the protective casing, such that battery deck assembly 100 of the vaping device 200 is not visually different from the casing. In some embodiments, emblems, indicia, graphics, or other features may be included on an exterior surface of the casing. The casing may include an internal vapor pathway that may be continuous and in fluid communication with a mouthpiece of the oil tank 20.
Defined within a portion of the housing 10 (e.g., a side wall) may be a port, such as a charging port (not illustrated). The port may include a USB, USB-C, Lightning, or other type of port for charging a battery housed within the housing 10. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the battery may be charged through induction, in which case the housing 10 contains components to facilitate charging through induction. In some configurations, the battery housing includes a screen, such as an LCD screen, to display information. Information may include, for example, details on the type of vaping device connected, the power supply setting or modulation, the amount of battery or power left, the temperature of the vaping device, etc.
FIG. 5A illustrates another embodiment of an interchangeable power supply or battery deck system 100 having an integrated connector 30. The interchangeable power supply assembly 100 may include a housing 10 with a proximal end 11 and a distal end 12. The housing may be any suitable shape and size (circular, ovular, square, rectangular, etc.) and this disclosure is not limited to a housing of a particular shape nor a particular size. The shape and size may be changed as desired and may be modified to substantially align with an oil tank, battery, etc., or may not align with an oil tank, battery, etc.
The housing 10 may house a printed circuit board assembly or control module (see control module 40 of FIG. 7 ) and/or a battery. The housing 10 may include various features that allow the housing 10 to receive or interface with a variety of different types of oil tanks 20. For example, a connection point 17 may be disposed or defined on the top surface 19 of the proximal end 11. The connection point 17 may provide both a mechanical connection for connecting the oil tank 20 to the housing 10 and an electrical connection for facilitating a transfer of power from the housing 10 to the oil tank 20. In some embodiments, the connection point 17 is a threaded connection, such as a 510 threaded connection point 17 to receive a 510 oil tank. However, other connection points 17 may be utilized to receive other types of oil tanks, such as a magnetic connection, press-fit connection, friction fit connection, etc. The connection point 17 may generally allow reversible connection of an oil tank so that oil tanks can be connected and removed from the connector 30.
FIGS. 5B to 5F illustrate various oil tanks 20 that may be attached and connected with the interchangeable power supply 100 via connection point 17. The interchangeable power supply 100, via connection point 17, may receive threaded oil tanks 20 or disposable oil tanks 20. As illustrated in FIG. 5C, in some embodiments, a connector 30 is disposed between the interchangeable power supply 100 and the oil tank 20. The connector 30 may be for facilitating an electrical connection between an oil tank 20 and the interchangeable power supply 100, such as by providing an activation button.
In some embodiments, the connector 30 may be for facilitating a connection between an oil tank 20 having a first type of electrical connection (e.g., a threaded connection 25) and a power supply system 100 having a second type of electrical connection (e.g., pogo pin connections 14 or other types of electrical connections), where the first type of electrical connection is different from the second type of electrical connection. In some embodiments, the connector 30 facilitates a connection between the oil tank 20 and the power supply system 100, regardless of the type of electrical connection. The connector 30 may provide a magnetic connection between the oil tank 20 and the power supply system 100, or any other suitable type of connection.
The connector 30 and/or the oil tanks 20 may include one or more communications modules, such as a near-field communications (NFC) module or other type of suitable communications module. The communications module may facilitate communication of data about the oil tank 20 (e.g., a substance contained within the oil tank 20, an electrical power requirement of the oil tank 20, etc.) to the interchangeable power supply system 100. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the connector 30 and/or the oil tanks 20 may include an activator switch, such as a power button or toggle, to turn the interchangeable power supply system 100 “on” and provide power to the atomizer or heating core technology of the oil tanks 20.
In some embodiments, one or more electrical connections (e.g., connections 14) are disposed at or near the distal end 12 of the housing 10. The one or more electrical connections may be disposed on a bottom surface of the distal end 12 of the housing 10. The one or more electrical connections may be for facilitating the transfer of power from a battery (not illustrated) external to the housing 10 to the atomizer of the oil tank 20. The one or more electrical connections may include a threaded connection, pogo pin connections or targets, pogo pin connections, and/or combinations thereof, or other suitable types of electrical connections.
As illustrated, the one or more electrical connections include one or more (e.g., a plurality of) pin connections 16. Pin connections can include a pogo pin that mates with a target. In some embodiments, the one or more pogo pin connections 16 include one or more pogo targets for receiving one or more pogo pins of an oil tank 20. In some embodiments, the one or more pogo pin connections 16 include one or more pogo pins for interfacing with one or more pogo targets of an oil tank 20. The electrical connections can also include one or more anodes 15 to selectively power a device connected to a 510 threaded connection. The electrical connections allow for inter-compatibility of various vaping devices and methods with the battery deck system 100, and also allow for backwards compatibility with existing vaping devices.
FIG. 5D illustrates two types of oil tanks 20 that can be used with the interchangeable power supply or battery deck system 100. Specifically, the interchangeable power supply system 100 can support a postless oil tank 28 and/or an oil tank having a center post 29 (also referred to herein as a “center post system oil tank”). The postless oil tank 28 may include a heating core that does not require a center post, such as a surface mount technology (SMT) heating core that requires a first voltage or power level. The center post system oil tank 29 may include a center post housing an atomizer (e.g., metal coil, ceramic core, ceramic core with an embedded coil, etc.) that requires a second voltage or power level different than the first voltage or power level. The interchangeable power supply system 100 may support connection of either the postless oil tank 28 or the center post system oil tank 29 and may provide the appropriate voltage or power level to adequately power the SMT heating core or the atomizer. Similarly, interchangeable power supply system 100 may adjust one or more of a voltage, a resistance, a wattage, a current, etc. of the power delivered to the oil tank (and the atomizer or heating core contained therein).
FIG. 5E illustrates various volumes or sizes of the postless oil tank 28 and the center post system oil tank 29 that can be accommodated by the interchangeable power supply system 100. For example, the interchangeable power supply system 100 can accommodate or support postless oil tanks 28 having volumes ranging from 0.5 mL to 3.0 mL, such as 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mL or a volume within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values. Additionally, the interchangeable power supply system 100 can accommodate or support center post system oil tanks 29 having volumes ranging from 0.5 mL to 5.0 mL, such as 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5 mL or a volume within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values. FIG. 5F illustrates the postless oil tank 28 and the center post system oil tank 29 attached or connected to an interchangeable power supply system 100.
FIG. 6A illustrates some of the internal configuration of a postless oil tank 28 that can be used with the interchangeable power supply system of FIGS. 1 through 5A. As seen in FIG. 6A, the postless oil tank 28 includes a heating core 28 h, which may be an SMT heating core (e.g., a ceramic SMT heating core, etc.), and at least one air channel 28 a. The heating core 28 h may receive power through pogo connectors 16. The at least one air channel 28 a may include two (2) air channels 28 a that are disposed on two sides of the heating core 28 h. Conventional oil tanks position the air channel directly below or underneath the heating core, which allows condensate to enter the airway and clog the vaping device. In contrast, positioning the air channel(s) 28 a around the heating core 28 h (e.g., flanking the heating core, disposed at edges of the heating core, etc.) prevents condensate from entering the airway and clogging the device. The air channels 28 a may flank the heating core 28 h asymmetrically or symmetrically. The postless oil tank 28 may also include a wick 28 w, such as oil-absorbing cotton or another appropriate material, to facilitate the transfer of oil contained within the postless oil tank 28 to the heating core 28 h. The wick 28 w may also absorb any condensate and prevent the condensate from entering the airway and clogging the device. In some embodiments, a gasket or silicone piece 28 g may be incorporated into the postless oil tank 28, allowing for easy cleaning of any built-up condensate and providing a polished appearance. A size of the gasket 28 g may correspond to a size or volume of the oil tank 28. Specifically, a larger gasket 28 g may correspond to a smaller volume, such as 0.5 to 1.0 mL. Accordingly, a smaller gasket 28 g may correspond to a larger volume, such as 1.5 to 2.0 mL. This may improve efficiencies in production by allowing the same part to be machined and allow two different volumes by simply changing the size of the gasket.
FIG. 6B illustrates the internal configuration of a center post system oil tank 29 that can be used with the interchangeable power supply system of FIGS. 1 through 5A. As seen in FIG. 6B, the center post system oil tank 29 includes a center post 29 c, which may house an atomizer, and at least one air channel 29 a. The at least one air channel 29 a may include two (2) air channels 29 a that are disposed on two sides of the center post 29 c. Conventional oil tanks position the air channel directly below or underneath the center post, which allows condensate to enter the airway, the center post, and clog the vaping device. In contrast, positioning the air channel(s) 29 a around the center post 29 c (e.g., flanking the center post, disposed at edges of the center post, etc.) prevents condensate from entering the airway, the center post 29 c, and clogging the device. The air channels 29 a may flank the center post 29 c asymmetrically or symmetrically. The center post system oil tank 29 may also include a wick 29 w, such as oil-absorbing cotton or another appropriate material, to facilitate the transfer of oil contained within the center post system oil tank 29 to the center post 29 c. The wick 29 w may also absorb any condensate and prevent the condensate from entering the airway and clogging the device. In some embodiments, a gasket or silicone piece 29 g may be incorporated into the center post system oil tank 29, allowing for easy cleaning of any built-up condensate and providing a polished appearance.
FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate a close-up view of the proximal end 11 of the housing 10 of the interchangeable power supply 100. Specifically, FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate the contact pad 33 at the proximal end 11 for accommodating and providing power to multiple types of oil tanks, such as postless oil tank 28, a center post system oil tank 29, and one or more other types of tanks that may be attached, for example, through an adaptor. That is, the proximal end 11 of the power supply 100 can accommodate and provide power to a device that facilitates aerosolization of a substance, where the device may be a postless oil tank 28, a center post system oil tank 29, and/or an adaptor 60 (see FIGS. 14A through 16B). As illustrated, the contact pad 33 includes one or more magnetic connections 35 for magnetically securing an oil tank 28, 29 to the proximal end 11 of the housing 10. In other configurations, magnets may not be provided. Or, another type of physical connection means may be provided (such as friction fit tabs, projections/detents, etc.) As shown in FIG. 6C, the magnetic connections 35 may be circular; in FIG. 6D, the magnetic connections 35 may be rectangular or square. The proximal end 11 may define a cavity 26 and the contact pad 33 may be disposed within the cavity 26 (see, for example, FIGS. 17A through 17D).
The contact pad 33 also includes electrical connections 14, or electrical interface 14, which may include a plurality of pogo connectors 16 (e.g., pogo pins and/or pogo targets), one or more threaded connections, and any other appropriate electrical connection for supplying power from a power source housed within the housing 10 to an oil tank 28, 29 connected to the housing 10, either directly or through an adaptor. The pogo connectors 16, for example, may be held within first and second electrode apertures 34. The contact pad 33 further includes one or more air channels 11 a to assist in a flow of air and vapor through the oil tank 28, 29 connected to the housing 10.
The air channels or air pathway apertures 11 a may be symmetrically disposed relative to the electrode apertures 34. The electrode apertures 34 may be aligned with each other along a first axis. In some embodiments, the air channels 11 a are aligned with each other along a second axis perpendicular or normal to the first axis.
FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a printed circuit board assembly or control module 40. The control module 40 may be incorporated into an interchangeable power supply system or battery deck assembly, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5A. For example, the control module 40 may be incorporated into a connector 30. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the control module 40 may be incorporated into the housing 10 of an interchangeable power supply system 100. The control module 40 may include at least one: radiofrequency (RF) module 41; microprocessor unit 42; data module 43; sensor 44; machine learning (ML) module 45; memory unit 46; communication protocol 47; transceiver 48; and network module 49. The control module 40 may include a plurality of: radiofrequency modules 41; microprocessor units 42; data modules 43; sensors 44; machine learning (ML) modules 45; memory units 46; communication protocols 47; transceivers 48; and network modules 49. The control module 40 may communicate with a user interface, such as an interface on the device or an interface on a user device such as a smartphone or software application.
The control module 40 may also include an airflow adjustment module 50 for adjusting a flow of air or vapor through an oil tank connected to the interchangeable power supply system 100. The airflow adjustment module 50 may be in communication with a microphone or other flow sensor for detecting a draw on an oil tank and, based on the detected draw, adjust the flow of air or vapor accordingly. Additionally, the control module 40 may include a heating module 51 for cooling or heating vapor flowing through the oil tank; a water bubble module 52; and a power adjustment module 53. The oil tank or vaping device 200 may include thermoelectric modules to heat or cool the vapor produced and flowing through the oil tank, and/or prevent freezing or low temperatures to an oil within the oil tank. The power adjustment module 53 may adjust one or more of a voltage, a resistance, a wattage, a current, etc. of the power delivered to the oil tank (and the atomizer or heating core contained therein). The power adjustment module 53 may adjust the power delivered to the oil tank based on a speed of inhalation (e.g., rapid or slow inhales by a user), the type of oil tank, a connectivity to a software application, and a set temperature. The power adjustment module 53 may be related to or include temperature control functionalities, such as providing power based on a set degree.
In some embodiments, the control module 40 may be upgradable, via hardware and/or software upgrades. Upgrades could be pushed by a manufacturer or selected by a consumer for customization. The control module 40 may contain hardware that allows for near-field communication to allow detection of a particular oil tank type with a particular type of oil, and the control module 40 may send instructions to the battery to optimize the battery output for the particular type of oil. The control module 40 may be in communication with an activator to activate the battery, such as a button activator, or a draw activator. The control module 40 can also contain software/hardware to control the power modulation to the battery.
In some embodiments, the ML module(s) 45 enables an interchangeable power supply system or battery deck assembly to learn and/or recognize various attributes of a vaping device, such as vaping devices 200. For example, the ML module(s) 45 may allow the interchangeable power supply system 100 and/or the control module 40 to detect (i) a presence of an oil tank attached to the power supply system and (ii) the type of oil tank attached (e.g., an oil tank containing oil or dry, herbal substances). In other embodiments, the ML module 45 enables an interchangeable power supply system or battery deck assembly to learn and/or recognize various attributes of how a user vapes particular devices.
The ML module(s) 45 comprise one or more processors and memory storage. The memory storage contains instructions executable by the processor(s) to perform machine learning tasks. The module 45 is configured to collect, analyze, and interpret user data associated with the operation of the vaping device. The user data can include, but is not limited to, the frequency of use, time of use, duration of use, puff duration, puff intensity, device temperature, the type of oil tank, and other related parameters.
In some configurations, the ML module(s) 45 use this collected data to create a user profile that reflects the user's vaping habits and preferences. By employing various machine learning algorithms, the module 45 can identify patterns, make predictions, or generate recommendations based on the analyzed data. The module 45 may recognize a pattern where the user prefers longer puffs in the morning and shorter ones in the evening. Based on this, the power supply system may optimize its power output to provide a consistent vaping experience that aligns with the user's preferences. The system could also provide alerts to the user when the battery needs recharging, considering the user's typical vaping habits to avoid unexpected power depletion.
The ML module(s) 45 may also use the gathered data to implement predictive maintenance strategies. For example, the module 45 could predict when the battery might need replacement or when the device might require servicing based on the user's usage patterns and the device's performance metrics. The ML module(s) 45 may use supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, reinforcement learning, any appropriate learning method, or a combination thereof, to learn the user's vaping habits and optimize the operation of the vaping device accordingly.
The transceiver(s) 48 and/or microprocessor unit(s) 42 may receive signals from the oil tank 20 indicating the type of oil tank 20. The signals indicating the type of oil tank 20 may provide information about a type of electrical connection, a type of heating technology, and a type of substance contained within the oil tank 20. The transceiver(s) 48 and/or microprocessor unit(s) 42 may send the received signals (e.g., through the communication protocols 47) to the ML module(s) 45 to inform the ML module(s) 45 of (i) the oil tank's presence and (ii) the type of oil tank. In some embodiments, the ML module(s) 45 communicate with the memory unit(s) 46 and/or data module(s) 43 (e.g., through the communication protocols 47) to store the received signals and build an association of the received signal with the type of oil tank.
In some embodiments, the memory unit(s) 46 includes short-term memory. In some embodiments, the memory unit(s) 46 includes longer-term memory. In some embodiments, the memory unit(s) 46 is or includes RAM.
The ML module(s) 45 may allow the interchangeable power supply system 100 and/or the control module 40 to associate a particular operational function of the power supply system 100 with a particular type of oil tank 20. The operational function of the power supply system 100 may include a voltage of electricity delivered to an atomizer, a time of electricity delivered to the atomizer, and/or a temperature of the atomizer (which can be a function of voltage, time, or both). The ML module(s) 45 may associate a first voltage with a first type of oil tank, a second voltage with a second type of oil tank, and so on.
For example, the first type of oil tank may include an oil to be vaporized at a first voltage. When the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 recognizes a connection or attachment of the first type of oil tank, the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 may automatically operate the power supply system 100 to cause the first voltage to be delivered to the atomizer. Additionally, the second type of oil tank may include a dry, herbal substance to be vaporized at a second voltage, which is different from the first voltage. When the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 recognizes a connection or attachment of the second type of oil tank, the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 may automatically operate the power supply system 100 to cause the second voltage to be delivered to the atomizer.
Similarly, upon detection of the type of oil tank attached, the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 may energize the power supply system 100 for a time period sufficient to achieve a desired vaporization. Further, the ML module(s) 45 and/or the control module 40 may energize the power supply system 100 for a time period sufficient to achieve a desired temperature.
By utilizing the ML module(s), the power supply system 100 can provide a personalized vaping experience, prolong the device's lifespan, increase battery efficiency, and provide valuable insights to the user, thereby improving the overall user experience.
The network module(s) 49 and/or RF module(s) 41 may allow the control module 40 and/or the power supply system 100 to communicate with various external devices or software applications. For example, the network module(s) 49 and/or RF module(s) 41 may allow a first vaping device 200 having the control module 40 to communicate with a second vaping device 200 having a control module 40. As another non-limiting example, the network module(s) 49 and/or RF module(s) 41 may allow the control module 40 and/or the power supply system 100 to communicate with a software application installed on a mobile device of a user of the vaping device 200. In some embodiments, the RF module(s) 41 facilitate near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and other types of communication for the vaping device 200 and/or the power supply system 100.
The RF module(s) 41 may communicate with an NFC module incorporated into the oil tank. The RF module(s) 41 may receive data about the oil tank from the NFC module, such as a type of substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., oil or herbal substances), a power level necessary to power the oil tank, and an electrical connection type of the oil tank, among other data. Thus, the RF module(s) 41, either alone or in connection with an NFC module, facilitate the detection of the oil tank or vaping device 200 and delivery of adequate power to the oil tank or vaping device 200.
In some embodiments, a user may set a desired temperature or identify a type of oil tank 20 attached to a power supply system 100 within a software application. The control module 40 may receive the desired temperature and/or type of oil tank 20 and energize the power supply system 100 accordingly. The power supply system 100 may include various settings for desired power levels, pre-heat function, and variable voltage settings.
In some configurations, the power supply system 100 includes haptic feedback, and can also include auto-inhale activation and/or adjustable airflow.
Also disclosed are methods of powering a vaping device. For example, the disclosed methods may be for powering an atomizer contained within an oil tank of a vaping device. FIGS. 8 through 12 illustrate flowcharts of example methods for powering a vaping device. In some embodiments, method 300 (FIG. 8 ) includes connecting an oil tank to a power supply system, at 305. The power supply system may be the power supply system of FIGS. 1 through 6C. For example, the power supply system may include a battery, a first interface having a first electrical connection, and a second interface having a second electrical connection. The first and second electrical connections may include threaded connections and/or pogo targets. The oil tank may be connected to the first interface or the second interface.
The method 300 may also include detecting a type of oil tank connected, at 310, and a type of electrical connection, at 315. Detecting a type of oil tank may include receiving information from the oil tank regarding a substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., an oil substance or an herbal, flower substance). The type of electrical connection detected may be a threaded connection and/or pogo pins to be received by pogo pin targets. The method 300 may additionally include supplying power to the oil tank based on the type of oil tank (e.g., oil or flower) and the type of electrical connection (e.g., threaded or pogo pins), at 320.
Another method 400 (FIG. 9 ) of powering a vaping device may include detecting a connection of an oil tank to a power supply system, at 405. As with method 300, the power supply system may be the power supply system of FIGS. 1 through 6C. For example, the power supply system may include a battery, a first interface having a first electrical connection, and a second interface having a second electrical connection. The first and second electrical connections may include threaded connections and/or pogo targets. The oil tank may be connected to the first interface or the second interface. The method 400 may also include detecting a type of the oil tank connected to the power supply system, at 410, and detecting a type of electrical connection, at 415. Detecting a type of oil tank may include receiving information from the oil tank regarding a substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., an oil substance or an herbal, flower substance). The type of electrical connection detected may be a threaded connection and/or pogo pins to be received by pogo pin targets. In some embodiments, the type of electrical connection is detected through the first or second electrical connection.
In some embodiments, the method 400 also includes controlling a temperature of an atomizer within the oil tank, at 420. The temperature of the atomizer may be controlled based on (i) the type of substance within the oil tank (e.g., oil or herbs) and/or (ii) the type of electrical connection between the oil tank and the power supply system (e.g., threaded or pogo pins). In some embodiments, the temperature of the atomizer is controlled by modulating a time period of power delivered to the atomizer. For example, when a lower temperature is desired, power can be delivered to the atomizer for a few seconds (1 second, 2 seconds, 4 seconds, etc.). When a higher temperature is desired, power can be delivered to the atomizer for longer than 15 seconds, such as 16, 18, 20, 25 seconds, etc. The method 400 may further include controlling a voltage delivered to the atomizer, at 425. In some embodiments, controlling the voltage delivered to the atomizer controls the temperature of the atomizer.
A method 500 (FIG. 10 ) of powering a vaping device may include, in some embodiments, detecting a connection of an oil tank to a power supply system, at 505. As with methods 300 and 400, the power supply system may be the power supply system of FIGS. 1 through 6C. For example, the power supply system may include a battery, a first interface having a first electrical connection, and a second interface having a second electrical connection. The first and second electrical connections may include threaded connections and/or pogo targets. The oil tank may be connected to the first interface or the second interface. The method 500 may also include detecting a type of the oil tank connected to the power supply system, at 510, and detecting a type of electrical connection, at 515. Detecting a type of oil tank may include receiving information from the oil tank regarding a substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., an oil substance or an herbal, flower substance). The type of electrical connection detected may be a threaded connection and/or pogo pins to be received by pogo pin targets.
