WO2024136935A1 - One-hand holdable misting devices and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A one-hand holdable, battery powered misting device having a liquid tank and an atomizer is disclosed. The atomizer may comprise a vibrator having micropores. The device may comprise a biometric sensor and electronics configured to enable the battery to power the atomizer. The device may further comprise electronics configured to store user identification information and medication identification information.

Description

ONE-HAND HOLDABLE

MISTING DEVICES AND METHODS

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a diffusing, vaping and misting devices.

PRIORIT Y CLAIM

This application claims priority on US Application No. 18/069,158 filed December 20, 2022, entitled “Quick Release Cartridge For Misting Device Having 510 Thread”, abandoned, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Vaping products are generally designed for a wide variety of purposes, including recreational, medical and cosmetic applications. Vaping devices can include atomizers adapted to atomize (or vaporize) an oil-based compound by heating and spraying the atomized fluid therefrom.

A mist comprises small droplets of liquid that are suspended in air, commonly created when warm, moist air meets sudden cooling, such as in exhaled air in the winter, or when throwing water onto the hot stove of a sauna. The mist can also be created artificially with aerosol canisters if the humidity and temperature conditions are right. An atomizer can also create a mist using a heating element to nebulize a composition into the desired mist.

Traditional misters either are not refillable, or contain a reservoir, that while refillable, is inefficient. It is difficult for users to take the time cleaning and refilling the reservoir and refilling a reservoir can lead to accidental spilling of contents. Additionally, threaded vape pens typically include only a primitive version of a battery to reservoir connection. A reservoir using efficient threading to interconnect the battery and atomizer would be desirable.

Difficulties inherent in the prior art tend to make vaping products expensive and their components quickly obsolete. Misters are often discarded, perform less favorably than predicted, are not as efficient in terms of conserving expensive contents and/or not reused as commonly as they might otherwise be if improvements to the art were made and if various contents could be swapped out merely by interchanging cartridges or reservoirs or tanks wherein the cartridges has efficient electrical connectivity threading. The present invention relates to human-inhalable mists, medical and otherwise, and one-hand holdable devices and methods that improve their delivery. Thus, there is a need for improvement in this field.

Vaping and e-cigarettes are long known, using heating elements to vaporize liquids. Early examples include U.S. Patent No. 1,775,947 (circa 1927) with “heating coil A” and U.S. Patent 3,200,819 (circa 1963) with “heating element is preferably a vacuum tube or bulb 36 ”

U.S. Patent Application Publication U.S. 2017/0209840 Al (now abandoned) discloses a misting device for topical application to the body or diffusing the composition into ambient air from a side misting nozzle 138, It has a liquid container 102 above an atomizer 116 with one or more piezoelectric plates 404 mounted on a silicon ball 402. Those plates may be clad with stainless steel for erosion resistance. The ball 402 slows flow of atomized fluid through the outlet 120. The device may further include a pump to pump the composition out of outlet 120. The device may include a heating element to enable vaporing the particles of the composition into a gas.

U.S. Patent Application Publication U.S. 20200222644A1 discloses herbal extract delivery product comprising: a substrate coated with one or more layers of one or more herbal extracts of one or more herbaceous plants. FIG, 17 shows a pipe with a heating element 1710. The delivery cartridge 1750 can be used with the electronic nebulizer 1700 to deliver a predetermined and accurate quantity of volatized or entrained herbal extract(s) in a solid, star shaped cartridge 1750 to a user.

According to a website, entitled The History of E-Cigarette Atomizers, found at the link The History of E-Cigarette Atomizers vapejuice.com) “In every vaping device, the atomizer is the assembly containing the heating wire that vaporizes the vape juice.” It goes on to say that a Mr. Hon Lik: “Hon’s first design, however, didn’t use resistance wire to vaporize the e-liquid; it used a piezoelectric atomizer that vaporized the e-liquid with ultrasonic vibrations. The atomizer was, in essence, a tiny speaker that emitted high- frequency sound waves. Hon ultimately decided, that he could achieve a more consistent result using an atomizer that vaporized the e-liquid with heat rather than ultrasound. It’s unknown whether any of Hon’s ultrasonic e-cigarettes were ever available commercially.” It went on to say, “The USONICIG Rhythm — pictured [in the article] — was an attempt in 2018 to create a modem vaping device that used an ultrasonic atomizer. It wasn’t successful. Nevertheless, the USONICIG was and is being sold. While we are unclear as io its inner workings, the record owner of that trademark is China Tobacco Hunan Industrial, which also owns U.S. Patent 10,561 , 803 B2 which discloses a liquid guide structure, (porous member 7, namely a wick) which guides the liquid either directly to the top surface of the atomizer or indirectly via liquid guide holes 10. The liquid is then vibrated into vapor from the top surface.

Earlier, as mentioned, Mr. Lik in Taiwan patent application from 2003, in TW200529773A, disclosed an electronic atomizing cigarette with a piezoelectric plate. A small hole is formed at the edge of the liquid cavity to connect a liquid supply pipe with damping effect. The ring-shaped piezoelectric sheet is bonded with a micro-jet nozzle with a micro-spray hole."

In applications from 2014 naming Mr. Lik and others, (see U.S. Patent No. 10015994B2) he used heaters as the atomizer. “When triggered by a user of the electronic smoking device 1 , liquid 7 is released from the reservoir 6 and provided to the heating element 4 where it is vaporized.”

As stated, currently heating elements are pervasive for vaporizing. Their vape is a very visible white cloud upon exhalation by the user. That is normally due to the vaporized carrier oil.

Atomizers, generators, nebulizers and the like are designed for a wide variety of purposes such as medical, therapeutic, and cosmetic applications. Vaping using e-cigarettes have become a popular substitute for smoking. Using e-cigarettes, vapers can inhale a diffused liquid containing only the active ingredients instead of traditional substances like tobacco, which contain many toxins and tangential substances, including tar.

Vapers cause small droplets of liquid to be suspended in air. Typically, a vaper is adapted to discharge a mist into the mouth. Traditional misters either are not refillable, or contain a reservoir, that while refillable, is inefficient. These reservoir's are often oil-based, diffusing oil which contaminates lung tissue. hi traditional vaping devices, the atomizer can become clogged with residue, and different sized atomizers are needed for oils of di fferent vi scosities, making interchange of a plurality of liquids unfeasible as the atomizer is contaminated and not properly sized. Overcoming this problem in the prior art is desirable.

These difficulties inherent in the devices known in the art tend to make the useful life of a vaper much shorter than would otherwise be desirable. Misters are often discarded, perform less favorably than predicted, are not as efficient in terms of conserving expensive contents and/or not reused as commonly as they might otherwise be if improvements to the art were made and if various contents could be swapped out merely by interchanging cartridges or reservoirs or tanks.

Traditional vaping devices do not provide a means for quickly and cleanly interchanging different types of compositions without residue contaminants. A misting device that is operable with water-based cartridges is desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for a misting device that works with a quick release interchangeable cartridge having 510 threads. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a misting device for dispensing a composition, the device comprising: a housing comprising: a cylindrical basket adapted to house a wick, a first planar surface circumscribing a cylindrical body, an outer annular sidewall jutting inferiorly from the first planar surface, an inner annular' sidewall jutting inferiorly from the first planar surface, wherein the outer annular sidewall and inner annular sidewall define a recess between them for receiving an upper annular lip of a glass tank; a glass tank defining a reservoir for housing a composition, the glass tank having a flange which flares outwardly laterally, an upper annular lip and a lower annular lip, wherein the upper annular lip and lower annular lip are smaller in diameter than the flange; a frustoconical tip affixed to the housing 310 and superior to the housing 310, the frustoconical tip defining a hollow interior cavity and a misting nozzle for expelling an atomized mist through an open top end; a piezo gasket defining a track for receiving a piezo plate, the piezo plate disposed superiorly to the cylindrical gasket; a piezo plate housed within the piezo gasket operable to atomize a composition within the glass tank to a mist, the mist expelled through the misting nozzle.

