ELECTRONIC CHARCOAL FOR WATERPIPE (HOOKAH)

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation in Part of International patent application PCT/IL2024/050792 filed on 7 Aug. 2024, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/534,864 filed on 28 Aug. 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to an electronic charcoal system for use with a waterpipe (hookah) and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to an electronic charcoal system for use with a waterpipe (hookah) that emulates with improved smoking experience.

The custom of smoking tobacco in a water pipe has been part of numerous Eastern and Near-Eastern cultures for hundreds of years. In recent decades, this custom has grown in popularity in the West as well. For the modern user, maintaining heated charcoal may prove troublesome and/or more labor intensive than desired. Additionally, live coals can pose a fire risk. For this reason, modern users may find themselves precluded from enjoying this pastime in areas where open fire is prohibited, such as, dormitories, hotel rooms, nature reserves, restaurants, etc.

Therefore, there is a need to overcome these hazards and limitations, without sacrificing the traditional waterpipe experience.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided an electronic coal system for a waterpipe including: an electrical heating element configured to fit onto a hookah; and an exposed bottom surface heated by the electrical heating element and configured to heat a shisha of the hookah.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes: an upper section including a power source and a lower section reversibly connected to the upper section, the lower section including the heating element and the exposed heated bottom surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the power source is configured to hold at least one battery.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes sensor configured to detect a change inhaling on the hookah.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the sensor includes an airflow sensor.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a means to control heat intensity produced by the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes an insulator protecting the upper section from heat from the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the insulator includes an insulation disk configured to protect the power source from heat produced by the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a separating plate configured to serve as a barrier between the heating element and shisha in a bowl of the waterpipe to prevent the shisha from burning.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the heating element is configured to emulate temperature variations of actual charcoal.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one battery is rechargeable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a temperature adjustor configured to adjust heat intensity of the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes an airflow adjuster configured to adjust the airflow to the shisha.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper section further includes a user interface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the user interface includes an on/off switch, slider control, or touch screen.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a controller.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the controller is configured to receive input from an airflow detector.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the controller is configured to receive input from a user interface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the controller is configured control an airflow adjuster.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the controller is configured to control temperature adjuster of the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper section is locked to the lower section.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper section is locked to the lower section by a magnet.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes an LED indicator configured to indicate at least one of when the system is activated, when the system is in use, when inhalation is detected, and when heating is active.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for smoking, the method including: placing an electronic coal system including an electric heating element on water pipe configured to be heated by charcoal; heating a shisha of the water pipe with the electronic coal system; passing air through the shisha; and directing resultant smoke-filled air to a user via the waterpipe.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes: detecting a change in air pressure resulting from the user inhaling through a mouthpiece of a waterpipe; and raising a temperature of the heating element in response the detecting the change in air pressure.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic coal system includes an upper section and a lower section, the upper section including a power source and the lower section including the heating element, the method further including rotating the upper section with respect to the lower section to change a power setting of the heating element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method where the rotating includes at least one of switching a connection of an electrical contact of a lower surface of the upper section from contacting a first contact of an upper surface of the lower section to another contact of the upper surface of the lower section and switching a connection of an electrical contact of the lower surface of the upper section from contacting a first contact of the surface of the upper section to another contact of the lower surface of the upper section.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes charging the power source without disconnecting the upper section from the heating element and without removing the heating element from the shisha.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes charging the power source by disconnecting the upper section from the heating element and without removing the heating element from the shisha.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes manually unlocking the upper section from to the lower section.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes releasing a magnetic connection between the upper section and the lower section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the figures:

FIG. 1: Side view of a schematic illustration of a typical waterpipe (hookah).