The method 500 may also include receiving a desired temperature for an atomizer within the oil tank, at 520. In some embodiments, the desired temperature is received by a control module of the power supply system. The control module may receive the desired temperature from a software application in communication with the control module. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the control module may receive the desired temperature from a dial, button, switch, or other mechanism incorporated (e.g., mechanically attached) into the power supply system. The method 500 may further include modulating power delivered to the atomizer, at 525. For example, the voltage and/or timing of power delivered to the atomizer may be modulated. In some embodiments, the control module modulates the power delivered to the atomizer. The power delivered to the atomizer may be modulated based on (i) the type of oil tank connected to the power supply, (ii) the type of electrical connection between the oil tank and the power supply, (iii) the desired temperature for the atomizer, and (iv) combinations thereof.
Another example method 600 (FIG. 11 ) of powering a vaping device may include detecting a type of oil tank connected to a battery deck system, at 605, and a type of electrical connection for the oil tank, at 610. As before, detecting a type of oil tank may include receiving information from the oil tank regarding a substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., an oil substance or an herbal, flower substance). The type of electrical connection detected may be a threaded connection and/or pogo pins to be received by pogo pin targets.
The method 600 may additionally include modulating a voltage delivered to the oil tank, at 615. In some embodiments, the voltage delivered is modulated based on the type of oil tank (e.g., oil or flower) and the type of electrical connection (e.g., threaded or pogo pins). The method 600 may also include detecting a level of oil within the oil tank, at 620, and providing an alert when the level of oil falls below a threshold value, at 625. For example, the level of oil contained within an oil tank may be difficult to discern visually, which may result in a user attempting to produce vapor from an empty oil tank. Providing an alert allows the user to replace the empty oil tank and avoid inhaling bad-tasting hits, or hits containing undesirable by-products of vaporization. Alternatively, an alert may be provided to the user when flower or other dry, herbal substances have been fully heated or “cooked” and should be thrown away.
In some embodiments, disclosed vaping devices, power supplies, battery deck systems, and/or control modules are capable of learning, such as machine learning. For example, a method 700 (FIG. 12 ) may include detecting a type of the oil tank connected to a battery deck system, at 705, and detecting a type of electrical connection, at 710. As previously, detecting a type of oil tank may include receiving information from the oil tank regarding a substance contained within the oil tank (e.g., an oil substance or an herbal, flower substance). The type of electrical connection detected may be a threaded connection and/or pogo pins to be received by pogo pin targets.
The method 700 may also include associating the type of oil tank with the type of electrical connection, at 715. Specifically, the vaping device, power supply, battery deck system, and/or control module may associate a first oil tank having a threaded connection with the threaded electrical connection. Additionally, a second oil tank having one or more pogo pins may be associated with the pogo target electrical connection. The method 700 may further include automatically modulating a voltage delivered to the oil tank based on the type of oil tank connected, at 720. Specifically, when a first oil tank having a threaded connection is attached to the battery deck system, a first voltage may be delivered to the oil tank. When a second oil tank having one or more pogo pins is connected to the battery deck system, a second voltage may be delivered to the oil tank. In some embodiments, the first voltage is associated with a first temperature and the second voltage is associated with the second temperature.
The oil tanks 20, 28, 29 used with the disclosed interchangeable power supply system 100 may be manufactured from a single, simplified mold. Specifically, a wide range of volumes for the oil tanks 20, 28, 29 may be produced using a single mold. For example, a base oil tank having a base volume may be manufactured using a mold and a gasket or silicone piece may be inserted into the base oil tank to achieve a volume different than the base volume. Larger gaskets or silicone pieces may be inserted into base oil tanks when a smaller volume (e.g., 0.5 mL, 1.0 mL, 1.5 mL, 2.0 mL, etc.) is desired; smaller gaskets or silicone pieces may be inserted when a larger volume (2.5 mL, 3.0 mL, 3.5 mL, 4.0 mL, 4.5 mL, etc.) is desired. The gasket may take up volume or headspace in the molded oil tank, allowing the remaining volume to be filled with a substance for vaporizing (e.g., oil, flower, etc.). By utilizing a single, identical mold for each volume of oil tank, fewer unique molds need to be kept on hand, cutting down manufacturing costs of time and money.
FIG. 13A illustrates another embodiment of a vaping device 200′ having an interchangeable power supply 100′ and an adaptor 60. FIG. 13B illustrates an oil tank 25′ for use with the vaping device 200′. Similar to the vaping device 200 of FIGS. 1 and 3 , the vaping device 200′ illustrated in FIG. 13A includes an interchangeable power supply 100′ and an oil tank 25′ connectable to the interchangeable power supply 100′. The interchangeable power supply 100′ is capable of receiving multiple different types of oil tanks. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the oil tank 25′ is a threaded oil tank 25′, having a 510 thread at a distal end 22 of the oil tank 25′.
The adaptor 60 allows the interchangeable power supply 100′ to receive the threaded distal end 22′ of the oil tank 25′ and provide power to the oil tank 25′. For example, FIGS. 14A through 16B illustrate views of the adaptor 60. The adaptor 60 includes a body 61 having a proximal end 62 and a distal end 63 opposite the proximal end 62. The proximal end 62 may receive or include a through-hole or opening 64 having threading 65 (e.g., a threaded opening 64) to mate and engage the threaded end 22′ of the oil tank 25′. The proximal end 62 may include other features such that an oil tank 25′ can be connected to the adaptor 60 (such as magnets, etc., to secure an oil tank 25′ to the adaptor 60). The distal end 63 may receive a bottom cover 69. The bottom cover 69 may include a snap, tab, projection, or other mechanism for securing the adaptor 60 within the proximal end 11 of the housing 10 of the power supply 100′ (e.g., a friction-fit, press-fit, snap-fit connection, etc.). Alternatively, the bottom cover 69 may be integral to the body 61 of the adaptor 60.
The body 61 of the adaptor 60 may be hollow or substantially hollow, such that the body 61 receives a plurality of components for the adaptor 60. Specifically, the body 61 may internally receive one or more first electrodes 66, a first seal 67, a second seal 68, and one or more electrical connectors 70 or electrical interface 70. Referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, the first seal 67 may receive the one or more first electrodes 66. The first seal 67 may be received within the distal end 63 of the body 61. The second seal 68 may be an O-ring and may be positioned between an interior of the distal end 63 and the first seal 67.
The first seal 67 includes an interface 74 that places a device that facilitates aerosolization of a substance (e.g., an oil tank) in electrical communication with the interchangeable power supply 100′. The interface 74 may include a first adaptor electrode aperture 76 a, a first adaptor air pathway aperture 75 a, second adaptor electrode apertures 76 b, and a second adaptor air pathway aperture 75 b. The first and second air pathway apertures 75 a, 75 b fluidly connect an air pathway of the power supply 100′ with an air pathway of the adaptor 60. The first and second adaptor electrode apertures 76 a, 76 b are for receiving first and second electrodes 66, respectively.
The bottom cover 69 may define a window 77 which is sized and shaped according to the interface 74, such that the interface 74 is received by and accessible through the window 77. The first and second adaptor electrode apertures 76 a, 76 b may be flanked by the first and second adaptor air pathway apertures 75 a, 75 b. The first and second air pathway apertures 75 a, 75 b may flank the first and second adaptor electrode apertures 76 a, 76 b symmetrically or asymmetrically, such as the offset flanking illustrated in FIG. 14C.
The one or more first electrodes 66 may place the adaptor 60 in electrical communication with a battery 13′ housed by the interchangeable power supply 100′ (e.g., see FIGS. 17C through 18 ). The one or more first electrodes 66 may also be in electrical communication with the one or more electrical connectors 70 (such as an anode, etc.). The one or more electrical connectors 70 place the oil tank 25′ in electrical communication with the one or more first electrodes 66 and, thus, in electrical communication with the battery 13′ housed by the interchangeable power supply 100′. In this way, the adaptor 60 allows the interchangeable power supply 100′ to be used with any type of oil tank 20′, such as the oil tank 25′ with a threaded distal end 22′ or an oil tank 20′ illustrated in FIGS. 19A through 22 . In some embodiments, the one or more first electrodes 66 and/or the one or more second electrodes 70 may be pogo pin connectors (e.g., pogo pins or pogo pin targets/contacts).
FIGS. 17A through 18 illustrate the interchangeable power supply 100′ for a vaping device 200′. As with the power supply 100 of FIGS. 1, 4, and 6C, the interchangeable power supply 100′ includes a housing 10′ extending between a proximal end 11′ and a distal end 12′. The proximal end 11′ may include or define a cavity 26′ for receiving the adaptor 60 or an oil tank 20′.
Disposed within the cavity 26′ at the proximal end 11′ may be a contact pad 33′ for providing an electrical connection between the battery 13′ and the adaptor 60 or an oil tank 20′ directly received within the cavity 26′ at proximal end 11′. The contact pad 33′ includes electrical components (e.g., electrodes 14′, etc.) and mechanical components (e.g., magnets 35′, see FIGS. 6C, 6D, and 18 ). The contact pad 33′ is for electrically interacting with a device for facilitating aerosolization of a substance (e.g., the adaptor 60 or an oil tank 20′), and for mechanically engaging the device for facilitating aerosolization of a substance (e.g., the adaptor 60 or the oil tank 20′) to connect the device for facilitating aerosolization of a substance (e.g., the adaptor 60 or the oil tank 20′) to the interchangeable power supply 100′.
Referring to FIGS. 17C to 18 , the housing 10′ receives a battery 13′ that may be held by a sled or bracket 15′, which is also received within the housing 10′. The housing 10′ also receives a plurality of gaskets or seals, such as gaskets 80 and a microphone seal 81. The microphone seal 81 may receive and hold a microphone or other pressure sensor for detecting a flow of air through the interchangeable power supply 100′ and/or a vaping device 200′ utilizing the interchangeable power supply 100′. Further, the housing 10′ receives the electrodes 14′ and magnets 35′, which may be incorporated into the contact pad build 33′ and disposed near the proximal end 11′ of the housing 10′.
FIGS. 19A through 20 illustrate a center post system oil tank 29′ that can be accommodated by the interchangeable power supply 100′ of FIGS. 17A through 18 . The center post system oil tank 29′ includes a body 23′ that extends between a proximal end 21′ and a distal end 22′. The proximal end 21′ may receive a mouthpiece 96 and the distal end 22′ may receive a cap or cover 94. The center post system oil tank 29′ also includes a center post 90 that houses a first wick 92 and a heating element 91 (e.g., an atomizer, heating coil, etc.). Additionally, the center post system oil tank 29′ includes a plurality of gaskets or seals 93, electrodes 24′, and an absorber 95 (such as a cotton pad, etc., to keep any oil away from electrical components). The plurality of gaskets 93 may include an electrode gasket 93E for receiving the electrodes 24′, an O-ring 931, and one or more gaskets 932, 933 to be received between the proximal end 21′ and the mouthpiece 96.
Referring briefly to FIGS. 19B and 19C, the electrode gasket 93E may be disposed near the distal end 22′ of the body 23′ and may be held or otherwise disposed within the bottom cover 94. This placement of the electrode gasket 93E, and the electrodes 24′, at the distal end 22′ allows for alignment of the electrodes 24′ of center post system oil tank 29′ with the contact pad build 33′ of the interchangeable power supply 100′. In this way, the center post system oil tank 29′ can be in electrical contact and communication with the interchangeable power supply 100′.
FIGS. 21A through 22 illustrate a post-less oil tank 28′ that can be accommodated by the interchangeable power supply 100′ of FIGS. 17A through 18 . Similar to the center post system oil tank 29′, the post-less oil tank 28′ includes a body 23′ that extends between a proximal end 21′ and a distal end 22′. The proximal end 21′ may receive a mouthpiece 96 and the distal end 22′ may receive a cap or cover 94. The post-less oil tank 28′ also includes an absorber 92 (such as a cotton pad, etc.), and a heating element 91 (e.g., an atomizer, heating coil, an SMT core, etc.). Additionally, the post-less oil tank 28′ includes a plurality of gaskets or seals 93 and electrodes 24′. The plurality of gaskets 93 may include an electrode gasket 93E for receiving the electrodes 24′, an O-ring 931, and one or more gaskets 932, 933 to be received between the proximal end 21′ and the mouthpiece 96.
Referring briefly to FIGS. 21B and 21C, the electrode gasket 93E may be disposed near the distal end 22′ of the body 23′ and may be held or otherwise disposed within the bottom cover 94. This placement of the electrode gasket 93E, and the electrodes 24′, at the distal end 22′ allows for alignment of the electrodes 24′ of post-less oil tank 28′ with the contact pad build 33′ of the interchangeable power supply 100′. In this way, the post-less oil tank 28′ can be in electrical contact and communication with the interchangeable power supply 100′.
FIG. 23 illustrates the interchangeable power supply 100′ connected to the center post system oil tank 29′ and FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate cross-sectional views of FIG. 23 . As illustrated best in FIGS. 24A and 24B, when the oil tank 29′ is received by the interchangeable power supply 100′ (e.g., received within the cavity 26′), the electrodes 24′ of the oil tank 29′ directly abut the contact pad build 33′ of the interchangeable power supply 100′. In this way, the electrodes 24′ of the oil tank 29′ may be in direct contact with the electrodes 14′ of the contact pad build 33′. Accordingly, the interchangeable power supply 100′ may power the heating element within the oil tank 29′.
FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate cross-sectional views of the postless oil tank 28′ of FIGS. 21A-21C connected to the interchangeable power supply 100′ of FIGS. 17A-17C. Similar to the views illustrated in FIGS. 24A and 24B, when the postless oil tank 28′ is received by the interchangeable power supply 100′ (e.g., received within the cavity 26′), the electrodes 24′ of the oil tank 28′ directly abut the contact pad build 33′ of the interchangeable power supply 100′. In this way, the electrodes 24′ of the oil tank 28′ may be in direct contact with the electrodes 14′ of the contact pad build 33′. Accordingly, the interchangeable power supply 100′ may power the heating element within the oil tank 28′.
FIG. 26 illustrates various dimensions of the center post system oil tank 29′, which may be selectively coupled to a power supply according to this disclosure. Specifically, the center post system oil tank 29′ may be provided in a plurality of different sizes, such as a 0.5 mL/1.0 mL size; a 2 mL/3 mL size; and a 4 mL/5 mL size. The size refers to the volume of oil or vaporizable liquid held by the body 23′ of the center post system oil tank 29′. That is, a body 23′ of a first size may be capable of holding a volume of 0.5 mL to 1.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The first size may have a height of about 30 mm (e.g., 30.0 to 31.0 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm).
A body 23′ of a second size may be capable of holding a volume of 2.0 mL to 3.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The second size may have a height of about 45 mm (e.g., 44.0 to 45.5 mm, or 44.94 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm). A body 23′ of a third size may be capable of holding a volume of 4.0 mL to 5.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The third size may have a height of about 61 mm (e.g., 60.0 to 62.5 mm or 61.86 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm).
FIG. 27 illustrates dimensions of the postless oil tank 28′ of FIGS. 21A through 22 , which may be selectively coupled to a power supply according to this disclosure. In some embodiments, the postless oil tank 28′ may have the same or similar dimensions as the center post system oil tank 29′. Specifically, the postless oil tank 28′ may be provided in a plurality of different sizes, such as a 0.5 mL/1.0 mL size; a 2 mL/3 mL size; and a 4 mL/5 mL size. The size refers to the volume of oil or vaporizable liquid held by the body 23′ of the center post system oil tank 29′. That is, a body 23′ of a first size may be capable of holding a volume of 0.5 mL to 1.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The first size may have a height of about 30 mm (e.g., 30.0 to 31.0 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm).
A body 23′ of a second size may be capable of holding a volume of 2.0 mL to 3.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The second size may have a height of about 45 mm (e.g., 44.0 to 45.5 mm, or 44.94 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm). A body 23′ of a third size may be capable of holding a volume of 4.0 mL to 5.0 mL of an oil or vaporizable liquid. The third size may have a height of about 61 mm (e.g., 60.0 to 62.5 mm or 61.86 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 26 mm).
FIG. 28 illustrates dimensions of the vaping device 200′ of FIG. 23 . The dimensions of the vaping device 200′ may be substantially the same regardless of whether the postless oil tank 28′ or the center post system oil tank 29′ is connected to the interchangeable power supply 100′. As illustrated, the vaping device 100′ may have a height of about 82 mm (e.g., 81.5 mm to 83 mm or 82.74 mm), a width of about 13 mm (e.g., 12.5 mm to 14 mm), and a length of about 25 mm (e.g., 24.5 mm to 25.5 mm). As illustrated, the oil tank 29′ or the oil tank 28′ may be substantially flush with an exterior of the housing 10′ of the interchangeable power supply 100′ when the oil tank 29′, 28′ is received by the housing 10′. Other sizes are also contemplated herein.
Turning now to FIGS. 30-35 , any of the relevant features described previously herein may be incorporated into a system 1000 that enables a proprietary power supply 1100, depicted by FIG. 30 , to be used with both proprietary cartridges 1300, shown in FIG. 33 , and foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′, illustrated by FIGS. 34 and 35 , respectively. As shown in FIGS. 30-32 , in addition to the proprietary power supply 1100, such a system includes at least one adaptor 1200 (FIG. 31 ), 1200′ (FIG. 32 ). The adaptor may be designed or configured to connect one foreign cartridge, two foreign cartridges, three foreign cartridges, or more. The adaptor may also be designed or configured to connect one proprietary cartridge, two proprietary cartridges, three proprietary cartridges, or more. The adaptor may also be designed or configured to connect combinations of one or more proprietary cartridges with one or more foreign cartridges.
The proprietary power supply 1100 and each proprietary cartridge 1300 (FIG. 33 ) may be made specifically for use with each other. Stated another way, the proprietary power supply 1100 may have a design or configuration that only enables it to be assembled with and used with proprietary cartridges 1300 that are specifically designed for use with the proprietary power supply 1100. Thus, the design or configuration of the proprietary power supply 1100 may prevent it from being used with non-proprietary cartridges, or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′ (FIGS. 34 and 35 ). The proprietary power supply 1100 and the proprietary cartridges 1300 that are intended to be used with the proprietary power supply 1100 may be available from (e.g., manufactured by, sold by, etc.) the same source, or brand, while foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′ may be available from sources that differ from the source of the proprietary power supply 1100.
The proprietary power supply 1100 may include a housing 1110. The housing 1110 carries a battery or another source of power (not shown) and electronics (not shown). The housing 1110 also carries one or more inputs 1112 (e.g., buttons, etc.) and one or more outputs 1114 (e.g., visual outputs, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a display, or the like; audible outputs; etc.).
In addition, the housing 1110 defines a cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100. The cartridge interface 1130 has a configuration that enables it to be assembled with, or mate with, a power supply interconnect 1230 of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ and a power supply interconnect 1330 of a proprietary cartridge 1300 (FIG. 33 ). For example, the cartridge interface 1130 may have a configuration that enables it to receive a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The cartridge interface 1130 includes one or more physical couplers 1132 that enable the cartridge interface 1130 to physically engage and/or to be physically engaged by the power supply interconnect 1230 of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ and the power supply interconnect 1330 of the proprietary cartridge 1300. Such engagement may occur by any suitable means; thus, the physical coupler(s) 1132 may comprise magnetic couplers, mechanical couplers, or the like.
The cartridge interface 1130 also includes one or more electrical connectors 1134. The electrical connector(s) 1134 may have a configuration and arrangement that enables it (them) to contact or couple to one or more corresponding electrical connectors 1234 of the power supply interconnect 1230 of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ when the adaptor 1200, 1200′ is assembled with, or coupled to, the proprietary power supply 1100. The configuration and arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1134 may also enable it (them) to contact or couple to one or more corresponding electrical connectors 1334 of the power supply interconnect 1330 of a proprietary cartridge 1300 (FIG. 33 ) when the proprietary cartridge 1300 is assembled with, or coupled to, the proprietary power supply 1100.
With continued reference to FIG. 30 and with reference to FIGS. 31 and 32 , the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may include a housing 1210, 1210′. The housing 1210, 1210′ may define the aforementioned power supply interconnect 1230, as well as a foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′. In addition, the housing 1210, 1210′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may carry circuitry (e.g., wires, one or more circuit boards, etc.) (not shown) that electrically connects the electrical connector(s) 1234 of the power supply interconnect 1230 of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ to one or more corresponding electrical connectors 1244, 1244′ of the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′.
Optionally, the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may provide additional functionality. Such additional functionality may be provided by any of the types of devices identified in FIG. 5C and/or described in reference to FIG. 5C. For example, the housing 1210, 1210′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may facilitate communication between the proprietary power supply 1100 and a foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′ (FIGS. 34 and 35 , respectively) that the adaptor 1200, 1200′ couples to the proprietary power supply 1100 (e.g., by way of wireless communication, such as radiofrequency identification (RFID) communication, including near-field communication (NFC), etc.). As another example, the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may include one or more features that provide a user with control over the operation of the system 1000; such as inputs (e.g., buttons, touch-sensitive elements, etc.) and/or outputs (e.g., LEDs, display screens, etc.). Adaptors that provide other types of functionality are also within the scope of this disclosure.
The power supply interconnect 1230 of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ has a configuration that enables it to be assembled with, or mate with, the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100. For example, the power supply interconnect 1230 may comprise a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The power supply interconnect 1230 includes one or more physical couplers 1232 that enable the power supply interconnect 1230 to physically engage and/or to be physically engaged by the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100. Such engagement may occur by any suitable means; thus, the physical coupler(s) 1232 may comprise magnetic couplers, mechanical couplers, or the like. A configuration or an arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1234 of the power supply interconnect 1230 may mirror or otherwise complement the configuration or arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1134 of the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100.
The foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ has a configuration that enables it to be assembled with, or mate with, a power coupler 1430, 1430′ of a foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. For example, the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ may have a configuration that enables it to receive a 510 connector, another threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ includes one or more physical couplers 1242, 1242′ that enable the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ to physically engage and/or to be physically engaged by a power coupler 1440, 1440′ of a foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. Such engagement may occur by any suitable means; thus, the physical coupler(s) 1242, 1242′ may comprise magnetic couplers, mechanical couplers, or the like. A configuration or an arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1244, 1244′ of the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ may mirror or otherwise complement a configuration or arrangement of one or more corresponding electrical connector(s) 1444, 1444′ of the coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. Again, a circuit (e.g., a wire, a circuit of a circuit board, etc.) may electrically connect each electrical connector 1244, 1244′ of the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ to a corresponding electrical connector 1444, 1444′ of the coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′.
Referring now to FIG. 33 , an embodiment of a proprietary cartridge 1300 is shown. The proprietary cartridge 1300 may include a housing 1310. The housing 1310 may define the power supply interface 1330 of the proprietary cartridge 1300. Again, the power supply interface 1330 may interface and mate with the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100 (FIG. 30 ). For example, the power supply interface 1330 may comprise a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The portion of the housing 1310 that defines the power supply interface 1330 may carry the physical coupler(s) 1332 and electrical connector(s) 1334 of the power supply interface 1330 that may correspond to and interact with the physical coupler(s) 1132 and electrical connector(s) 1134, respectively, of the cartridge interface 1130. A configuration or an arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1334 of the power supply interconnect or power supply interface 1330 may mirror or otherwise complement the configuration or arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1134 of the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100 (FIG. 30 ). In addition, the housing 1310 may define and/or carry various other components of the proprietary cartridge 1300, such as a reservoir for a substance to be inhaled, circuitry, a diffuser, a mouthpiece, and the like.