The misting device may further comprise a base comprising an inner annular sidewall and an outer annular side, a recess forming between the inner annular sidewall and the outer annular sidewall for receiving a lower lip of the glass tank.

In some embodiments, the tip defines a hollow interior cavity and open bottom end, wherein a sidewall circumscribing the open bottom end defines a track for forming a snap fit with a protuberance.

Two or more protuberances jut laterally from one of the housing and piezo gasket in some embodiments.

The glass tank may define a plurality of recesses around a perimeter. The cylindrical basket may be threaded in some embodiments.

The misting device may further comprise a base comprising: a bottom surface; a cylindrical protuberance rising from the bottom surface, wherein the cylindrical protuberance is threaded and adapted to mate with the cylindrical basket, an uninterrupted, inner annular sidewall 606 rising from the bottom surface, an uninterrupted, outer annular sidewall 608 rising from the bottom surface, a 510 thread jutting inferiorly from the bottom surface. A second misting device for dispensing a composition is also provided, the device comprising: a housing comprising: a cylindrical basket adapted to house a wick, a first planar surface circumscribing a cylindrical body, an outer annular sidewall jutting inferiorly from the first planar surface, an inner annular sidewall juting Inferiorly from the first planar surface, wherein the outer annular sidewall and inner annular sidewall define a recess between them for receiving an upper annular lip of a glass tank; a glass tank defining a reservoir for housing a composition, the glass tank having a flange which flares outwardly laterally, an upper annular lip and a lower annular lip, wherein the upper annular lip and lower annular lip arc smaller in diameter than the flange; a tnistoconical tip affixed to the housing 310 and superior to the housing 310, the frustoconical tip defining a hollow interior cavity and a misting nozzle for expelling an atomized mist through an open top end; a piezo gasket defining a track for receiving a piezo plate, the piezo plate disposed superiorly to the cylindrical gasket; a piezo plate housed within the piezo gasket operable to atomize a composition within the glass tank to a mist, the mist expelled through the misting nozzle; a base comprising: a bottom surface; a cylindrical protuberance rising from the bottom surface, wherein the cylindrical protuberance is threaded and adapted to mate with the cylindrical basket, an uninterrupted, inner annular sidewall 606 rising from the bottom surface, an uninterrupted, outer annular sidewall 608 rising from the bottom surface, a 510 thread jutting inferiorly from the botom surface.

Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present in ven tion should be or are in any single embodiment of the in ven tion. R ather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention. From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for an improved handheld vaping implement. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a vaping apparatus for dispensing of a composition, the vaping apparatus comprising: an ovoid body comprising a rechargeable battery and a depressible triggering mechanism, the ovoid body defining a hollow interior recess and open top end defining a track within which a protuberance travels; a detachable, ovoid interchangeable cartridge adapted to insert into the open top end, the cartridge detachably engageable with the body, the cartridge comprising: a transparent reservoir having reservoir exterior surfacing, the transparent reservoir defining two conductor channels running longitudinally; a base affixed to the transparent reservoir comprising a protuberance, the base having exterior surfacing recessed inwardly from the reservoir exterior surfacing, the base adapted to insert into the open top end; two elongated, metal conductors each positioned within one of the conductor channels; a ceramic wick adapted to direct fluid housed within the transparent housing to a piezo plate; the piezo plate disposed above the ceramic wick; and a frustoconical tip having an open top end positioned above the transparent reservoir.

The vaping apparatus may further comprise a USB charging port. The vaping apparatus may further comprise a tray inserted into the hollow interior recess adapted to secure the power supply and a triggering mechanism, the tray having a planar top surface defining two or more apertures and a hollow cylindrical recess.

The vaping apparatus may further comprise a plurality of magnets disposed across the top surface of the tray and the ovoid base adapted to form a magnetic fit between the tray and the detachable cartridge.

The tray may further comprise a plurality of threaded protuberances adapted to affix the tray to other components.

The body may be fabricated from a metal alloy. The outlet of the atomizer may comprise an atomizer nozzle.

Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment, In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.

Moreover, the feature of an high-speed vibrator with micropores, the misting of water-borne materials, the biometrics, the pharmacy features, and other features below provide advantage.

These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective, exploded view illustrating one embodiment of a quick release cartridge for misting having 510 thread in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an isometric perspective view of a quick release cartridge ha ving 510 threads in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side perspective, exploded view illustrating one embodiment of a quick release cartridge for misting having 510 thread in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a sectioned, side perspective view of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective, exploded view illustrating one embodiment of a quick release cartridge for misting having 510 thread in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an upper perspective view of a base of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an upper perspective view of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an upper perspective view of a housing of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of a housing of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG, 10 is an upper perspective view of a housing and tip of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11 A is a left side elevation view of one example of the present invention. FIGs. 11A and 11B- 111 also show an ornamental design, with ribs in non-clalmed phantom lines but which optionally may be claimed as part of the design. Also, air inlet vents on the side are shown in non-claimed phantom lines but which optionally may be claimed as part of the design.

FIG. 11B is a cross-section of FIG. 11A. FIG. 11C is a rear elevation view of the device of FIG, 11 A.

FIG. 11D is a right side elevation view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11E is a top plan view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11F is a front elevation view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11G is a bottom view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11H is a rear top perspective view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11I is a front top perspective view of the device of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a top perspective view of another example of the present inventions, with the top (tank or cartridge) portion apart from a bottom (battery) portion.

FIG. 12B1 is a side cross-section of the tank or cartridge portion of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 12B2 Is a side cross-section of the device of FIG . 12B1 showing liquid L in the cartridge tank and mist.

FIG. 12B3 is a side cross-section of the combined device of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 12C is a side cross-section of the battery portion if the device of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 12D is a side view of the tank portion with a closure, such as an optional lid, off of the tank,

FIG. 12E is a is a side view of the tank portion with a closure, such as a lid, on the tank and an optional label 1102 on the tank.

FIG. 12F is a top perspective view of the device of FIG. 2E in a loading unit.

FIG. 12G is a front elevation view of the devices of FIG. 12 A combined.

FIG. 12H is a front elevation view of the devices of FIG. 12 A separated.

FIG. 13 A is a side cross-section of another example of the present inventions.

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 13A,

FIG. 14A is a front cross-section of another example of the present in ven tions.

FIG. 14B is a front view of the device of FIG. I4A.

FIG, 15A is a front view of another example of the present inventions.

FIG. 15B is a side cross-section of the cartridge device of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16A is a side cross-section of another example of the present inventions.

FIG. 16B is perspective view of the device of 16A.

FIG. 17 A is a side cross-section of another example of the present inventions.

FIG. 17B is a front view' of the device of FIG. 17 A.

FIG. 18 is an example flowchart for systems and methods for biometrics and electronics with the present devices. FIG. 19 is an example flowchart for one system and method for filling and/or programming.

FIG. 20 is a cross-section view of an elastomeric port and injector in isolation.

FIG. 21 is an isometric, perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a detachable cartridge of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 23 A is an exploded, side-perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 23B is an exploded, side-perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 24A is a top perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 24B is a top perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention:

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 26 is an exploded, side-perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a detachable cartridge of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 27 is an exploded, side -perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 28 is an exploded, perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 29 is perspective view of part of the instrument of FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The U.S. patent applications 17/701 ,643 entitled “Handheld Vaping Implement” filed March 22, 2022 and 18- 069,158 entitled “Quick Release Cartridge For Misting Device Having 510 Thread” filed on December 20, 2022 are hereby fully incorporated by reference.

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates, (due embodiment of the invention is shown in great detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not relevant to the present invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.

With respect to the specification and claims, it should be noted that the singular forms "a”, "an", "the", and the like include plural referents unless expressly discussed otherwise. As an illustration, references to ”a device" or "the device" include one or more of such devices and equivalents thereof. It also should be noted that directional terms, such as "up", "down", "top", "bottom", and the like, are used herein solely for the convenience of the reader in order to aid in the reader’s understanding of the illustrated embodiments, and it is not the intent that the use of these directional terms in any manner limit the described, illustrated, and/or claimed features to a specific direction and/or orientation.