FIGS. 2A and B: Flow charts illustrating exemplary methods of use of a waterpipe with electronic coal, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 3: Flow chart illustrating exemplary methods of use of a waterpipe with electronic coal, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 4: A chart indicating the temperature fluctuation of the heating element during use, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 5: A chart indicating power consumption of the electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIGS. 6A and B: Side view and expanded view, respectively, of a schematic illustration of a waterpipe (hookah) with an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIGS. 7A-E: Various views of schematic illustrations of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 8: A cross-section view of a schematic illustration of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 9: A side view of a schematic illustration of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 10: A cross-section view of a schematic illustration of the airflow direction in an exemplary electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 11: A block diagram of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustration of a method for smoking, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of system electronic coal system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to an electronic charcoal system for use with a waterpipe (hookah) and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to an electronic charcoal system for use with a waterpipe (hookah) with improved smoker experience, for example, by emulating temperature variations of actual charcoal.

Overview

The current invention is intended to replace the need for coals or other fire-based heating elements. Additionally, the current invention may possess its own separating and/or heat conducting plate which may replace traditional foil and/or lotus (air flow control device) separating the coals from the shisha tobacco. In some embodiments, a user may make use of an existing waterpipe, shisha tobacco, and/or bowl without the need for modifications.

Advantageously, the system may facilitate maintaining heating of the shisha tobacco to a smokable temperature. Advantageously, the system may replace the use of coals and/or other fire-based methods of heating the shisha tobacco Additionally, advantageously, the system may not pose a fire risk. Further advantageously, the system may facilitate enjoyment of smoking a water pipe in areas where open fire is prohibited, such as, dormitories, hotel rooms, nature reserves, restaurants, etc.

According to some embodiments, the electronic charcoal system may be compact, and/or portable, e.g., it may have a large dimension of between 5 to 10 cm and/or between 3 to 5 cm and/or less than 3 cm. e.g., it may have a short dimension of between 5 to 10 cm and/or between 3 to 5 cm and/or less than 3 cm. Optionally, the electronic charcoal system may be easy to use and/or easy to clean. Optionally, the system may be placed on a waterpipe and/or bowl loaded with a user's choice of shisha tobacco. Optionally, the waterpipe may be pre-existing waterpipe.

The current invention in some of its embodiments relates to an electronic charcoal system which may include a battery-powered heating element with one or more sensors and/or one or more indicators. Optionally, the heating element may be configured to emulate the temperature fluctuations of live coals. Optionally, one or more components may be controlled and/or may be in communication with a system controller.

According to some embodiments, the battery pack may be reversibly connected to the heating element. For example, the battery pack may be positioned above the heating element. Optionally, the battery pack may be insulated to inhibit heating of the batteries contained therein from by the heat from the heating element. For example, the system may include an insulator, e.g., an insulating disk between the battery pack and the heating element. Optionally, the insulation disk may be configured to protect the batteries and/or other electronic elements from the high temperatures of the heating element.

According to some embodiments, the user may unlock the battery pack and/or detach the battery pack from the heating element without removing the heating element from the shisha tobacco to replace and/or recharge a battery and/or batteries without interrupting smoking. For example, the battery pack may be lifted from the heating element. Optionally, the heating element may remain in contact with the shisha and/or the heating element may remain hot while the battery is replaced. Alternatively, or additionally, while the battery pack is locked to the heating element, the user may extract a battery from the battery pack. Optionally, a user may remove and/or replace the entire electronic coal system from the shisha tobacco.

According to some embodiments, the system may include an airflow detector. Optionally, the system may include an inhalation detector. Optionally, when the user inhales from the mouthpiece of the waterpipe hose, the airflow detector may detect the increased airflow. Optionally, when increased airflow is detected, the system controller may increase the power to the heating element and/or raise temperature of the heating element accordingly

According to some embodiments, the system may include a separating plate which may serve as a barrier between the heating element and the shisha tobacco. Optionally, the separating plate may be configured to prevent the shisha tobacco from burning.

