SYSTEM, METHOD AND VAPOR PROFILE USER INTERFACE COMPONENT FOR ALLOWING USER TO SELECT AND/OR MODIFY VAPOR PROFILE(S) ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC VAPORIZER

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/738,696 filed on Dec. 24, 2024 (Attorney Docket DRD-P0009P) and 63/796,304 filed on Apr. 28, 2025 (Attorney Docket DRD-P0010P), the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference and relied upon.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to electronic vaporizers for creating a vapor from an organic material, and more particularly, to a system, method and vapor profile user interface component for allowing a user to select and/or modify vapor profile(s) associated with an electronic vaporizer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electronic vaporizers are devices used to vaporize organic material so that a user can inhale the produced vapor. The vaporization of the organic substance is typically accomplished by heating the organic compounds of a material that is either solid, liquid, or a combination thereof. The heating results in the phase-change of (at least a portion of) the organic compounds from their solid or liquid state to a gas state. This gas, or vapor, can be transferred to a user through direct inhalation, allowing the user to have therapeutic benefits from the absorption of the vapor into their lungs and tasting the vapor through the inhalation through the mouth. Heating can also result in the alteration of the organic compounds from one species to another through a thermal reaction process, with the new species being the final compound vaporized and inhaled by the user.

The design of an electronic vaporizer varies greatly, but most vaporizer designs include a main unit, a heating component, an airflow regulator, and a mouthpiece. The heating component can be permanently built into the main unit or detachable. When the heating component is detachable, it is commonly referred to as an atomizer. The mouthpiece and the airflow regulator may also be removable from the main unit, but the overall vaporizer design varies widely among devices.

The main unit of the vaporizer compromises the electronics and the housing of the electronics. Electronics include such items as printed circuit boards, a power source, power connectors or receptacles, lights, buttons, and possibly the heating component if the design has the heating component built into the main unit. The purpose of these electronics of the main unit is for the user to activate the device to control the power delivered to the heating component from the power supply. An additional purpose of the printed circuit boards is to house the necessary connection equipment required for the main unit to connect to a reprogrammable peripheral. This reprogramming connection can be wireless or wired. This power supply may be rechargeable or be powered by a wall outlet. The main unit may illuminate, vibrate, make noises, heat, or perform other actions based on the user's input.

The heating system of the electronic vaporizer may be removable or permanently built into the main unit. The overall goal of the heating system is to convert the electrical energy provided by the main unit into thermal energy and then deliver that thermal energy into the loaded organic material that is to be vaporized. The conversion of electrical to thermal energy can be accomplished through different heating elements that utilize joule heating or an induction heating system. Joule heating systems include ceramic heating elements and filament heating elements, which utilize the resistance of a segment of their wiring to convert driven electrical power into thermal power. The heating system may also include a crucible or a receptacle that is heated by the heating system, which acts as a physical intermediary between the heating element and the organic compound, or certain ceramic heating elements may be shaped directly into a receptacle shape to allow users to heat their material directly off the heating element. Induction heating systems will require an induction coil powered by an AC field that inductively heats a metal inductor. This inductor may heat the organic compound directly. Additionally, receptacle liners or inserts may allow users to customize the material their organic compound is vaporized from.

The heating system typically includes a temperature feedback electronic device that allows for the vaporizer main unit to measure the temperature of the heating system or a component thereof to ensure temperature accuracy. These types of temperature feedback systems include thermocouples, thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), and infrared temperature sensors (thermopile sensors). These temperature sensors may be built into the removable atomizer, or built into the main unit of the vaporizer. These temperature sensors may also be coupled and built into the heating elements themselves.

The mouthpiece of a vaporizer is typically removable from the main unit. It commonly acts as a filtration or cooling device that filters out particulates from the produced vapor and cools the vapor. This is commonly accomplished through the use of a glass water filtration device. However, a filtration/cooling component is not necessary, with many vaporizers having a mouthpiece that acts as a conduit to deliver vapor to the user orally.

The airflow regulator of a vaporizer is typically a component that controls or manipulates the airflow that is directed into the heated receptacle. The airflow regulator restricts airflow that is directed into the heated receptacle. The airflow is driven by the negative pressure that the user applies via inhalation of the mouthpiece. This negative pressure drives air through the airflow regulator, which typically restricts the airflow through an aperture or restriction in the air pathing. This restriction in the air pathing reduces the local pressure of the heating receptacle due to the increase in the airflow speed, which promotes vaporization by reducing the energy requirements needed for the phase transformation of the organic compound. The airflow regulator can also help agitate the organic compound through the increase in the velocity of the airflow, which may be used to agitate the organic compound or a manipulator that is placed in with the organic compound. It is common for glass or ceramic beads to be placed in cylindrical heating receptacles that the airflow regulator agitates in a way to create a continuous rotation of the beads, causing the organic compound to more evenly spread across the heating surface, which promotes vaporization.

A large aspect of the design of a vaporizer is its heating profile or the temperature vs time curve of the heating receptacle. The overall goal for any vaporizer has traditionally been to raise the temperature of the heating receptacle as fast as possible to the desired set-point and then hold the temperature at that set-point continuously as accurately as possible, where the dT/dt of the heating receptacle is null. Some vaporizers may utilize a non-steady heating profile, where even after the set-point is reached, the vaporizer may slowly increase (dT/dt>0) or decrease (dT/dt<0) the temperature in order to achieve a different experience for the user. By increasing the temperature after the set point is reached, the vaporization will increase, and rapid vaporization of the organic compound can be achieved, resulting in larger clouds and possible stronger therapeutic effects. By decreasing the temperature after the set point is reached, the vaporization will be reduced, but still, due to the common multi-compound nature of the organic compounds loaded into vaporizers, this will allow for more pronounced flavors for the lower boil-temperature compounds. Overall, preference is based on the user, with no temperature profile being absolutely desired among all users. Manufacturers have so far utilized a standard dT/dt value for their device, which the manufacturer believes is best for the average user, but doesn't allow for customization besides allowing the user to change their setpoint temperature or their hold time.

The present invention is aimed at solving one or more of the problems identified above.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to electronic vaporizers for creating vapor from an organic material. More particularly, it relates to an electronic vaporizer that contains a temperature feedback system and can be reprogrammed. The present invention allows users to edit or modify the temperature vs. time heating curve of their unit to achieve a different experience with their vaporizer. The present disclosure includes the usage of a mobile application that allows users to easily install different vapor profiles that are prebuilt into the mobile application or allow users to create their own vapor profiles based on the maximum heating and cooling rates, hold time, and setpoint temperatures achievable by the vaporizer.