The following sections, and the elements and components below, as in the definitions, optionally may be combined, mixed and matched with each other and with other features.

BASIC MISTING. The liquid in a tank, usually a small tank, is put in contact with the atomizer which is electrically power to vibrate to form the liquid into an airborne mist. Preferably, but optionally, this is done without a heating element or powered heating (other than possible minute heating resulting from the atomizer).

WICKING. Wicking is used in some embodiments, but not others. For example, wick 112 is shown in FIG. 1, and wick 2206 is shown in FIG. 22.

WICKLESS DELIVERY. This option reduces parts and eliminates clogging or fouling of a wick. Examples are shown in FIGs. 1 I B, 12B2, 13 A, 14A, I 5B, 16A and 17A. VENTING. Venting is provide by openings in the mist conduit. Optionally, but preferably there are two such vents (see for example inlet openings 1424 in FIG. 14B in the opposite apex sides of mouthpiece 1404).

BIOMETRICS. Optionally, operation of the device may be enabled or disabled by a biometric sensor. This may, for example, permit (or block) power to the atomizer. This has uti lity in confining use of the device to the user corresponding to the person for who pharmacal prescriptions. It also may be used to prevent unauthorized users, such as for example underage persons, from using the device. Optionally, such biometries may use the methods of FIG. 18. There, the device (thumb button or otherwise) reads one or more of the the user's biometrics 6100. Thereafter, the electronics compare 6200 that reading with the user biometric data in memory 6201, preferrable within the electronics in the hand-held device. The system queries 6300, whether the biometric data read, above, match (within normal variance); if “NO” then the system does not enable misting 6301: if “YES” then the system enables misting 6600, or optionally proceeds to the comparison 6400 and decision 6500. Comparison 6400 queries a comparison between user identification, from the biometric(s) read above, with the liquid in the container (downloaded into the device and/or cartridge at the pharmacy and or other filling facility) per user identification data and prescription data 6401. For example, this optionally confirms that the user using the device matches the prescription filled into the container, in addition to whether that user is biometrically allowed to use that device. Decision 6500 asks if that identification matches; if “NO” then the electronics do no enable misting 6501; if “YES” it enables misting 6600. Note optionally, that the sequencing may be altered: for example, comparison 6400 and decision 6500 may: (a) not be used; (b) precede comparison 6200 arid decision 6300; and/or (c) be in parallel with and/or be simultaneous with comparison 6200 and decision 6300. Per the above, “enable" is interchangeable with not disabling.

MICROPORES IN HIGH-SPEED VIBRATORS. Optionally, the high-speed vibrator has micropores from the inner surface to the outer surface thereof. These allow for misting, while also containing the liquid in the tank(s) or containers. The sizes of the micropores may vary. Without limitation, the micropores may be on average sized less than about 100 microns across their smallest cross-sections, and more preferably less than 30 microns, and more preferably less than 10 microns, and more preferably less than 5 microns, and more preferably less than 3 microns. A non-limit example is a piezioplate with micropore comprising a vibrating mesh transducer ( VMT), which may include a mesh and piezoelectric material. As but one example, such high-speed vibrator may comprise a ceramic vibrator around the periphery of a opening, optionally like a washer shape with a very thin material spanning that opening. Such material or membrane or mesh may be made from metal, such as for example, stainless steel, with the micropores therein. The ceramic vibrates that membrane. That mesh or membrane may be flat, but optionally and preferably it may be domed (see for example the dome visible on high-speed vibrator 1501 in FIG. 11B), A. non-limit example is a with tapered micropores from about 5 to 3 microns. Such is commercially available from Piezo Direct in Burlingame, California, Others are suitable as well,

REGULATED DISPENSING. Optionally, dispensing of mist may be done via an high-speed vibrator being regulated and/or controlled by electronics on the device. For example, this may include electronics varying the frequency, average frequency and/or amplitude of the electric signals sent to the vibrator. Optionally, this could include program bursts to reduce the amount of misting per second. This electronic control may, optionally, be part or and/or associated with dosing data, discussed below.

PHARMACEUTICAL FILLING AND PROGRAMMING. Optionally, with reference to flow chart of FIG. 19, the present devices may be used in connection with a system and method illustrated in FIG. 19. For example, this system could be implemented at a pharmacy. It includes Computer System 5100 (which may be local, cloud-based, network, or otherwise) with a computer system having or having access to one or more databases, Database 5110 and. or Database 5120, Database 5110 would be the pharmacy’s user patient information. This would typically include name, their prescriptions (medicines and doses), and other information such as address and contact information. In the same database and/or a separate Database 5120 can be compound information, which is typically the name and other information of pharmaceutical compounds for prescription, as wel l as drug interaction and information. The computer system with the databases can measure one or more compounds and then till the container of the present invention. As mentioned, FIG. 9 illustrates three such compounds. Compound A, Compound B, and Compound C. In steps 5131, 5132, and 5133, those respective compounds are measured. Thereafter, the Device Container 1300 is filled with those compounds. Such filling may be manual, by a pharmacist, such as by injection, titration or otherwise. Alternatively, those compounds may be added to a machine which automatically mixes and combines them and fills or injects the Device Container 1300. Thus, for example. Compound A maybe a statin. Compound B may be high blood pressure medication, and Compound C might be a vitamin supplement. This can be used with only one compound, three (3) compounds as illustrated, or as many compounds as is appropriate. In connection with such filling. Computer System 5100 downloads information into Device Container Electronics 1900. Such downloaded information typically will include the identity of Compounds A, B, and C, their dosing, compliance information such as “take daily”, expiration information and otherwise. Optionally, the device may have a separate Device Battery Electronics 1910. Also optionally, Computer System 5100 might download information into it, such as biometric data to enable and or disable operation of the battery and/or triggering mechanism. However, normally such biometric information would be entered by the user independently of the pharmacy’s computer system, and thus privately to the user. Such filling could occur at a pharmacy or at a centralized facility. Preferably such filling is done under sterile conditions and with pharmaceutical grade ingredients, including writer or saline.

SEALED TANK. Optionally, the container (or tank) may be sealed after filling in a tamper evident or tamper proof seal. This can be useful for pharmaceutical liquids. Optionally, the device or container may be labelled as to its composition, or custom labelled with user identification indica and/or medication identification indicia and/or dosing indicia and/or date or expiration indicia. An example is label 1102 shown in FIG. 12G. This optionally may be used in other, non- pharmaceutical, applications such as to maintain quality control and/or for one use or disposable devices, cartridges or tanks.

REFILLING TANK. Optionally, the container may be refilled with the same, or different, liquid. This may be done via a refill opening. This may include a cap. Optionally, it may include an elastomeric port. One example of that is elastomeric port in FIG. 20 and may be used in the sidewall of any of the tanks. That shows in isolation tank wall 4310 with an opening therein filled with port 4800, and more specifically elastomeric port 4810. An optional hole or slit or frangible path 4811 permits insertion of injector 4830 for filling the tank and resealing upon withdraw of the injector.

MULTIPLE CONTAINERS. Optionally, rather than one fluid container (or tank) the device may have two, three or more such fluid containers. In one option , two or more of the containers are separate from each other. Optionally, in that case their may be separate atomizers, such as for example piezoelectric members, in contact with their corresponding fluids. Such option affords user choice (such as between for example flavors, or nicotine, or THC), but alternatively may be used to separate fluids that are not compatible with each other for storage. Another option for separate tanks is, for example, in medical or pharmaceutical uses, the dosing intervals may be different for different fluids. For example, Compound A may have a dosing prescription of once daily, whereas Compound B may have a dosing prescription of twice daily, whereas Compound C and Compound D may have a dosing prescription of once per week (and optionally could be mixed in a common third container). In such case, the flow chart of FIG, 19 may be modified to have the separate containers filled separately, rather than mixed and filled into a common container.

