VAPORIZING DEVICE

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present Application for Patent claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/694,017 entitled “Smoking Device”, filed Sep. 12, 2024, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to vaporizing devices, and more particularly to improved vaporizing systems that provide enhanced efficiency, temperature control, and user experience for consuming vaporizable substances such as tobacco, herbs, and cannabis.

BACKGROUND

Vaporizing devices have been used for decades to consume various vaporizable substances, such as tobacco, herbs, and cannabis. Traditional vaporizing methods include portable vaporizers, desktop vaporizers, pen-style vaporizers, and advanced multi-chamber systems. Each of these devices offers a unique vaporizing experience by altering the way vapor is produced, heated, and delivered to the user.

Portable vaporizers, one of the most popular forms of vaporizing devices, typically consist of a heating chamber for holding the vaporizable material and an airpath through which vapor travels to the mouthpiece. While compact in design, portable vaporizers can vary significantly in heating method, material, and size. Pen-style vaporizers are another common method, where substances are heated in small chambers using conduction or convection heating. Desktop vaporizers introduce an additional layer of sophistication by incorporating precise temperature control and enhanced vapor production systems to optimize extraction and delivery.

While traditional vaporizing devices are effective, they often come with several drawbacks that existing solutions have not adequately addressed. Inconsistent heating of the vaporizable material can produce uneven extraction, resulting in wasted product and suboptimal vapor quality. Additionally, some devices, particularly those with basic heating systems, do little to prevent hot spots or maintain optimal temperature ranges. Maintaining cleanliness and preventing the buildup of residue or condensation can also be a challenge with many conventional devices. Although some prior art devices incorporate water filtration or cooling systems, these typically require complex plumbing, are difficult to clean, and often result in cumbersome, non-portable designs. Existing modular vaporizers generally focus on interchangeable heating elements or chambers but fail to address condensation management within the vapor flow path itself. Prior art condensation collection systems, such as those found in water pipes or bubbler devices, rely on water-based filtration that requires frequent water changes, creates spillage risks, and adds significant weight and complexity to the device. Moreover, conventional heating approaches typically require heating entire components or chambers, creating safety hazards and temperature control difficulties. Current vaporizing devices also lack integrated tool storage solutions, forcing users to manage separate implements that are easily misplaced. The combination of effective condensation management, localized heating capability, tool-free modular assembly, and integrated accessory storage in a single, portable device represents a gap in existing vaporizing technology that the present disclosure addresses.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in improving vaporizing devices to address these issues. Innovations such as precision temperature control, advanced heating elements, and vapor cooling systems have been introduced to enhance the vaporizing experience by optimizing extraction temperatures, improving vapor quality, and enhancing flavor profiles. However, despite these advancements, there is still a need for vaporizing devices that offer better efficiency, ease of use, and improved hygiene.

The present disclosure aims to address these challenges by providing a vaporizing device that improves traditional designs. The device incorporates features such as advanced filtration, enhanced airflow control, and an integrated moisture trap to collect excess concentration, ensuring a cleaner and more enjoyable smoking experience. Additionally, the device is designed for ease of maintenance, allowing users to disassemble and clean components more efficiently.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations in order to provide a basic understanding of some implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present disclosure provides a vaporizing device, system, and method configured to improve efficiency, safety, and cleanliness during vaporization of various substances. The present disclosure integrates condensation management, localized heating, and modular construction into a portable and user-friendly design.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a vaporizing device comprising a main body with a chamber extending between first and second openings. A condensation cup is located at the bottom of the chamber to collect condensate and unvaporized material. A stem extends through the second opening, while a mouthpiece extends through the first opening to deliver vapor to a user. Dependent claims further define features such as a tubular mouthpiece with multiple outlet openings, a condensation cup with a solid bottom and aligned hole for the stem, and optional stoppers that secure the mouthpiece and stem within the chamber. The device may also incorporate a tool for loading vaporizable substances, detachably secured to the body by a magnetic element. Materials for the device components may include wood, metal, ceramic, glass, stainless steel, food-grade silicone, or heat-resistant polymers. The body and openings may be formed in a variety of geometric shapes.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of using the vaporizing device. The method includes heating a section of the stem to create a localized heat zone, placing a vaporizable substance onto the heated section using a tool, inhaling through the mouthpiece to draw vapor, and collecting condensate and unvaporized material in the condensation cup. Dependent claims specify the use of torch lighters, traditional lighters, or electric heating coils as heating elements, the use of an elongated scoop tool for placing the substance, and the inclusion of vaporizable substances such as tobacco, cannabis products, herbal blends, botanical extracts, and concentrates.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a vaporizing system comprising a chamber defining a vapor flow path, a condensation management system positioned to intercept condensate, a heating interface, and a user interface in fluid communication with the chamber. Dependent claims specify that condensation management may operate by gravitational separation and that the device may be disassembled without tools for cleaning and maintenance.