According to some embodiments, the system may include a means to control the heat intensity of the heating element, for example a winding stem and/or a temperature dial. Optionally, the system may include a stem dial for adjusting the heat intensity of the heating element. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may include a means to adjust the airflow to the shisha tobacco. Optionally, the system may include an airflow adjustment dial to enable the user to control the airflow through the heating element before it passes through the shisha tobacco. Alternatively or additionally, the system may include a user interface, such as a touch screen and/or slider controls and/or an on-off switch etc. For example, the user interface may be used to control air flow and/or temperature. Optionally, the user interface may be connected to the electronic charcoal system wirelessly. For example, the electronic charcoal system may be controlled by an application on a computing device (e.g., a remote control and/or a cell phone). Optionally, the control device may include a sensor dependent and/or time dependent program for controlling the electronic charcoal system.

According to some embodiments, the system may include one or more indicators. Optionally, the indicators may be a LED indicator. Optionally, a LED indicator may be a smoking indicator. Optionally, one or more LED smoking indicators may light up when the device is turned on, and/or is ready for use, and/or when a user inhales, and/or in accordance with temperature fluctuations. Alternatively, or additionally, the LED indicator may increase in intensity in response to an increase in heat, for example upon inhalation. Alternatively or additionally, the LED may change color in response to changes in settings of the system and/or temperature and/or airflow.

Specific Embodiments

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a typical waterpipe (hookah). For example, in traditional use, shisha 10 (for example containing tobacco) may be heated by a fire-based heating element 12, for example: live coals. Heating element 12 is optionally placed on foil 14 and/or a lotus on top of and/or within a bowl 16 with an opening in its base. Bowl 16 may optionally be connected to ash tray 18. Optionally, bowl 16 may be connected to ash tray 18 through bowl grommet 20. Stem 22 leads to vase 24 containing water, optionally stabilized by base 26. Stem 22 may be connected to vase 24 by a vase grommet 28 attached to and/or including down-stem 30. Stem 22 may include pressure release valve 32 and hose port 34. Hose 38 may be connected through hose grommet 28 to stem 22 on one end and to a mouthpiece 40 on the other end, through which a user inhales smoke produced by the heated shisha tobacco 10.

The current invention, in some embodiments thereof, may be configured to replace the traditional heating method with an electronic heating method. Optionally, the electronic coal system may heat the shisha without coals or other fire-based heating elements. Optionally, the user may make use of an existing waterpipe, shisha tobacco, and/or bowl without the need for any modifications. Optionally, the system may include its own separating and/or heat conducting plate which may replace traditional foil and/or lotus (e.g., air flow control device) separating the coals from the shisha tobacco.

FIG. 2A is a flow chart illustrating exemplary methods of use of a waterpipe with electronic coal, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. According to method 42 illustrated in FIG. 2A, the user may pack 44 shisha tobacco into the bowl of a waterpipe. The electronic coal system is optionally placed in contact with (e.g., onto) the shisha tobacco. Optionally, the electronic coal heating system may heat the shisha tobacco. The user may then smoke 48 from the waterpipe normally. For example, a sensor may detect when a user inhales and/or in response, the power to the heating element of electronic coal system may be increased.

FIG. 2B is a flow chart illustrating exemplary methods of disconnecting an electronic coal, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. According to some embodiments, the battery pack may be locked in place. For example, the battery pack may be locked in place while the user is smoking 48 the hookah. For example, the battery pack may be locked in place with a magnet, clip, adhesive, interference element, treaded screw, etc. Optionally, the battery pack may be locked 51 and/or unlocked 53 manually via a switch, and/or a latch, and/or a button. Optionally, the user may charge the batteries without removing them from the battery pack. Optionally, the heating element on the tobacco may remain uninterrupted while the batteries are replaced. Alternatively, or additionally, while the battery pack is locked to the heating element, the user can grasp the battery pack and/or lift the entire heating system away from the shisha tobacco in bowl.

According to method 50 illustrated in FIG. 2B, the battery pack may optionally be locked 52 to the heating element. When the battery pack is locked to the heating element, lifting 54 the battery pack from the shisha tobacco also lift the heating element is lifted 56 along with the battery pack. Optionally, the entire system may be charged while it the battery pack is connected to the heating element. Alternatively or additionally, the battery may be charged only when it is disconnected and/or unlocked from the heating element. In some embodiments, the system may be charged while still on the hookah and/or while still heating the shisha.