In another option, there may be two containers (or tanks) separate but interconnected by a check-valve (ball, flap or otherwise). In such case the first container may include an high-speed vibrator, with the high-speed vibrator forming at least part of said container walls and being substantially impervious to liquid leaking from said container. The high-speed vibrator may have micropores therein, wherein upon powering of said high-speed vibrator liquid in the first reservoir in contact with an inner surface of said high-speed vibrator flows through said micropores and is dispensed as mist. However, the second container (or tank or reservoir) and the check-valve feeds liquid from the second container into the first container, but blocks backflow from the first container back into the first container. This facilitates the high-speed vibrator always, or most always being in contact with the liquid. This reduces the chance of non- misting if the device is tipped or angled or inverted away from a fluid-contact orientation. This may optionally be used in a wick system, or in a wickless system. Also, it may be used in a system using other atomizers, such as a heater. Optionally, its location may be, for example, at 1361 (see FIG. 11 B), at 1362 (see FIG. 12B2) or otherwise. Optionally, the check-valve and the first tank is located lower, in normal operation position (horizonal H-H in FIG. 11 B; and vertical V-V in FIG. 12B2), than the second tank to help keep the first tank full or near full.

WATER-BORN L1QIJ IDS. Optionally, a liquid in said consisting essentially of an aqueous blend (water and/or medical saline) with at least one active ingredient (for example only: nicotine, flavor, THC, oxygen, coffee extracts, other extracts, caffeine, medication) therein. Optionally, medication identification information stored in electronic memory corresponding to said medication. Here, by ‘consisting essentially’ we mean that the basic and novel attribute of this (optional) feature is avoidance of oils, such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin or glycerol, used in conventional vapes. Optionally, but preferably the active ingredients here are dissolved, not in suspension or colloidal (although those may optionally be employed as well). Dissolved solutions provide the advantage of finer misting and/or reduction of clogging of micropores. While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions defined by following claims are desired to be protected.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodi ment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well- known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a diffusing and misting device with quick release interchangeable cartridge having 510 threads adapted to quickly loads a cartridge into a hand held or stand-alone container (such as what is generally referred to as a diffusor, to formulate, contain, atomize, and discharge a composition as a mist for uniform application of the composition to the body or to the air for inhalation of the misted or diffused substance, and more particularly relates to a misting device that provides a container adapted for hand held or stand-alone operation; whereby the container is defined by an interior chamber adapted for quickly loading and discharging an interchangeable cartridge or reservoir or tank, which may or may not be refillable, containing a composition; whereby the composition, such as medicines and oils, is formulated directly inside the cartridge or is formulated and packaged separately, prior to being inserted into the cartridge or reservoir or tank; whereby the cartridge couples to the interior chamber through a quick release coupling mechanism: whereby the container further includes an inlet tube extending into the interior chamber, an atomizer, an optionally included heating element, and a pump operable through a triggering mechanism to draw the composition through the inlet tube and out of an outlet of the atomizer as a uniform mist or diffused substance; whereby a base supports the container in an upright position for charging the batery and for storage and formulation of the cartridge.

For the purposes of this invention, the terms “cartridge,” “tank” and “reservoir” are synonymous and interchangeable.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective, exploded view illustrating one embodiment of a quick release cartridge for misting having 510 thread in accordance with the present invention.

FIGs. 1 - 5 depict a misting device or cartridge 100 with a quick release interchangeable reservoir, hereafter, “cartridge 100” or “device 100” which discharges a composition as a uniform mist from a nozzle 302, adapted for vaping. The composition may include, without limitation, a medicine, an oil, a recreational drug, an eye solution, a skin care agent, an essential oil, and a sunscreen composition. The composition may include THC for topical application, vaccinations for inhalation, or the like.

In some embodiments, this cartridge 100 comprises a cylindrical glass tank 108 for holding a liquid to be atomized, which may be refillable using means known to those of skill in the art for refilling a cartridge, including a screw-down cap, a stopper, a valve, and the like.

A base 118 positions inferiorly to other components, which is further described below in relation to FIG. 8. The base 118 maintains the cartridge 100 in an upright disposition. The cartridge 100 is in electrical connectivity with a battery or power supply within a separate body to which the cartridge 100 is detachably affixed.

The efficacy of the composition may be enhanced through heating or another form of atomizing and uniform dispersion as a mist. Thus, the device 100 enables: facilitated storage and portability of the composition in a glass tank 108; formulation of the composition directly in an interchangeable glass tank 108; secure disposition of the composition in an upright position during formulation and while being stored; and atomization of the composition through heating and for passing through a piezoelectric plate 118 to create a uniform discharge of a mist. The cartridge 100 could just as easily be utilized in a stand-alone device that is not hand-held. The cartridge 100 comprises a discharge end 204, or nozzle, positioned at the top of a frustoconical tip 102. A triggering mechanism, or dcpressible button, is triggered by a user to activate the device 100, which expels atomized fluid from the discharge end 204. The triggering mechanism may form part of an ancillary' device to which the cartridge 100 detachably affixes .

In various embodiments, the cartridge 100 comprises an internal battery or the internal battery or power supply may be separate from the cartridge 100.

The cartridge 100 is adapted for handheld operation and uniform dispensing of the composition within the glass tank 108, namely, vaping.

In some embodiments, the frustoconical tip 102 defines two elongated depressions 204 which runs on diametrically opposed surfaces of the tip 102.

The discharge end 204 is open and enables passage of the mist into a user’s mouth. Suitable materials for the cartridge 100 components may include, without limitation, aluminum, steel, metal alloys, and a rigid polymer.

In various embodiments, “510 thread” 308 positions beneath a lower planar surface 312 of the base 310. The 501 thread has 10 threads per 5 mm portion and screws into a battery or power supply, or snaps into the same, creating an electrical connection therebetween.

In various embodiments, the 510 thread 308 comprises one or more conductive elements which engage (or come in contact with) one or more corresponding conductive elements on a body or power supply, allowing cross-compatibility with the cartridge 100 and other devices. When the 510 thread 308 in attached to a power supply, there is electrical conductivity between a triggering mechanism and the atomizer. This circuit, when complete, activates the piezo plate 118.

The tip 102 defines a hollow interior cavity sized and dimensioned to enable through passage of atomized particles into a user’s mouth. The cartridge opening 202 forms an outlet for combining ingredients of the composition for formulation, and subsequently discharging the composition.

The cartridge 100 further comprises a piezo gasket 120 and a piezo plate 118 (or atomizer) The atomizer 118 is configured to atomize the composition (or fluid in the glass tank 108) into the mist. The atomizer 118 is disposed near the discharge end 202 of the cartridge 100. In one embodiment, the atomizer 118 integrates into the tip 102, Though in other embodiments, the atomizer 118 detachably attaches within the piezo gasket 120 within a track 502 circumscribing an interior surface of the piezo gasket 120.

In various embodiments, the piezo plate 118 comprises an ultrasonic nozzle having one or more piezoelectric plates or transducers (including piezoelectric ceramic elements) for atomizing fluid in the glass tank 108. In various embodiments, the droplets are produced by vibration in the range of 10 to 200 kHz.

The piezoelectric plates 1 I 8 may be clad with stainless steel for erosion resistance, and may produce fine and consistent particles sizes of 3 u.m. or less.

The shown embodiment comprises one piezoelectric plate 118, but various other embodiment may include more piezo plates 118.

In some embodiments, the atomizer 116 may include a heating element. In the preferred embodiment, the atomizer comprises a piezoelectric plate.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the atomizing function of the device 100 enables the device 100 to be used as a humidifier, a mister, or diffuser.

The housing 310 comprises a first planar surface 504 which circumscribes a cylindrical body 506.

FIG, 6 is an upper perspective view of a base 118 of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention.

The base 118 comprises a planar, concave or convex bottom surface 610 from which three uninterrupted, annular sidewalls rise superiorly, including a cylindrical protuberance 602, an inner annular sidewall 606 and an outer annular sidewall 608.