The invention disclosed here is an electronic reprogrammable vaporizer that includes a temperature feedback system and the electronics necessary to allow users to reprogram their vaporizer's vapor profile (temperature vs time) curve through the use of a peripheral (or user) device.

The invention disclosed may be used with a portable electronic vaporizer that may utilize a permanently built-in induction heating system. The induction heating system utilizes an alternating current that is driven through a copper coil that inductively heats a cylindrical titanium crucible built into the upper portion of the main unit. This titanium crucible will inductively heat uniformly at a rapid rate. The temperature of the titanium crucible is measured using an infrared thermopile sensor built into the main unit, whose field of view is directed to the base of the titanium crucible. As the titanium crucible is heated, the temperature is measured by the thermopile sensor, and the data is fed into the main unit's circuit board, whose logic will dictate how the power to the coil is to be adjusted to achieve the desired set point temperature. Users do not directly vaporize their organic compound off the titanium crucible; instead, they place a quartz liner within the crucible. This quartz liner is an easy-to-clean, high-temperature-resistant surface that directly heats the organic compound. Due to the low thickness of the side walls of the liner and the excellent thermal contact the liner has with the titanium crucible, we consider the titanium crucible and the quartz liner to be thermally coupled.

The vaporizer may include rechargeable battery cells located within the unit that are charged via a USB-C receptacle. The main unit also includes three buttons that allow the user to activate the different functions of the device and multiple LEDs that illuminate to inform the user how the device is operating and the device's status. Additionally, the device also contains a vibration motor that vibrates to inform the user how the device is operating.

The vaporizer may include a removable glass mouthpiece that may be partially filled with water through which the vapor is directed. The percolation of the vapor through the water allows for the vapor to be filtered from any particulates and cools the vapor, thus improving the user experience. The vaporizer disclosed here also includes a removable airflow regulator that restricts the airflow and allows the user to manually direct the airflow direction into the heating receptacle/liner. The heating system and the vapor pathways of this device are contained by a metal top that locks in the quartz liner and creates a sealed vapor pathway from the airflow regulator to the quartz liner and then through the glass mouthpiece. This sealed pathway is necessary to create the airflow and pressure conditions necessary to promote vapor production.

The vaporizer may further include the circuitry and logic to be reprogrammed by the user using a peripheral device, such as a mobile application, web application, or PC application. The user may connect to the device using a wireless connection to the device's logic or may connect via the USB-C receptacle. The user can then use the peripheral along with the digital application to install or change the vapor profile of the device. The vapor profiles may alter the overall vapor profile temperature vs. time curve or may only adjust a segment of the overall vapor profile, such as the heating to the set point or the holding period after the set point has been reached. The web application may contain different vapor profiles available for download, such as those listed below. The exemplary vapor profiles listed below only affect the vapor profile after the set point has been reached, which may be referred to as the holding period. The heating period is the period where the receptacle is heated as fast as possible to the desired set point.

• • Steady Profile: where dT/dt=0 after the set-point temperature is reached.
  • Ascent Profile: where dT/dt>0 after the set-point temperature is reached.
  • Descent Profile: where dT/dt<0 after the set-point temperature is reached.
  • Hill Profile: where dT/dt>0 after the set-point temperature is reached for the first half of the holding period, and then dT/dt<0 for the second half of the holding period.
  • Valley Profile: where dT/dt<0 after the set-point temperature is reached for the first half of the holding period, and then dT/dt>0 for the second half of the holding period.

These vapor profiles are limited by the device's maximum and minimum cooling and heating rates, the maximum time the device can heat, and the minimum and maximum temperature to which the device can heat.

When a user selects a set-point temperature, a heating profile, and a hold time, the device may perform a quick algorithm to build a temperature vs time curve that the device's logic obeys during the heating cycle. For example, if a user selects an Ascent Profile, where dT/dt=1.0° F./sec, with a set-point temperature of 400° F., and a hold time of 50 seconds, the devices will build a heating curve, where the device will heat as quickly as possible to 400° F., followed by the steady increase in temperature at a rate of 1.0° F./sec for 50 seconds until the temperature reaches 450° F. This profile is instantly adjusted by the device's logic in response to the user changing the set-point temperature, the hold time, or the type of heating profile. The device's logic follows a basic PID controller, where it attempts to follow the heating profile and adjusts power to the induction coil based on the percent difference between the measured temperature and the heating profile.

The present invention may allow the user to customize their experience to their desire to a level never achieved before. The different heating profiles allow for an increase or decrease in vapor production and a change in the flavor profile of the produced vapor based on the boiling points of the compounds that comprise the loaded organic material. The users can tailor their experience continuously.

Additionally, the users can develop their heating profiles based on the device's maximum and minimum cooling and heating rates, hold time, and setpoint temperatures using digital applications. A graphical representation of the heating profile can be generated on these heating profiles that allows users to manipulate key points of the heating profile curve with limitations based on max/min rates, max/min operating temperature, and max/min hold time, thus allowing users to tailor their heating profile to what they desire, with the device automatically taking the desired heating profile and updating itself accordingly so that the thermal performance of the device matches the heating profile based off the temperature feedback measured by the IR sensor.

In the first aspect of the present invention, a system including a vapor profile user interface component on a user device and an electronic vaporizer is provided. The user device may be associated with a user. The vapor profile user interface component includes a plurality of user inputs configured to allow the user to select a vapor profile from a plurality of available vapor profiles. Each available vapor profile includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode. The electronic vaporizer includes a main unit, an inhalation unit, a heating system, a controller, and a user interface. The main unit is configured to supply electrical energy. The inhalation unit is coupled to the main unit. The heating system is coupled to the main unit and includes a crucible device. The controller is coupled to the heating system and is configured to control the heating system to heat material within the crucible device. The user interface is coupled to the controller and is mounted to the main unit and configured to allow a user to controllably operate the electronic vaporizer. The plurality of user inputs on the vapor profile user interface are configured to allow the user to controllably download the selected vapor profile to the controller of the electronic vaporizer. The controller is configured to heat the material in the crucible device as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface.