When the battery pack is not locked to the heating element, lifting 58 the battery pack from the shisha tobacco, may facilitate lifting 60 the battery pack without removing the heating element from the shisha tobacco. Optionally, the battery pack may be replaced and/or the battery may be recharged while the user continues to smoke 48. For example, while smoking 48, the user may unlock 53 the battery pack, lift the battery pack and/or charge the battery and/or replace the battery pack without stopping smoking

FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary methods of use of a waterpipe with electronic coal, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, in method 62, a user may begin to smoke by sucking 64 air through the mouthpiece of the waterpipe hose. The system may include an airflow detector, e.g., a pressure sensor to detect the change in pressure on inhalation. Based on this detection 66, the temperature of the heating element may be raised 68. The heating element may heat 70 the shisha tobacco by increase the temperature. Additionally, or alternatively, the heating element may heat 72 the incoming air. The heated air may pass through the heated shisha tobacco 74. The resultant smoke-filled air may be directed 76 to the smoker via the waterpipe mechanism and hose.

FIG. 4 is a chart indicating the temperature fluctuation of the heating element during use, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the chart illustrates exemplary temperatures measured over approximately 2.5 hours at the lotus 406, the top of the shisha tobacco 410, the bottom of the shisha tobacco 415, and the diffuser 420 (water). The chart illustrates comparisons between heating with haze charcoal (a), coconara charcoal (b), titanium (c) and cocourth charcoal (d). The chart shows the fluctuation in temperature over time of the air flowing through the heating element, of the top of the shisha tobacco, and of the shisha tobacco in the bottom of the bowl. In all cases, similar heating profiles were obtained.

According to some embodiments, the system may emulate the heat fluctuation of heated coals as the user smokes.

FIG. 5 is a chart indicating power consumption of the electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the calculations shown in FIG. 5 are based on the typical power consumption of various components of the system is shown in Table 1.

TABLE 1
Device	Voltage (V)	Amperes (A)	Power (W)

Heating Element	24	5	120
Controller	24	0.25	6
Indication LED	24	0.25	6

Total Watts:	132

Table 2 is based on the use of six Lithium-ion batteries, each with a capacity of 1500 mAh. This results in a cumulative capacity of 9000 mAh, with total voltage of 22.2V. The formulas are based on an assumption of a 90 minute smoking session. Of those 90 minutes, 25% may be at full-power (132 W during inhalation phase). The remaining 75% may be at low power (50 W in standby mode). At full-power the heating element may heat the shisha tobacco to a surface temperature of between 250-350° C. and/or 350-500° C. and/or 500-600° C. At low-power the heating element may heat the shisha tobacco to a surface temperature of between 75-150° C. and/or 150-250° C. and/or 250-300° C.

TABLE 2
	Nominal			Total	Total
Battery	Voltage	Capacity	# of Cells	Capacity	Voltage
Type	(V)	(mAh)	in a Pack	(mAh)	(V)
Lithium-ion	3.7	1500	6	9000	22.2
16340

FIGS. 6A and 6B are a side view and an expanded view of a section thereof, respectively, of a schematic illustration of a waterpipe (hookah) with an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, shisha tobacco 78 may be heated by an electronic coal system 80. Electronic coal system 80 is placed on and/or within a bowl 82 with an opening in its base. Bowl 82 may optionally be connected to ash tray 84. Optionally, bowl 82 may be connected to ash tray 84 through bowl grommet 86. Stem 88 leads to vase 90 containing water. Stem 88 may include pressure release valve 92 and hose port 94. Hose 96 may be connected through hose grommet 94 to stem 88 on one end and to a mouthpiece (not shown) on the other end, through which a user inhales smoke produced by the heated shisha tobacco 78.