The inner annular sidewall 606 comprises an uninterrupted circle as does the outer annular sidewall 608. An annular recess 612 positions between, and is defined by, the inner annular sidewall 606 and the outer annular sidewall 608. The lower lip 1022 of the glass tank 108 inserts into this annular recess 612.

The base 118 also comprises a cylindrical protuberance 602 which rises from the bottom surface 610. This cylindrical protuberance 602 is thicker than the sidewalls 606, 608 and also defines a hollow, cylindrical, centric recess 614 within the cylindrical protuberance 602. The cylindrical protuberance 602 in interiorly threaded, having threads 616 as shown, and adapted to threadably mate with the housing 310. Alternatively, the cylindrical protuberance may be exteriorly threaded.

FIG. 7 is an upper perspective view of a quick release cartridge having 510 thread 700 in accordance with the present invention. From the housing, a cylindrical basket 706 descends inferiorly. The cylindrical basket 706 is threaded around the perimeter of a bottom surface, and may be threaded exteriorly, comprising threading 710 as shown. A plurality of recesses 708 position around the perimeter of the cylindrical basket 706.

FIG. 8 is an upper perspective view of a housing 310 of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads 800 in accordance with the present invention.

The housing 310 comprises an outer annular sidewall 802, an inner annular sidewall 804, a cylindrical lower protuberance 814, and cylindrical basket 706. The cylindrical basket has an open bottom end 812 in some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of a housing of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention.

A wick 108. which may be cylindrical, disposes within the cylindrical basket 706 and draws fluid from the glass tank 118 to the atomizer.

FIG. 10 is an upper perspective view of the glass tank 108 and tip 102 of a quick release cartridge having 510 threads in accordance with the present invention.

The glass tank 108 comprises an upper arid lower unbroken annular lips 1022, including lip 1022a and lip 1022b. The lips 1022 are smaller in diameter than the flange 1024 which circumscribes the glass tank 108. The flange 1024 flares, or bulges, outwardly and laterally.

In various embodiments, the tip 102 defines an open bottom end 1004. The open bottom end 1004 is circumscribed by a sidewall 1006. In various embodiments, the inner surface of the sidewall 1006 defines a track 1002 (or recess) adapted to receive (or mate with) a corresponding protuberance 305 jutting laterally from one of the housing 310 or piezo gasket 120.

In various embodiments, an aperture 304 penetrates the outer shell of the tip 102 allowing ambient air to inflow into the glass tank 108 as it is emptied.

The glass tank 108 forms an interior chamber for housing fluid. The glass tank 108 and/or housing 310 may include a coupling mechanism which is configured to enable detachable attachment between the glass tank 108, housing 310 and other components of the cartridge 310. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism forms a friction fit engagement. In one possible embodiment, the coupling mechanism is a snap-fit connection. In another embodiment, the coupling mechanism is a pressurized twist connection having threaded surfaces. In yet another embodiment, the coupling mechanism enables the interchangeable cartridge 100 to clip in and out of the interior chamber through one-handed manipulation.

Manipulation of a trigger mechanism actuates a pump which feeds the piezo plate 118. The trigger mechanism may be either manual ly-operable or electrically operable. The trigger mechanism may partially protrude from the side of the cartridge 100 for facilitated manipulation. In one embodiment, the trigger mechanism is a switch that is disposed centrally along the length of the cartridge 100 and operatively connected to the pump. The switch enables selective dispensing of the composition, and is adapted to be operated with one hand.

In conclusion, the device 100 comprises substantially a cylindrical body and frustoconical tip 102, a glass tank 108, a housing, and an atomizer/piezo plate 118. The cartridge 100 is configured to work with the interchangeable with a power supply using the 510 thread 308.

In various other embodiments of the present invention, the cap, cartridge and/or body of the device 100 ma y comprise circuitry which is configurable to adj ust the width of the misting nozzle. The circuitry may include computer readable memory which stores historical data about user usage of the device, including which cartridge is used, how long it has been used, and how much liquid is remaining in the cartridge. The historical data may be analyzed by a DBMS (database management system) and historical reports displayed graphically. The historical data may also be used to automatically order replacement cartridges for the device 100, and other purposes.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equi valency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

The example of FIGs. 11A-11I show device 1001. This configuration is designed for generally horizontal use along the horizontal axis H-H (see FIG. 11 B), and may be held in the palm of a hand, similar to a smoking pipe. Exit opening 1411 optionally is preferably larger than normal (see e.g., FIG. 1 IF), preferably being greater than 1 cm², and even more preferably being about 2 cm². In concert, intake openings 1421 in the mist conduit provide large inflow and outflow of air, with the outflow combined with mist. This configuration has utility, including for athletes during a game or their workout (e.g., with oxygen or other appropriate supplements), firefighters and the like. This can provide, for example, rapid oxygenation or hydration or otherwise. While the illustrated example shows intake openings 1421 as a series of slots, other configurations and/or designs are permissible, including round holes, oblong openings, or otherwise. High-speed vibrator 1501 is shown in FIG. 11 B, with such vibrator having an outer surface 1521 and an inner surface 1531 . Optionally, but preferably, the vibrator is mounted in a seal, such as elastomeric seal 1511 . Preferably, the vibrator has micropores in it, and upon activation by a switch and a battery (not shown) to provide power to the vibrator, it converts liquid from Tank 1301 into mist through the vibrators. The mist is ejected through the mist conduit and out opening 1411. The container has a container (or tank) Wall 1311 , and optionally in this particular configuration the tank is connected the rest of the device through a friction fit. Optionally , other connections such as threading or bayonet may be provided as well. Also, optionally the mouthpiece, or tip, .1401 is elongated, as illustrated in FIGs. 11E and 11F. This optional feature optimizes fitting in the mo uth o f a human user.

The example of FIGs. 12A- 12H show device 1002. In its preferred normal mode of operation, it is generally kept along a vertical axis V-V. Per FIG, 12A, the device actually comprises two devices, the upper cartridge portion and the lower body and battery portion. These may be made and/or sold separately. Optionally, the lower portion includes a triggering mechanism 1202, and optional electronic display 19023, and electrical connectors at 1922, which provide electrical connection to the battery 1102 and/or the optional electronics 1902 (see FIG. 12B3). The upper tank or container module is shown in cross section, in FIGs. 12B2 and 12B3 containing liquid L. High-speed vibrator 1502 acts as part of the container or tank. Upon powering thereof, because it is optionally a piezoelectric device with micropores therein, the liquid L is converted to mist (shown schematically at 1342), The mist travels downstream towards the exit opening in mouthpiece 1402, with the mist traveling along mist conduit 1522. Optionally, the high-speed vibrator is mounted in and suspended in an elastomeric seal 1512, preferably around the perimeter of the vibrator. This, along with the vibrator help form and seal the tank or container. Optionally, a second set of electronics 19021 (see FIG. 12 B3) may be included. The optional feature of having two separate sets of electronics allows biometric user data to be included in the battery portion with electronics 1902, whereas optionally pharmaceutical prescription data such as having liquid L be one or more pharmaceutical compounds may be stored in electronics 19021 and/or 19022. These are described above in more detail. FIG. 12A shows an opening 1422, which functions as an intake opening, and exit opening 1412. Tank 1302 holds liquid, and maybe transparent, translucent and- or opaque. It also may be optionally contained and hidden within an outer body. Optionally, such as with pharmaceutical compound, the container or tank 1302 may have a refillable opening, such as cap 1352 (see FIG. 12D). As previously described, this may be filled at the pharmacy or a centralized location, and then cap 1352 sealed. Optionally, a label 1102 (see FIG. 12E) may help form the tamper evident or tamper proof ceiling of tank 1302. Optionally, again the onboard electronics of this cartridge may be downloaded with user information, user identification information, liquid information, dosing information and the like as previously described. Such information, along with electrical power may be transmitted with electrical connectors 1912 interfacing with electrical connectors 1922. Optionally, the upper and lower units may be combined into a single unitary unit. Powering programming and tor filling may be done in any manner, but FIG. 12 illustrates one optional mounting system with base 1932.