In a second aspect of the present invention, a method associated with an electronic vaporizer, is provided. The electronic vaporizer includes a main unit, an inhalation unit coupled to the main unit, a heating system, a controller and a user interface. The main unit is configured to supply electrical energy. The heating system is coupled to the main unit and includes a crucible device. The controller is coupled to the heating system and is configured to control the heating system to heat material within the crucible device. The user interface is coupled to the controller and mounted to the main unit and is configured to allow a user to controllably operate the electronic vaporizer. The method includes the step of providing a vapor profile user interface component on a user device associated with a user. The vapor profile user interface component including a plurality of user inputs. The method includes the steps of allowing the user to select a vapor profile from a plurality of available vapor profiles using the plurality of user inputs. Each available vapor profile includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode. The method further includes the step of allowing the user to controllably download the selected vapor profile to the controller. The controller is configured to heat the material in the crucible device as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface.

In a third aspect of the present invention, a vapor profile user interface component on a user device associated with a user, is provided. The vapor profile user interface component includes a plurality of user inputs and is associated with an electronic vaporizer. The electronic vaporizer includes a main unit, an inhalation unit coupled to the main unit, a heating system, a controller and a user interface. The main unit is configured to supply electrical energy. The heating system is coupled to the main unit and includes a crucible device. The controller is coupled to the heating system and is configured to control the heating system to heat material within the crucible device. The user interface is coupled to the controller and mounted to the main unit and is configured to allow a user to controllably operate the electronic vaporizer. The vapor profile user interface component is configured to allow the user to select a vapor profile from a plurality of available vapor profiles using the plurality of user inputs. Each available vapor profile includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode. The vapor profile user interface component is further configured to heat the material in the crucible device as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily appreciated when considered in connection with the following detailed description and appended drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an electronic vaporizer, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a functional block diagram of a system associated with the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1C is a functional block diagram of a controller of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a first side view of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2B is a front perspective view of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2C is a second side view of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2D is rear view of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 4 is a control diagram associated with the electronic vaporizer of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method associated with an electronic vaporizer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a graph of an exemplary vapor profile having a steady heating mode.

FIG. 7 is a graph of an exemplary vapor profile having an ascent heating mode.

FIG. 8 is a graph of an exemplary vapor profile having a descent heating mode.

FIG. 9 is a graph of an exemplary vapor profile having a valley heating mode.

FIG. 10 is a graph of an exemplary vapor profile having a hill heating mode

FIG. 11 is a first graphic representation of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a second graphic representation of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a third graphic representation of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a fourth graphic representation of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a fifth graphic representation of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a graph of exemplary descent, steady and ascent (take off) heating modes.

FIG. 17 is a graph of exemplary test data.

FIG. 18 is a graph of an exemplary customized vapor profile.

FIGS. 19A-19O are graphic representations of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component, according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20A-20D are graphic representations of a system for sharing vapor profiles between users.

FIGS. 21A-21B are graphic representations of an exemplary vapor profile user interface component illustrated curated vapor profiles available for download, according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one having ordinary skill in the art that the specific detail need not be employed to practice the present invention. In other instances, well-known materials or methods have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “one example” “an example”, or “aspect” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment of example is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, “one example” or “an example” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable combinations and/or sub-combinations in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, it is appreciated that the figures provided herewith are for explanation purposes to persons ordinarily skilled in the art and that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

Referring to the FIGS, and in operation, wherein like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, a system 2, a method M100, and a vapor profile user interface component 6 configured to allow a user to select and/or modify vapor profile(s) associated with an electronic vaporizer (see below).

With particular reference to FIG. 1B, the system 2 may include a vapor profile user interface component 6 and an electronic vaporizer 10. Generally, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may be implemented in software and installed or running on a user device 4 associated with a user. The vapor profile user interface component 6 may also be implemented on an electronic vaporizer 10 with a provided touchscreen (not shown). The user device 4 may be a personal computer or laptop computer, a smart phone, smart table, or similar device. The vapor profile user interface component 6 may implemented via a software application or app which has been installed on the user device 4. Alternatively, or in addition, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may be implemented or accessed from a remote location via a web browser.

Generally, the vapor profile user interface component 6 includes a plurality of user inputs 8 (which may be implemented via a touchscreen interface). From or on the user device 4, the user may utilize the user inputs 8 to select and/or modify a vapor profile from a set of available vapor profiles and to download or transfer one or more selected vapor profile to the electronic vaporizer 10. If implemented on the electronic vaporizer 10, downloading or transferring modified or customized vapor profiles refers to transferring the vapor profile to specific memory within the electronic vaporizer 10 from which it may be run or approving the vapor profile to be implemented on the electronic vaporizer 10.

The user inputs 8 may be dynamic dependent upon the functionality of the vapor profile user interface component 6.

The user may operate the electronic vaporizer using the downloaded vapor profile, or select from among a number of downloaded vapor profiles. Vapor profiles may be downloaded or transferred to the electronic vaporizer 10 over a wireless connection, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a cell network, or the like. Alternatively, vapor profiles may be downloaded or transferred to the electronic vaporizer 10 over a wired connection, such as directly using a USB patch cable.

Additionally, the user may be provided access to vapor profiles made available by third parties and modify and/or download the third party vapor profiles to the electronic vaporizer 10. The user may further share a user created or modified vapor profile to other users via a social network or cloud-based database.

Exemplary Electronic Vaporizer

The present invention is associated with an electronic vaporizer 10 that is configured to aerosol an organic material and to provide the resultant vapor to a user to inhale. The organic material may include, but is not limited to, organic liquids and/or wax-like materials that are derived naturally or artificially made.

With reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2D, and 3, in one embodiment of the present invention, an exemplary electronic vaporizer 10 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic vaporizer 10 includes a main unit 20, an inhalation unit 120, a heating system 60, a controller 34, and a user interface 30.

The main unit 20 is configured to supply electrical energy. The inhalation unit 120 is coupled to the main unit 20. The heating system 60 is coupled to the main unit 20 and may include an induction heating system 64 located within the main unit 20, a crucible device 62 located within the main unit 20, and a temperature sensor 80. The crucible device 62 is configured to receive material, such as a liquid-based or solid organic substance. As discussed below, the crucible device 62 may generally refer to a receptacle for receiving the material to be vaporized. The crucible device 62 may be a simple removable or non-removable crucible or a multipart device, configured to separate the haring system 60 from the material.