In some embodiments, the battery pack may be located on the distal end of the electronic coal system. Optionally, the width of the battery pack may range between about 38 mm-about 41 mm, and/or about 41 mm-about 44 mm, and/or about 44 mm-about 46 mm. Optionally, the height 81 of the electronic coal system from top to bottom may range between about 70 mm-about 74 mm, and/or about 74 mm-about 78 mm, and/or about 78 mm-about 82 mm, and/or about 82 mm-about 86 mm. The width 83 of the electronic coal system may range between about 86 mm-about 90 mm, and/or about 90 mm-about 94 mm, and/or about 94 mm-98 mm. Optionally, the electronic coal system may be placed on the bowl of the waterpipe (hookah). Optionally, the electronic coal system may fit on and/or within the bowl of the waterpipe (hookah).

FIGS. 7A-E are various views of schematic illustrations of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, battery pack 100 may be removable. Optionally, battery pack 100 be attached to heating element 102. Optionally, battery pack 100 be locked onto heating element 102 (e.g., FIG. 7A). Optionally, battery pack 100 be attached to heating element 102 by a magnet 94. Optionally, the magnet may be located on the battery pack and/or the heating element. Optionally, the battery pack may be unlocked manually from the heating element, e.g., to replace and/or recharge the batteries. Optionally, the battery pack may be unlocked manually from the heating element via a switch, and/or a latch, and/or a button. Optionally, a user may press button 92 which may depress spring 90, which may release magnet 94 from metal ring 96, thereby facilitating separation of battery pack 100 from heating element 102 (e.g., FIG. 7B).

According to some embodiments, the user may charge the batteries without removing them from battery pack 100 from the heating element, and/or without removing heating element 102 away from the shisha tobacco in bowl 98.

According to some embodiments, heating element 102 may maintain heating on the shisha tobacco uninterrupted while the batteries are replaced. Alternatively, or additionally, while the battery pack is locked to the heating element, the user can grasp the battery pack 100 and/or lift the entire heating system away from the shisha tobacco in bowl 98.

According to some embodiments, the top section of the electronic coal system may include battery pack 100, and the bottom section of the electronic coal system may include heating element 102, e.g., FIG. 7C is a view from below of removable battery pack 100, and FIG. 7C is a view from above of heating element 102. For example, magnet 94 may connect to metal ring 96 to lock the top and bottom parts of the system together. Optionally, the top section may include one or more protruding contacts 104 on its lower surface. Optionally, the top section may include an on/off switch 108.

According to some embodiments, the bottom section may include multiple contacts 106 on the upper surface. Optionally, when the top section and the bottom section are connected, bringing protruding contact 104 into contact with one of multiple contacts 106 thereby providing power from battery pack 100 to heating element 102. Optionally, the battery pack may be rotated to connect different contacts 106 of heating element 102 to protruding contact 104 of battery pack 100, thereby switching power (heating) levels.

FIG. 7E is an exploded view of an exemplary electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the electronic coal system may include one or more of the following components:

• • 110 M4 Screw
  • 112. heater cover (optionally ceramic)
  • 114 3× screws, e.g., No. 3 self tapping screws
  • 116 Heating element (optionally Ceramic and/or aluminum)
  • 118 Main body with smoke holes
  • 120 Modes selector points e.g., metal contacts
  • 122 Ring housing body
  • 124 Metal ring
  • 126 Release button
  • 128 Magnet
  • 130 3×M4 screws
  • 132 Battery
  • 134 Battery housing
  • 136 LED light box
  • 138 USB Type C
  • 140 LED Strip
  • 142 LED switch housing
  • 144 Electronic housing

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of a schematic illustration of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the electronic coal system may include an on/off button 146 to provide control over the source of heat. Optionally, the user may click button 146 once and/or long click to “light” (turn on) the heating element. Optionally, the user may click button 146 once, and/or click twice, and/or multiple times, and/or long-press on the button to control various settings and/or turn off the heating element.