Collectively, these aspects of the present disclosure provide a vaporizing solution that reduces residue buildup, improves user safety through localized heating, enhances convenience through integrated tools and stoppers, and broadens functionality through versatile material and geometry options.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front, top perspective view of a vaporizing device according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the vaporizing device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates the disassembled vaporizing device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates the partially assembled vaporizing device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5-8 depict exemplary steps for employing the vaporizing device to generate and inhale vapor from a selected substance.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative electronic heating embodiment of the vaporizing device showing the internal electronic components including batteries, resistance wire, and dual safety switches.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the electronic heating embodiment of FIG. 9 showing the arrangement of the heating elements and electrical connections within the housing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.

Overview

The present disclosure is directed to a vaporizing device that is designed with user convenience in mind, offering easy assembly, disassembly, and cleaning. The vaporizing device includes a main body having a chamber extending between a first opening and a second opening in the main body; a condensation cup, configured to collect condensate that does not vaporize, is located at a bottom of the chamber; a stem or tube extending out the second opening of the main body; and a mouthpiece located within the chamber and extending out the first opening in the main body, the chamber configured to direct vapor to a user.

The present vaporizing device addresses several limitations of conventional vaporizing systems through its innovative design features. The integrated condensation cup positioned at the bottom of the chamber prevents unvaporized substances and excess moisture from reaching the mouthpiece, maintaining a cleaner vaporizing experience and reducing the need for frequent cleaning of the vapor delivery path. Unlike traditional devices that require heating of entire components, the localized heating approach allows users to heat only a specific section of the stem, reducing the risk of accidental burns during substance application and providing better temperature control for optimal vaporization. The modular construction with removable components facilitates thorough cleaning and maintenance, as each element can be disassembled and cleaned separately without specialized tools. The chamber configuration directs vapor flow in a manner that naturally separates heavier condensate particles through gravitational settling, while the mouthpiece design with multiple openings provides controlled vapor delivery and enhanced user experience. The magnetic tool attachment system ensures convenient storage and prevents loss of the application implement during use. Additionally, the device's simple assembly mechanism with adjustable stoppers allows users to customize component positioning while maintaining secure connections during operation. These combined features result in a vaporizing device that offers improved hygiene, enhanced safety during operation, and simplified maintenance compared to conventional vaporizing systems.

As used herein, the term “vaporizable substance” refers to a material capable of producing vapor when heated to appropriate temperatures without combustion. Suitable vaporizable substances may include, but are not limited to, tobaccos (e.g., traditional tobaccos, shisha, loose-leaf tobacco, tobacco extracts), cannabis products (e.g., marijuana flower, hashish, cannabis concentrates such as wax, shatter, rosin, live resin, distillate, CBD-rich hemp flower, THC oils), herbal blends (e.g., herbal vaporizing blends, damiana, kava, clove, lavender, chamomile, peppermint), botanical extracts (e.g., essential oil-infused materials, terpene blends), and other plant-based materials suitable for vaporization (e.g., dried herbs, aromatherapy blends). The term encompasses both dry materials that release active compounds through vaporization and liquid concentrates that transform into vapor when heated. The vaporizable substances may be in various forms including dried plant matter, powders, waxes, oils, or other concentrated forms that can be effectively vaporized within the operating temperature range of the device. As used herein, the terms ‘stem’ and ‘tube’ are used interchangeably and refer to the same elongated tubular component that extends from the main body and is configured to receive vaporizable substances for heating. As used herein, the terms ‘tool’ and ‘spade’ are used interchangeably and refer to the same implement component that is configured to transport and position vaporizable substances within the heating chamber.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front, top perspective view of a smoking device 100 according to one example of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the smoking device 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates the disassembled vaporizing device 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 illustrates the partially assembled vaporizing device of FIG. 1. FIGS. 5-8 illustrate the steps of utilizing the smoking device for inhaling smoke/vapor generated from the smokable substances. The following discussion refers interchangeably to FIGS. 1-8.