The induction heating system 64 is coupled to, and maybe located with, the main unit 20 and is configured to convert electrical energy from the main unit 20 into thermal energy and apply the thermal energy to the material via the crucible device 62 to create vapor. The temperature sensor 80 is configured to sense a temperature associated with the crucible device 62. The controller 64 is coupled to the induction heating system 64 and is configured to receive a temperature associated with the induction heating system 64 from the temperature sensor 80 and control the induction heating system 64 to heat the material to a desired temperature. The user interface 30 is coupled to the controller 34 and mounted to the main unit 20 and is configured to allow a user to operate the electronic vaporizer 10.

In one embodiment the electronic vaporizer 10 includes a main unit 20, a heating system 60, an airflow regulator 16, and an inhalation unit 120. The inhalation unit 120 includes a mouthpiece 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic vaporizer 10 has a central axis 12 (see FIG. 2A) In the illustrated embodiment, the main unit 20 and the induction heating system 60 are aligned and generally centered (along with many of the components thereof) on the central axis 12. The mouthpiece 122 may be centered along a second axis 18 (see FIG. 2A).

As discussed in further detail below, the crucible device 62 may include a workpiece (not shown) and an insert 72. In one embodiment the workpiece 68 is cup shaped in the shape of a crucible 72 and configured to receive the material. In the illustrated embodiment, the workpiece may be a cup-shaped crucible configured to receive a removable insert 72 to receive the material, The airflow regulator 16 may include a body 24 and a removable lid, which may also be referred to as a carb cap, 26 The carb cap 26 may include an optional connector to maintain the carb cap 26 in place while allowing removal. For example, the connector may be magnetic (see below). In one embodiment, the crucible device 62 may be removable or may be fixedly installed within the main unit 20. In other embodiments, one or both of the workpiece (or crucible) and/or the insert 72 may be fixedly installed or removable.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the material may be placed directly in the cup-shaped crucible. In another embodiment of the present invention, the material may be placed in the removable insert 72 which may be removed and/or replaced.

The crucible device 62 is configured to receive material. The heating system 60 (or induction hearing system 64) is configured to convert electrical energy from the main unit 20 into thermal energy and apply the thermal energy to the material via the crucible device 62 to create vapor. The temperature sensor 80 may be positioned below the crucible device 62 configured to sense a temperature associated with the crucible device 62. The controller 34 is coupled to the induction heating system 64. In one embodiment, the controller 34 is configured to receive a temperature associated with the induction heating system 64 from the temperature sensor 80 and to control the induction heating system 64 to heat the material to a desired temperature.

The user interface 30 is coupled to the controller 34 and mounted to the main unit 20 and configured to allow a user to operate the electronic vaporizer 20.

In one embodiment, the induction heating system 64 includes a multiturn inductor coil (not shown). The crucible device 62 may be positioned within the multiturn inductor coil. i.e., the coil encloses or surrounds the workpiece. Alternatively, the induction heating system 64 may include a pancake coil, a channel coil, a multiturn coil, or a combination therefore.

Generally, the main unit 20, the inhalation unit 120, and the heating system 60 define an airflow path 52 configured to allow ambient air to enter the main unit 20 and the crucible device 62 and to allow the vapor to exit the crucible device 62 and enter the inhalation unit 120.

With specific reference to FIGS. 1B-1C, functional block diagrams of an electronic vaporizer 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As discussed above, the electronic vaporizer 10 may include the main unit 20, a heating system 60, and the inhalation unit 120. As discussed in more detail below, the heating system 60 may include an induction heating system 64.

The main unit 20 may include the one or more indicators 32A, 32B, 32C (see FIGS. 2A-2D and 3) to provide information and/or feedback to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, a set of three indicators 30A are provided on a rear surface of the main unit 20 that are configured to provide an indication of the battery life. Also, on the rear surface of the main unit 20, an on/off switch 30B and a USB-C charge/data port 30F may be provided. The USB-C charge/data port 30F allows for fast charging of the device 10. Settings of the electronic vaporizer 10 may be customized through the USB-C charge/data port 30F and/or through a wireless connection. In the illustrated embodiment, a single LED ring 32A is used to indicate different functionality of the device, which may be coupled to a string of LED lights 32B. This LED ring 32A and string of LED lights 32B may be used to indicate that the device is heating, has reached the desired temperature, or that the device has connected to an external device through a wireless connection. The LED ring 32A and the string of LED lights 32B may provide additional (aesthetic) illumination including color variation.

With reference to FIGS. 1A, 2A-2C, and 3, a user input interface 30 may be provided on a front surface of the main unit 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the user input interface 30 includes a go button 30A and set of plus and minus buttons 30C, 30D. Actuation of the go button 30A can initiate the heating process and actuation of the plus and minus buttons 30C, 30D change the temperature settings of the device. Actuation of combinations of the buttons 30A, 30C, 30D may provide different functions.

As shown, the electronic vaporizer 10 includes a controller 34 and a battery 36 which in the illustrated embodiment are stored or located within the main unit 20. The battery 36 may be a lithium-ion cell, a capacitor or other suitable energy storage device. In other embodiments of the invention, the battery can be circumvented by a connection to an external power supply. The user input interface 32 allows the user to operate the electronic vaporizer 10. In general, the user can control the electronic vaporizer by utilizing the user input interface 32 to adjust the settings. Alternatively, or in addition, the settings of the electronic vaporizer may be adjusted remotely through a wired or wireless connection, using a user device, such as cell phone or computer.

In one aspect of the present invention, the device 10 includes an induction heating system 64 to heat the organic material. In one embodiment, the induction heating system 64 may include a solenoid inductor coil (not shown) and a metallic workpiece (not shown). In one embodiment, the temperature sensor 80 may be a thermopile or infrared sensor (contactless temperature sensor). In other embodiments, the temperature sensor 80 may be in contact with the workpiece. In another aspect of the present invention, the heating system 60 is a joule heating system.

In one aspect of the present invention, the mouthpiece 120 is removable and positioned, at least partially, within the main unit 20. With specific reference to FIG. 1A. 2A. 2C and 3, the main unit 20 includes a mouthpiece aperture for receiving the mouthpiece 122.