Turning now to FIGS. 34 and 35 , embodiments of foreign cartridges 1400 and 1400′, respectively, are illustrated. Each foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′ may include a housing 1410, 1410′. The housing 1410, 1410′ may carry or define the power coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. The power coupler 1440, 1440′ may interface and mate with the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′. For example, the power coupler 1440, 1440′ may comprise a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The power coupler 1440, 1440′ may comprise or carry one or more physical couplers 1442, 1442′. With added reference to FIGS. 31 and 32 , each physical coupler 1442, 1442′ may complement a corresponding physical coupler 1242, 1242′ of the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of an adaptor 1200, 1200′ that has been configured for use with the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. The power coupler 1440, 1440′ may comprise or carry one or more electrical connectors 1444, 1444′. Each electrical connector 1444, 1444′ may complement a corresponding electrical connector 1244, 1244′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ that has been configured for use with the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. The housing 1410, 1410′ may define and/or carry various other components of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′, such as a reservoir for a substance to be inhaled, circuitry, a diffuser, a mouthpiece, and the like.
As depicted by FIG. 34 , the power coupler 1440 of foreign cartridge 1400 may comprise a male 510 connector carried by (e.g., protruding from, etc.) the housing 1410 of the foreign cartridge 1400. The 510 connector is a standardized connector that has a diameter of about 7 mm and a thread pitch of 10 threads per 5 mm length, or 0.5 mm between the centers of adjacent threads. The 510 connector may be received by and interface with the foreign cartridge interface 1240 of the adaptor 1200 shown in FIG. 31 , with the foreign cartridge interface 1240 comprising a female 510 connector. The physical coupler 1442 of the power coupler 1440 comprises the threads of the 510 connector. The electrical connector 1444 of the power coupler 1440 may comprise a contact that extends through and protrudes from a center of the 510 connector. The threads and/or body of the 510 connector, which may be formed from an electrically conductive material (e.g., metal, such as aluminum, copper, stainless steel, brass, etc.; an electrically conductive polymer; etc.), may serve as a ground contact of the 510 connector.
FIG. 35 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a foreign cartridge 1400′ with power coupler 1440′ that has a third-party proprietary configuration (i.e., the foreign cartridge 1400′ is not from the same source as the proprietary power supply 1100 shown in FIG. 30 ). The housing 1410′ of the foreign cartridge 1400′ defines the power coupler 1440′. The power coupler 1440′ is designed and configured to interface and mate with the foreign cartridge interface 1240′ of the adaptor 1200′ shown in FIG. 32 . For example, the power coupler 1440′ may comprise a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The portion of the housing 1410′ that defines the power coupler 1440′ may carry the physical coupler(s) 1442′ and electrical connector(s) 1444′ of the power coupler 1440′ that may correspond to and interact with the physical coupler(s) 1242′ and electrical connector(s) 1244′, respectively, of the foreign cartridge interface 1240′. A configuration or an arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1444′ of the power coupler 1440′ may mirror or otherwise complement the configuration or arrangement of the electrical connector(s) 1244′ of the foreign cartridge interface 1240′ of the adaptor 1200′. In addition, the housing 1410′ may define and/or carry various other components of the foreign cartridge 1400′, such as a reservoir for a substance to be inhaled, circuitry, a diffuser, a mouthpiece, and the like.
Referring generally to FIGS. 30-35 , a method for diffusing an inhalable substance includes selecting the inhalable substance and determining whether a cartridge containing the inhalable substance is a proprietary cartridge 1300 for a proprietary power supply 1100 or a foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′ to the proprietary power supply 1100. If the cartridge containing the inhalable substance is a proprietary cartridge 1300, the method further includes mating a power supply interface 1330 of the proprietary cartridge 1300 with a cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100. If the cartridge containing the inhalable substance is a foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′, the method further includes identifying an adaptor 1200, 1200′ with a power supply interface 1230 that will mate with the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100 and a foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ that will mate with a power coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′, mating the power supply interface 1230 of the adaptor 1200 with the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100, and mating the power coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′ with the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′. The method also includes supplying power from the proprietary power supply 1100 to the cartridge (e.g., the proprietary cartridge 1300, the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′) to enable the cartridge to diffuse the inhalable substance.
Identification of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may comprise identifying the adaptor 1200, 1200′ from a plurality of available adaptors with a plurality of foreign cartridge interfaces 1240, 1240′ of a plurality of different configurations. For example, identifying the adaptor 1200, 1200′ may comprise identifying an adaptor 1200 with the foreign cartridge interface 1240 comprising a 510 connector or identifying an adaptor 1200′ with a foreign cartridge interface 1240′ proprietary to the foreign cartridge 1400′.
Mating the power supply interface 1330 of the proprietary cartridge 1300 with the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100 establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply 1100 and the proprietary cartridge 1300. Mating the power supply interface 1230 of the adaptor 1200 with the cartridge interface 1130 of the proprietary power supply 1100 and mating the power coupler 1440, 1440′ of the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′ with the foreign cartridge interface 1240, 1240′ of the adaptor 1200, 1200′ establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply 1100 and the foreign cartridge 1400, 1400′. A manner in which the inhalable substance is diffused may be controlled by the proprietary power supply 1100 and/or by the adaptor 1200, 1200′.
Referring now to FIG. 36 , another embodiment of a system 1000″ for diffusing an inhalable substance is depicted. The system 1000″ includes a power supply 1100″ and a plurality of cartridges 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc. The cartridges 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., may be specifically designed for use with the power supply 1100″. The power supply 1100″ may comprise a proprietary power supply and each cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., may comprise a proprietary cartridge.
The power supply 1100″ may include a cartridge interface 1130″. Each cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., may include a power supply interface 1330″. The power supply interface 1330″ of each cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., may interchangeably mate with the cartridge interface 1130″ of the power supply 1100″. The cartridge interface 1130″ may have any suitable configuration that enables it to be assembled with, or mate with, a power supply interconnect 1330″ of any of the cartridges 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc. For example, the cartridge interface 1130″ may have a configuration that enables it to receive a threaded post, an unthreaded post, a post-less interconnect, or the like. The cartridge interface 1130″ includes one or more physical couplers 1132″ that enable the cartridge interface 1130″ to physically engage and/or to be physically engaged by the power supply interconnect 1330″ of the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc. Such engagement may occur by any suitable means; thus, the physical coupler(s) 1132″ may comprise magnetic couplers, mechanical couplers, or the like.
The cartridge interface 1130″ also includes one or more electrical connectors 1134″. The electrical connector(s) 1134″ may have a configuration and arrangement that enables it (them) to contact or couple to one or more corresponding electrical connectors 1334″ of the power supply interconnect 1330″ of the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″ when the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″ is assembled with, or coupled to, the power supply 1100″.
A first cartridge 1300 a″ may include a first diffusing element 1350 a″. A second cartridge 1300 b″ may include a second diffusing element 1350 b″. The first diffusing element 1350 a″ and the second diffusing element 1350 b″ may be different from each other. As an example, the first diffusing element 1350 a″ may comprise an atomizer (e.g., an atomizer in communication with a center airflow lumen, etc.), while the second diffusing element 1350 b″ may comprise a vaporizer, such as a heating element (e.g., a heating element associated with a vaporization surface, etc.).
One or both of the first cartridge 1300 a″ and the second cartridge 1300 b″ may contain (define, integrally carry, etc.) a reservoir 1360 a″, 1360 b″ for a substance to be inhaled 1370″. One or both of the first cartridge 1300 a″ and the second cartridge 1300 b″ may be disposable. The power supply interfaces 1330″ of the first cartridge 1300 a″ and the second cartridge 1300 b″ may interchangeably mate with the cartridge interface 1130″ of the power supply to enable the first cartridge 1300 a″ and the second cartridge 1300 b″ to be directly coupled to the power supply 1100″, as opposed to the need for a separate, reusable intermediate element to indirectly couple the first cartridge 1300 a″ or second cartridge 1300 b″ to the power supply 1100″.
With continued reference to FIG. 36 , a method for diffusing an inhalable substance 1370″ with the system 1000″ may include selecting a cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., that diffuses the inhalable substance 1370″ in a desired manner. For example, a first cartridge 1300 a″ with a first diffusing element 1350 a″ of a first type (e.g., an atomizer, etc.) or a second cartridge 1300 b″ with a second diffusing element 1350 b″ of a second type (e.g., a vaporizer, etc.) may be selected. The cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., that has been selected may contain (e.g., define, integrally carry, etc.) a reservoir 1360″ and may be coupled directly to the power supply 1100″. Coupling of the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., to the power supply 1100″ may include mating a power supply interface 1330″ of the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., with a cartridge interface 1130″ of the power supply 1100″. Such a method may also include supplying power from the power supply 1100″ to the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., to enable the diffuser 1350 a″, 1350 b″, etc., of the cartridge 1300 a″, 1300 b″, etc., to diffuse the inhalable substance 1370″.
Vaping devices generally include a power supply (e.g., a battery or other appropriate power supply) and a cartridge or pod that contains a substance to be vaporized (e.g., flower, oils, concentrates, etc.). Typically, the cartridges or pods are capable of holding one type of substance to be vaporized and must be switched out if a user of the vaping device desires a different flavor or a different substance. Additionally, many cartridges and pods are limited to containing flower (e.g., plant matter, etc.) or oils (e.g., liquids, etc.), thus limiting the types of substances that users can vaporize.
Hard concentrates, or extractions that are concentrated forms of a substance to be vaporized, present special challenges to vaping through a cartridge or pod. Specifically, hard concentrates are typically consumed by heating a nail to incredibly high temperatures and then dropping a small amount of hard concentrate on the nail to produce vapor that can be inhaled. Typically, hard concentrates are sticky or waxy, leading to difficulties in packaging hard concentrates within cartridges. Generally, concentrates are diluted in order to package them within cartridges. Due to the sticky nature and the high temperatures typically required for aerosolizing hard concentrates, it is difficult for users to take their hard concentrates on-the-go, like they would a typical vaping cartridge.
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a vaping device 2200 having a first embodiment of a hard concentrate pod 2500. A pod may be a cartridge or other type of container or unit that is capable of holding a substance to be vaporized and connectable into a power supply, according to examples of the present disclosure. The hard concentrate pod 2500 or cartridge is connectable to a power supply system 2100, which provides power to the hard concentrate pod 2500 to aerosolize hard concentrate or other substances contained within the pod 2500. The vaping device 2200 with the hard concentrate pod 2500 allows users to vaporize hard concentrates on-the-go. Examples of a power supply system 2100 that is usable with the hard concentrate pod 2500 of the present disclosure are described and illustrated in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/903,796 filed on Oct. 1, 2024 and titled “POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR VAPING DEVICES,” the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
FIGS. 38 through 39 illustrate the hard concentrate pod 2500 of FIG. 37 . A pod may be any unit or container suitable for containing a hard concentrate to be aerosolized, the unit attachable to a power source. As illustrated in FIG. 38 , the hard concentrate pod 2500 includes a pod housing 250, a chamber 2502 receivable within the pod housing 250, and a cap 2510 connectable to the pod housing 250. The pod housing 250 extends from a proximal end 251 to a distal end 252. As best seen in FIG. 39 , the distal end 252 includes a first interface 253 for coupling the pod housing 250 to the power supply system 2100. The first interface 253 may facilitate electrical coupling of the pod housing 250 to the power supply system 2100. For example, the first interface 253 may be a USB, USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, micro-USB, a lightning connector, pogo pins, a contact pad, induction, or any other suitable interface for electrically coupling the hard concentrate pod 2500 to the power supply system 2100.
The cap 2510 is connectable to the proximal end 251 of the pod housing 250. The cap 2510 may include a lid portion 2511 for closing the pod housing 250 (e.g., closing the proximal end 251 of the pod housing 250) and a mouthpiece portion 2515 for delivering vapor produced by the hard concentrate pod 2500 to a user of the hard concentrate pod 2500. In some embodiments, the cap 2510 or a portion of the cap 2510 (e.g., the lid portion 2511 and/or the mouthpiece portion 2515) is rotatable or moveable relative to the pod housing 250 when the cap 2510 is connected to the pod housing 250. In other embodiments, the cap 2510 may be irreversibly attached to the pod housing 250 and not moveable relative to the pod housing 250. For example, to make the device child-resistant, the cap 2510 may not be removable. Or, in other embodiments, to allow a user to refill the pod housing with a substance to be aerosolized, the cap 2510 may be removable.
When the cap 2510 is removable from the pod housing 250, such removal exposes the chamber 2502 and the one or more voids 2505 defined therein. Removing the cap 2510 allows users to refill the one or more voids 2505 with a new capsule 2506, containing a hard concentrate, or with the hard concentrate directly. This allows the hard concentrate pod 2500 to be reusable, cutting down on waste and trash generation. This also allows users of the hard concentrate pod 2500 to load sticky or waxy hard concentrates directly into the chamber 2502, enabling users to travel with their hard concentrates and removing limits of the types of substances users can vaporize.
The chamber 2502 is receivable within the pod housing 250 and may be rotatable relative to the pod housing 250 or a portion of the pod housing 250. Specifically, referring to FIGS. 40 through 43 , the chamber 2502 is received within the pod housing 250 and rests on a base 255 of the pod housing 250. A post 259 is anchored to the base 255 and extends through the chamber 2502, acting as an axis of rotation for the chamber 2502. Thus, the chamber 2502 can rotate or revolve around the post 259 and relative to the pod housing 250. In some embodiments, the chamber 2502 may interface with bumps, protuberances, or other structures of the pod housing 250 (e.g., a protuberance on the base 255, etc.) that allow the chamber 2502 to rotate and/or provide an axis of rotation for the chamber 2502. The chamber 2502 includes a body 2503 defining one or more voids 2505. The one or more voids 2505 may hold a capsule 2506 containing a hard concentrate to be aerosolized when the hard concentrate pod 2500 is connected to a power supply system 2100. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the one or more voids 2505 may directly hold or receive the hard concentrate to be aerosolized.
The pod housing 250 houses or receives a heating assembly 2557 (FIG. 40 ) which is electrically coupleable to the power supply system 2100 when the hard concentrate pod 2500 is connected to the power supply system 2100. Specifically, the first interface 253 facilitates electrical coupling of the heating assembly 2557 to the power supply system 2100. Rotation of the chamber 2502 within the pod housing 250 brings the capsule 2506 (or the hard concentrate), contained within one of the one or more voids 2505, into alignment with the heating assembly 2557 and, specifically, with a heating element 257. For example, as shown in FIGS. 42 and 43 , the capsule 2506 is contained within a void 2505 and is aligned or positioned over the heating element 257 within the pod housing 250.
More specifically, the heating assembly 2557 is received within the base 255 of the pod housing 250. Referring back to FIGS. 38 and 39 , the pod housing 250 may have an oblong shape and be longer in one direction or axis than the other. Any other suitable shape and size may also be used. Accordingly, the heating assembly 2557 may be positioned on one side of the base 255. The base 255 may define a cavity 2556 (see FIG. 44B) in which the heating assembly 2557 is housed and positioned.
When the chamber 2502 is rotated relative to the base 255, the void 2505 containing the capsule 2506 is aligned with the heating element 257 such that the void 2505 and the capsule 2506 are coupled to the heating element 257. In this way, the heating element 257 may heat the capsule 2506, thereby heating the hard concentrate contained within the capsule 2506 to produce vapor that can be inhaled by a user. Alternatively, the heating element 257 may directly heat the hard concentrate when the hard concentrate is received within the one or more voids 2505.
In one embodiment, only one void is alignable with the heating element 257 at a time. This allows the chamber 2502 to hold multiple capsules 2506 in multiple voids 2505, while heating one capsule 2506 at a time. This prevents undesirable heating of other capsules 2506 or other hard concentrates contained in other voids 2505. The chamber 2502 and/or the pod housing 250 may include magnets 2507 that facilitate alignment of the one or more voids 2505 with the heating element 257. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the chamber 2502 and/or the pod housing 250 may include clips, detents, divots, ratchets, or any other appropriate mechanism for facilitating alignment of the one or more voids 2505 and the capsule 2506 with the heating element 257.
Referring to FIG. 43 and FIGS. 44A to 44B, when the capsule 2506 is aligned and coupled with the heating element 257, a portion of the capsule 2506 may directly or indirectly contact the heating element 257. In this way, the capsule 2506 may be heated by the heating element 257, where heating of the capsule 2506 heats the hard concentrate contained therein. The capsule 2506 may be sealed by a gasket 2508 that sits within a proximal portion of the capsule 2506. The gasket 2508 may define a vapor outlet 2520 that allows vapor generated by the heated hard concentrate within the capsule 2506 (or within a void 2505) to exit the capsule 2506 and travel into the cap 2510 (e.g., into the mouthpiece portion 2515 of the cap 2510). A second gasket 2508 may be positioned between the chamber 2502 and the cap 2510 (e.g., the gasket 2508 may interface with the lid portion 2511 of the cap 2510), where the second gasket 2508 also defines a vapor pathway allowing vapor to travel into the cap 2510 and be delivered to a user. The vapor pathway from the mouthpiece to the hard concentrate currently being heated may be defined through other structures as well.
The one or more voids 2505 may include an insulator 2509 to ensure heat generated by the heating element 257 is conducted to the capsule 2506 and is not lost to the chamber 2502. For example, the chamber 2502 may be formed from a metal or metal alloy (e.g., aluminum, aluminum oxide, or other appropriate materials). In such embodiments, the insulator 2509 ensures that heat is conducted to the capsule 2506 to adequately heat the hard concentrate contained therein. In other aspects, the chamber 2502 may be formed of other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the insulator 2509 may be an insulative sleeve, an insulative lining, or another appropriate insulator.
FIG. 44A is a perspective view of the pod housing 250 and FIG. 44B is a cross-sectional view of the pod housing 250 taken through the line 8-8 in FIG. 44A. As before, the chamber 2502 is receivable within the pod housing 250. Specifically, the pod housing 250 defines a space 256 for receiving the chamber 2502. The base 255 of the pod housing 250 may define a cavity 2556 for receiving the heating assembly 2557 (e.g., the heating element 257, wires 258, seals or gaskets, insulators, etc.). The cavity 2556 may additionally define holes 2558 allowing wires 258 of the heating assembly 2557 to extend through the base 255 and into the distal end 252 of the pod housing 250. The wires 258 may contact electrodes or other elements of the first interface 253 to facilitate electrical coupling of the heating element 257 to the power supply system 2100. The base 255 may also define an anchor point 2559 for anchoring the post 259 to the base 255. In some embodiments, the anchor point 2559 may be a protuberance or other structure that provides an axis of rotation for the chamber 2502. When the chamber 2502 is rotated within the pod housing 250, the one or more voids 2505 will align with the cavity 2556, thereby aligning with the heating assembly 2557 contained therein and coupling the one or more voids 2505 to the heating assembly 2557 and the heating element 257.
FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the chamber 2502 having one or more voids 2505. The chamber 2502 has a body 2503 defining the one or more voids 2505 and a bore 2504. The post 259 extends through the bore 2504 to connect the chamber 2502 to the pod housing 250 and to facilitate rotation of the chamber 2502 within the pod housing 250. In embodiments where the chamber 2502 rotates about a protuberance, the bore 2504 may interface with the protuberance allowing the chamber 2502 to rotate. Each of the one or more voids 2505 may include a flange 2552 to hold or seat the capsule 2506 within the voids 2505 without allowing the capsule 2506 to slide or fall through the voids 2505. However, the voids 2505 are substantially open, allowing the capsule 2506 to couple to the heating element 257 when the capsule 2506 is aligned over the heating element 257. Such coupling to the heating element 257 may include direct contact with the heating element 2557.
FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate the chamber 2502 and the pod housing 250. Specifically, FIG. 46 illustrates alignment of a void 2505 of the one or more voids 2505 with the cavity 2556 for receiving the heating assembly 2557. As mentioned, magnets or other alignment facilitators may be positioned within the body 2503 of the chamber 2502 and/or within the base 255 of the pod housing 250, thereby ensuring that the void 2505 containing the capsule 2506 will be aligned with the heating assembly 2557. FIG. 47 illustrates the capsule 2506, with its seal 2508, received within a void 2505. FIG. 47 also illustrates the vapor outlet 2517 defined within the mouthpiece 2515, allowing vapor produced within the capsule 2506 to be delivered to a user of the hard concentrate pod 2500.
When the chamber 2502 is received by the pod housing 250, an exterior portion of the chamber 2502 is accessible by a user. This accessibility allows a user to physically grasp the chamber 2502 and rotate the chamber 2502 relative to the pod housing 250. In this way, a user can rotate the chamber 2502 to aerosolize substances contained in different voids 2505 of the chamber 2502.
FIGS. 48A and 48B show alignment of the capsule 2506 over the heating element 257. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 48A, rotation of the chamber 2502 aligns the capsule 2506 directly over the heating element 257. As shown in FIG. 48B, a portion of the capsule 2506 can directly contact a surface of the heating element 257 to facilitate heating of the hard concentrate contained within the capsule 2506. In other embodiments, the heating element 257 does not directly contact the capsule 2506, but is still in heating connection with the capsule 2506. The heating element 257 may be a ceramic heating element, such as a ceramic core containing coils or wires extending therethrough. Examples of a heating element that can be used with the hard concentrate pod 2500 are illustrated and described in U.S. application Ser. No. 18/434,296 filed on Feb. 6, 2024 and titled “CERAMIC VAPING CORE WITH SURFACE TREATMENT,” the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. Other suitable heating elements can also be used (ceramic, metallic, those with center posts, post-less, SMT, etc.)
Although described as receiving a capsule 2506 containing the hard concentrate, in some embodiments, the one or more voids 2505 may directly receive the hard concentrate. In such an embodiment, the one or more voids 2505 may have a floor, allowing hard concentrate to be received within the voids 2505. Rotation of the chamber 2502 aligns a void 2505 with the heating element 257, where the heating element 257 heats the void 2505 to heat the hard concentrate contained therein.
In still other embodiments, the capsule 2506 received within the voids 2505 may incorporate or include its own heating element. In such embodiments, the heating assembly 2557 housed by the pod housing 250 may include an electrode that is electrically coupleable to the power supply system 2100. When the chamber 2502 is rotated to bring the void 2505 and the contained capsule 2506 into alignment with the heating assembly 2557, the heating element of the capsule 2506 will be activated by the electrode (e.g., will be electrically coupled to the electrode), thereby heating the hard concentrate contained within the capsule 2506.
Further, although described as containing a hard concentrate (e.g., extractions that are concentrated forms of a substance to be vaporized), it is to be understood that the capsules 2506 or the one or more voids 2505 may receive any type of substance to be vaporized (e.g., flower, oils, liquids, etc.) and the disclosure is not so limited to hard concentrates.
Additionally, and/or alternatively, each void 2505 of the one or more voids 2505 may include its own heating element. In such embodiments, the heating assembly 2557 housed by the pod housing 250 may include an electrode that is electrically coupleable to the power supply system 2100. When the chamber 2502 is rotated to bring the void 2505 and the heating element contained therein into alignment with the heating assembly 2557, the heating element of the void 2505 will be activated by the electrode (e.g., will be electrically coupled to the electrode), thereby heating the hard concentrate contained within the void 2505.
FIG. 49 is a top, perspective view of a second embodiment of a hard concentrate pod 2500′ for use with a vaping device, such as the vaping device 2200 of FIG. 37 . Referring to FIGS. 49 through 51B, the hard concentrate pod 2500′ includes a pod housing 250′ and a chamber 2502′ receivable within the pod housing 250′. The pod housing 250′ extends from a proximal end 251′ to a distal end 252′. As best seen in FIG. 51B, similar to the hard concentrate pod 2500, the distal end 252′ includes a first interface 253′ for coupling the pod housing 250′ to the power supply system 2100. The first interface 253′ may facilitate electrical coupling of the pod housing 250′ to the power supply 2100. For example, the first interface 253′ may be a USB, USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, micro-USB, a lightning connector, pogo pins, a contact pad, induction, or any other suitable interface for electrically coupling the hard concentrate pod 2500′ to the power supply system 2100.