In some embodiments, the electronic coal system may include an airflow detector 148. Optionally, when a user inhales from the mouthpiece of the waterpipe hose, airflow detector 148 may detect increased airflow. Optionally, when increased airflow is detected, the system controller 150 may raise the temperature of heating element 152 accordingly. Optionally, the system may include an insulation disk 154 to protect the batteries 156 in battery housing 162 and/or other electronic elements (e.g., battery management system 164, etc.) from the high temperatures of the heating element. Optionally, the system may include a separating plate 158. Optionally, separating plate 58 may serve as a barrier between the heating element 152 and the shisha tobacco in bowl 160 to prevent the shisha tobacco from overheating and/or burning too quickly.

FIG. 9 is a side view of a schematic illustration of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the electronic coal system may include a stem dial 166 for adjusting the heat intensity of the heating element. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may include an airflow adjustment dial 168 to enable the user to control the airflow through the heating element before it passes through the shisha tobacco. Optionally, airflow adjustment handle 170 may facilitate rotation of dial 168 and/or opening and/or closing of the airflow holes 172.

In some embodiments, the system may include an LED smoking indicator 174. Optionally, LED smoking indicator 174 may light up when the device is turned on, and/or in use, and/or inhalation is detected, and/or heating is active, etc. Alternatively, or additionally, LED indicator 174 may increase in intensity in response to an increase in heat, for example upon inhalation.

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of a schematic illustration of the airflow direction in an exemplary electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, when the user inhales from the mouthpiece of the waterpipe (hookah) hose (not shown), air is drawn down from bowl 176 at the distal end of the waterpipe. Optionally, the air may be drawn in from above the heating element 178. Optionally, the heated air may be then drawn through the heated shisha tobacco 180, then drawn down through the stem 182 of the waterpipe, and ultimately to the hose through which the user is inhaling.

According to some embodiments, the electronic coal system may include a stem dial 184 for adjusting the heat intensity of the heating element. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may include an airflow adjustment dial 186 with one or more air inlet holes. Optionally, the system may include an LED smoking indicator 188.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an electronic coal system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the electronic coal system 190 may include a top section including battery pack 192. Optionally, battery pack may include a battery housing. Optionally, the battery housing may be configured to hold one or more batteries. Optionally, the batteries may be rechargeable. Optionally, battery pack 192 may, at least in part, be transparent, and/or semi-transparent, and/or translucent, and/or opaque. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include a user interface, e.g., an on/off switch 194, slider control, touch screen, etc. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include a battery management system. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include a means to control the heat intensity of the heating element 206. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include a temperature adjuster 198, e.g., a winding stem and/or a temperature dial. Optionally, temperature adjuster 198 may be configured to adjust the heat intensity of heating element 206. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include an airflow adjuster 196. Optionally, airflow adjuster 196 may be configured to adjust the airflow to the shisha tobacco. Optionally, battery pack 192 may include airflow detector 200. Optionally, airflow detector 200 may be configured to detect a change in air pressure within the system, e.g., when a user inhales through the mouthpiece of the waterpipe hose. Optionally, the system may include a controller 202. Optionally, controller 202 may be configured to receive input from various components of the system, e.g., airflow detector 200, user interface, battery management system, airflow adjuster 196, temperature adjuster 198, heating element 206, etc. Optionally, controller 202 may be configured to control various components of the system, e.g., airflow adjuster 196, temperature adjuster 198, heating element 206, etc. Optionally, the electronic coal system 190 may include a bottom section including a heating element 206. Optionally, heating element 206 may be separated from battery pack 192 by insulation disk 204. Optionally, insulation disk 204 may be configured to protect battery pack 192 and/or various electronic components in the top section from the heat produced by heating element 206. Optionally, separating plate 208 may be configured to serve as a barrier between the heating element 206 and the shisha tobacco 210 in waterpipe bowl 212. Optionally, system 190 may be placed on and/or in bowl 212 of waterpipe 214.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustration of a method for smoking, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, an electronic coal system including an electric heating element is placed 1204 on a pipe. For example, the pipe may include a conventional hookah configured to be heated by charcoal (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1). Alternatively or additionally, the electronic coal system may be used to heat 1206 a portable hookah. For example, the portable hookah may be designed to be easy to carry and set up. Optionally, a portable hookah may be made from various materials, including acrylic and silicone. The portable hookah is optionally configured for simplified designs and/or to facilitate quick assembly and disassembly. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic coal system may be used to heat a glass hookah. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic coal system may be used to heat various kinds of pipes, such as water pipes or bubblers. For example, the pipe may work similarly to a hookah but may be smaller and/or simpler. The water may be used to cool and filter the smoke and/or may not include water cooling.