In an alternative embodiment, the mouthpiece 122 may be coupled to the vaporizer 10 via a quick connect adapter (not shown) and the main unit 20, the heating system 60, the mouthpiece 120, and the quick connect adapter may aligned about the second axis 18. One such electronic vaporizer with a quick connect adapter is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,1064,738, issued on Jul. 20, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

An exemplary mouthpiece 122 is shown in the FIGS. In general, the mouthpiece 122 allows the user to inhale creating low pressure within the mouthpiece 122 and to transfer the low pressure to the heating system 60 via the inhalation unit 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the inhalation unit 122 is a percolating type of mouthpiece and is made from glass. However, it should be noted that that the illustrated mouthpiece is illustrative only. Any type of mouthpiece, including a non-percolating mouthpiece, or permanently affixed mouthpieces, may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The main unit 20 includes the control electronics and user interface/controls necessary to operate the electronic vaporizer 10 and to provide power to the induction heating system 64 (see below). The induction heating system 64 may house the crucible device 62. In one embodiment, the crucible device 62 may include a workpiece, which may be cup-shaped and an insert 72 in which the organic material is inserted or loaded. Generally, the insert 72 is typically made of a non-reactive material such as a quartz glass, sapphire, other inorganic glasses or crystals, or high temperature ceramic to preserve the flavor of the produced vapor. Further, such materials resist corrosion and do not chemically react with the material loaded therein.

As discussed in more detail below, an induction heating system 64 converts electrical energy into thermal energy and applies the thermal energy to the material (see below). In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 72 may be in the form of a cup for holding the material.

The inhalation unit 120 collects exhausted vapor from the insert 72 and delivers the vapor to the user through the user's inhalation on the mouthpiece 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the main unit 20 is a hand-held device that controls the electronic functions of the electronic vaporizer 10. The main unit 20 further acts as the hub that locks in the insert 72 and the inhalation unit 122.

The main unit 20 may include a well 22 (see FIG. 3) that is configured to house the heating workpiece, which may also houses the insert 72. The heating workpiece may or may not be removable from the well 22. The well 22 may be formed by the cup-shaped workpiece. In one embodiment the heating workpiece may be made from titanium, but can be made from any material that can be inductively heated.

The main unit 20 may include a first aperture 20A and a second aperture 20B. The first aperture 20A forms an air inlet for allowing ambient air to enter the heating system 60. The first aperture 20A is configured to receive the removable lid 26. The first (or air inlet) aperture 20A, when the removable lid 26 is removed, allows air to enter the main unit 20 and the heating system 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the second aperture 20B is configured to receive the mouthpiece 122.

With specific reference to FIG. 3, in the illustrated embodiment the insert 22 is removable from the main unit 20. The electronic vaporizer 10 or heating system 60 may include a removable top cover 14. As discussed below, the removable top cover 14 creates the airflow pathway (when removed or open) and/or acts as a hub to direct airflow. As shown, the removable top cover 14 includes a first aperture 14A (corresponding to the first aperture 20A of the main unit 20) and a second aperture 14B (corresponding to the second aperture 20B of the main unit 20). The mouthpiece 120 may be inserted into the main unit 20 through the second aperture 14B, 20B. With the mouthpiece 120 removed, the removable top cover 14 may also be removed. With the removable top cover 14 removed, the insert 72 may be removed for cleaning and/or replacement. In the illustrated embodiment, the removable lid 26 is removably coupled to the top cover 14 and and/or the body 24 of the airflow regulator 16 and, thus, may be removed from the main unit 20.

The removable lid 26 may be provided to cover the top of the electronic vaporizer 10 and protect the insert 72 and internal components of the electronic vaporizer 10. The removable lid 26 may be connected to the main unit 20 by a silicone seal (not shown) with a living hinge to allow the removable lid 26 to be removed but remain connected to the electronic vaporizer 10 to prevent the removable lid 26 from being lost.

The main unit 20 houses the primary electronics of the device. In the illustrated embodiment, the main unit 20 includes a controller 34 that controls the functionality of the electronic vaporizer 10. The main unit 20 further includes a power cell battery 36 that provides power to the electronic vaporizer 10 and a push-button tactile switch 28 that, in the illustrated embodiment, provides the only physical interface between the electronic vaporizer 10 and the user. Additional interface between the electronic vaporizer 10 and the user can exist through external peripheral devices that are wireless coupled to the electronic vaporizer 10. These external peripheral devices can include a tablet, smart phone, or personal computer.

The main unit 20 includes an outer housing 40. With specific reference to FIG. 1C, the main unit 20 includes a chassis (not shown). The battery 36 may be removably mounted to the chassis 42. A printed circuit board (PCB) (not shown) including the controller 34 may also be mounted to the chassis 42. As shown, the user interface 32 may be mounted to the PCB 38. The indicators 32A, 32B, 32C, on/off switch 30B, and the USB-C port 30F may be mounted to a second PCB (not shown).

Heat is applied to the insert via the induction heating system 64. The main unit 20 houses the induction heating system 46. The induction system 64 may include the crucible device 62, which may include the workpiece (which may be in the form of a heating crucible which is configured to receive the insert 72). Generally, the induction heating system 64 wirelessly heats the workpiece 68 to produce vapor for inhalation.

The temperature sensor 80 may be located within the main unit 20 to sense a temperature associated with the crucible device 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor 80 is positioned adjacent and beneath the crucible device 62. In one embodiment the temperature sensor 80 is an infrared (IR) sensor (thermopile sensor). In other embodiments of the invention, there may be a viewport cut (not shown) into the crucible device 62, to allow the temperature sensor 80 to directly measure the temperature of the insert 72. In other embodiments of the invention, the temperature sensor 80 may be configured to measure the sidewall crucible device 62. In other embodiments of the invention, multiple temperature sensors 80 may be used to measure different locations of the crucible device 62 or insert 72.

Generally, the controller 34 (under the control of a user through the user input interface 30) provides alternating current to the induction coil 66 resulting in an alternating magnetic field. The workpiece or the crucible and the insert 72 are positioned within the induction coil 66. The alternating magnetic field is inductively coupled to the workpiece 68 which generates heat therein by the resistance of the workpiece to the induced eddy currents.

The heat generated in the workpiece is conductively transferred to the insert and to the material (to be vaporized) contained within the insert 72. Separation of the heating crucible 66 from the material to be vaporized by the insert 72 promotes a cleaner vaporization of the material. The insert 72 is removable for cleaning and or replacement. Since the temperature sensor 80 is separated from the insert 72 by the heating crucible 66, the temperature sensor 80 is not directly measuring the temperature of the insert 72. The logic within the controller 34 may include an experimentally derived time-delay module to approximate the temperature of the insert 72 based on the sensed temperature of the workpiece 68.