The pod housing 250′ may include a top 2551′ including the proximal end 251′ and a bottom or base 255′ connectable to the top 2551′. The top 2551′ includes a mouthpiece portion 2515′ for delivering vapor produced by the hard concentrate pod 2500′ to a user of the hard concentrate pod 2500′. In some embodiments, the top 2551′ is rotatable or moveable relative to the base 255′. In other embodiments, the top 2551′ may be irreversibly attached to the base 255′ and not moveable relative to the pod housing 250.
The chamber 2502′ is receivable within the pod housing 250′ and defines one or more voids 2505′ for receiving hard concentrate, such as by receiving one or more capsules 2506′ containing a hard concentrate. The chamber 2502′ and/or the capsules 2506′ may interface with a tray 2553′ received within the base 255′ of the pod housing 250′. The tray 2553′ may define one or more cups or divots 2555′ for interfacing with the one or more voids 2505′ defined in the chamber 2502′. One of the one or more cups or divots 2555′ may have an open bottom (see FIG. 55 ), which may correspond to the cup or divot 2555′ aligned over the heating assembly 2557′. By having an open bottom, the cup or divot 2555′ allows the capsule 2506′ to extend through the open bottom to contact or couple with the heating element 257′. In some embodiments, the chamber 2502′ and/or the tray 2553′ may be rotatable relative to the pod housing 250′.
The pod housing 250′ houses or receives a heating assembly 2557′ which is electrically coupleable to the power supply system 2100 when the hard concentrate pod 2500′ is connected to the power supply system 2100. Specifically, the first interface 253′ facilitates electrical coupling of the heating assembly 2557′ and the power supply system 2100. Similar to the hard concentrate pod 2500, rotation of the chamber 2502′ within the pod housing 250′ brings the capsule 2506′, contained within one of the one or more voids 2505′, into alignment with the heating assembly 2557′ and, specifically, with a heating element 257′.
More specifically, the heating assembly 2557′ may be received within tray 2553′ or the base 255′ of the pod housing 250′. In some embodiments, the tray 2553′ is formed integrally with the base 255′ and the heating assembly 2557′ is thus positioned within the base 255′. Referring to FIGS. 52 and 53 , the base 255′ defines a cavity 2556′ for receiving the heating assembly 2557′, such as the heating element 257′ and the wires 258′. The cavity 2556′ may also receive a gasket, insulator, or other components of the heating assembly 2557′. As seen best in FIG. 53 , when the capsule 2506′ is aligned with the heating element 257′, a portion of the capsule 2506′ may contact the heating element 257′, thereby transferring heat from the heating element 257′ to the hard concentrate contained within the capsule 2506′.
The chamber 2502′ secures the capsules 2506′ within the one or more voids 2505′ through a projection 2558′. The projection 2558′ may be similar to the gasket 2508 from the hard concentrate pod 2500 in that the projection 2558′ seals the capsule 2506′ to prevent backflow of any hard concentrate contained therein as well as defines a vapor outlet 2520′ allowing vapor generated within the capsule 2506′ to exit the capsule 2506′ into the top 2551′ of the pod housing 250′ for delivery to a user.
As seen in FIG. 54 , the chamber 2502′ may be a single, unitary piece containing a number of projections 2558′ matching a number of voids 2505′. The chamber 2502′ may interface with the tray 2553′ in order to align the one or more voids 2505′ containing the hard concentrate (either directly or within a capsule 2506′) over the heating element 257′. Specifically, the one or more voids 2505′ of the chamber 2502′ may align with and correspond to the one or more cups or divots 2555′ of the tray 2553′. For example, FIG. 55 is a bottom, perspective view of the tray 2553′.
FIG. 56 is the cross-sectional view of the hard concentrate pod 2500′ taken through the line 16-16 in FIG. 49 and showing an air flow path through the hard concentrate pod 2500′. Specifically, air may enter the hard concentrate pod 2500′ from the distal end 252′ of the pod housing 250′. The air may travel through the distal end 252′ and into the cavity 2556′ that houses the heating assembly 2557′. From the cavity 2556′, the air may flow into the capsule 2506′ to be mixed with vapor produced by heating the hard concentrate contained within the capsule 2506′. The air and vapor mixture may then exit the capsule 2506′ through the projection 2558′ of the chamber 2502′. Specifically, the air and vapor mixture will travel through the vapor outlet 2520′ and into the top 2551′ of the pod housing 250′. From the pod housing 250′, the air and vapor mixture may be delivered to a user of the hard concentrate pod 2500′ through the vapor outlet 2517′ defined in the mouthpiece portion 2515′ of the top 2551′.
FIG. 57 is a top, perspective view of a third embodiment of a hard concentrate pod 2500″ for use with a vaping device, such as the vaping device 2200 of FIG. 37 . Referring to FIGS. 57 through 60 , the hard concentrate pod 2500″ includes a pod housing 250′″ and a chamber 2502″ (see FIG. 59 ) receivable within the pod housing 250″. The pod housing 250″ extends from a proximal end 251″ to a distal end 252″. As best seen in FIGS. 58A and 58B, similar to the hard concentrate pod 2500 and hard concentrate pod 2500′, the distal end 252″ includes a first interface 253″ for coupling the pod housing 250″ to the power supply system 2100. The first interface 253″ may facilitate electrical coupling of the pod housing 250″ to the power supply 2100. For example, the first interface 253″ may be a USB, USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, micro-USB, a lightning connector, pogo pins, a contact pad, induction, or any other suitable interface for electrically coupling the hard concentrate pod 2500″ to the power supply system 2100.
The pod housing 250″ may include a top 2551″ including the proximal end 251″ and a bottom or base 255″ connectable to the top 2551″. The top 2551″ includes a mouthpiece portion 2515″ for delivering vapor produced by the hard concentrate pod 2500″ through vapor outlet 2517″ to a user of the hard concentrate pod 2500″. In some embodiments, the top 2551″ is moveable relative to the base 255″ (e.g., vertically separable, etc.). In other embodiments, the top 2551″ may be irreversibly attached to the base 255″ and not moveable relative to the pod housing 250″. A channel or inlet may be defined between the top 2551″ and the base 255″, allowing air to enter into the pod housing 250″ and assist in flow of air and/or vapor through the pod housing 250″.
As best seen in FIG. 59 , the chamber 2502″ is receivable within the pod housing 250″ and defines one or more voids 2505″ for receiving hard concentrate, such as by receiving one or more capsules 2506″ containing a hard concentrate. The chamber 2502″ may include a projection 2558″ that engages and receives the capsule 2506″, thereby securing the capsule 2506″ to the chamber 2502″. The projection 2558″ defines a vapor pathway 2520″ that fluidly connects the capsule 2506″ and the vapor outlet 2517″ of the top 2551″. The capsule 2506″ may be part of a capsule assembly and include a bracket 2506A″ and a splash guard 2506B″. The bracket 2506A″ may interface with the chamber 2502′″ and/or a tray 2553″ to hold the capsule 2506″ in place within the chamber 2502″ and/or position the capsule 2506″ within the pod housing 250″.
The chamber 2502″ and/or the capsules 2506″ may interface with a tray 2553″ received within the base 255″ of the pod housing 250″. The tray 2553″ may define one or more holes 2555″ for interfacing with the one or more capsules 2506″ held by the chamber 2502″. In some embodiments, the bracket 2506A″ assists in aligning the capsule 2506″ over the one or more holes 2555″. The one or more holes 2555″ may have an open bottom which may be aligned over the heating assembly 2557″. By having an open bottom, the hole 2555″ allows the capsule 2506″ to extend through the open bottom to contact or couple with the heating element 257″.
The base 255″ may define a cavity 2556″ that aligns with the hole 2555″ thereby further enabling alignment of the capsule 2506″ and the heating assembly 2557″, including the heating element 257″. Additionally, the cavity 2556″ may house components of the heating assembly 2557″, such as gaskets, seals, wiring 258″, the heating element 257″, a heating element housing, etc.
The pod housing 250″ houses or receives a heating assembly 2557″ which is electrically coupleable to the power supply system 2100 when the hard concentrate pod 2500″ is connected to the power supply system 2100. Specifically, the first interface 253″ facilitates electrical coupling of the heating assembly 2557″ and the power supply system 2100. For example, wiring 258″ of the heating assembly 2557″ may extend into or couple with the first interface 253″, allowing the first interface 253″ to couple the heating assembly 2557″ to the power supply system 2100.
The top 2515″ of the pod housing 250″ may be separable from the base 255″. For example, the top 2515″ may be vertically separated or pulled away from the base 255″, thereby exposing the base 255″, the chamber 2502″, the tray 2553″, and the capsule 2506″ containing the hard concentrate. Such separation allows a user to replace the capsule 2506″ with a new, fresh capsule 2506″, prolonging the overall lifespan of the hard concentrate pod 2500″ and decreasing trash generation.
FIG. 61 is a flowchart of one example method 2300 of the present disclosure. Specifically, the method 2300 is for assembling a hard concentrate pod for connection to a battery to facilitate aerosolization of a hard concentrate. The hard concentrate pod may be the hard concentrate pod 2500 of FIGS. 37 through 48B or the hard concentrate pod 2500′ of FIGS. 49 through 56 , or the hard concentrate pod 2500″ of FIGS. 57 through 60 . The method 2300 may include forming a chamber (e.g., the chamber 2502 or 2502′), with the chamber defining one or more voids for receiving the hard concentrate to be aerosolized, at 2305. The method 2300 may also include positioning the chamber within a pod housing, the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing, at 2310. Further, the method may include anchoring a ceramic heating element within the pod housing, the ceramic heating element electrically coupleable to the battery, at 2315.
Traditional vaping devices can result in the production of substantial amounts of visible exhaled vapor, often accompanied by persistent odors. While certain filters and personal air purification devices exist, the integration of such a filter system directly as part of, or attachable to, a vaping device has not been thoroughly implemented or standardized. Consumers have expressed a need for more discreet and cleaner vaping solutions, especially in environments where those in proximity may be sensitive to lingering odors or vapor clouds.
Some existing products comprise separate accessories that can be used to reduce or neutralize odors and particulates associated with exhaled vapor. However, integrating or coupling the filter assembly with a vaping device in a manner that yields consistent airflow, minimal backpressure, and effective filtration presents significant design considerations. Overcoming these challenges requires a combination of internal filter media, structural design, airflow control, and an efficient mechanism to capture and filter exhaled vapor.
The present disclosure provides a system for vaporizing an inhalable substance (or a vaping device) that includes, or is adapted for connection to, an exhalation filter to reduce or eliminate visible vapor, odors, or particulate matter when a user exhales. By integrating or attaching a specialized filtering element into the system itself (or within an easily connectable peripheral), the system seeks to provide improved discretion, odor control, and cleanliness. One embodiment includes a mouthpiece or housing portion with a filter medium that effectively traps and neutralizes exhaled vapor before releasing less objectionable exhaust into the surrounding environment.
The system may reduce the overall intensity of exhaled vapor without unduly restricting the user's exhalation. The system is designed to maintain sufficient airflow through the filter, ensuring that the user can exhale effortlessly while the filter captures and neutralizes any heated particulates, odors, or visible vapor. By relying on a filter structure that may contain activated carbon or similarly absorptive materials, odor molecules and fine particulate matter are significantly diminished prior to discharge.
An additional advantage of the system is the compact and user-friendly design of the filter component. Unlike large external attachments commonly used in other contexts, the integrated (or attachable) filter mechanism set forth in this specification can be made to match or blend with the vape device's aesthetic. This helps maintain the user experience and discreetness, while still conforming to a wide variety of vaping form factors and usage preferences.
In one embodiment, the vaping assembly or system includes a main vaporizer device housing containing a power source, heating element, and reservoir for the inhalable substance. The mouthpiece is configured so that airflow is directed from the reservoir and heating element to the user's mouth for conventional inhalation of vapor. The improved aspect of this design arises from the addition of, or adaptation for, an exhalation aperture that includes a detachable or built-in filter.
In practice, the user inhales vapor from the vaping device in a typical manner. Upon exhalation, the user directs exhaled vapor back through the mouthpiece or an optional secondary port aligned with the filter media. The filter may be formed of multiple layers-most typically, a pre-filter or mesh screen to capture larger droplets or condensate, followed by an odor-absorbing layer comprising activated charcoal, zeolite, silica gel, or a similarly absorptive and odor-neutralizing material. Alternative or additional filtration layers may include a HEPA-like medium or specialized fiber screen that further captures ultrafine particulate.
To encourage maximum efficiency, the mouthpiece or separate port is designed ergonomically so that a user can comfortably place the filter entrance near or against their lips. The airflow path ensures that nearly all exhaled vapor is guided through the layered filtration media, thereby reducing or eliminating visible output on the opposite side of the filter. A one-way flow valve or similarly configured component may be incorporated to avoid vapor recirculating in unintended directions. Additionally, the filter housing may be constructed of plastic, metal, polymer composites, or similar materials capable of supporting the filter media and withstanding a wide range of temperature conditions.
In certain embodiments, the filter module may be detachable, allowing the user to replace the filter media once it becomes saturated or begins to lose efficacy. A user may detach the filter component by twisting, pulling, or sliding it from the vaping device housing. Replacement cartridges or filter elements can then be inserted, ensuring continued filtration performance. This interchangeable concept also permits different filter types to be used, tailored to user preference or local air quality standards.
In another embodiment, the device may incorporate an airflow sensor such that detection of exhalation triggers minor adjustments in the airflow pathway or activates a small fan to direct the vapor through the filter at a controlled and efficient rate. When the user fully exhales, the airflow sensor may cease operation of any auxiliary components, thereby saving battery power.
In a further embodiment, supplemental odor-neutralizing substances may be included in the filter media. These substances could be comprised of a chemical agent that reacts specifically with the byproducts of e-liquid vapor. Alternatively, the device may incorporate an optional fragrance layer to impart a mild scent to the filtered air. Such an addition could further mask any residual odors, though it is designed to be subtle enough not to create an overbearing aroma.
In some configurations, the filter assembly could be integrated with the mouthpiece, forming a single unit that the user attaches to the top of the vaping device. In other configurations, the filter assembly might be located at a separate exhaust port near the base or side of the device. In each case, the objective is to ensure user convenience, maintain a discreet profile, and facilitate optimal filtration of exhaled vapor.
A filter assembly has significant industrial applicability by providing a refined, discreet, and more environmentally conscious vaping experience. Businesses involved in vape device design and manufacturing may adopt this filter integration to comply with community guidelines, workplace standards, and consumer requests for reduced emissions of visible vapor. It also serves hospitality industries, medical or care facilities, multifamily housing complexes, or other environments with concerns about secondhand vapor, lingering odors, or particulates.
Conventional electronic vaporizers employ metallic coils supported on or within a porous wick or ceramic substrate. Those solutions are largely optimized for relatively low-viscosity e-liquids such as propylene-glycol-based nicotine formulations. When the same hardware is used with cannabis oils—whose viscosities at ambient temperature may exceed fifty centipoise—several drawbacks arise, including incomplete wetting of the wick, localized overheating, premature oxidation, and the generation of undesirable degradation products. Attempts to increase coil temperature to compensate for poor wicking accelerate carbonization of the oil in direct contact with the coil, shortening service life and impairing flavor. There exists a need for a heating element that promotes uniform capillary migration of high-viscosity oils toward the active heating surfaces while enabling staged thermal delivery such that a first, lower-temperature zone gently melts or thins the oil and a second, higher-temperature zone rapidly vaporizes the thinned material.
A composite heating core may comprise, in axial or laminar succession from an upstream end toward a downstream liquid-contacting face, a first structural layer formed of a porous or partially dense electrically insulative ceramic, a second structural layer formed of silicon carbide, and a third structural layer formed of quartz glass that directly interfaces with the inhalable substance. Optionally, any two or more of the foregoing materials may be admixed or co-sintered to form gradient or blended interlayers. The ceramic layer defines a mechanically robust scaffold that electrically isolates the core from adjacent metallic housing components. The silicon-carbide layer provides intermediate thermal conductivity and emissivity, distributing heat laterally to mitigate hotspots. The quartz layer presents a chemically inert, smooth, low-surface-energy face that resists fouling and allows viscous oils to spread uniformly across the heat zone.
First and second independently addressable resistive circuits may be embedded within or disposed upon distinct regions of the core. A first circuit is configured for low-power operation suited to pre-heating or “priming,” raising the temperature of the quartz interface to a range sufficient to reduce oil viscosity without triggering substantial vaporization. A second circuit is configured for higher-power operation and is arranged in closer thermal communication with the silicon-carbide and quartz layers such that, upon activation, the temperature rapidly exceeds the boiling point of cannabinoids and terpenes. The circuits may be electrically connected in parallel, series, or via separate driver channels under microcontroller governance. This multi-zone architecture affords precise temporal and spatial control over heat delivery, minimizing thermal stress on sensitive constituents while enabling high aerosol output on demand.
During operation, user actuation triggers pre-heat mode wherein a suitable current (such as a current of 1.2 A at 2.8 V) flows through a first circuit, stabilizing the first heating layer (such as a quartz interface) at a first temperature within a predetermined time period (such as two seconds). Viscous oil wicked through ancillary wick elements melts and migrates across the first heating layer. Upon secondary command or detection of inhalation, the controller energizes a second circuit (such as at a current of 3.5 A or higher) for a predetermined time period, rapidly elevating the local temperature and generating an aerosol enriched with cannabinoids and terpenes. Because the quartz presents minimal surface energy and no catalytic sites, degradation and fouling are markedly reduced compared to metallic coils.
Alternative embodiments include co-sintered gradient structures in which silicon-carbide powder is gradually introduced into the ceramic matrix, avoiding a discrete interface. In yet another embodiment, the quartz layer is internally micro-etched to form capillary grooves radial to the axis, further promoting oil distribution without materially altering surface chemistry. In a planar variant, the ceramic base is formed as a rectangular plate receiving side-by-side meander paths for the two resistive circuits, which are then over-coated with a silicon-carbide glaze and a fused quartz sheet. Other resistive materials such as molybdenum silicide and doped graphite may be substituted, and the relative ordering of layers may be inverted so long as at least one oil-facing surface comprises quartz or quartz composite.
The disclosed core allows dual, independently operable resistive circuits enabling staged thermal treatment. Collectively, these features render the heating core exceptionally well suited to the unique rheological and chemical properties of cannabis concentrates.
Vaporizing or aerosolizing devices generally apply heat to a substance (i.e., a liquid or oil) in order to vaporize, aerosolize, or generally diffuse the substance for inhalation. As used herein, “vapor,” “aerosol,” and “diffusion” are used interchangeably. That is, any vapor or aerosol generated by heating a liquid is referred to as a “vapor” or “aerosol,” even though a vapor is a substance in the gas phase whereas an aerosol is a suspension of tiny particles of liquid, solid or both within a gas. Similarly, “vaporizing devices,” “diffusion devices,” and “aerosolization devices” are used interchangeably, and a device can be referred to as a “vaping device” even though it may produce an aerosol and not a vapor. Vaping devices are often typically easier to use than conventional smoking devices (e.g., cigarettes). Additionally, vaporizing or aerosolizing substances for inhalation rather than burning them provides a more pleasing flavor of the substance.
Typically, during assembly of vaporizing devices, the heating element (e.g., an atomizer, a heating core, a coil, etc.) is disposed inside an internal cavity of the vaporizing device. Oils or liquids are delivered to the heating element to be atomized and/or vaporized, and the produced vapor is pulled proximally through the vaporizing device for inhalation by a user. This is often referred to as “a hit.” However, if the heating element is insufficiently saturated with oil or liquid, the resulting hit will be dry—that is, no oil or liquid has been vaporized (or too little oil or liquid has been vaporized), resulting in the user inhaling burnt residues or, simply, hot air. Getting a “dry hit” is undesirable in taste and can harm the user's mouth or throat with the hot air.
In various aspects, embodiments of the present disclosure provide for atomizers for vaporizing or aerosolizing devices. Disclosed atomizers may include a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a surface coating or treatment disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure. In some embodiments, the radially graded porous ceramic structure is embedded with a heating element. The atomizer can be received by a vaporizing device to generate vapor from a fluid contained within a reservoir of the vaporizing device, where the fluid flows from the reservoir into one or more pores of the radially graded porous ceramic structure to be atomized by the embedded heating element. The surface treatment can include a carbon surface treatment. In some embodiments, the surface treatment includes graphite, synthetic graphite, pyrolytic carbon, graphene, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, disclosed devices include a center post having proximal and distal ends and a body extending therebetween. The body defines an internal channel. The distal end of the center post includes a proximal portion defining one or more voids in fluid communication with the internal channel, a distal portion, and a median flange between the proximal and distal portions. The median flange extends radially outward from a longitudinal axis of the distal end of the center post (e.g., a longitudinal axis of the center post). The distal portion can define a cavity to receive an atomizer (e.g., a core and/or heating element) and a wick. In some embodiments, the atomizer includes a radially graded porous ceramic structure.
The disclosed devices further include a cartridge for receiving the center post within an interior of the cartridge. The proximal end of the center post can extend proximally beyond the proximal end of the cartridge. Additionally, the proximal end of the center post can include a lip and a pair of proximal flanges for engaging a mouthpiece. The disclosed devices can also include a base associated with the distal ends of both the center post and the cartridge.
In some embodiments, disclosed vaporizing devices include a center post defining an internal channel extending between proximal and distal ends of the center post. The distal end of the center post can include a proximal portion defining one or more voids in fluid communication with the internal channel, a distal portion defining a cavity to receive an atomizer, and a median flange between the proximal and distal portions, with the median flange extending radially outward from a longitudinal axis of the distal end of the center post. The atomizer can include an atomizer surface treatment. The disclosed devices can also include a cartridge for receiving the center post within an interior of the cartridge.
In some embodiments, disclosed vaporizing devices include a cartridge having proximal and distal ends, with a base unit associated with the distal end. In some embodiments, the distal end of the cartridge defines the base unit. Alternatively, the base unit is attached to the distal end of the cartridge. The base unit can receive and/or house an atomizer (e.g., a core and/or heating element), where the atomizer includes a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a surface coating or treatment disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure. A heating element (e.g., a coil) can be embedded or otherwise received within the radially graded porous ceramic structure.
The cartridge defines an internal reservoir for holding a fluid to be vaporized, and the base unit can be located below the internal reservoir. The base unit and/or the internal reservoir may include (e.g., define) apertures placing the base unit and the internal reservoir in fluid communication. That is, a fluid (e.g., oil or liquid) can flow from the internal reservoir through the apertures and into the base unit. As the fluid enters the base unit, the fluid will contact the atomizer and flow into one or more pores of the radially graded porous ceramic structure, where the oil will be heated and vaporized by the atomizer. In embodiments where the cartridge defines the internal reservoir, the vaporizing device may not have (i.e., may lack) a center post. As a user pulls on the vaporizing device for a “hit” (e.g., a volume of vaporized oil), vaporized oil will be pulled proximally through the internal reservoir for inhalation by the user. In some embodiments, the vaporizing device may not have a wick.
Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing a radially graded porous ceramic atomizer. In some embodiments, a method includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, where the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, where the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different than the first porosity. The method can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, where the third layer has a third porosity that may be different than the second porosity and/or the first porosity. The method can further include embedding a heating element within the first, second, and/or third layers.
In some embodiments, a method includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, where the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, where the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different than the first porosity. The method can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, where the third layer has a third porosity that, in some embodiments, is different than the second porosity and/or the first porosity.
FIG. 62 illustrates a diagram of a transport section of a porous media, where the liquid level line illustrates a transient boundary between remaining oil and the vapor at time t. The flow rate of oils or liquid delivered to the heating element can affect the hit a user inhales. Generally, the flow rate of oils or liquids from the reservoir is equal to the oil or hit delivered to the user, oil or liquid within a wick and the heating element, or oil or liquid condensed on walls of the vapor channel or internal channel. The volumetric flow rate of oil from the reservoir can be approximated by:
$\dot{V} = \frac{Δ V}{Δ t} = \frac{A Δ h}{Δ t}$