As shown, the vaporizing device includes a main body 102 having a chamber 104 configured to direct vapor to a mouthpiece 106 where it is inhaled by a user. The chamber 104 extends from a first opening 102a to a second opening 102b in the main body 102. The main body 102 may be made of wood, metal, ceramic, heat-resistant polymers, or any other suitable material known in the art that can withstand the operating temperatures of the vaporizing device. The mouthpiece 106 may be made from glass, ceramic, food-grade silicone, stainless steel, or any other heat-resistant and safe material known in the art.

While the illustrated embodiment depicts a chamber with an L-shaped internal configuration extending between openings positioned at different surfaces of the main body, the present disclosure contemplates various alternative chamber geometries to optimize vapor flow characteristics and accommodate different design requirements. In some embodiments, the chamber may comprise a straight-through design with openings positioned on opposite surfaces of the main body, creating a linear vapor flow path. Alternative configurations may include U-shaped, S-shaped, or serpentine chamber geometries that provide extended vapor cooling paths and enhanced condensate separation through directional changes in the vapor flow. The chamber may also be configured with multiple interconnected sub-chambers or expansion volumes to create staged vapor processing, where each chamber section serves a specific function such as initial heating, condensate collection, or final vapor conditioning. In certain embodiments, the chamber may incorporate a cylindrical or spherical main volume with tangential inlet and outlet connections to promote swirling vapor flow patterns that enhance particle separation. The chamber may also feature variable cross-sectional areas along its length, such as venturi-like constrictions or expansion zones, to control vapor velocity and pressure for optimized performance. Additionally, some embodiments may employ modular chamber designs where different chamber sections can be combined or rearranged to create custom vapor flow paths. The chamber walls may include internal surface features such as grooves, ridges, or textured surfaces to promote turbulent mixing and improve heat transfer characteristics during vapor transit.

As shown in FIG. 3, the mouthpiece 106 is comprised of a tubular member having a first end 106a and an opposing second end 106b where the first end 106a is open and the second end 106b has a plurality of openings. The vaporizing device 100 further comprises a condensation cup 108 configured to collect vaporizable substances, such as concentrate, that do not vaporize and a stem or tube 110 configured to receive the vaporizable substance. In addition to the condensation cup 108 collecting any vaporizable substance that does not vaporize, the condensation cup 108 may also collect excess moisture and condensate to prevent buildup from reaching the mouthpiece helping to keep the vaporizing experience cleaner and more hygienic. The condensation cup 108 may be made from glass, ceramic, stainless steel, heat-resistant polymers, or any other suitable material known in the art. The stem or tube may be made from glass, ceramic, stainless steel, heat-resistant polymers, or any other suitable material known in the art.

While the disclosed embodiment features a tubular mouthpiece with a plurality of openings at the second end, the present disclosure encompasses various alternative mouthpiece configurations to accommodate different user preferences and vapor delivery characteristics. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece may comprise a straight tubular design without the plurality of openings, providing direct vapor flow from the chamber to the user. Alternative configurations may include angled or curved mouthpiece geometries, such as a 15-45-degree bend, to improve ergonomics and user comfort during operation. The plurality of openings in the second end may be arranged in different patterns including circular arrays, linear arrangements, spiral configurations, or random distributions to optimize vapor flow dynamics and cooling effects. The size, number, and spacing of the openings may be varied to control draw resistance and vapor density, with smaller openings providing increased resistance and larger openings allowing freer airflow. In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece may include adjustable flow control features such as rotating sleeves with aligned apertures or sliding covers that can modify the effective opening area. The mouthpiece may also incorporate internal features such as cooling fins, spiral channels, or expansion chambers to enhance vapor conditioning before delivery to the user. Additionally, the mouthpiece may be configured with interchangeable tips or filters to provide customizable user experiences or to accommodate different vaporizable substances. Some embodiments may feature telescoping or collapsible mouthpiece designs for portability and storage convenience.