In other embodiments, the crucible and the insert 72 may be combined into a single integrated removable component.

In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor 80 continuously detects or senses the temperature of the base or bottom of the workpiece 68. The temperature is provided to the controller 34. The controller 34 implements logic (see FIG. 4) utilizing temperature feedback to accurately control the temperature of the workpiece by regulating the power and/or frequency of the alternating current provided to the induction coil.

A suitable exemplary electronic vaporizer 10 is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2025/0344768, which is hereby incorporated by reference. It should be noted that while exemplary electronic vaporizers are referenced above, the present invention is not limited to any one such electronic vaporizer.

System, Method, Vapor Profile User Interface Component

Returning to FIG. 1B, in one aspect of the present invention, a system 2 includes a vapor profile user interface component 6 on a user device 4 and an electronic vaporizer 10. The user device 4 may be associated with a user, such a cell phone, computer, tablet or the like. The vapor profile user interface component 6 includes a plurality of user inputs 8 configured to allow the user to select a vapor profile from a plurality of available vapor profiles.

Each vapor profile includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode (see below). The electronic vaporizer 10 includes a main unit 20, an inhalation unit 120, a heating system 60, a controller 34, and a user interface 30 (see above).

As discussed above, the controller 34 is coupled to the heating system 60 and is configured to control the heating system 60 to heat material within the crucible device 62. The user interface 30 is coupled to the controller 34 and is mounted to the main unit 20 and configured to allow a user to controllably operate the electronic vaporizer 10. The plurality of user inputs 8 on the vapor profile user interface 6 are configured to allow the user to controllably download the selected vapor profile to the controller 34 of the electronic vaporizer 10. The controller 34 is configured to heat the material in the crucible device 62 as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface 30.

As discussed in more detail below, the plurality of user inputs 8 on the vapor profile user interface 6 are configured to allow the user to modify the at least one setpoint temperature and/or the at least one hold time of the plurality of vapor profiles. In some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of user inputs 8 on the vapor profile user interface 6 are configured to allow the user to controllably download two or more of the plurality of vapor profiles to the controller 34. The user interface 30 on the electronic vaporizer 10 allows the user to select one of the downloaded vapor profiles.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the vapor profile user interface component 6 allows the user to share a modified vapor profile with other users. Further, the vapor profile user interface component 6 allows the user to select, and download to the electronic vaporizer, customized vapor profiles from other sources.

With particular reference to FIG. 5, in a second aspect of the present invention, a method M100 associated with an electronic vaporizer, is provided. The electronic vaporizer 10 includes a main unit 20, an inhalation unit 120, a heating system 60, a controller 34, and a user interface 30 (see above). The controller 34 is coupled to the heating system 60 and is configured to control the heating system 60 to heat material within the crucible device 62. The user interface 30 is coupled to the controller 34 and is mounted to the main unit 20 and configured to allow a user to controllably operate the electronic vaporizer 10. The plurality of user inputs 8 on the vapor profile user interface 6 are configured to allow the user to controllably download the selected vapor profile to the controller 34 of the electronic vaporizer 10. The controller 34 is configured to heat the material in the crucible device 62 as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface 30.

In the first step S10, a vapor profile user interface component 6 on a user device 4 associated with a user. The vapor profile user interface component 6 includes a plurality of user inputs 8. In a second step S20, the user is allowed to select a vapor profile from a plurality of available vapor profiles using the plurality of user inputs 8. Each available vapor profile includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode. In a third step S30, the user is allowed to controllably download the selected vapor profile to the controller 34. The controller 34 is configured to heat the material in the crucible device 62 as a function of the selected vapor profile in response to user actuation of the user interface 30.

With specific reference to FIGS. 6-9, exemplary vapor profiles according to a first embodiment are illustrated. As indicated above, each of the vapor profiles includes at least one setpoint temperature, at least one hold time, and at least one heating mode. As shown, the illustrated vapor profiles of FIGS. 6-9, each vapor profiles includes one setpoint temperature, one hold time, and one heating mode. In the illustrated vapor profiles, the setpoint temperature is set at 500° F. and the hold time is set at 30 seconds. As discussed below, the setpoint temperature, the hold time, and the heating mode may be selected or modified using the vapor profile user interface component 6 on the user device 4.

In one aspect of the present invention, one or more vapor profiles may be modified and/or downloaded to an electronic vaporizer 10. The vapor profiles may be stored in memory associated with the controller 34. If multiple vapor profiles are stored in the controller 34, the user interface 30 may be used to select between the vapor profiles. Using the user interface 30 on the electronic vaporizer 10, the user may then actuate the electronic vaporizer 10 to heat the material therein.

As shown in FIGS. 6-9, each vapor profile may be divided into two segments, a heating period and a hold period. Upon actuation, the controller 34 activates the heating system 60 to heat the material in the crucible device 62. During the heating period, the crucible device 62 may be heating at the maximum rate at which the electronic vaporizer 10 may achieve until the setpoint temperature is reached. Once the setpoint temperature is reached, the heating system 60 is controlled by the controller 34 to achieve the heating mode associated with the selected or actuation vapor profile.

With specific reference to FIG. 6, a vapor profile includes a heating mode which may be referred to as a “steady” heating mode. During the hold time of the steady heating mode, the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10 is held steady, i.e., dT/dt=0.

With specific reference to FIG. 7 a vapor profile includes a heating mode may be referred to as an “ascent” heating mode. During the hold time of the ascent heating mode, the heating system 60 is controlled to increase the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e., dT/dt>0.

With specific reference to FIG. 8 a vapor profile includes a heating mode which may be referred to as an “descent” heating mode. During the hold time of the descent heating mode, the heating system 60 is controlled to decrease the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e., dT/dt<0.

With specific reference to FIG. 9, a vapor profile includes a heating mode which may be referred to as a “valley” heating mode. During the hold time of the valley heating mode, the heating system 60 is controlled to initially decrease the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e. dT/dt<0 and then to increase the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e. dT/dt>0.

With specific reference to FIG. 10, a vapor profile includes a heating mode which may be referred to as a “hill” heating mode. During the hold time of the hill heating mode, the heating system 60 is controlled to initially increase the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e. dT/dt>0 and then to decrease the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10, i.e. dT/dt<0.