- where h is the oil in the reservoir at time t. The mass flow rate of oil from the reservoir can substantially be approximated by:

$\dot{m} = \dot{V} \overline{ρ}$

- with the average density of the oil being approximated by:

$\overline{ρ} = \frac{1}{\frac{ω_{A}}{ρ_{A}} + \frac{ω_{B}}{ρ_{B}} + \dots + \frac{ω_{x}}{ρ_{x}}}$

- where ωA is the mass fraction of component A, ωB is the mass fraction of component B, etc. The mass flow rate of the individual components (A, B, . . . . X, etc.) is approximated by:

${\dot{m}}_{A} = {\dot{m}}_{tot} ω_{A}$
As the oil level in the reservoir decreases, a vacuum is created in the reservoir, which results in air flowing through other components of the vaporizing device (e.g., the atomizer or wicks) to backfill and equilibrate the pressure. This can result in increased oxygen levels within the reservoir, concomitantly increasing the potential for the oil to be oxidized. Oxidation of the oil within the reservoir can impact the overall composition of the oil that will ultimately be vaporized as a hit delivered to a user.
Often, oil is transported from the reservoir to the heating element via capillary action. FIG. 63 schematically illustrates capillary rise in an inclined and cylindrical tube. The magnitude of capillary pressure is usually described by the Laplace equation:
$P = \frac{2 γ_{LA} \cos θ}{r}$

- where γLA is the surface tension of the oil, θ is the oil-solid contact angle, and r is the capillary radius. Additionally, Darcy's law models single-phase flow in a porous media:

$\dot{V} = - A \frac{K}{μ L} (Δ P)$

- where {dot over (V)} is the volumetric flow rate, A is the cross-sectional area of the porous media, K is the permeability of the porous media, μ is the dynamic viscosity of the oil, L is the distance, and ΔP is the difference in pressure.

Permeability is a measure of the ease of passage of liquids or gases through a material. Permeability depends on the material's porosity (the fraction of void spaces over the total volume) as well as pore shape and network. Therefore, the porous media directly influences the rate of capillary flow and the amount of oil near the heated element (which may be referred to herein as “saturation”). An air pressure gradient occurs with a user inhalation that drives oil movement (that is not maintained due to reservoir backfilling) while viscous forces resist oil movement.
In addition to the transport of oil playing a role in the overall efficiency of a vaporizing device, the efficiency and consistency of the heating element also play a role. Often, the heating element is held in place within an internal cavity of the vaporizing device by means of an insulating ring. Inclusion of the insulating ring, however, decreases production efficiency and increases production difficulty in manufacturing these devices, complicating the automatic production process and increasing the ultimate cost of the vaporizing devices. Additionally, the insulating ring can increase buildups or blockages (e.g., debris, un-vaporized oil or components of the oil, etc.) in and around the heating element. These blockages impact the flow and stability of airflow through the device and contribute to leakage of the liquid from the device. The buildups or blockages can also impact the heating efficiency and consistency of the heating element, impacting the likelihood of a user receiving a dry hit.
FIG. 64 schematically illustrates heat transfer among components of a vaporizing device or system. FIG. 65 graphically illustrates a heated section and transport section of a vaporizing device. Generally, energy of a system follows this relationship:
$\dot{Q} + {\dot{W}}_{s} = Δ \dot{H} + Δ {\dot{E}}_{k} + Δ {\dot{E}}_{p}$

- where {dot over (Q)} is the energy transferred to the system as heat and ΔH is the specific enthalpy. {dot over (W)}s is the shaft work, ΔEk is the kinetic energy, and ΔEp is the potential energy—all of which can be neglected. The specific enthalpy can be approximated by:

$Δ \dot{H} = {\dot{Q}}_{in} - ({\dot{Q}}_{lat} + {\dot{Q}}_{conv} + {\dot{Q}}_{cond} + {\dot{Q}}_{heating}) = C \frac{dT}{dt}$

- where C is the effective heat capacity of the system and is the change in temperature over time. {dot over (Q)}in is the input power (watts, W). Additionally, dT/dt

${\dot{Q}}_{lat} = {\dot{m}}_{out} h_{fs}$

- is the latent heat associated with the phase change from liquid to vapor, where {dot over (m)}out is the vaporization rate and hfg is the latent heat of vaporization. Further,

${\dot{Q}}_{conv} = h_{a} A_{s} (T - T_{0})$

- where ha is the heat transfer coefficient, As is the surface area of the heated section, T is the oil temperature, and T0 is the ambient air temperature. Still further,

${\dot{Q}}_{cond} = 2 {kA}_{in} (T - T_{0}) / L_{t}$

- is the heat transfer due to conduction, where k is the effective thermal conductivity, Ain is the surface area, and Lt is the length of the transport section. Additionally,

${\dot{Q}}_{heating} = c_{p} m (T - T_{0}) t_{s}$

- is the energy expending rate for heating, where cp is the heat capacity, m is the total mass, and ta is the puff duration.

When a user inhales or “pulls” on their vaporizing device to produce a hit, the heating element is triggered. An electrical source (e.g., power source) applies energy to the heating element and electrical energy is converted into thermal energy. The transient heating can be expressed by:

- 3768164462442
- where Vr is the volume of the resistor, pr is the metal density, is the metal heat capacity, {dot over (Q)}in is the input power or power delivered, h is the external heat coefficient, Sr is the external surface of the resistor, Tr is the temperature of the resistor, and T0 is the ambient air temperature.

Thermal energy heats the core surrounding the heating element, which heats the wick surrounding the core, and heats oil contained or absorbed within the core and/or the wick. There is a slight latency in the heat transfer as a result of the core and the wick being insulating materials and/or as a result of any gaps between the materials. That is, a certain amount of time is required to heat up the core. During the heat transfer, there is a potential for residue formation inhibiting the heat transfer and affecting the fluid (e.g., oil) flow. The thermal energy also heats air that passes over the core and the heating element. Conduction along the heating element, the core, and the wick can result in heat losses to a component of the vaporizing device. For example, heat may be lost to a cartridge body.
As the oil is heated, it is converted into vapor, where the vapor is composed of a mixture of varying amounts of components. For example, the vapor can be composed of varying amounts of nicotine, water, flavorings, or other components/ingredients of the oil. As another nonlimiting example, the vapor can be composed of varying amounts of cannabinoids, water, flavorings, or other components/ingredients of the oil. FIGS. 66A and 66B graphically illustrate temperature and vaporization rates as a function of time and input power.
Oil vaporization rate is a function of vapor pressures (P*), mole fractions and masses of evaporating species (x and M), mass transfer coefficient (h), surface area where vaporization occurs (A), and the heat transfer rate. Whether the device attains boiling depends on the power input, puff duration, and the thermal inertia of the heating assembly.
Due to different volatilities of the evaporating species, oil composition in the porous media will tend to become enriched in less volatile species during a puff, causing a higher effective boil point. This is because species having a higher volatility will evaporate faster than the remaining, low volatile species. During each individual puff, the vapor composition will change from being enriched in the most volatile species to being enriched in the least volatile species, relative to the parent oil, due to a higher concentration of this species (e.g., the least volatile) at the heated interface. Both temperature and concentration of evaporating species at the heated interface impact the consistency of vaporized oil.
The vaporization of a component can be approximated by:
${\dot{m}}_{l} = h_{m, i} A \frac{M_{i}}{Ru} \frac{x_{i} P_{i}^{*}}{T}$

- where Ru is the universal gas coefficient. The total vaporization rate can be approximated by:

${\dot{m}}_{v} = \sum {\dot{m}}_{i}$
FIG. 67 schematically illustrates particle formation and growth in various phases of matter. Combustion of the oil or a component of the oil may occur depending on the heating temperature, causing decomposition of the oil. Decomposition of the oil increases risks of clogging the vaporizing device or negatively impacting the flavor profile of the generated vapor. One solution is to create an aerosolized spray resembling a cloud at low temperatures.
As a user inhales, the vaporized components are carried out of the device with the inhaled vapor. As the hot vapor comes into contact with cool air drawn into the device, the vapor can re-condense to form an aerosol mist that visually resembles smoke. However, if the condensate flows back to the heated section of the device, or is further heated via conduction, the repeated heating can increase the risk of oxidation, and negatively impact the flavor profile and user experience.
The present disclosure addresses these and other issues. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure provide devices that are substantially leakproof and prevent liquid or oil contained within the device from leaking out. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure are provided with components (e.g., surface coated and/or porous components) that produce consistent, low temperature vaporization of oils or liquids. Consistent, low temperature vaporization reduces the risk and potential of decomposing the oil and/or various components of the oil. Some embodiments are provided with components that improve adhesion of an oil or liquid to components of the vaporizing device. This improved adhesion promotes saturation of a core or heating element contained within, for example, a center post of the device. Greater saturation of the core or heating element prevents a user from inhaling “dry hits.”
In some embodiments, disclosed atomizers include a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a surface coating or treatment disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure. The radially graded porous ceramic structure may be embedded with a heating element. The atomizer can be received by a vaporizing device to generate vapor from a fluid contained within a reservoir of the vaporizing device, where the fluid flows from the reservoir into one or more pores of the radially graded porous ceramic structure to be atomized by the embedded heating element.
In some embodiments, disclosed vaporizing devices include a cartridge having proximal and distal ends, with a base unit associated with the distal end. The distal end of the cartridge may define the base unit, or, the base unit can be attached to the distal end of the cartridge. The base unit can receive and/or house an atomizer (e.g., a core and/or heating element), where the atomizer includes a radially graded porous ceramic structure and/or a surface coating or treatment disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure. In some embodiments, a heating element (e.g., a coil) can be embedded or otherwise received within the radially graded porous ceramic structure.
The cartridge may define an internal reservoir for holding a fluid to be vaporized. The base unit can be located below the internal reservoir. In some embodiments, the base unit and/or the internal reservoir include (e.g., define) apertures placing the base unit and the internal reservoir in fluid communication. That is, a fluid (e.g., oil or liquid) can flow from the internal reservoir through the apertures and into the base unit. As the fluid enters the base unit, the fluid will contact the atomizer and flow into one or more pores of the radially graded porous ceramic structure, where the oil will be heated and vaporized by the embedded heating element. In embodiments where the cartridge defines the internal reservoir, the vaporizing device may not have (i.e., may lack) a center post. As a user pulls on the vaporizing device for a hit, vaporized oil will be pulled proximally through the internal reservoir for inhalation by the user. In some embodiments, the vaporizing device may not have a wick.
Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing a radially graded porous ceramic atomizer. In some embodiments, a method includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, where the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, where the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different from the first porosity. The method can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, where the third layer has a third porosity that, in some embodiments, is different from the second porosity and/or the first porosity. The method can further include embedding a heating element within the first, second, and/or third layers.
In some embodiments, a method includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, where the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, where the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different from the first porosity. The method can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, where the third layer has a third porosity that, in some embodiments, is different from the second porosity and/or the first porosity. In some embodiments, the surface treatment includes a carbon surface treatment. In some embodiments, the surface treatment includes graphite, synthetic graphite, pyrolytic carbon, graphene, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, disclosed devices include a center post having proximal and distal ends and a body extending therebetween. The body defines an internal channel, and the proximal end of the center post can include a lip and a pair of proximal flanges for engaging a mouthpiece. The distal end of the center post includes a proximal portion defining one or more voids in fluid communication with the internal channel. The distal end of the center post also includes a distal portion, and a median flange between the proximal and distal portions, with the median flange extending radially outward from a longitudinal axis of the distal end of the center post (e.g., a longitudinal axis of the center post). The distal portion can define a cavity to receive an atomizer (e.g., a core and/or heating element) and a wick. In some embodiments, the atomizer includes a radially graded porous ceramic structure.
The disclosed devices further include a cartridge for receiving the center post within an interior of the cartridge. The proximal end of the center post can extend proximally beyond the proximal end of the cartridge. The disclosed devices can also include a base associated with the distal ends of both the center post and the cartridge.
In some embodiments, disclosed vaporizing devices include a center post defining an internal channel extending between proximal and distal ends of the center post. The distal end of the center post can include a proximal portion defining one or more voids in fluid communication with the internal channel, a distal portion defining a cavity to receive an atomizer, and a median flange between the proximal and distal portions. The median flange extends radially outward from a longitudinal axis of the distal end of the center post. In some embodiments, the atomizer can include an atomizer surface treatment. The disclosed devices can also include a cartridge for receiving the center post within an interior of the cartridge.
The disclosed vaporizing devices may also include a controller for monitoring a temperature and tau (e.g., a circuit resistance and capacitance) of the vaporizing device and/or the heating element/atomizer of the vaporizing device. The controller can provide an alarm or visual indicator that (a) the vaporizing device is activated and/or (b) the vaporizing device and/or heating element are running too hot.
FIG. 68 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a vaporizing device 3100, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the vaporizing device 3100 includes a cartridge or tank 310 having a proximal end 312 and a distal end 314, a base 316 abutting the distal end 314 of the cartridge 310, and a center post 320. In some embodiments, the base 316 includes a threaded attachment point that may facilitate attachment of the vaporizing device 3100 to, for example, a power source such as a battery. The center post 320 extends proximally beyond the proximal end 312 of the cartridge 310. In some embodiments, the base 316 is in connection with a distal end 325 of the center post 320.
In some embodiments, the cartridge 310 can be constructed from a polyresin or a polyresin blend. In other embodiments, the cartridge 310 can be formed of glass or any other suitable material. The cartridge 310 can be substantially transparent to permit a user to view a level of oil or liquid contained within the cartridge 310. This allows a user to determine when the cartridge 310 is empty and needs to be refilled or replaced.
In some embodiments, the cartridge 310 includes an internal reservoir 317. The internal reservoir 317 is defined by an inner wall 317 a of the cartridge 310 and bounded at a bottom of the internal reservoir 317 by the median flange 326 (see FIGS. 69A and 69B), with the reservoir 317 having an open top so oil or liquid can be added to the internal reservoir 317. That is, the median flange 326 together with the cartridge 310 creates a floor for the internal reservoir 317. The floor of the internal reservoir 317 prevents oil or liquid from undesirably seeping out of the internal reservoir 317 and into other components of the vaporizing device 3100. In some embodiments, the interior of the cartridge 310 is the internal reservoir 317. In some embodiments, the internal reservoir 317 is disposed within the interior of the cartridge 310 (e.g., in a double-walled manner), as described.
FIG. 69A illustrates a first close-up view of the vaporizing device 3100 of FIG. 68 . Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 69A, the center post 320 has a body 323 with a proximal end 321 and a distal end 325. The body 323 defines an internal channel (not illustrated) that extends between the proximal and distal ends 321, 325.
The distal end 325 of the center post 320 includes a proximal portion 32, a distal portion (not illustrated), and a median flange 326 disposed between the proximal portion 32 and the distal portion. In some embodiments, the median flange 326 is disposed substantially in the middle between the proximal 32 and distal portions. The distal end 325 of the center post 320 defines one or more voids 328 that are in fluid communication with the internal channel. In some embodiments, the distal end 325 of the center post 320 defines a cavity or housing 322 to receive, for example, an atomizer 330. The atomizer 330 is illustrated as housed within the cavity 322.
In some embodiments, the atomizer 330 includes a heating element 327 and a core 324, such as a porous ceramic structure. The cavity 322 also houses or receives components to facilitate the transfer of oil or liquid through the one or more voids 328 to the heating element 327. For example, the cavity 322 can house a wick to facilitate the transfer of oil or liquid to the heating element 327. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 32 defines the one or more voids 328 that are in fluid communication with the internal channel. The one or more voids 328 facilitate the transfer of oil or liquid contained within a reservoir 317 of the cartridge 310 to a heating element 327 contained within the cavity 322 defined by the distal end 325 of the center post 320.
FIG. 69B illustrates a second close-up view of the atomizer 330 of FIG. 68 and FIG. 69A. Specifically, FIG. 69B illustrates a close-up view of the atomizer 330 contained within the cavity 322 of the distal portion 325 of the center post 320. As illustrated, the atomizer 330 includes a core (e.g., a porous ceramic structure) 324 and a heating element 327, which can be a coil. In some embodiments, the heating element 327 (e.g., the coil) is embedded, either entirely or partially, in the core 324. That is, the heating element 327 may be embedded within a porous ceramic structure. In some embodiments, a headspace or gap 329 exists or is disposed between turns of the coil 327 within the porous ceramic structure 324. Inclusion of the headspace 329 prevents turns of the coil 327 from being too close to each other, which can undesirably lead to overheating of the vaporizing device 3100. As discussed more fully below with respect to FIGS. 70A and 70B, the porous ceramic structure 324 can be a radially graded porous ceramic structure.
In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 includes aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, zinc oxide, boron nitride, aluminum nitride, silicon carbide, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 also includes gold, silver, aluminum, copper, or combinations thereof. A wick may be included, where the wick is a porous media, such as cotton, linen, cotton-blends, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, or another appropriate porous media to facilitate the transfer of oil from the reservoir 317 of the cartridge 310 to the atomizer 330 housed within the distal end 325 of the center post 320.
The vaporizing device 3100 can include a controller (not illustrated) to control heating of the heating element 327. The controller can monitor and/or measure a temperature and/or resistance of the heating element 327. Based on the monitored and measured temperature and/or resistance, the controller can trigger an alarm for the user. For example, if the temperature of the heating element 327 is too high, the controller can trigger a visual or auditory alarm to the user to reduce the temperature. Similarly, if the measured resistance of the heating element 327 is too high, the controller can trigger a visual or auditory alarm to the user to reduce the temperature.
In some embodiments, the wick (not illustrated) and/or the ceramic structure 324 can include a surface treatment or coating. Including a surface treatment or coating on the wick and/or the ceramic structure 324 can increase a heat transfer rate between the wick, the ceramic structure 324, the heating element 327, and/or oil within pores of the ceramic structure 324. The surface treatment can also reduce conductive losses dissipated to the cartridge 310 or other components of the vaporizing device 3100. Reducing conductive losses can improve vaporization of components in the oil (e.g., the least volatile species) during an individual puff or hit.
For example, including a surface treatment or coating on the porous ceramic structure 324 can improve the heat transferred from the heating element 327 to the porous ceramic structure 324. This means the porous ceramic structure 324 is more evenly and uniformly heated throughout the entirety of the porous ceramic structure 324 (i.e., throughout each pore, a thickness of the ceramic, etc.) and at a surface of the porous ceramic structure 324. As oil contacts the porous ceramic structure 324, either at its surface or throughout the pores, it is heated and vaporized. By having the porous ceramic structure 324 evenly and uniformly heated, the oil is evenly and uniformly vaporized, providing a consistent vaporization and hit to the user. Additionally, an even and uniformly heated porous ceramic structure 324 reduces hot spots of the porous ceramic structure 324, meaning decomposition and/or combustion of the oil is reduced or eliminated. This delivers a more pleasing flavor profile of the vaporized oil to the user.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment can be deposited on the wick and/or the porous ceramic structure 324 via chemical vapor deposition, plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition, a combination thereof, or another suitable deposition method. In some embodiments, the surface treatment can be deposited on the wick and/or the porous ceramic structure 324 via electrospinning, vacuum filtration, spraying, coating, 3D printing, and/or chemical coupling.
FIG. 71A illustrates a perspective view of an untreated material and FIG. 71B illustrates a perspective view of a treated material. Specifically, FIG. 71A illustrates an atomic force microscopy (AFM) surface profile of untreated nylon filament and FIG. 71B illustrates an AFM surface profile for a 60s Helium (He)-plasma treated nylon filament. As described, providing a surface treatment on either the wick and/or the porous ceramic structure 324 can improve the heating efficiency and heat transfer throughout the vaporizing device 3100. In some embodiments, the surface treatment includes a carbon surface treatment. In some embodiments, the surface treatment includes graphite, synthetic graphite, pyrolytic carbon, graphene, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, boron nitride, metallic nanofibers, and conductive polymers, such as polypyrrole, polyaniline (PANI), and polyacetylene or combinations thereof. Known application methods (such as electrospinning, vacuum filtration, spraying, coating, 3D printing, and chemical coupling) can be used to apply thermally conductive materials to either the wick, and/or the ceramic core 324. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive ceramic structure 324 of the atomizer 330 can have one or more thermally conductive materials integrated into the ceramic structure 324 and/or applied to the surface to accelerate the rate of heat dissipation to the surroundings.
Surface treatment of porous media can also impact surface area or roughness, which may strengthen the interaction between the surface and oil, resulting in greater oil absorption. According to one aspect, a plasma treatment of the ceramic structure 324 of the atomizer 330 can be used to increase oil absorption to improve liquid mass transfer rate and prevent leaking/clogging via flooding. Plasma treatment of textiles has been used to increase the wettability, dyeability, adhesion to other materials, and to impart different functional finishes. A plasma treatment can be used for improvement in hydrophilicity of the ceramic structure 324 of the atomizer 330. Plasma treatment may impose several modifications on the surface, including cleaning, activation, grafting, etching, and polymerization. By precise selection of the treatment gas and the process variables such as pressure, flow rate, power, frequency, and duration, the type and extent of the modification can be tuned according to known methods. According to another aspect of the disclosure, locally tailored properties of the ceramic structure 324 of the atomizer 330 can be achieved using functionally graded materials.
FIG. 70A illustrates a top view and FIG. 70B illustrates a lateral cross-section view of a radially graded porous structure. As described, the porous ceramic structure 324 can be a radially graded porous ceramic structure. This means that a pore size throughout the porous ceramic structure 324 varies from a core or center 340 of the porous ceramic structure 324 to an outer edge, perimeter, or circumference 345 of the porous ceramic structure 324. Varying the pore size throughout the porous ceramic structure 324 improves the uniform heating of the porous ceramic structure 324.
In some embodiments, the pore size is varied uniformly or consistently from the center 340 to an edge or perimeter 345 of the porous ceramic structure 324. In some embodiments, the pore size additionally varies along a length or height of the porous ceramic structure 324. In some embodiments, the radially graded pore size of the porous ceramic structure 324 produces an aerosolized puff having a smaller particle size contained within it. The smaller particle size can provide a more pleasing experience for the user.
In some embodiments, radially grading the porous ceramic structure 324 provides more consistent heating of oil throughout the porous ceramic structure 324. An increased number of pores within the porous ceramic structure 324 provides more surface area for the oil to adhere to. Again, this improves the heating efficiency of the oil, as thinner layers of the oil are being heated by the heating element 327. This also means that the heating element 327 can vaporize the oil using a lower temperature, as more oil is interfacing with the porous ceramic structure 324 at any given point of the porous ceramic structure 324. Vaporizing oil at lower temperatures reduces decomposition of the oil and improves the overall flavor profile for a puff or hit delivered to the user.
In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 can have a decreased porosity near the center 340 to prevent leaking and clogging of the internal channel of the center post 320. The porous ceramic structure 324 can have increased porosity at an edge or perimeter 345 of the porous ceramic structure 324 (and near the reservoir) to improve a liquid mass transfer rate of the oil. Additionally, increased porosity at the edge 345 of the porous ceramic structure 324 can prevent decomposition of the oil.
According to another aspect of the disclosure, the internal channel of the center post 320 may have a graded composition. Functionally graded additive manufacturing can gradually alter the material composition for multi-phase materials. By spatially varying compositions of the internal channel, desired performance across the entire internal channel is optimized. Functionally graded materials have a graded interface between the two dissimilar materials rather than a sharp interface (such as from traditional composite materials). The graded chemical composition minimizes the differences in the properties from one material to another, which may otherwise result in failure. For example, the internal channel can include a metal-rich phase at the distal end 325 for high heat transfer to prevent insulation and thermal decomposition of the oil. The internal channel could also include a ceramic-rich phase near the proximal end 321 and/or along the body 323 to provide a thermal barrier and reduce heat transfer from the ceramic/heating element to the vapor channel.
As illustrated in FIGS. 70A and 70B, the porous ceramic structure 324 is substantially circular, puck, or disk shaped. In some embodiments, the puck or disk can have multiple sides, such as a pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. shaped puck or disk. In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 can be substantially cuboid in shape, such as a cube or block shape. In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 can have a cone, triangular prism, square-based pyramid, or a triangular-based pyramid shape. In some embodiments, the porous ceramic structure 324 can be substantially cylindrical or have a pill shape (e.g., a rounded, elongated cylinder). Other suitable shapes can also be used, and the atomizer 330 disclosed herein is not limited to a particular shape. Regardless of the shape of the porous ceramic structure 324, the pore size and/or shape can vary from a core or center 340 of the porous ceramic structure 324 to an outer edge, perimeter, or circumference 345 of the porous ceramic structure 324.
FIG. 72 illustrates a flowchart of a method 3200 of manufacturing an atomizer, such as atomizer 330 illustrated in FIGS. 69A and 69B. The method 3200 includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, at 205, where the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method 3200 can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, at 3210, where the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different from the first porosity. The method 3200 can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, at 3215. The third layer can have a third porosity that may be different from the second porosity and/or the first porosity. The method 3200 can further include embedding a heating element within the first, second, and/or third layers, at 3220. In some embodiments, the heating element is a coil.
In some embodiments, the method 3200 may include depositing layers of metallic material within or between layers of ceramic material. This can produce a graded metal-to-ceramic atomizer, providing a thermal barrier and reducing an overall temperature of the produced vapor. The metal-rich phases of the atomizer can improve heat transfer to the oil, preventing thermal decomposition of the oil.
FIG. 73 illustrates a flowchart of a method 3300 of manufacturing a radially graded porous ceramic material, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 3300 includes depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, at 3305, where, as before, the first layer has at least a first porosity. The method 3300 can also include depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, at 3310. In some embodiments, the second layer has at least a second porosity. In some embodiments, the second porosity is different from the first porosity. The method 3300 can also include depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, at 3315. The third layer can have a third porosity that, in some embodiments, is different from the second porosity and/or the first porosity.
The first layer may be a priming layer, allowing for pre-heating of the substance contained within a cartridge 310. Pre-heating of the substance allows the substance to permeate into the porous ceramic material and contact the second layer. In some embodiments, the first layer is quartz. The second layer may be embedded or disposed near the bottom of the porous ceramic material (e.g., may be printed on the bottom, etc.). The second layer may heat the substance (oil, concentrate, etc.) to diffusion and/or aerosolization. In some embodiments, the second layer is silicon carbide. The porous ceramic material may include a third layer, which may be a combination of the first and second layers. In some embodiments, the porous ceramic material may include three or more layers: quartz, the silicon carbide, the ceramic, or blends of the two. Materials for each layer can be selected for the desired heating properties provided.
FIG. 74 illustrates a flowchart of a method 3400 of monitoring a temperature of a heating element and/or a vaporizing device. In some embodiments, the method 3400 includes measuring resistance at the heating element or measuring resistance of the heating element, at 3405. In some embodiments, the heating element is embedded in a surface-coated radially graded porous ceramic structure. The method 3400 can also include calculating a temperature based on the measured resistance, at 3410. The method 3400 further includes calculating tau based on the calculated temperature, at 3415. In some embodiments, the method 3400 includes monitoring tau and the temperature, at 3420, and triggering an alarm when tau satisfies a threshold value, at 3425. Tau is a heat transfer time constant, defined by:
$Tau = \frac{- t}{\ln (\frac{T (t) - T_{f}}{T_{s} - T_{f}})}$