In some embodiments, the electric coal system is used to heat 1206 a shisha of the pipe. For example, the shisha may contain finely shredded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco is blended from various types to create a smooth and flavorful smoking experience. The tobacco is optionally mixed with a sticky substance such as molasses and/or honey and/or another ingredient, which helps bind the ingredients together and adds to the flavor and moisture content. In some embodiments, glycerin is added. For example, the shisha may be configured to increase the moisture and produce thick, voluminous smoke. Alternatively or additionally, natural or artificial flavorings are included. The shisha may contain a wide range of flavors, from fruits like apple, grape, and watermelon to spices such as mint or cinnamon, and even more exotic flavors like cola or bubblegum. Alternatively or additionally, a shisha may be made with other ingredients, for example an herbal shisha may be made from sugarcane fibers and/or other plant materials instead of tobacco.

Optionally air is passed 1208 through the heated shisha and/or the resultant smoke-filled air may be directed 1210 to a user. Optionally, a heating element may be held above and/or spaced from the shisha and/or space may allow air to pass between the heating element and the shisha. Optionally the path and/or resistance and/or quantity of air flow may be adjustable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, a change in air pressure and/or flow is detected (for example using a sensor and/or reporting sensor output to a processor). For example, the change in air pressure and/or flow may result from the user inhaling through a mouthpiece of the pipe. Optionally the temperature of the heating element may be adjusted in response to the detecting of a change in air pressure and/or flow. For example, the temperature may be raised (e.g., by increasing the electrical power to the heating element) in response the detecting the change in air pressure.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic coal system includes an upper section and a lower section. For example, the upper section may include a power source (for example a battery pack). For example, the lower section may include the heating element. Optionally, the upper section may be rotated with respect to the lower section. Optionally, this rotation may result in changing a power setting of the heating element. For example, the rotating may include switching a connection of an electrical contact of a lower surface of the upper section from contacting a first contact of an upper surface of the lower section to another contact of the upper surface of the lower section. For example, the rotating may include switching a connection of an electrical contact of the lower surface of the upper section from contacting a first contact of the surface of the upper section to another contact of the lower surface of the upper section.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes charging the power source. For example, the power source may be charged without disconnecting the upper section from the heating element and/or without removing the heating element from the shisha. For example, a cord may be used to supply power to charge a battery and/or to supply power directly to the heating element. Additionally or alternatively, the upper section may be disconnected from the heating element and charged separately therefrom. Optionally, this is done without removing the heating element from the shisha. For example, the upper section may be manually unlocked from to the lower section. For example, the unlocking may include releasing a magnetic connection between the upper section and the lower section.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of system electronic coal system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, the electronic coal system may include an electrical heating element 1306. The heating element 1306 is optionally configured to fit onto a pipe. For example, the pipe may include a hookah, a portable hookah, a glass hookah and/or another pipe. Optionally, the electronic coal system includes an exposed bottom surface 1308 heated by the electrical heating element 1306. Optionally, the exposed bottom surface 1308 is configured to heat a shisha.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes: an upper section and a lower section. Optionally, the lower section is reversibly connected to the upper section. For example, the upper section may include a power source optionally including a battery and/or a capacitor (e.g., a super capacitor). Optionally, the power source is rechargeable. For example, the lower section may include the heating element 1306 and/or the exposed heated bottom surface 1308.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system includes a sensor configured to detect a change inhaling on the hookah. For example, the sensor may include an airflow sensor.