With specific reference to FIGS. 11-15, several exemplary screenshots of the vapor profile user interface component 6 with user inputs 8 are shown. As mentioned above, the user inputs 6 may be touchscreen elements that allow the user to interact with the vapor profile user interface component 6 to select and/or modify vapor profiles and to download one or more vapor profiles to an electronic vaporizer 2, according to the first embodiment.

In a first embodiment of the present invention (FIGS. 11-15), the application or app on the user device 4 includes (or displays) a first page 130 (FIG. 11), a second page 132 (FIG. 12), and a third page 134 (FIG. 13).

With specific reference to FIG. 11, utilizing the first page 130 and the user inputs 8, the user may directly control operation of the electronic vaporizer 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the user is allowed to access device settings, view analytics and adjust the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10. As shown, on the first page 130, the user inputs 6 may include a minus button 150, a plus button 152, and a start button 154 (which may be labeled “Press to heat”). The user may adjust the temperature using the minus and plus buttons 150, 152 and the user may also be allowed to start a remote heating cycle using the start button 154. In the illustrated embodiment, the first page 130 includes a temperature indicator 156. Actuating the start button 154 on the first page will remotely control a connected electronic vaporizer 10 to the entered temperature.

With specific reference to FIG. 12, utilizing the second page 132 and the user inputs 8, the user modify or select a vapor profile by setting a setpoint temperature, defining or setting a heating mode. The vapor profile may then be downloaded to the electronic vaporizer 10. In addition, the application or app may allow the user to initiate a remote heating session.

As shown, on the second page 162, the user inputs 6 may include a temperature setting button 158, a heating mode button 160, and the start button 154. As discussed below, the user may select or actuate the temperature setting button to change the setpoint temperature and may select or actuate the heating mode button 160 to select a heating mode. For example, the user may be prompted to select a heating mode from a set of available of heating modes. In one embodiment, the set of available heating modes includes a steady heating mode, an ascent heating mode, and a descent heating mode. The set of available heating modes may also include a valley heating mode and a hill heating mode (see above).

Actuation of the temperature setting button 158 will result in the display of a temperature setting graphic 136 (see FIG. 13). The temperature setting graphic 136 may include a temperature input 162, a temperature slider 164, a save button 166, and a cancel button 168. The temperature input 162 displays the current setpoint temperature, and upon actuation, may allow the user to directly enter the desired setpoint temperature using a keyboard or virtual keyboard. In addition, the current setpoint temperature may be adjusted by sliding along the temperature slider 164. The vapor profile using the current setpoint temperature, hold time, and heating mode may be saved to the electronic vaporizer 10 using the save button 166. Selection of the cancel button 168 will the return method to the second page 132.

The third page 134 (FIG. 14) may be accessed through the settings option on the first page 130 and may include a light mode button 170, and a hold time button 172. Actuation of the light mode button 170 allows the user to select a light mode from a set of available light modes. The light modes may affect the color and/or pattern of the lighting associated with the indicators 32A, 32B, 32C.

Actuation of the hold time button 172 will result in the display of a hold time graphic 138 (see FIG. 15). In the illustrated embodiment, the hold time graphic 138 includes a hold time input 174, a hold time slider 176, the save button 166, and a cancel button 168. The hold time input 162 displays the current hold time, and upon actuation, may allow the user to directly enter the desired hold time using a keyboard or virtual keyboard. In addition, the current hold time may be adjusted by sliding along the temperature slider 179. The vapor profile using the current hold time, heating mode, and setpoint temperature may be saved to the electronic vaporizer 10 using the save button 166. Selection of the cancel button 168 will the return method to the second page 132.

With specific reference to FIGS. 16-18 and 19A-19O, exemplary vapor profiles and screen shots according to a second embodiment are illustrated. An exemplary electronic vaporizer 10 may include or be provided with a number of standard vapor profiles. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the electronic vaporizer 10 may be provided with (and accessible via the vapor profile user interface component 6) may be initially provided with three vapor profiles: a steady vapor profile, a take off vapor profile, and a descent vapor profile. As discussed above, each of the vapor profiles includes setpoint temperature, a heating mode and a hold time. Further, each vapor profile has or defines a heating period (initial heating) and a hold period or time. During the heating period, the electronic vaporizer 10 is heated to the setpoint temperature. The steady vapor profile includes a steady heating mode, the take off vapor profile includes an ascent heating mode, and the descent vapor profile includes a descent heating mode.

In the steady vapor profile, after the setpoint temperature is reached, the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10 will be fixed (at the setpoint temperature) for a preset amount of time (the hold time). In the take off vapor profile, after the setpoint temperature is reached, the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10 will increase consistently over the course of the hold time at a fixed rate. The total increase in temperature over the hold time may vary based on the hold time. In the descent vapor profile, after the setpoint temperature is reached, the temperature of the electronic vaporizer 10 will decrease consistently over the course of the hold time at a fixed rate. The total decrease in temperature over the hold time may vary based on the hold time.

The fixed rate of increase/decrease may be a preset rate, e.g., 2° F./second or 10° F./second.

With reference to FIG. 17, the ability of the electronic vaporizer 10 to hold temperatures steady while executing a steady vapor profile will be dependent upon the design of the electronic vaporizer 10 and the controller 34. In one aspect of the present invention, the electronic vaporizer 10 is capable of holding a temperature to +/−2° F. For an exemplary electronic vaporizer 10, testing showed that the electronic vaporizer 10 could hold a temperature during a 30 second trial to +/−1° F.

With reference to FIG. 18, in the second embodiment, the user is allowed to create or modify a customized vapor profile. In the illustrated embodiment, the customized vapor profile includes a setpoint temperature and one or more stages. The customized vapor profile may includes an initial heating period during which the electronic vaporizer 10 is heated to the initial setpoint temperature. Each stage may include a heating mode (see above) and a hold time. It should be noted that the rate of increase or decrease during the heating modes may be limited by the maximum/minimum ΔT/Δt, operating temperature, and hold time, that may be dependent on the limitations or design of the electronic vaporizer 10.

In one embodiment, the user is allowed to build or customize the customized vapor profile by adding and/or modifying set-points on a plot (see FIG. 18).

Customized vapor profiles allow users to tailor their experience by adjusting the vaporization and effects experience during a heating cycle. Customized vapor profiles also allow the user to customize their experience based on the material being vaporized as different materials may have different boiling parts.

As discussed in more detail below, the app (or more specifically, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may also share customized temperature settings (or vapor profiles) and customized vapor profiles with other users and/or different social media platforms.