- where T(t) is temperature at time t, Tf and Ts are the final and start temperatures, respectively.

Other embodiments can include one or more aspects to improve the transport of oil, including pressure-driven flow of oil and/or drag flow with batch vaporization. With pressure-driven flow, a collapsible reservoir with a passive variant to prevent backflow could be used. According to another aspect, alternate configurations and geometries can be used to achieve uniform but rapid heating at the vaporization surface. Atomization can be used to achieve the desired vapor generation, including the use of a nebulizer.
In some embodiments, multiple vaping devices, cartridges, and/or pods may be attachable to the same power supply. For example, a first oil tank 20, cartridge (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pod 440 may be attachable to a second oil tank 20, cartridge, or pod 440 (e.g., such as through planar back faces, magnets, other connections, etc. of each oil tank 20, cartridge, or pod 440). Each oil tank 20, cartridge (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pod 440 may be a standalone device, usable on its own with a power supply (e.g., power supply systems 100, 100′, 2100, etc.). The first and second oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 may be magnetically attached to each other. Due to the alignment and disposition of magnets throughout the oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440, the oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 may be joined or attached together in a variety of configurations.
Additionally, first power supplies and/or batteries may be configured to magnetically or otherwise attach to second power supplies and/or batteries. As each power supply and/or battery receives its own oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440, when first and second power supplies are attached to each other, first and second oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 will also attach to each other. In this way, a user of the disclosed devices may use the devices in a plurality of configurations. For example, a user may be able to use up to four (4) individual oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 by attaching two (2) oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 to one power supply, attaching two (2) oil tanks 20, cartridges (e.g., proprietary cartridge 1300 and/or foreign cartridges 1400, 1400′), or pods 440 to a second power supply, and then attaching the first and second power supplies to each other.
FIGS. 5D to 5F show that two cartridges (e.g., two cartridges 28 or two cartridges 29) may be attached or can be connected to a single power supply (e.g., power supply 100, but similarly applicable to power supply systems 2100, 3100, etc.). The cartridges 28, 29 can be attached to each other and then connected to the power supply, or just attached to the power supply and adjacent to each other. Vapor, diffusion, or aerosols generated from each cartridge 28, 29 can be mixed together and consumed by a user simultaneously. In such embodiments, mouthpieces of the cartridges 28, 29 may be adjacent to each other.
Additionally, and/or alternatively, the cartridges 28, 29 may be joined or attached together in a second configuration, where the mouthpieces are not adjacent to each other and point in opposite directions from each other. That is, one mouthpiece is oriented toward one end of the system 200 and the other mouthpiece is oriented toward the other end of the system 200. In the second configuration, the mouthpieces are not aligned with each other and a user may inhale produced vapor from one or the other mouthpiece but may not inhale produced vapor from both mouthpieces simultaneously.
Still additionally, and/or alternatively, the cartridges 28, 29 may be joined or attached together in a third configuration, where the two cartridges 28, 29 are predominantly aligned but vertically offset from each other. That is, in the third configuration, the mouthpieces are each oriented toward one end of the system but the vapor outlets of the mouthpieces are not aligned with each other. As such, a user can inhale vapors from the cartridge 28, 29 and the second cartridge 28, 29 separately. Alternatively, a user can inhale vapors from both vaping devices, with the first cartridge 28, 29 being more dominant than the second cartridge 28, 29. Separate vapor inhalation, from among multiple readily available inhalation sources in a common carrier, provides an additional technique for customized vaping experiences. Such customized experiences can include things such as flavor mixing, flavor canceling (for example, for medical users who don't like a flavor of a particular medical strain), etc.
In general, vaporizing devices can be of the same, similar, or different form factors and can be mixed, matched, and/or oriented in accordance with user desires to customize the user's vaping experience. For example, different types of vaporizers can be included in a side-by-side arrangement. One vaporizer can be an oil-based vaporizer and the other vaporizer can be a herb-based vaporizer, both vaporizers can be oil-based vaporizers, etc. In one aspect, one vaping device is a vaporizer and the other vaping device is an e-cigarette. In other examples, the vaping devices 206 and 208 are identical in form factor but contain different flavors of pre-vapor formulation so a user can mix and match the flavors to customize their vaping experience. Other examples of vaporizing devices are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/884,378, entitled, “COMBINABLE AND ORIENTABLE VAPING DEVICES,” filed on Aug. 9, 2022, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
This system allows for simple filling and capping of both proprietary cartridges and foreign or non-proprietary cartridges. These can all be attached to the power supply. They can also be capped using known methods, such as jigs. Appropriate methods and systems for filling and capping both proprietary cartridges and foreign or non-proprietary cartridges are described and illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 11,744,294 issued on Sep. 5, 2023 and titled “CARTRIDGE PACKING SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.
In some embodiments, power supplies of the present disclosure (e.g., power supply system 100, 100′, and/or 2100), may be capable of disposal. For example, the power supplies may be capable of being separated from the electronic components and composted. In one embodiment, a housing of the power supply may be separable from internal electrical components that are arranged or disposed on an ejectable sled. The housing may be formed from materials capable of being composted or otherwise broken down and disposed.
FIG. 75 is a flowchart of one example method of disposing a power supply. The method 3500 may include selecting a power supply having a housing formed from a compostable material, at 3505, and separating the housing from an internal sled containing electrical components, at 3510. The method 3500 may also include disposing (e.g., composting, throwing away, etc.) the housing, at 3515.
For example, referring back to FIGS. 6C-6D and FIG. 18 , the housing 10, 10′ may be separable from the contact pad build 33, sled 15′, or other electronic components, such that the housing 10, 10′ may be disposed of separately from the electronic components. The contact pad build 33, sled 15′, or other electronic components may then be appropriately disposed of.
Disclosed are systems, devices, and/or methods of use thereof regarding vaping devices. In various aspects, a vaping device includes a pod module comprising two electrical contacts for making an electrical connection to a battery. The vaping device also includes the battery, where the battery has a housing with a first end and a second end. The first end of the housing is for interfacing with the pod module and includes two electrical connectors to make an electrical connection with the two electrical contacts of the pod when the pod is coupled with the battery. The battery further includes a controller for receiving inputs relating to (i) a vaping operation, (ii) a low battery threshold, (iii) a short-circuit threshold, and (iv) a connection of the pod module. The battery includes a detection circuit in communication with the controller for detecting the connection of the pod module to the battery within a predetermined time period ranging from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds. The detection circuit is completed, and a detection input is sent to the controller, when the two electrical contacts of the pod module are in electrical contact with the two electrical connectors of the battery. A detection input, received at or by the controller, indicative of the connection of the pod module to the battery within the predetermined time period, causes the controller to output a command to activate the vaping device for use by a user. Additionally, the detection input determines an output of the battery, where the output includes a voltage output, a display function, an adjustment, and one or more protective actions.
In various aspects, a vaping device includes a battery having a housing with a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end is for interfacing with a pod and has electrical contacts for detecting a connection of the pod to the battery. The battery also includes processing circuitry in communication with the electrical contacts, where the processing circuitry is for receiving inputs related to detection of the pod and for determining outputs related to an operation of the battery based on detection of the pod. The outputs can include a voltage output, a display function, an adjustment, one or more protective actions, etc.
In various aspects, a method of activating a vaping device includes detecting one or more connections of a pod module to a battery module within a predetermined time period. Based on the one or more connections of the pod module, the method includes activating the battery module. The one or more connections include a pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the predetermined time period. Activating the battery module based on the one or more connections is independent of an orientation of the pod module.
In various aspects, a method of using a vaping device includes detecting a first group of connections of a pod module to a battery module within a first predetermined time period and, based on the first group of connections of the pod module, activating the battery module. The first group of connections may include a first pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the first predetermined time period. Activating the battery module based on the first group of connections is independent of (e.g., not related to) an orientation of the pod module. The method may also include detecting a smoking operation of the vaping device and modifying a function of the vaping device based on a second group of connections of the pod module to the battery module within a second predetermined time period. Modifying the function may include modifying the voltage, etc. The orientation of the pod relative to the battery may change the air pathway for air intake.
Vaping devices are portable and are typically carried in pockets, bags, purses, etc. Accidental activation of a vaping device in a pocket, bag, or purse is undesirable and can lead to leaking or clogging of the device. A mechanism to prevent accidental activation of the vaping device would be advantageous. Additionally, most vaping devices are used with brand or manufacturer-specific cartridges or pods. However, this requires consumers to have a multitude of batteries or power units to match the brand or manufacturer-specific cartridges or pods. Generally, cartridges or pods of one brand cannot be used with power units of a different brand as the power unit cannot communicate with the cartridges or pods. A mechanism to allow power units to detect a connection of a pod, regardless of brand or manufacturer, would be advantageous.
FIG. 76 illustrates a perspective view of a vaping device 4100 having a power unit 410 (also referred to herein as a “battery module” or “battery”) connectable to a plurality of differing sized pod modules or pods 440. FIG. 77 illustrates an exploded view of the power unit 410 and a single pod module or pod 440. Specifically, the power unit 410 includes a housing 411 that extends between a first end 412 and a second end 413. The first end 412 includes a cavity 414 for interfacing with and receiving the pod module 440. Three (3) different sized pod modules 440 are illustrated in FIG. 76 (440 a, 440 b, 440 c), where each pod module 440 is connectable to and detectable by the power unit 410. Other embodiments of the power unit 410 may not include a cavity 414, since other means for connection may be available.
Each pod module 440 a, 440 b, 440 c includes electrical contacts 448 that connect to electrical connectors of the power unit 410. The electrical contacts 448 may include two (2) contacts or any appropriate number of contacts 448 to facilitate electrical connection and communication between the pod module 440 and the power unit 410. Each pod module 440 may also include one or more magnetic contacts to supplement the connection to the power unit 410 by the electrical contacts 448. In some embodiments, the electrical contacts 448 may be pogo pin contacts. Alternatively, the electrical contacts 448 may be any appropriate contact to facilitate electrical connection and communication between the pod module 440 and the power unit 410. For example, the electrical contacts 448 may include one or more (e.g., two, three, etc.) flat-plated contact pads that will engage the electrical circuit and power can be supplied by the power unit 410 for pod 440 actions. As discussed elsewhere, connection of the electrical contacts 448 of the pod module 440 to the electrical connectors of the power unit 410 facilitates detection of the pod module 440 by the power unit 410.
FIGS. 78A to 79 illustrate views of the power unit 410. The cavity 414 is defined in the first end 412 of the power unit 410 and is for receiving a portion of the pod module 440. The cavity 414 includes electrical connectors 415 for electrically engaging and connecting to the electrical contacts 448 of the pod module 440. The electrical connectors 415 of the power unit 410 engage and connect to the electrical contacts 448 of the pod 440 regardless of an orientation of the pod 440 within the cavity 414. The electrical connectors 415 may include two connectors 415 a, 415 b, corresponding to the two contacts 448 of the pod module 440, or may include as many connectors 415 as there are electrical contacts 448 of the pod module 440. Mechanical connectors 417 may also be included in the cavity 414 and may supplement the connection between the pod module 440 and the power unit 410. For example, the mechanical connectors 417 may include magnets that attract and connect to magnets of the pod module 440. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the mechanical connectors 417 may be voids for receiving projections of the pod module 440, allowing the pod module 440 to be snapped or clipped into the power unit 410.
The housing 411 of the power unit 410 receives and houses a battery cell 416 (see FIG. 79 ) which is in electrical communication with the electrical connectors 415 (e.g., is electrically coupled to the electrical connectors 415). The battery cell 416 may also be in communication with a controller 420 of the power unit 410, and may be activated or deactivated by the controller 420 in response to connection of the pod module 440 to the power unit 410. The power unit 410 may also include a port 450 at the second end 413 for facilitating charging of the battery cell 416. The port 450 may be any appropriate port that facilitates charging of the battery cell 416, such as USB, USB-C, Micro-USB, Lightning, induction, etc.
FIG. 80 schematically illustrates a controller 420 of the power unit 410. The controller 420 may be for receiving a variety and plurality of inputs relating to the vaping device 4100 and for sending a variety and plurality of outputs based on the received inputs. The controller 420 may include a microcontroller unit 421, a microphone 422, one or more communication modules 423, input and output wiring 424, one or more sensors 425, a detection circuit 426, and a processing circuit 427. The microphone 422 may detect a smoking operation of the vaping device 4100 (e.g., detect a draw on the vaping device 4100) by detecting a flow of air or vapor through the vaping device 4100. The sensors 425 may include a resistance sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or any appropriate sensor 425. The detection circuit 426, microphone 422, etc., are illustrated as being part of the controller 420, but may be separate from the controller 420 while still in communication with the controller 420.
The processing circuit 427 and/or the detection circuit 426 may be configured for detection of whether the pod module 440 is present and connected (e.g., electrically coupled) to the power unit 410. The processing circuit 427 may also be configured to execute a control function based on detection of the pod module 440. In some embodiments, the control function can include a power delivery profile, such as a voltage. To determine or detect a connection or presence of the pod module 440, the controller 420 may be configured to apply a current to the electrical connectors 415 and determine whether a resistance is detected, the presence or absence of the resistance being an indicator of the presence or absence of the pod module 440. For example, connection of the pod module 440 to the power unit 410 may complete the detection circuit 426 and, upon completion, a detection input may be sent to the processing circuit 427 or the microcontroller unit 421. Upon receiving the detection input, the processing circuit 427 or the microcontroller unit 421 may output a command to activate the vaping device 4100 for use by a user. Or, upon receiving the detection input for an appropriate number of times within a predetermined time period, the processing circuit 427 or the microcontroller unit 421 may output a command to activate the vaping device 4100 for use by a user.
This detection of the pod module 440 is based on the electrical connectivity and completion of the detection circuit 426. As such, any type of pod module 440 capable of electrically connecting the detection circuit 426 will be recognized and detected by the power unit 410. Accordingly, a pod module 440 from a specific brand or manufacturer may be detected and recognized by the disclosed power unit 410 (i.e., through completion of the detection circuit 426 upon coupling the pod module 440 to the power unit 410). This allows users to utilize any pod module 440 with the disclosed power unit 410, thereby decreasing waste and trash production due to the use of multiple power units 410. In some embodiments, the pod module 440 is made by a first manufacturer, and the power unit 410 is made by a second manufacturer, the first manufacturer being different than the second manufacturer.
The delivered current may be of a magnitude that is sufficient to enable the evaluation of the pod module 440 without actually activating the heating element contained within the pod module 440. In further embodiments, pod module 440 detection may be combined with or run in parallel with an authentication routine. For example, instead of only evaluating for the presence or absence of a resistance across pairs of electrical connections 448, 415 (a paired electrical connection between the electrical contacts 448 of the pod module 440 and the electrical connectors 415 of the power unit 410), each electrical connection 448 may have a defined resistance value or an acceptable resistance range, and the detection routine from the controller 420 may be adapted or configured to confirm that a measured resistance across a pair of electrical contacts 448, 415 meets the defined resistance or is within the acceptable resistance range.
Still further, an electrical property may be utilized in this manner to identify a characteristic of the consumable liquid present in the pod module 440. For example, the resistance value or resistance range across a pair of electrical contacts 448, 415 may correspond to a specified flavor, strength of an active agent present in the liquid, type of consumable liquid (e.g., oil, hard concentrate, etc.) or other characteristic, and the controller 420 may be adapted or configured to execute a power delivery profile (e.g., heating profile) that corresponds to the identified characteristic of the liquid in the pod module 440. That is, the controller 420 may vary the power delivery or heating profile based on the type and characteristic of the consumable liquid. Electrical circuit designs suitable for carrying out such embodiments of the present disclosure are described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,031,183 to Novak, III, et al. and U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2015/0257445 to Henry, Jr., et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Though not illustrated, in some embodiments, the controller 420 further includes (e.g., as part of the microcontroller unit 421, a separate unit, etc.) a control assembly. The control assembly may be configured to receive target temperature data upon coupling of a cartridge portion to a pen portion, the target temperature data based, at least in part, on an identity of the carrier material contained in the reservoir, the target temperature data including a heating profile based, at least in part, on the identity of the carrier material and associated with a period of continuous suction by a user on the mouthpiece opening, the heating profile including a ramp up portion, a body portion, and a ramp down portion; upon receiving an indication that a user is applying a first suction to the mouthpiece opening of the mouthpiece, apply a current to the heating element of the heating assembly according to the heating profile such that a temperature of a portion of the carrier material disposed near the heating element rises from a first temperature to a second temperature during a first period associated with the ramp up portion, remains within a predetermined range of the second temperature during a second period associated with the body portion, and decreases from the second temperature to a third temperature during a third period associated with the ramp down portion; and upon receiving an indication that a user is applying a second suction to the mouthpiece opening of the mouthpiece before the heating element has returned to ambient temperature during the ramp down portion of the application of current to the heating element according to the heating profile, the control assembly is configured to apply an amount of current and/or duration of current to the heating element such that the temperature of the carrier material disposed near the heating element rises to the second temperature, the amount of current and/or the duration of current applied by the control assembly based, at least in part, on a temperature of the heating element at the time of the second suction.
The delivered current and detected resistance may occur during a pulsed attachment, or first group of connections, of the pod module 440 to the power unit 410. For example, the pod module 440 may be connected and disconnected from the first end 412 of the power unit 410 a requisite number of times within a predetermined time period. The requisite number of times may range from one (1) time to five (5) times within a predetermined time period, which may range from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds (or shorter or longer, as desired). The pod module 440 may be connected to the power unit 410 at least once to complete the detection circuit 426 and trigger detection. The detection circuit 426 and/or the processing circuit 427 may detect the connection of the pod module 440 after the pod module 440 has been connected and disconnected the requisite number of times within the predetermined time period. Detection of the connection of the pod module 440 occurs regardless of the orientation of the pod module 440 when connected to the power unit 410. Upon detection of the connection of the pod module 440, the controller 420 will cause the battery cell 416 of the power unit 410 to activate and provide power to a heating element within the pod module 440.
In some embodiments, a similar pulsed attachment or connection of the pod module 440 to the power unit 410 modifies the power delivery profile. For example, the detection circuit 426 may be completed by attachment of the pod module 440 to the power unit 410. After activation of the vaping device 4100, the pod module 440 may be connected and disconnected with a second group of connections to modify the power delivery profile (e.g., the voltage output) of the vaping device 4100. The second group of connections may be the same type of pulsed connection between the pod module 440 and the power unit 410 as the first group of connections.
The second group of connections may include disconnecting and immediately connecting the pod module 440 to the power unit 410 three (3) times to six (6) times within a second predetermined time period (e.g., two (2) seconds to six (6) seconds, such as three, four, or five seconds). The second group of connections may facilitate logging of a secondary action (e.g., voltage change, time period, etc.), such that the controller 420 can modify the power delivery profile of the power unit 410. For example, the pod module 440 may be disconnected from the power unit 410 and on reinsertion for the third time, the power delivery profile of the power unit 410 will be modified. Different numbers of insertions may be programmed to take different actions at the power unit 410. For example, quick insertion of the pod module 440 into the power unit 410 (thus completing a detection circuit 426) two or three times in a predetermined time period may change the voltage.
FIG. 81 schematically illustrates another view of the controller 420 of the power unit 410 and, more specifically, illustrates example connections between the components of the controller 420 as part of a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 430. The controller 420 itself may be part of the PCBA 430. As illustrated, the input and output wiring 424 is illustrated as having a welded connection 6 between the circuit board 430, the battery cell 416, and the electrical connectors 415 of the power unit 410. The battery cell 416 may power the PCBA 430 and/or a pod module 440 connected to the power unit 410. Additionally, the display light (RGB LED light) has a welded connection 6 to the PCBA. The display light may provide indications through direction of the controller 420. For example, the display light may indicate when the power unit 410 is properly charging.
FIG. 82 illustrates a first flowchart of the controller 420 receiving inputs related to (i) a vaping operation, (ii) a low battery threshold, (iii) a short-circuit threshold, and (iv) a connection of the pod module. The controller 420 may be in communication and connection with the battery cell 416 of the power unit 410 and a display 454, which may be one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The microphone 422 of the controller 420 may detect a smoking operation of the vaping device 4100 through detection of a flow of air or vapor through the vaping device 4100. Upon detection of the smoking operation, the detection circuit 426 or the processing circuit 427 may determine a voltage of the battery cell 416, adjust the duty cycle, and/or adjust the voltage. As outlined, the pod module 440 may be detected through plugging and unplugging the pod module 440 to the power unit 410 a requisite number of times within a predetermined time period. Upon detection, the controller 420 may cause the display 454 to illuminate (e.g., turn on an LED light). The controller 420 may cause the vaping device 4100 to adjust the voltage of the battery cell 416 after subsequent plugging and unplugging of the pod module 440.
The controller 420, the processing circuit 427, and/or the detection circuit 426 may also detect a short-circuit of the battery cell 416 or the pod module 440 and, in response, deactivate the vaping device 4100. Deactivation of the vaping device 4100 protects the battery cell 416 from damage due to the short-circuit. When no short-circuit is detected, the controller 420, the processing circuit 427, and/or the detection circuit 426 may detect a smoking operation via the microphone 422. Similarly, the controller 420, the processing circuit 427, and/or the detection circuit 426 may detect a power level of the battery cell 416. When the power level satisfies a threshold value, the controller 420 may cause the vaping device 4100 to have limited outputs, so as to protect the battery cell 416 from damage or further depletion. For example, the controller 420 may deactivate the display 454 (e.g., turn the lights off). Additionally, the controller 420 may not modify the power delivery of the vaping device 4100 in response to pulsed attachment of the pod module 440, thereby maintaining a power output to preserve the power level of the battery cell 416. That is, when the controller 420 receives inputs regarding a low power level, the display 454 will be deactivated, and plugging or unplugging the pod module 440 will not modify any settings of the vaping device 4100.
FIG. 83 illustrates a second flowchart of the controller 420 receiving inputs related to a charging operation of the power unit 410. Specifically, when the controller 420 receives an input regarding a normal charging operation, the controller 420 may cause the display 454 to be illuminated (e.g., turn the light on). When the controller 420 receives an input regarding an abnormal charging operation, the controller 420 may cause the display 454 to be deactivated or not turn on. Normal charging occurs at 7 volts or less, and abnormal charging occurs at greater than 7 volts.
FIGS. 84 to 86B illustrate various circuit diagrams for circuits included in the power unit and in communication with the controller. Specifically, FIG. 84 illustrates the circuit diagram 462 for a master chip, which may be the controller 420 of FIGS. 80 and 81 ; may be incorporated into the controller 420 of FIGS. 80 and 81 ; or may be incorporated into the power unit 410 in addition to the controller 420 of FIGS. 80 and 81 . FIG. 85A illustrates the circuitry 460 for charging the power unit 410 (e.g., USB, USB-C, micro-USB charging, etc.). FIG. 85B illustrates a charging management circuit 464, allowing the controller 420 or the master chip to monitor a charging operation of the power unit 410. FIG. 86A illustrates input and output circuit connections 463 and FIG. 86B illustrates an output detection circuit 465. The output detection circuit 465 may be incorporated into the detection circuitry 426 of the controller 420 and/or may be included in addition to the detection circuitry 426.
FIGS. 87 and 88 are flowcharts of example methods of the present disclosure. FIG. 87 illustrates a method 4300 of activating a vaping device, such as the vaping device 4100 of FIGS. 76 through 79 . The method 4300 includes detecting one or more connections of a pod module to a battery module within a predetermined time period, at 4305. The method 4300 also includes, based on the one or more connections of the pod module, activating the battery module, at 4310. The one or more connections of the pod module may include a pulsed (e.g., repeated) attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the predetermined time period. Activating the battery module based on the one or more connections is independent of an orientation of the pod module; that is, the pod module may be connected to the battery module in any orientation and still be detected by the vaping device.
The pulsed attachment may include connecting at least one electrical connection (e.g., pogo connection) of the pod module with at least one electrical connection (e.g., pogo connection) of the battery module a minimum of three (3) times within the predetermined time period. The predetermined time period may range from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds, such as three (3) seconds, four (4) seconds, or a time period within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values. Activating the battery module may occur automatically after detecting the one or more connections of the pod module. Additionally, activating the battery module does not require actuation or manipulation of any components of the battery module (e.g., no actuation of a power button, slides, etc.).
In some embodiments, the method 4300 further includes detecting a smoking operation. For example, a flow of fluid through the vaping device may be detected by a microphone. The method 4300 may also include detecting a charging operation of the battery module, detecting a short-circuit of the vaping device, and/or detecting a power level of the battery module. The charging operation of the battery module may be one of a normal charging operation (e.g., at or below 7 volts) or an abnormal charging operation (e.g., above 7 volts). Based on the detected power level and/or the charging operation, a display light (e.g., an LED) may be illuminated or not.
FIG. 88 illustrates a method 4400 of using a vaping device, such as the vaping device 4100. The method 4400 includes detecting a first group of connections of a pod module to a battery module within a first predetermined time period, at 4405. The first group of connections may also be a single connection in some embodiments. The method 4400 also includes, based on the first group of connections of the pod module, activating the battery module, at 4410. The first group of connections of the pod module may include a first pulsed (e.g., repeated) attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the first predetermined time period. Activating the battery module based on the first group of connections is independent of an orientation of the pod module; that is, the pod module may be connected to the battery module in any orientation and still be detected by the vaping device. The method 4400 may also include detecting a smoking operation of the vaping device, at 4415. Further, the method 4400 includes modifying a function of the vaping device based on a second group of connections of the pod module to the battery module within a second predetermined time period. Modifying the function may include modifying the voltage, etc.
The first pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module may include connecting and disconnecting the pod module to the battery module a minimum of three (3) times within the predetermined time period. The first predetermined time period may range from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds. The second group of connections may include a second pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the second predetermined time period. The second pulsed attachment may include connecting and disconnecting the pod module to the battery module two (2) to five (5) times within the second predetermined time period.
In some embodiments, the method 4400 may also include detecting a power level of the battery module and illuminating one or more lights of the vaping device based on the power level of the battery module. Additionally, activating the battery module may occur automatically after detecting the first group of connections of the pod module. Generally, activating the battery module does not require actuation of any components of the battery module.