For example, in FIG. 12E label 1102, customized, which illustrates a user's name, "Curby Curbcrton”, the number of “100 Doses”, dosing information “Inhale Every 3-6 Hours as needed’, the “RX” number, and the number and date for “2 refills”. Some or all of that information, and more (such as remaining doses), may be displayed on display 19023 (see FIG. 12 A) instead andtor in addition to a label.

FIGs. 13A and 1313 show another example. This shows device 1003, including a triggering mechanism 1203, such as a buton on the lower batery body which can activate and power a batery (not shown). A mouthpiece or tip 1403 is shown, including an exit opening 1413, and inlet openings 1423 on either side of the apex of the generally rectangular shape of the elongated tip or mouthpiece 1403. Ideally, there are two such intake openings 1423 on diametrically opposed apex locations on the tip. A high-speed vibrator, 1503 preferably forms part of the liquid tank and preferably has micropores therein. That provides downstream misting through mist conduit 1523. As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the mist conduct is surrounded by the tank, and optionally one or both of them may be transparent Naturally, one or both of them may be translucent or opaque as well. The devices of FIGs. 13A and I3B have a design which is fundamentally rectangular and orthogonal in geometry.

The example of FIGs. 14A and 14B show a further arrangement. It shows device 1004 including mouthpiece 1404 and intake openings 1424. Preferably, mouthpiece 1404 is oval or ovoid in cross-sectional geometry with openings 1424 spaced generally opposite of each other and at the apex of such cross-sectional shape, preferably at or about the greatest diametrical distance.

Although liquid is not shown in these drawings, it is in the illustrated tank 1304 surrounding mist conduit 1524. This example is a disposable unit with batteries 1104 in a unitary body (cartridge and battery power).

FIG. 15A and 15B illustrate another shape and configuration of device 1005. It is similar to the example of FIG. 14A and 14B, but is to connect via electrical connections 1905 to a battery or other power sources. In this particular device, the mouthpiece is generally cylindrical with intake openings 1425 on opposite sides thereof. Mist generated by vibrator 1505 trails downstream through mist conduit 1525, being mist generator from liquid and tank 1305. It optionally includes within it electronics 19025 as described in this application.

The examples of FIG. 16A and 16B show device 1006, which includes a mouthpiece 1406 and an exit opening 1416. One or more intake openings 1426 are shown. A button or triggering mechanism 1406 is shown on the side. Tank 1306 is for containing the liquid. For example, the tank may contain water or medical saline which can be stored for long periods, A second container 1806 may contain the active ingredient (medication or otherwise). It may be inserted, with optionally a door or frangible member releasing the active ingredient to mix or dissolve in the water or saline. This particular example of the device 1006 is small and may be disposable. Optionally, it, like the other examples, may include an elastomeric port to fill the tank with liquid.

The examples of FIG. 17A and 17B show another arrangement including a generally rectangular configuration with triggering mechanism 1207 on the shorter side of the battery containing body. Tank 1307 holds liquids to be misted through a high-speed vibrator 1507 to generate mist through missed conduit 1527 and out of the mouthpiece. In this configuration, optionally, intake openings 1427 are shown on the broad or wide side of the elongated mouthpiece.

Optionally, with respect to any of the intake openings, they may be a variety of geometries, and may have an adjustment mechanism to let the user adjust their cross- sectional area such as by movement or rotation of overlappi ng openings.

Optionally, the devices, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1006, 1006, 1007, may include, various features combined, including without limitation a one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a body adapted to hold a battery a triggering mechanism to trigger power from the battery; a container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an high-speed vibrator powered by said batery, said high-speed vibrator forming at least part of said container walls and being substantially impervious to liquid leaking from said container; an outer surface of said high-speed vibrator; said high-speed vibrator having micropores therein, wherein upon powering of said high-speed vibrator liquid in the reservoir in contact wi th an inner surface of said high-speed vibrator flows through said micropores and is dispensed as mist for inhalation from said mouthpiece.

The devices may optionally include one or more of the following: a device without a heating element for heating the liquid into a mist; a device without a wick for wicking the liquid to an atomizer; a device where the high-speed vibrator outer surface faces said exit opening without obstruction along a flow path to said exit opening of said mouthpiece and further comprises at least one air inlet located between said exit opening and said high-speed vibrator; a device where the flow' path defines a main axis, H-H or V-V, and wherein when said device is held in a normal-use angle with said main axis between about vertical upright and about 90 degrees horizontal therefrom, a majority of said container’s reservoir volume is located above said high-speed vibrator to provide hydrostatic graving pressure of the liquid in direct contact of said inner surface of said high-speed vibrator; a device where the high-speed vibrator is piezoelectric, and wherein said micropores are sized on average less than 100, preferably less than 10 microns, a device wherein said high-speed vibrator is held in place by an elastomeric liquid tight seal around said micropores; a device that has a rigid wick and a spring, wherein said spring (not shown) urges said rigid wick against said inner surface of said high-speed vibrator; a device further comprising a 510 connection thread connection for electrical power from the batery to said high-speed vibrator; a device wherein said micropores dispense mist at sizes between about 2 and 4, or between about 2 and 10 microns, and/or a device wherein said tank has an elastomeric port adapted to receive an injector to inject the liquid into the tank.

Optionally, the devices, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1006, 1006, 1007, may include: a one- hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a body adapted to hold a battery, an atomizer to form mist from liquid, and a biometric sensor to enable said battery to power said atomizer; a device

The devices may optionally include one or more of the following: a device of wherein said biometric reader is a thumb print reader on a thumb button to enable said battery to power said atomizer; a device wherein said atomizer is a. piezoelectric having micropores therethrough.

Optionally, the devices, 1001. 1002, 1003, 1004, 1006, 1006, 1007, may include: a one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation adapted for power connection with a battery, comprising: a container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; tut high-speed vibrator powered by the battery, said high-speed vibrator forming a t least part of said container walls and being substantially impervious to liquid leaking from said container; electronics adapted to store in electronic memory: (a) user identification information; and (b) medication identification information.

Optionally, the devices, 1001 , 1002, 1003, 1004, 1006, 1006, 1007, may include one or more of the following: a liquid i n said consisting essentially of an water-bom solution with at least one medication therein, with said medication identification information stored in said electronic memory corresponding to said medication in solution; wherein said high-speed vibrator has micropores therein, wherein upon powering of said high-speed vibrator liquid in the reservoir in contact with an inner surface of said high-speed vibrator flows through said micropores and is dispensed as mist containing the medication for inhalation from said mouthpiece; a biometric sensor to enable said battery to power said atomizer in response to reading the user’s biometrics associated with said user identification information; wherein said electronics is further adapted to store date information and to store dosing information corresponding to said medication identification and to restrict dispensing of mist to said dosing information.

Optionally, the devices, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1006, 1006, 1007, may include: a one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a first container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an atomizer for making mist; a second container, such as for example 1806, adapted to mate with and release an active ingredient into said first container,

FIGs. 21 - 24B illustrate various embodiment of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention,

FIG. 21 depicts a vaping device or apparatus 2100 with a quick release interchangeable cartridge 2110, adapted to discharge a composition as a uniform mist for inhalation. The composition may include, without limitation, a composition having nicotine. The composition may include THC for medicinal use. The composition may be water-based rather than oil-based.

The device 2100 provides a quick-release interchangeable cartridge 2110 to carry or formulate, contain, and discharge the composition as a uniform mist into the mouth of a user/vaper. In some embodiments, this cartridge 2110 may be refillable, and may comprise means known to those of ski ll in the art for refi l ling a cartridge, including a screw-down cap, a stopper, a valve, and the like.

The composition may be formulated directly in an interchangeable cartridge 2110 or may be pre-formulated and filled and then quickly loaded into an interior chamber of a container 2102 (or base 2102) for one-handed vaping. The composition is atomized to enable formation of the uniform mist. A base 2102 maintains the detachable container 2110 in an upright or horizontal disposition.

The cartridge 2110 comprises a discharge end 2202 (or misting nozzle), which may engages a cap.