The mouthpiece 106 has a channel therein and is in communication with the stem or tube 110 creating an air path so that air entering the chamber through the stem or tube 110 may be drawn through the mouthpiece 106, allowing vapor to be inhaled by the user.

To assemble the vaporizing device 100, the condensation cup 108 is inserted into the chamber 104 of the main body 102 such that the condensation cup 108 is located at the bottom of the chamber 104. According to one aspect, the condensation cup 108 is a tubular member having a solid bottom, an open top, and a hole for receiving an end of the stem or tube 110. When placed within the main body 102, the hole 108a in the condensation cup 108 is aligned with the second opening 102b of the main body 102. Next, the stem or tube 110 is received in the second opening 102b of the main body 102 and the hole 108a in the condensation cup 108. Next, the second end 106b of the mouthpiece 106 is inserted into the first opening 102a of the main body 102 such that the second end 106b of the mouthpiece 106 is located above the open top of the condensation cup 108. In use, the vapor passes through the plurality of openings in the second end 106b of the mouthpiece 106 to be inhaled by the user. Simultaneously, vaporizable substances, such as concentrate, that do not vaporize, as well as moisture and condensate, are collected in the condensation cup 108.

While the preferred embodiment utilizes a single tubular condensation cup with a solid bottom, the present disclosure contemplates various alternative condensation management configurations. In alternative embodiments, the condensation cup may have different geometric shapes including conical, pyramidal, or spherical configurations to optimize collection efficiency for different vapor flow patterns. Multiple condensation cups may be employed in series or parallel arrangements, with each cup configured to collect different types of condensate or to provide redundant collection capability. For instance, a first condensation cup may be positioned to collect heavier particulates while a second cup collects lighter condensate droplets. The condensation cup may be removably secured within the chamber through friction fit, threaded engagement, bayonet mount, or magnetic attachment mechanisms to facilitate cleaning and replacement. Alternatively, the condensation cup may be integrally formed as part of the main body chamber, such as through a recessed collection well machined or molded directly into the chamber bottom. In some embodiments, the condensation cup may include internal features such as baffles, screens, or absorption media to enhance collection efficiency. The cup may also incorporate drainage features, overflow protection, or volume indicators to assist with maintenance and operation. Furthermore, the condensation collection system may comprise modular components allowing users to select different cup sizes, shapes, or collection capacities based on the intended vaporizable substances or usage patterns.

As shown in FIGS. 3-4, both the mouthpiece 106 and the stem or tube 110 may include a stopper 112, 114, respectively, placed around each of the tubular members for securing the mouthpiece 106 and the stem or tube 110 in the chamber and preventing unwanted movement. According to one embodiment, each of the stoppers 112, 114 may be a ring which extends around the outer surface of the mouthpiece 106 and the stem or tube 110. The rings may be made of rubber, silicone, or any other suitable material known in the art which prevents the movement of the mouthpiece 106 and the stem or tube 110. A user may adjust the placement of the stoppers 112, 114 on the mouthpiece 106 and the stem or tube 110.

According to one embodiment, a tool 116 may be used to place the vaporizable substance in the stem or tube 110. The tool 116 may comprise an elongated member having a scoop on the end. A magnetic element (not shown) may be located within the body 102 of the vaporizing device and the tool 116 may be made of metal such that the tool 116 may be detachably secured to the main body 102 by the magnetic element. The tool 116 may be made from stainless steel, aluminum, or any other suitable material known in the art.

As the vaporizable substance (e.g. concentrates) approach the heating zone within the stem or tube 110, they tend to adhere to the cooler tool 116 (or spade) surface. However, airflow generated by drawing through the mouthpiece simultaneously pulls the vaporizable substance (e.g. concentrates) toward the heat source. This dual-force mechanism—adhesion to the tool and airflow toward the heat—optimizes vaporization efficiency.