EMBODIMENTS

- Embodiment 1. A vaping eco-system comprising an oil tank having a heating core technology; and a power supply, the power supply comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, a first electrical connection at the proximal end, a second electrical connection at the proximal end, the second electrical connection different from the first electrical connection, a power source in electrical communication with the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection, and a control module for selectively powering the first electrical connection or the second electrical connection based on the heating core technology of the oil tank.
- Embodiment 2. The vaping eco-system of Embodiment 1, wherein the oil tank comprises a near-field communication (NFC) module for communicating with the control module of the power supply.
- Embodiment 3. The vaping eco-system of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein the heating core technology of the oil tank comprises a center post and atomizer.
- Embodiment 4. The vaping eco-system of any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the heating core technology of the oil tank comprises a postless SMT core.
- Embodiment 5. A battery deck system for a vaping device comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end; at least one battery contained within the housing; at least one threaded connection in the proximal end of the housing, the at least one threaded connection for receiving an oil tank having a threaded connection; a plurality of pogo connectors in the proximal end of the housing, the plurality of pogo connectors for receiving an oil tank having a plurality of pogo connectors; and a control module for controlling an operational function of the at least one battery, such that upon connection of the oil tank having a threaded connection and/or connection of the oil tank having a plurality of pogo connectors, the control module changes the operational function of the at least one battery to match an operational need of the oil tank having a threaded connection and/or an operational need of the oil tank having a plurality of pogo connectors.
- Embodiment 6. The battery deck system of Embodiment 5, wherein the at least one threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection in a secure manner.
- Embodiment 7. The battery deck system of Embodiment 6, wherein the at least one threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a magnetic coupling.
- Embodiment 8. The battery deck system of Embodiment 6 or Embodiment 7, wherein the at least one threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a keyed coupling.
- Embodiment 9. The battery deck system of any one of Embodiments 6 to 8, wherein the at least one threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a slotted coupling.
- Embodiment 10. The battery deck system of any one of Embodiments 5 to 9, wherein the plurality of pogo connectors physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo connectors in a secure manner.
- Embodiment 11. The battery deck system of any one of Embodiments 5 to 10, wherein the plurality of pogo connectors of the oil tank comprise a plurality of pogo pins and the plurality of pogo connectors of the battery deck system comprise a plurality of pogo targets.
- Embodiment 12. The battery deck system of Embodiment 11, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a magnetic coupling.
- Embodiment 13. The battery deck system of either Embodiment 11 or Embodiment 12, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a keyed coupling.
- Embodiment 14. The battery deck system of any one of Embodiments 11 to 13, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a slotted coupling.
- Embodiment 15. The battery deck system of any one of Embodiments 5 to 14, wherein the control module controls a temperature of an atomizer contained within the vaping device.
- Embodiment 16. An interchangeable power supply system for vaping devices comprising a power supply; a first interface comprising a threaded connection in electrical communication with the power supply, the first interface for receiving an oil tank having a threaded connection; a second interface comprising a plurality of pogo targets in electrical communication with the power supply, the second interface for receiving an oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins; and a control module for detecting a type of oil tank received by the first and/or second interfaces and for controlling an operational function of the power supply according to the type of oil tank detected.
- Embodiment 17. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 16, wherein the power supply is a rechargeable battery.
- Embodiment 18. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 16 or Embodiment 17, wherein the first interface physically and electrically connects to the oil tank having a threaded connection in a secure manner.
- Embodiment 19. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 18, wherein the threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a magnetic coupling.
- Embodiment 20. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 18 or Embodiment 19, wherein the threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a keyed coupling.
- Embodiment 21. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the at least one threaded connection physically and electrically couples with the oil tank having a threaded connection through a slotted coupling.
- Embodiment 22. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 16 to 21, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins in a secure manner.
- Embodiment 23. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 22, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a magnetic coupling.
- Embodiment 24. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 22 or Embodiment 23, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a keyed coupling.
- Embodiment 25. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 22 to 24, wherein the plurality of pogo targets physically and electrically couple with the oil tank having a plurality of pogo pins through a slotted coupling.
- Embodiment 26. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 16 to 25, wherein the operational function of the power supply comprises a voltage delivered to the first and/or second interfaces.
- Embodiment 27. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 16 to 26, wherein the operational function of the power supply comprises a time period of power supplied to the first and/or second interfaces.
- Embodiment 28. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 16 to 27, wherein the control module controls a temperature of an atomizer contained within the vaping device.
- Embodiment 29. An interchangeable power supply system for vaping devices comprising: a battery unit comprising a power supply element to store and supply power; a first interface comprising a thread for connection with a vaping device that requires a thread; and a second interface comprising at least one pogo pin connection for connecting with a vaping device that requires a pogo pin connection, wherein the battery unit is selectively and interchangeably connectable with, and able to power, multiple types of vaping devices via one or more of the first interface and second interface.
- Embodiment 30. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 29, wherein the power supply element is a rechargeable battery.
- Embodiment 31. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 30, wherein the rechargeable battery is rechargeable through induction.
- Embodiment 32. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 29 to 31, wherein the battery unit further comprises a control unit to recognize the connection type of the vaping device and to regulate power accordingly.
- Embodiment 33. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 32, wherein the control unit controls a temperature of an atomizer within the vaping device.
- Embodiment 34. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 29 to 33, wherein the battery unit physically and electrically couples with the vaping devices in a secure manner.
- Embodiment 35. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 34, wherein the battery unit couples with the vaping devices through a magnetic coupling.
- Embodiment 36. The interchangeable power supply system of Embodiment 34 or Embodiment 35, wherein the battery unit couples with the vaping devices through a keyed coupling.
- Embodiment 37. The interchangeable power supply system of any one of Embodiments 34 to 36, wherein the battery unit couples with the vaping devices through a slotted coupling.
- Embodiment 38. A battery deck system for a vaping device comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end; at least one threaded connection in the proximal end of the housing, the at least one threaded connection for receiving an oil tank having a threaded connection; a pair of pins in the distal end of the housing, the pair of pins for connecting the housing to a power supply; and a control module for controlling an operational function of the power supply, wherein, upon connection of the oil tank having a threaded connection, the control module changes the operational function of the pair of pins to match an operational need of the oil tank having a threaded connection such that the pair of pins provide necessary and accurate operational current to the oil tank.
- Embodiment 39. A vaping eco-system comprising an oil tank having a heating core technology; and a power supply, the power supply comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, a contact pad built at the proximal end of the housing, the contact pad build having a plurality of electrical connections, one or more magnetic connections, and one or more air channels, a power source in electrical communication with the plurality of electrical connections, and a control module for selectively powering the plurality of electrical connections based on the heating core technology of the oil tank.
- Embodiment 40. The vaping eco-system of Embodiment 39, wherein the heating core technology of the oil tank comprises a center post and an atomizer.
- Embodiment 41. The vaping eco-system of Embodiment 39 or Embodiment 40, wherein the heating core technology of the oil tank comprises a postless SMT heating core.
- Embodiment 42. The vaping eco-system of any one of Embodiments 39 to 41, wherein the oil tank comprises a near-field communication (NFC) module for communicating with the control module of the power supply.
- Embodiment 43. A system for aerosolizing a substance, the system comprising a power supply comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end defining a cavity for receiving a device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance, a contact pad disposed within the cavity at the proximal end of the housing, the contact pad for electrically connecting the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance to the power supply, and a battery within the housing; an adaptor receivable within the cavity defined at the proximal end of the housing, the adaptor comprising a body having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end, a through-hole at the proximal end, the through-hole having threading for receiving a threaded device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance, and a first seal received within the distal end of the body, the first seal having an interface for electrically connecting the adaptor to the power supply, the interface defining a first adaptor electrode aperture for receiving a first adaptor electrode and a first adaptor air pathway aperture for fluidly connecting an air pathway of the power supply with an air pathway of the adaptor, wherein the distal end of the body is receivable within the cavity of the housing of the power supply, such that the interface of the first seal abuts the contact pad of the power supply.
- Embodiment 44. The system of Embodiment 43, wherein the contact pad of the power supply comprises a first electrical connection adjacent to a second electrical connection and a first air pathway aperture adjacent to a second air pathway aperture.
- Embodiment 45. The system of Embodiment 44, wherein the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection are aligned with each other along a first axis, and the first air pathway aperture and the second air pathway aperture are aligned with each other along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis.
- Embodiment 46. The system of any one of Embodiments 43 to 45, wherein the through-hole at the proximal end of the adaptor has threading to receive a threaded 510 cartridge.
- Embodiment 47. The system of any one of Embodiments 43 to 46, further comprising a second adaptor electrode and wherein the first adaptor electrode aperture and the second adaptor electrode aperture are aligned with each other.
- Embodiment 48. The system of any one of Embodiments 43 to 47, wherein the contact pad of the power supply further comprises one or more magnetic connections to secure the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance within the cavity of the power supply.
- Embodiment 49. An adaptor for an aerosolization system, the adaptor comprising a body having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a through-hole at the proximal end for connecting a device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance to a power supply; and a first seal received within the distal end of the body, the first seal having an interface for electrically connecting the adaptor to the power supply; the interface defining a first adaptor electrode aperture for receiving a first adaptor electrode and a first adaptor air pathway aperture for fluidly connecting an air pathway of the power supply with an air pathway of the adaptor.
- Embodiment 50. The adaptor of Embodiment 49, wherein the through-hole comprises threading to receive a threaded device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance.
- Embodiment 51. The adaptor of either Embodiment 49 or 50, wherein the through-hole comprises metal and electrically connects the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance to the power supply.
- Embodiment 52. The adaptor of any one of Embodiments 49 to 51, wherein the interface additionally defines a second adaptor electrode aperture for receiving a second adaptor electrode and a second adaptor air pathway aperture for fluidly connecting the air pathway of the power supply with the air pathway of the adaptor.
- Embodiment 53. The adaptor of Embodiment 52, wherein the first adaptor electrode aperture is aligned with the second adaptor electrode aperture along a first axis.
- Embodiment 54. The adaptor of either Embodiment 52 or 53, wherein the first adaptor air pathway aperture and the second adaptor air pathway flank the first and second adaptor electrode apertures.
- Embodiment 55. The adaptor of any one of Embodiments 49 to 54, further comprising a bottom cover attachable to the distal end of the body.
- Embodiment 56. The adaptor of Embodiment 55, wherein the bottom cover defines a window for receiving the interface of the first seal.
- Embodiment 57. The adaptor of Embodiment 56, wherein the window is sized and shaped corresponding to a size and shape of the interface.
- Embodiment 58. The adaptor of Embodiment 56 or 57, wherein the bottom cover snaps onto the distal end of the body.
- Embodiment 59. The adaptor of any one of Embodiments 56 to 58, wherein the bottom cover is integral to the distal end of the body.
- Embodiment 60. The adaptor of any one of Embodiments 49 to 59, further comprising the first adaptor electrode received within the first adaptor electrode aperture.
- Embodiment 61. The adaptor of any one of Embodiments 49 to 60, further comprising an electrical connector in association within the through-hole at the proximal end of the body.
- Embodiment 61. A power supply for an aerosolization system, the power supply comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end defining a cavity for receiving a device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance; a contact pad disposed within the cavity at the proximal end of the housing, the contact pad for electrically connecting the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance to the power supply; and a battery within the housing.
- Embodiment 62. The power supply of Embodiment 61, wherein the contact pad comprises a first electrical connection, a second electrical connection, a first air pathway aperture, and a second air pathway aperture.
- Embodiment 63. The power supply of Embodiment 62, wherein the first electrical connection is aligned with the second electrical connection along a first axis, and the first air pathway aperture is aligned with the second air pathway aperture along a second axis, the second axis intersecting with the first axis.
- Embodiment 64. The power supply of Embodiment 62 or 63, wherein the first and second air pathway apertures are for fluidly connecting an air pathway of the power supply with an air pathway of the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance.
- Embodiment 65. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 64, wherein the contact pad comprises a first electrical connection, a first air pathway aperture, and a first magnetic connection for securing the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance within the cavity.
- Embodiment 66. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 65, wherein the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance comprises an oil tank having a center post.
- Embodiment 67. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 66, wherein the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance comprises a postless oil tank having an SMT core.
- Embodiment 68. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 67, wherein the device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance comprises an adaptor for connecting a threaded device to facilitate aerosolization of a substance to the power supply.
- Embodiment 69. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 68, wherein the contact pad is disposed on a left side of the cavity at the proximal end of the housing.
- Embodiment 70. The power supply of any one of Embodiments 61 to 69, wherein the contact pad extends from a left side to a right side of the cavity at the proximal end of the housing.
- Embodiment 71. A pod for connection to a battery for facilitating aerosolization of a hard concentrate, the pod comprising: a pod housing, the pod housing having a first interface to electrically couple the pod housing to the battery; a chamber, the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing, the chamber comprising one or more voids for receiving a hard concentrate to be aerosolized; a ceramic heating element within the pod housing, the ceramic heating element electrically coupleable to the battery for heating the hard concentrate in the one or more voids; wherein the chamber is rotatable to couple the one or more voids to the ceramic heating element to aerosolize the hard concentrate received by the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 72. The pod of Embodiment 71, wherein the first interface comprises USB, USB-C, micro-USB, a lightning connection, pogo pins, a contact pad, or induction to electrically couple the pod housing to the battery.
- Embodiment 73. The pod of Embodiment 71 or Embodiment 72, wherein the pod housing comprises a base and the ceramic heating element is positioned within the base.
- Embodiment 74. The pod of any one of Embodiments 71 to 73, wherein the pod housing further comprises a post anchored to the base and extending through the chamber, the chamber rotatable about the post.
- Embodiment 75. The pod of any one of Embodiments 71 to 74, wherein the pod housing comprises one or more magnets for securing the chamber within the pod housing.
- Embodiment 76. The pod of any one of Embodiments 71 to 75, further comprising a capsule containing the hard concentrate, the capsule received by the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 77. The pod of Embodiment 76, wherein a portion of the capsule directly contacts the ceramic heating element within the pod housing.
- Embodiment 78. The pod of any one of Embodiments 71 to 77, further comprising a first gasket for sealing the one or more voids of the chamber and to prevent backflow of the hard concentrate.
- Embodiment 79. A pod for connection to a battery for facilitating aerosolization of a hard concentrate, the pod comprising: a pod housing, the pod housing comprising a first interface to electrically couple the pod housing to the battery and a base for interfacing with a chamber; the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing, the chamber comprising one or more voids for receiving a capsule containing the hard concentrate; a ceramic heating element within the base of the pod housing, the ceramic heating element electrically coupleable to the battery and for heating the hard concentrate in the capsule; wherein the chamber is rotatable to couple the one or more voids to the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 80. The pod of Embodiment 79, wherein the pod housing further comprises a second interface for coupling to a cap.
- Embodiment 81. The pod of Embodiment 80, wherein the cap comprises a lid for closing the pod and a nozzle connectable to the lid, the nozzle being rotatable relative to the lid.
- Embodiment 82. The pod of any one of Embodiments 79 to 81, wherein the one or more voids comprise five (5) voids positioned equidistantly about the chamber.
- Embodiment 83. The pod of any one of Embodiments 79 to 82, wherein the ceramic heating element comprises a porous ceramic core, a surface treatment, and a coil within the porous ceramic core.
- Embodiment 84. The pod of any one of Embodiments 79 to 83, wherein the ceramic heating element is positioned on one side of the base, such that only one of the one or more voids of the chamber is electrically coupled to the ceramic heating element when the chamber is rotated relative to the pod housing.
- Embodiment 85. The pod of any one of Embodiments 79 to 84, wherein vapor produced by heating the hard concentrate in the capsule travels proximally through the capsule, proximally through a capsule gasket, into a vapor collection chamber, and proximally out of a vapor outlet defined by a mouthpiece attachable to the pod housing.
- Embodiment 86. The pod of any one of Embodiments 79 to 85, wherein a portion of the capsule directly contacts a surface of the ceramic heating element when one of the one or more voids containing the capsule is coupled to the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 87. A pod for connection to a battery for facilitating aerosolization of a hard concentrate, the pod comprising: a pod housing, the pod housing comprising a first interface to electrically couple the pod housing to the battery; a tray received within the pod housing, the tray for interfacing with a chamber; the chamber rotatable relative to a portion of the pod housing, the chamber comprising one or more voids for receiving a capsule containing the hard concentrate; a ceramic heating element within the pod housing, the ceramic heating element electrically coupleable to the battery and for heating the hard concentrate in the capsule; wherein the chamber is rotatable to couple the one or more voids to the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 88. The pod of Embodiment 87, wherein each of the one or more voids of the chamber comprises a projection for sealing the capsule containing the hard concentrate.
- Embodiment 89. The pod of Embodiment 87 or 88, wherein the projection defines a vapor pathway allowing vapor generated through aerosolization of the hard concentrate to escape from the capsule.
- Embodiment 90. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 89, wherein the tray is received by a base of the pod housing, the tray for receiving a portion of the capsule containing the hard concentrate and for aligning the capsule with the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 91. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 90, wherein the pod housing further comprises a top and a base connectable to the top, and wherein the ceramic heating element is disposed within the base.
- Embodiment 92. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 91, wherein the chamber is rotatable relative to the base of the pod housing when the base is separated from the top.
- Embodiment 93. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 92, wherein the ceramic heating element is disposed within a base of the pod housing and is aligned with one of the one or more voids of the chamber.
- Embodiment 94. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 93, further comprising the capsule containing the hard concentrate, the capsule received within one of the one or more voids of the chamber.
- Embodiment 95. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 94, wherein the tray comprises: a body defining one or more cups alignable with the one or more voids of the chamber, one of the one or more cups having an open bottom for receiving a portion of the capsule containing the hard concentrate and facilitating contact of the portion of the capsule with the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 96. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 95, wherein the chamber comprises: a body defining the one or more voids; and one or more projections extending from the body partially into the one or more voids, the one or more projections for sealing the capsule containing the hard concentrate and securing the capsule within the one or more voids, wherein each of the one or more projections defines a vapor pathway allowing vapor generated through heating of the hard concentrate to exit the capsule, wherein the chamber is received by a top of the pod housing and each vapor pathway is in fluid communication with the top of the pod housing, such that vapor exiting the capsule accumulates in the top of the pod housing.
- Embodiment 97. The pod of any one of Embodiments 87 to 96, wherein the top of the pod housing defines a vapor outlet for delivering vapor generated through heating of the hard concentrate to a user of the pod.