A triggering mechanism, or depressibie button 2104, is triggered by a user to activate the device 2100 on the base 2102, which expels atomized fluid from the misting nozzle 2202 into a user’s mouth after activating a piezo plate 2208,

In various embodiments, the base 2102 comprises an internal battery 2306, which is charged via a USB port 2106.

The body 2102, or base 2102, may be cylindrical or oblong from a lower perspective (i.e., ovoid from a lower and upper perspective). The detachable cartridge 2110 is also ovoid or oblong and of the same dimensions from a lower perspective view. A USB port 2106 positions within a recess on the lower surface 2112.

In various embodiments, the detachable cartridge 2110 comprises a frustoconical 2210 tip with an open end 2202 (or nozzle 2202) from which atomized fluid or mist is dispensed. A piezo plate 2208 positions between the nozzle 2202 and a ceramic wick 2206, Fluid housed within a transparent housing 2224 (or transparent reservoir 2224) is inducted up the wick 2206 to the piezo plate 2208 and atomized.

Two elongated, metal conductors 2214 position within tracks 2216 defined on one of a lower cartridge component 2218 and the transparent housing 2202. These conductors 2214 conduct electricity to the piezo plate 2208 upon activation of a tactile or depressible button 2104. These conductors 2214 may also traverse conductor channels 2220, or bores, in the transparent housing 2202. The conductors 2114 may taper at a distal end 2404, or be more narrow at said distal ends 404.

The base 2102 may be formed from polymeric or metal alloy materials, including aluminum.

An ovoid base 2204 affixes to the transparent housing 2202. Ln some embodiments, the ovoid base 2204 is formed as a single integrated piece with the transparent housing 2202. The apparatus 2200 may comprise or consist of all the shown components.

The ovoid base 2204 has exterior surfaces which is recessed inward from that of the transparent housing 2202 such that the ovoid base may insert into the open top end 2402 of the base 2102, A protuberance 2222 rises from the ovoid base 2204 which mates with a corresponding track 2104 (or recess) on the base 2102.

The base 2102 defines a hollow interior recess in which a tray 2304 is disposed.

In various embodiments, a plurality of magnets 2454 affix to the tray 2304 and to the base 2102 adapted to secure the detachable cartridge 2110 in place by forming a magnetic fit with magnets affixed to the detachable cartridge 2110.

The base 2102 may comprise a spring 2116.

The planar top surface 2354 of the tray 2304 may define two or more apertures 2456.

The tray 2304 comprises two sidewalks 2308. The tray secures the USB port 2106 and various components relating to the button 2104, including the battery 2306 and/or the button 2104. The tray 2304 may comprise a planar top face 2354 and planar rearward surface 2356. The tray 2304 may comprise a plurality of threaded, cylindrical protuberances 2352 adapted to affix to other components of the apparatus 2300, 2350. The top surface 2354 of the tray 2304 may also define a hollow cylindrical recess 2358 having a bore 2360.

FIGs. 25 - 28 illustrate various embodiments of a handheld vaping instrument in accordance with the present invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 25, the device 2100 comprises a cylindrical body 2502 adapted for handheld operation and uniform dispensing of the composition into a mouth. In one embodiment, the body 2102 comprises a generally cylindrical shape affixed to a housing 2504. Though in other embodiments, the body 2102 may include, without limitation, a rectangular shape, a cubicle shape, and a spherical shape. The housing 2504 provides a gripping surface for enhanced manipulation of the apparatus 2500. The detachable cartridge 2110 is adapted for quickly loading with a hollow cylindrical recess defined by the body 2502. In one embodiment, the detachable cartridge 2110 forms a friction fit engagement between an outer surface of the interchangeable cartridge 2110 and the surface of the inner compartment 2812. In one possible embodiment, the coupling mechanism is a snap-fit connection. In another embodiment, the coupling mechanism is a pressurized twist connection having threaded surfaces 2806. In yet another embodiment, the coupling mechanism enables the interchangeable cartridge 2110 to clip in and out of the interior chamber through one-handed manipulation.

The interchangeable cartridge 2110 inserts into a cavity 2812. The cavity 2812 is sized and dimensioned to contour an exterior surface of the cartridge 2110. The cartridge opening 2812 forms an inlet for the detachable cartridge 2110.

Two conductive connection points 2604 position on an exterior surface of the cartridge 2110, adapted to come into contact with corresponding connection points within the cavity 2812.

The cartridge 2110 may comprise a coupler 2702 having an annular flange 2710 and two threaded surfaces, one of which is adapted to mate with an interiorly threaded surface 2806 on a cylindrical component 2808.

In various embodiments, the cartridge 2110 and or cavity 2812 into which the cartridge 2110 inserts have one or more planar facets 2810 adapted to ensure the cartridge 2110 is properly oriented within the cavity 2812.

In various embodiments, the atomizer 2208 comprises an ultrasonic nozzle having one or more piezoelectric plates or transducers (including piezoelectric ceramic elements) for atomizing fluid in the container 2110.

Manipulation of the button actuates the piezo plate 2208. The button 2104 may be either manuaily-operable or electrically operable. The button 2104 may partially protrude from the side of the body 2502 for facilitated manipulation. In one embodiment, the button (or trigger mechanism) 2104 is a switch that is disposed centrally along the length of the body 2502 or base 2102 and operatively connected to a pump adapted to pump fluid in the detachable cartridge 2110 to the piezo plate 2208.

The device 2100-2800 comprises substantially, a detachable cartridge 2110; a body (or base) 2102, 2502; and an atomizer 2208. The interchangeable cartridge 2110 quickly loads and unloads into the interior chamber of the container 2502 through a quick release coupling mechanism. An atomizer 2208 atomizes eclectic types of compositions in the form of a mist for vaping purposes. The atomized liquid is dispelled from the misting nozzle 2202. In various embodiments, the detachable cartridge 211.0 comprises one or more conductive elements which engage (or come in contact with) one or more corresponding conductive elements in the body 2502, 2102. When the cartridge 2100 is inserted into the body 2502, 2110, there is electrical conductivity between the triggering mechanism 2104 and the atomizer 2208. The triggering mechanism 2104 may be activated by depression. The atomizer 2208 is in logical connectivity with the triggering mechanism 2104 and/or a power supply such as a battery 2306.

In various other embodiments of the present invention, the cartridge 2110 and/or body 2502, 2102 of the devices 2100-2800 may comprise circuitry which is configurable to adjust the rate at which the piezo plate atomizes fluid. The circuitry may include computer readable memory which stores historical data about user usage of the device, including which cartridge is used, how long it has been used, and how much liquid is remaining in the cartridge. The historical data may be analyzed by a DBMS (database management system) and historical reports displayed graphically. The historical data may also be used to automatically order replacement cartridges for the device 2100, and other purposes.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments arc to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

DEFINITIONS

The language used in the present disclosure is to only have its plain and ordinary meaning, except for terms explicitly defined below. Such plain and ordinary meaning is defined here as inclusive of all consistent dictionary definitions from the most recently published (on the fi ling date of this document) general purpose Merriam-Webster dictionary.

As used herein, (specification and claims) the following terms have the following defined meanings which, to the extent if any, conflict with other parts of this specification, these following definitions supersede:

“510” or ‘‘510 thread” means the standardized screw-thread well known in the vaping industry, namely a power or battery connection having an inner conductor projecting from and surrounded by an insulator surrounded by an outer conductor with a pitch of 10 threads along 5 millimeters (with a 7~millinieter diameter). The inner conductor, or pin, may be fixed or adjustable. This threading may include both the male and corresponding female threading,

“Active ingredient” means one or more of nicotine, flavor, THC, oxygen, cotfee extracts, other extracts, caffeine, medication (phannaceutical and/or otherwise), or any other body or mind-altering chemical(s) other than water and/or medical saline.

“Apex” means the furthestr two point locations furthest apart on an elongated shape.

“Atomizer” means one or more components that use a heater and/or a high frequency movement to turn liquid into mist. It includes without limitation heating coils and piezoelectric members, piezoelectric plates.