Optionally, the system includes a means to control heat intensity produced by the heating element 1306. For example, the heat intensity may be controlled by controlling power to an electric heating element 1306. Optionally, the mean to control heat intensity may include various components. Optionally, the components are configured to facilitate temperature regulation, safety, and/or efficiency. For example, the system may include a thermostat. Optionally, the thermostat may be mechanical and/or electronic. For example, the system may sense the temperature of component of the system, air and/or the shisha and/or a desired temperature setpoint. For example, temperature may be controlled by switching the heating element 1306 on or off in response to reaching a lower and/or higher setpoint. For example, a thermostat may include a bimetallic strip, a gas-filled bellows. Alternatively or additionally, the thermostat may include sensors like thermistors and/or thermocouples. Optionally the system may include solid-state relays (SSRs). For example, the SSRs may be used for switching power. In some embodiments, a pulse-width modulation (PWM) controller may be used to adjust power to the heating element 1306, e.g., by rapidly switching it on and off and/or varying the duty cycle to control the effective power delivered to the heating element 1306.

In some embodiments, the means to control heat may include a trial. For example, the trial may control AC power by switching the heating element 1306 on and off. Alternatively or additionally, the means to control heat may include a Rheostat and/or another variable resistor. The variable resistor is optionally controlled that manually. Alternatively or additionally, the system may include a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller. For example, the controller may continuously calculate an error value and/or apply corrections based on proportional, integral, and/or derivative terms. In some embodiments, the system may include a temperature sensor such as thermistors, RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) and/or infrared sensor. For example, the sensor may measure temperature and/or provide feedback to control systems. Additionally or alternatively, the system may include a microcontroller. For example, the microcontroller may include a compact integrated circuit designed for to process input from these sensors and/or execute control algorithms and/or to adjust power via relays and/or triacs.

Optionally, the system includes a safety device. For example, the safety device may include a thermal cutoffs and/or electrical cutoff (e.g., a fuse and/or a circuit breaker). The safety device optionally. protects against overheating by breaking and/or adjusting the circuit if temperatures exceed safe limits and/or disconnecting power during overloads. For example, a temperature sensor measures the current temperature and/or sends data to a thermostat and/or PID controller. The measured temperature is optionally compares it to the desired setpoint and adjusts the power using a solid-state relay or trial. Safety devices may include thermal cutoffs and/or circuit breakers integrated to protect against overheating and/or electrical faults.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes an insulator protecting the upper section from heat from the heating element 1306. For example, the insulator may include an insulation disk configured to protect the power source from heat produced by the heating element 1306. Alternatively or additionally, the system includes a separating plate configured to serve as a barrier between the heating element 1306 and shisha in a bowl of the waterpipe, for example, to prevent the shisha from burning. Separating and/or insulating element 1306s may be include a ceramic (e.g., ceramic fiber), fiberglass, mineral wool, Calcium Silicate, microporous Insulation, aerogel and/or refractory insulation.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the heating element 1306 is configured to emulate temperature variations of actual charcoal.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes an airflow adjuster configured to adjust the airflow to the shisha.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system includes a user interface. For example, the user interface may include an on/off switch, slider control, and/or touch screen. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface may include an LED indicator configured to indicate at least one of when the system is activated, when the system is in use, when inhalation is detected, and when heating is active.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a controller. For example, the controller may be configured to receive input from an airflow detector and/or a user interface. Optionally the controller is configured control an airflow adjuster and/or to control a temperature adjuster of the heating element 1306.

These embodiments are provided by way of example and are in no means intended to limit the scope of the invention.

While the invention has been described in its preferred form or embodiment with some degree of particularity, it is understood that this description has been given only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction, fabrication, and use, including the combination and arrangement of parts, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

General

It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

As used herein the term “about” refers to ±10%

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

The term “consisting essentially of” means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

As used herein, the terms “multiple” and “multi” are used interchangeably, and mean one or more, e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, etc.

As used herein, the terms “coal” and “charcoal” are used interchangeably, and refer to an organic carbon compound produced by the incomplete combustion of plant and animal products. Charcoal is widely used in outdoor cooking.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.