The tool's retention function is critical due to the horizontal orientation of the stem or tube 110. Without the tool (or spade) 110 remaining in position, airflow would sweep concentrates past the heating zone too rapidly, resulting in inadequate vaporization and reduced efficiency. Therefore, the tool (or spade) 110 must not only transport concentrates into the stem but also remain in place to secure the material while it undergoes heating, aeration, and vaporization processes.

Although the main body 102 is shown having a rectangular shape, this is by way of example only and the main body 102 may be in the form of any geometric shape known in the art, including but not limited to, cylindrical, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, or other polygonal configurations.

Although the first and second openings 102a, 102b are shown having a circular shape, this is by way of example only and the first and second openings 102a, 102b may be in the form of any geometric shape known in the art, including but not limited to, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, or other polygonal configurations.

FIG. 5-8 depict exemplary steps for employing the vaporizing device to generate and inhale vapor from a selected substance. In one example, a user places a vaporizable substance on the tool 116. The tool 116, carrying the substance, may be temporarily secured to the main body via the magnetic element while a section of the stem or tube 110 is heated. Alternatively, the tool may be set aside on a surface until the stem or tube 110 reaches the desired temperature. In another approach, the user may heat the stem or tube 110 first and then transfer the substance onto the tool for immediate application.

A heating element is applied to create a localized heat zone on the stem or tube 110. Suitable heating elements include torch lighters, traditional lighters, and electric heating coils. Unlike prior devices that heat the entire stem, the present approach concentrates heat in a defined section, forming a ring or zone of elevated temperature. This localized heating minimizes accidental burns, improves temperature control, and reduces wasted energy. Once the stem section reaches vaporization temperature, the vaporizable substance is introduced into the heated area using the tool 116. The tool distributes the substance across the heated surface, where it melts, spreads, and vaporizes without combustion. This process, also known as dabbing or concentrate application, generates a clean vapor while preserving flavor and efficiency.

The user then inhales through the mouthpiece 106. As air is drawn through the chamber, vapor travels from the heated section of the stem or tube 110 into the mouthpiece for delivery to the user.

In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the vaporizing device 200 incorporates an electronic heating system that eliminates the need for external flame-based heating sources. The device 200 comprises a housing 202 that contains the electronic components necessary for controlled heating. A mouthpiece 204 extends from the housing 202 and provides a vapor outlet 206 for user inhalation. The device includes a channel 208 through which vapor flows from the heating zone to the mouthpiece 204.

The electronic heating system features a tube or stem 210 configured to receive vaporizable substances, similar to the manual heating embodiment. However, instead of requiring external heating, the tube 210 incorporates or is in thermal communication with a resistance wire 212 that generates heat when energized. The resistance wire 212 is positioned to create a localized heating zone within or adjacent to the tube 210, maintaining the benefits of controlled, sectional heating while providing more precise temperature control.

Power for the heating system is supplied by batteries 214 housed within the device 200. To ensure safe operation and prevent accidental activation, the device incorporates a dual-switch safety system comprising a first switch 216 and a second switch 218. Both switches must be simultaneously activated to complete the electrical circuit and energize the resistance wire 212. This safety feature prevents unintentional heating and reduces the risk of burns or device damage.

The electronic heating approach offers several advantages over manual heating methods, including consistent temperature control, elimination of open flame hazards, repeatable heating profiles, and the ability to maintain optimal vaporization temperatures for extended periods. The dual-switch activation system provides an additional safety layer that requires deliberate user action to initiate heating, while the battery-powered design maintains portability without requiring external power sources.

The electronic heating embodiment may be combined with the condensation management features described in previous embodiments, creating a comprehensive vaporizing system that addresses both heating control and vapor cleanliness concerns.

“Comprise” and variations, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. “A”, “an,” and “the” and similar referents used herein are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless their usage in context indicates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations. Likewise, “embodiments” does not require that all embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation.

“Aspects” do not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed features, advantages, or modes of operation. “Coupled” is used herein to means the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches or couples to object B, and object B touches or couples to object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another, even if they do not directly physically touch each other.

One or more of the components and functions illustrated in the FIGS. may be rearranged and/or combined into a single component or embodied in several components without departing from the invention. Additional elements or components may also be added without departing from the invention. Additionally, the features described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, as a business method, and/or combination thereof.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.