“Battery” has its ordinary meaning and includes disposable batteries (for example AA, AAA, 9- volt and otherwise and includes rechargeable bateries.

“Biometric sensor” means an electronics device that senses or reads a person’s generally unique attribute, including without limitation prints (finger and/or thumb), eyes, retinas, face appearance, voice or otherwise. Normally, it provides biometric data output from the sense or read and/or comparison to stored biometric data.

“Body” means a physical part or structure that holds or contains (in whole or in part) or supports another part or structure.

“Container” means a tank or other structure or contiguous structures, including without limitation tanks, tubes, conduits that hold a liquid.

“Downstream” means a liquid and or mist flow direction towards the mouthpiece outlet. It may be straight or not.

“Elastomeric port” is a rubber, silicone or other region, optionally with a resealable opening and/or slit, to receive and injector therethrough.

“Elongated means not round or square or hexagonal, but rather having shape longer on one axis than its perpendicular axis, such as for example a rectangle, oval, ovoid and the like.

“Electronics” means one or more electric circuits implemented with components, devices, or equipment operable to modify or control electricity and/or electromagnetic signals. Such components, devices, or equipment are optionally solid state and/or on a printed circuit board (PCB) and include, but are not limited to semiconductors, resistors, inductors, capacitors, batteries, transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, memory, processors, logic gates, switches, relays, contactors, sensors, transducers, speakers, microphones, lamps, cables, traces, fans, magnets, display ( LED, LCD and otherwise), telematics, radio and/or light (laser or otherwise) transmitters and or receivers, and others. For example, this includes hardware and/or software to perform logic, memory and/or calculation functions electronically.

“Heater” means and electrical element having sufficient electrical resistance and used to heat up, from electrical current, to vaporize, boil and/or burn a liquid and/or liquid composition into a vapor.

“High-speed vibrator’ means a structure that in response to electric current fluctuations vibrates at a frequency sufficiently fast to turn liquid into mist. It can include ultrasonic vibrators and/or vibrators that are slower (at or below 20,000 hertz) yet still create mist.

“Injector” means a tube, cannula, needle, nozzle and or protrusion having a conduit therein for injecting a liquid.

“Liquid” has its ordinary meaning (not gas, not solid) at room temperature of 20 degrees Celsius.

“Maximum cross-sectional dimension” means, at a cross-section for a given longitudinal location, the largest measurement apex to apex along the major axis of a geometric shape.

“Micropores” means openings so small that water droplet, will not gravity flow through them, and yet a mist will upon high-speed vibration.

“Mist” means a fluid vaped and or nebulize comprising ti liquid particles and/or gas in air. Preferably, but optionally the mist comprises a droplet or particle size with a range of about two (2) to ten (10) microns, and more preferably but optionally two (2) to four (4) microns. However, they can be larger, such as for example about forty (microns).

“Mouthpiece” means a structure shaped to be placed between an adult human’s lips. It normal includes, without limitation, a hollow interior and an exit opening therefrom.

“One-hand holdable” has its ordinary meaning, namely a size and weight that can be held by an average adult in one hand. Preferably, it fits in the palm of the user’s hand.

“Opening” has its ordinary meaning and includes holes (round and otherwise) and slots.

“Power” means electrical power.

“Piezoelectric member” means one or more electromechanical parts including a piezoelectric material, namely a material generating mechanical strain resulting from an applied electric field. These materials may include crystals, ceramics and otherwise. They may be layered. Preferably they are free of lead and other toxins. The parts may generate high-speed, even ultrasonic vibrations in response to a fluctuating electrical field. “Refill opening” means an opening with a closure, such as a cap (friction, snap-on, threaded, bayonet or otherwise), and also includes but is not limited to an elastomeric port.

“Trigger” and “Triggering” means to activate electrically and/or electronically via a switch, button, pressure sensor, and. or optical or electrostatic reader. “Ultrasonic vibrator” means a structure that is a high-speed vibrator and that, in response to electric current fluctuations vibrates near, at or above ultrasonic frequency, namely 20,000 hertz. This includes many piezoelectric members, plates and other shapes.

“Water born” means a liquid the has water and/or medical saline as the predominant, and preferably only, solvent or carrier, containing or as solutes one or more active ingredients. “Wick” means a bundle of fibers or a loosely twisted, braided, or woven cord, tape, or tube usually of soft spun cotton threads that by capillary attraction or rigid wicks, such as for example ceramic wicks.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a body adapted to hold a battery; a triggering mechanism to trigger power from the battery; a container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an high-speed vibrator powered by said battery, said high-speed vibrator forming at least pari of said container walls and being substantially impervious to liquid leaking from said container; an outer surface of said high-speed vibra tor; said high-speed vibrator having micropores therein, wherein upon powering of said high-speed vibrator liquid in the reservoir in contact with an inner surface of said high-speed vibrator flows through said micropores and is dispensed as mist for inhalation from said mouthpiece.

2. A one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a body adapted to hold a battery; a atomizer to form mist from liquid; a biometric sensor to enable said battery to power said atomizer.

3. A one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation adapted for power connection with a battery, comprising: a container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an high-speed vibrator powered by the battery, said high-speed vibrator forming at least part of said container walls and being substantially impervious to liquid leaking from said container; electronics adapted to store in electronic memory: (a) user identification information; and (b) medication identification information.

4. A one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a first container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an atomizer for making mist; a second container adapted to mate with and release an active ingredient into said first container.

5. A one-hand holdable device for dispensing a mist for inhalation, comprising: a first container having walls defining a reservoir therein and adapted to hold a liquid therein; a mouthpiece having an exit opening and being adapted to be inserted between a user’s lips for inhalation of the mist; an atomizer for making mist; wherein said liquid is water bom with at least one active ingredient therein.

6. The device according to any one of the preceding claims without a heating element tor heating the liquid into a mist.

7. The device according to any one of the preceding claims without a wick for wieking the liquid to an atomizer.

8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said high-speed vibrator outer surface faces said exit opening without obstruction along a flow path to said exit opening of said mouthpiece and further comprises at least one air inlet located between said exit opening and said high-speed vibrator.

9. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said flow path defines a main axis, and wherein when said device is held in a normal-use angle with said main axis between about vertical upright and about 90 degrees horizontal therefrom, a majority of said container’s reservoir volume is located above said high-speed vibrator to provide hydrostatic graving pressure of the liquid in direct contact of said inner surface of said high-speed vibrator,

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said high-speed vibrator is piezoelectric, and wherein said micropores on average are sized less than about 10 microns across their smallest cross-sections.

11. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said high-speed vibrator is held in place by an elastomeric liquid tight seal around said micropores.

12 , The device according to any one of the preceding claims and further comprising a rigid wick and a spring, wherein said spring urges said rigid wick against said inner surface of said high-speed vibrator.

13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims and further comprising a 510 connection thread connection for electrical power from the batery to said high-speed vibrator.

14. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said micropores dispense mist at sizes between about 2 to 4 micros.

15. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said tank has an elastomeric port adapted to receive an injector to inject the liquid into the tank.

16. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said biometric reader is a thumb print reader on a thumb button to enable said battery to power said atomizer.

17. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said atomizer is a piezoelectric having micropores therethrough.

18. The device according to any one of the preceding claims and fiirther comprising a liquid in said consisting essentially of an water-born solution with at least one medication therein, with said medication identification information stored in said electronic memory corresponding to said medication in solution.

19. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said high-speed vibra tor has micropores therein, wherein upon powering of said high-speed vibrator liquid in the reservoir in contact with an inner surface of said high-speed vibrator flows through said micropores and is dispensed as mist containing the medication for inhalation from said mouthpiece.

20. The device according to any one of the preceding claims and further comprising a biometric sensor to enable said battery to power said atomizer in response to reading the user’s biometrics associated with said user identification information.

21. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said electronics is fiirther adapted to store date information and to store dosing information corresponding to said medication identi fication and to restrict dispensing of mist to said dosing infonnation.

22. The device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said high-speed vibrator is an ultrasonic vibrator.