- Embodiment 98. A pod for connection to a battery for facilitating aerosolization of a hard concentrate, the pod comprising: a pod housing, the pod housing having a first interface to electrically couple the pod housing to the battery; a chamber, the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing, the chamber comprising one or more voids for receiving a hard concentrate to be aerosolized; a ceramic heating element within the one or more voids for receiving a capsule containing the hard concentrate; the ceramic heating element electrically coupleable to an electrode for heating the hard concentrate in the one or more voids; and the electrode within the pod housing, the electrode electrically coupleable to the battery for activating the ceramic heating element within the one or more voids, wherein the chamber is rotatable to couple the ceramic heating element within the one or more voids to the electrode to activate the ceramic heating element and aerosolize the hard concentrate received by the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 99. The pod of Embodiment 98, wherein the chamber further comprises one or more insulators lining the one or more voids, such that the capsule/container is surrounded by an insulator when the capsule is received within one of the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 100. The pod of Embodiment 98 or 99, wherein the chamber further comprises a metal or metal alloy, the one or more insulators ensuring heat is transferred to the capsule received within one of the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 101. A method of assembling a pod for connection to a battery for facilitating aerosolization of a hard concentrate, the method comprising: forming a chamber, the chamber defining one or more voids for receiving a capsule containing the hard concentrate to be aerosolized; positioning the chamber within a pod housing, the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing; anchoring a ceramic heating element within the pod housing, the ceramic heating element electrically coupled to the battery, wherein the chamber is rotatable within the pod housing to electrically couple the one or more voids to the ceramic heating element.
- Embodiment 102. The method of Embodiment 101, wherein forming a chamber comprises: creating the one or more voids within a metallic chamber; lining the one or more voids with an insulator; and placing the capsule containing the hard concentrate within one of the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 103. The method of Embodiment 101 or 102, further comprising placing a second capsule containing the hard concentrate within one of the one or more voids.
- Embodiment 104. The method of any one of Embodiments 101 to 103, wherein positioning the chamber within a pod housing, the chamber rotatable relative to the pod housing, comprises: anchoring a post to the pod housing; and arranging the chamber about the post such that the post extends through a center axis of the chamber, the chamber rotatable about the post.
- Embodiment 105. An atomizer comprising: a radially graded porous ceramic structure having a heating element at least partially embedded therein; and a surface treatment disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure, the atomizer to be received by a vaporizing device to generate vapor from a fluid contained within a reservoir of the vaporizing device, wherein the fluid flows from the reservoir into one or more pores of the radially graded porous ceramic structure to be atomized by the embedded heating element.
- Embodiment 106. The atomizer of Embodiment 105, wherein the radially graded porous ceramic structure has a length of from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, a width of from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, and a height of from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm.
- Embodiment 107. The atomizer of Embodiment 105 or 106, wherein the radially graded porous ceramic structure has at least one of a pre-defined porosity and a pre-defined permeability.
- Embodiment 108. The atomizer of Embodiment 105, 106, or 107, wherein the heating element comprises a coil.
- Embodiment 109. The atomizer of any one of Embodiments 105 to 108, wherein the surface treatment comprises a carbon surface treatment.
- Embodiment 110. The atomizer of Embodiment 109, wherein the carbon surface treatment comprises pyrolytic carbon.
- Embodiment 111. The atomizer of Embodiment 109 or 110, wherein the carbon surface treatment comprises graphite.
- Embodiment 112. The atomizer of any one of Embodiments 109 to 111, wherein the carbon surface treatment comprises graphite, synthetic graphite, pyrolytic carbon, graphene, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or combinations thereof.
- Embodiment 113. The atomizer of any one of Embodiments 105 to 112, wherein the surface coating or treatment is disposed on the radially graded porous ceramic structure via chemical vapor deposition or plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.
- Embodiment 114. A method of manufacturing a porous ceramic atomizer having a surface treatment, the method comprising: depositing a first layer of ceramic material on a substrate, the first layer having a first porosity; depositing a second layer of ceramic material on the first layer, the second layer having a second porosity, the second porosity being different than the first porosity; depositing a third layer of ceramic material on the second layer, the third layer having a third porosity, the third porosity being different than the second porosity and/or the first porosity; embedding a heating element within the first, second, and/or third layers; and depositing a surface treatment on an outermost layer of ceramic material, the surface treatment comprising a carbon surface treatment.
- Embodiment 115. The method of Embodiment 114, wherein embedding the heating element comprises providing the heating element and depositing a first, second, and/or third layer of ceramic material around the heating element.
- Embodiment 116. The method of Embodiment 114 or 115, wherein a space exists between the heating element and the first, second, and/or third layer of ceramic material.
- Embodiment 117. The method of any one of Embodiments 114 to 116, wherein depositing a surface treatment on an outermost layer of ceramic material comprises depositing the carbon surface treatment through chemical vapor deposition or plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.
- Embodiment 118. The method of any one of Embodiments 114 to 117, wherein the carbon surface treatment comprises graphite, synthetic graphite, pyrolytic carbon, graphene, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or combinations thereof.
- Embodiment 119. The method of any one of Embodiments 114 to 118, wherein the porous ceramic atomizer is a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a pore size at a center of the radially graded porous ceramic structure is smaller than a pore size at an edge or perimeter of the radially graded porous ceramic structure.
- Embodiment 120. The method of Embodiments 114 to 119, wherein the porous ceramic atomizer is a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a pore size at a center of the radially graded porous ceramic structure is smaller than a pore size at an edge or perimeter of the radially graded porous ceramic structure in the first layer of ceramic material.
- Embodiment 121. The method of Embodiments 114 to 120, wherein the porous ceramic atomizer is a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a pore size at a center of the radially graded porous ceramic structure is smaller than a pore size at an edge or perimeter of the radially graded porous ceramic structure in the second layer of ceramic material.
- Embodiment 122. The method of Embodiments 114 to 121, wherein the porous ceramic atomizer is a radially graded porous ceramic structure and a pore size at a center of the radially graded porous ceramic structure is smaller than a pore size at an edge or perimeter of the radially graded porous ceramic structure in the third layer of ceramic material.
- Embodiment 123. An atomizer comprising: a heating element at least partially embedded within a ceramic structure; and a carbon-based surface treatment disposed on the ceramic structure, the atomizer to be received by a vaporizing device to generate vapor from a fluid contained within a reservoir of the vaporizing device, wherein the fluid flows from the reservoir into one or more pores of the ceramic structure to be atomized by the embedded heating element.
- Embodiment 124. A vaping device comprising: a pod and a battery, the pod comprising two electrical contacts for making an electrical connection to the battery; the battery comprising a housing with a first end and a second end, the first end for interfacing with the pod, the first end comprising two electrical connectors for electrically connecting with the two electrical contacts of the pod when the pod is coupled with the battery, the battery further comprising a controller for receiving inputs relating to (i) a vaping operation, (ii) a low battery threshold, (iii) a short-circuit threshold, and (iv) a connection of the pod; wherein the battery comprises a detection circuit, in communication with the controller, for detecting the connection of the pod to the battery within a predetermined time period ranging from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds, wherein the detection circuit is completed and a detection input is received by the controller when the two electrical contacts of the pod are in electrical contact with the two electrical connectors of the battery; wherein the detection input, received at the controller, indicative of the connection of the pod to the battery within the predetermined time period, causes the controller to output a command to activate the vaping device for use by a user; and wherein the detection input determines an output of the battery, the output of the battery comprising a voltage output, a display function, an adjustment, and one or more protective actions.
- Embodiment 125. The vaping device of Embodiment 124, wherein the automatic activation of the vaping device upon detection of the connection of the pod does not require a user to actuate any buttons of the vaping device.
- Embodiment 126. The vaping device of Embodiment 124 or 123, wherein the connection of the pod to the battery comprises a pogo pin connection.
- Embodiment 127. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 124 to 126, wherein the connection of the pod to the battery comprises a magnetic connection.
- Embodiment 128. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 124 to 127, wherein the connection of the pod comprises a pulsed connection.
- Embodiment 129. The vaping device of Embodiment 128, wherein the pulsed connection comprises attaching and detaching the pod module at least twice.
- Embodiment 130. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 124 to 129, wherein the pod is not specific to the battery module.
- Embodiment 131. The vaping device of Embodiment 130, wherein the pod is of a different manufacturer than the battery module.
- Embodiment 132. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 124 to 131, wherein the battery further comprises a microphone for detecting the vaping operation, the microphone in communication with the controller.
- Embodiment 133. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 124 to 132, wherein the controller further detects a normal charging operation of the battery and an abnormal charging operation of the battery.
- Embodiment 134. The vaping device of Embodiment 133, wherein the normal charging operation of the battery comprises charging with 7 volts or less.
- Embodiment 135. The vaping device of Embodiment 133 or 134, wherein the abnormal charging operation of the battery comprises charging with more than 7 volts.
- Embodiment 136. The vaping device of any one of Embodiments 133 to 135, wherein a light of the vaping device is activated when the controller detects the normal charging operation and de-activated when the controller detects the abnormal charging operation of the battery.
- Embodiment 137. A vaping device comprising: a battery comprising a housing having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end for interfacing with a pod and having electrical contacts for detecting a connection of the pod to the battery; and processing circuitry in communication with the electrical contacts, the processing circuitry for receiving inputs related to detection of the pod and for determining outputs related to an operation of the battery based on detection of the pod, where the outputs include a voltage output, a display function, an adjustment, and one or more protective actions.
- Embodiment 137. A method of activating a vaping device, the method comprising: detecting one or more connections of a pod module to a battery module within a predetermined time period; and based on the one or more connections of the pod module, activating the battery module, the one or more connections comprising a pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the predetermined time period, and activating the battery module based on the one or more connections being independent of an orientation of the pod module.
- Embodiment 138. The method of Embodiment 137, wherein the pulsed attachment comprises connecting at least one pogo connection of the pod module with at least one pogo connection of the battery module a minimum of three (3) times within the predetermined time period.
- Embodiment 139. The method of Embodiment 137 or 138, wherein the predetermined time period ranges from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds.
- Embodiment 140. The method of any one of Embodiments 15 to 17, wherein activating the battery module occurs automatically after detecting the one or more connections of the pod module.
- Embodiment 141. The method of any one of Embodiments 137 to 139, wherein activating the battery module does not require actuation of any components of the battery module.
- Embodiment 142. The method of any one of Embodiments 137 to 140, further comprising detecting a smoking operation.
- Embodiment 143. The method of Embodiment 142, wherein detecting a smoking operation comprises detecting a flow of fluid through the vaping device by a microphone.
- Embodiment 144. The method of any one of Embodiments 137 to 143, further comprising detecting a charging operation of the battery module, the charging operation being one of a normal charging operation or an abnormal charging operation.
- Embodiment 145. The method of any one of Embodiments 137 to 144, further comprising detecting a short-circuit of the vaping device.
- Embodiment 146. The method of any one of Embodiments 137 to 145, further comprising detecting a power-level of the battery module.
- Embodiment 147. A method of using a vaping device, the method comprising: detecting a first group of connections of a pod module to a battery module within a first predetermined time period; based on the first group of connections of the pod module, activating the battery module, the first group of connections comprising a first pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the first predetermined time period, and activating the battery module based on the first group of connections being independent of an orientation of the pod module; detecting a smoking operation of the vaping device; and modifying a function of the vaping device based on a second group of connections of the pod module to the battery module within a second predetermined time period.
- Embodiment 148. The method of Embodiment 147, wherein the first pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module comprises connecting and disconnecting the pod module to the battery module a minimum of three (3) times within the predetermined time period.
- Embodiment 149. The method of Embodiment 147 or 148, wherein the predetermined time period ranges from about two (2) seconds to about five (5) seconds.
- Embodiment 150. The method of any one of Embodiments 147 to 149, wherein the second group of connections comprises a second pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module within the second predetermined time period.
- Embodiment 151. The method of Embodiment 150, wherein the second pulsed attachment of the pod module to the battery module comprises connecting and disconnecting the pod module to the battery module two (2) to five (5) times within the predetermined time period.
- Embodiment 152. The method of any one of Embodiments 147 to 151, further comprising: detecting a power-level of the battery module; and illuminating one or more lights of the vaping device based on the power-level of the battery module.
- Embodiment 153. The method of any one of Embodiments 147 to 152, wherein activating the battery module occurs automatically after detecting the first group of connections of the pod module.
- Embodiment 154. The method of any one of Embodiments 147 to 152, wherein activating the battery module does not require actuation of any components of the battery module.

While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It should also be noted that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may have been disclosed in relation to a particular vaping device (e.g., a cartridge or oil tank); however, other vaping devices (pod systems, box mod kits, mechanical mods, sub-ohm mods, dry herb vaporizers, etc.) are also contemplated. Structures closer to a user when the vaping device is in operation are referred to as more “proximal” while structures that are further from the user during operation of the vaping device are referred to as “distal.” For example, a mouthpiece may be at the proximal end of a vaping device, and a charging port may be at the distal end of a vaping device.
In one embodiment, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to numerical parameters within 10% of the indicated range. The terms “a,”, n,” “the,” and similar referents used in the context of describing the embodiments of the present disclosure (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments of the present disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.
Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the author(s) of this disclosure for carrying out the embodiments disclosed herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The author(s) expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the author(s) intend for the embodiments of the present disclosure to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using consisting of or consisting essentially of language. When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the transition term “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claims. The transition term “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s). Embodiments of this disclosure so claimed are inherently or expressly described and enabled herein.
Although this disclosure provides many specifics, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of any of the claims that follow, but merely as providing illustrations of some embodiments of elements and features of the disclosed subject matter. Other embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and of their elements and features, may be devised which do not depart from the spirit or scope of any of the claims. Features from different embodiments may be employed in combination. Accordingly, the scope of each claim is limited only by its plain language and the legal equivalents thereto.

Claims

What is claimed:

1. A system, comprising:

a power supply including a cartridge interface,

wherein the cartridge interface mates with a first power supply interface of a proprietary cartridge; and

an adaptor including a second power supply interface and a foreign cartridge interface,

wherein the second power supply interface mates with the cartridge interface,

wherein the foreign cartridge interface mates with a power coupler of a foreign cartridge; and

wherein the system diffuses an inhalable substance.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cartridge interface of the power supply and the cartridge interface of the proprietary cartridge, when mated, establish electrical communication between the power supply and the proprietary cartridge.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the cartridge interface of the power supply and the power supply interface of the adaptor, when mated, and the at least one foreign cartridge interface of the adaptor and the power coupler of the foreign cartridge, when mated, establish electrical communication between the power supply and the foreign cartridge.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one foreign cartridge interface comprises a 510 threaded connection.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one foreign cartridge interface comprises an interface proprietary to the foreign cartridge.

6. The system of claim 1, comprising a plurality of adaptors comprising a plurality of foreign cartridge interfaces of a plurality of different configurations.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

the proprietary cartridge.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

the foreign cartridge.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the power supply comprises a proprietary power supply.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the power supply directly couples to the proprietary cartridge and indirectly couples to the foreign cartridge.

11. A system, comprising:

a power supply including a cartridge interface,

a plurality of adaptors, each adaptor of the plurality of adaptors including a second power supply interface and a foreign cartridge interface,

wherein the second power supply interface of each adaptor mates with the cartridge interface,

wherein the foreign cartridge interface of each adaptor of the plurality of adaptors mates with a power coupler of a foreign cartridge,

wherein the foreign cartridge interface of each adaptor of the plurality of adaptors has a different configuration than the foreign cartridge interface of every other adaptor of the plurality of adaptors; and

wherein the system diffuses an inhalable substance.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the foreign cartridge interface of a first adaptor of the plurality of adaptors comprises a 510 threaded connection.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the foreign cartridge interface of a second adaptor of the plurality of adaptors comprises an interface proprietary to the foreign cartridge.

14. The system of claim 11, further comprising:

at least one foreign cartridge.

15. The system of claim 11, further comprising:

at least one proprietary cartridge.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the power supply directly couples to a proprietary cartridge and indirectly couples to the foreign cartridge.

17. A method for diffusing an inhalable substance with a proprietary power supply, comprising:

selecting at least one of a proprietary cartridge including a first power supply interface and a foreign cartridge including a power coupler;

when the proprietary cartridge is selected, mating the first power supply interface with a cartridge interface of a power supply;

when the foreign cartridge is selected,

identifying an adaptor including a second power supply interface that mates with the cartridge interface and a foreign cartridge interface that mates with the power coupler,

mating the second power supply interface with the cartridge interface, and

mating the power coupler with the foreign cartridge interface; and

supplying power from the power supply to the proprietary cartridge or the foreign cartridge to enable the proprietary cartridge or the foreign cartridge to diffuse an inhalable substance.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein identifying the adaptor comprises identifying the adaptor from a plurality of available adaptors with a plurality of foreign cartridge interfaces of a plurality of different configurations.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein identifying the adaptor comprises identifying an adaptor with the foreign cartridge interface comprising a 510 threaded connection.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein identifying the adaptor comprises identifying an adaptor with the foreign cartridge interface comprising an interface proprietary to the foreign cartridge.

21. The method of claim 17, wherein mating the power supply interface of the proprietary cartridge with the cartridge interface of the power supply establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the proprietary cartridge.

22. The method of claim 17, wherein mating the power supply interface of the adaptor with the cartridge interface of the power supply and mating the power coupler of the foreign cartridge with the foreign cartridge interface of the adaptor establishes electrical communication between the proprietary power supply and the foreign cartridge.

23. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

controlling diffusion of the inhalable substance with the proprietary power supply.

24. The method of claim 17, wherein the power supply comprises a proprietary power supply.

25. A system comprising:

a power supply including a cartridge interface that interchangeably mates with:

a first power supply interface of a first proprietary cartridge including a first type of diffusing element to directly couple the first proprietary cartridge to the power supply; and

a second power supply interface of a second proprietary cartridge including a second type of diffusing element to directly couple the second proprietary cartridge to the power supply, the second type of diffusing element differing from the first type of diffusing element.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the first type of diffusing element is an atomizer in communication with a center airflow lumen and the second type of diffusing element comprises a heating element on a vaporization surface.