With reference to FIGS. 19A-19O, a series of screenshots associated with the vapor profile user interface component 6 in the second embodiment is shown.

With specific reference to FIG. 19A, in one aspect of the present invention, users may customize vapor profiles (referred to as Settings 1-5). The modified vapor profiles (or temperature settings) may be download to an associated electronic vaporizer 10 and/or shared with other users. In the illustrated embodiment, a preset number of customized settings are provided (Setting 1 through Setting 5). In other embodiments, additional vapor profiles may be added. Using the vapor profile user interface component 6 on the user device 4, a user may share customized vapor profiles with other users or receive customized temperature settings from other users.

In the illustrated embodiment, first and second share screens 178, 180 may be provided. The first share screen 178 includes a share button 182. Actuation of the share button 182 results in the display of a bar code on the second share screen 180. The bar code may be scanned or read by another user to import the shared vapor profile. The second temperature share screen 180 may include a scan code button 184 which allows the user to scan a bar code from another user to scan or import shared vapor profile settings.

With specific reference to FIGS. 19B and 19C, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may include a screen listing different vapor profiles for a user to select, along with the description for each of the heating profiles and the resulting effect (19C). Currently, the five preset vapor profiles are: Steady, Ascent, Descent, Hill, or Valley. The names of the heating modes are arbitrary, with the current ones selected to best describe the dT/dt relationship.

One aspect of this invention utilizes an electronic vaporizer that has multiple “Vapor Profile Settings” that are programmed into the electronic vaporizer 10 device. These vapor profiles may include three of the key set parameters: set-point temperature, hold time, and heating mode (dT/dt). Using the vapor profile user interface component 6 on the user device, the vapor profiles may be modified, shared and downloaded to an associated electronic vaporizer 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, each vapor profile may be identified by a different color. The associated color may be displayed on the vapor profile user interface component 6 (see FIG. 19D). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, five vapor profiles are currently available and associated with the following colors (white, yellow, cyan, blue and purple). The associated color may be a component of the vapor profile and downloaded to the electronic vaporizer 10. The associated color may be used during operation and shown to illuminate the electronic vaporizer 10 (via, for example, the LED ring 32A and LED string lights 32B).

Generally, the user can reprogram their device's Vapor Profiles by utilizing an interface on the electronic device, that most likely will utilize a display screen. Additionally, users can reprogram their device's vapor profiles by utilizing a peripheral electronic device, such as a PC or smartphone, in conjunction with an APP.

In the illustrated embodiment, shown in FIG. 19D, the electronic vaporizer has five Vapor Profiles. Each of these vapor profiles has a different set-point temperature, hold time, and a heating mode. Each of these Vapor Profiles correspond to a color, with the example showing them as White, Yellow, Cyan, Blue, and Purple. The user can reprogram each of these vapor profiles, in the app and can then independently control each of the three parameters of the vapor profile: set-point temperature (FIG. 19E), heating mode (FIG. 19F) and hold time (FIG. 19G).

Using the app or vapor profile user interface component 6, user may be allowed to change the number of vapor profiles on the associated electronic vaporizer 10 (FIG. 19H) and to change the color of associated with each vapor profiles (FIG. 19I).

While the current APP outline and Vapor Profiles disclosed only include the three parameters of set-point temperature, hold time, and heating mode (dT/dt), other parameters are possible to be edited and included in the Vapor Profile, such as: heating rate, cooling rate, atomizer/crucible material selection. Additionally, each of the Vapor Profiles can be coupled to different types of LED illumination colors or patterns to help differentiate different Vapor Profiles.

With reference to FIGS. 19D and 19E, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may allow the user to add and modify a custom or customized vapor profile. With specific reference to FIG. 19K, an exemplary custom graph 186 associated with a customized vapor profile is shown. As shown, the custom graph 186 may include a plurality of temperature setpoints with associated time periods between temperature setpoints. Using the custom graph 186, a user can add temperature setpoints (by double tapping) and modify the temperature setpoints and time periods by dragging the setpoints on the graph.

Using the custom graph 186, a user is able to select a Custom Heating Mode to build a Custom Vapor Profile. In this example, the user is able to create the custom temperature vs time curve by adding/removing set-points, followed by moving the set-points to different positions. The APP may limit the users placement of the set-points though to ones that are achievable by the electronic vaporizer based on the device's maximum cooling and heating rates. After the user has saved their desired temperature vs time curve, the app or vapor profile user interface component 6 feeds the set-points into the electronic vaporizer's electronics and the controller 34 of the electronic vaporizer 10 determines the power-output necessary to achieve the desired curve. This is done by breaking the heating curve into different segments for each of the set-points, and the device utilizing different heating/cooling rates between each set-point. The device then saves this Custom Vapor Profile as one of its Vapor Profiles. This Custom Vapor Profile can also be adjusted by the user using the APP at a later time.

The segments between the different set-points is currently linear in the above description, but in other embodiment, the segments may allow for a varying dT/dt between the segments, i.e. curved segments between set-points.

With reference to FIGS. 19L-19O, in the illustrated embodiment, modified or customized vapor profiles may be downloaded to an associated electronic device 10 and/or shared with other users. Vapor profiles may be shared using a generated code. For example, a profile shared with the user may be retrieved by inputting a provided code (“input code”). Once a vapor profile is retrieved, it may be downloaded to the associated electronic vaporizer (it will overwrite an existing profile with the same color (FIG. 19M)).

To share a vapor profile with another user, the vapor profile user interface component 6 may generate a code (FIG. 19N) which may be shared with another user to share the vapor profile.

With reference to FIGS. 19O and 20A-20D, users may share vapor profiles to a shared community in which vapor profiles are stored in a server. FIGS. 20A-20D illustrated exemplary methods associated with sharing, searching, retrieving and downloading vapor profiles to/from the community.

Another aspect of the invention is for the APP, or electronic vaporizer, to allow for users to share their heating modes, Vapor Profiles, Custom Vapor Profiles, or other device parameters. The ways this can be accomplished is by either using a network between different users through the APP to share their device parameters. This can be done by users creating/sharing different alpha-numeric codes, sending direct messages with the parameters attached, creating/scanning different QR codes, or through a portal on the APP linking users to other users parameters.

Users may also be allowed to share their set parameters of their device directly utilizing the electronic vaporizer with some sort of wireless communication between other devices. For example, an electronic vaporizer can be designed that utilizes a wireless communication to seek out other neighboring devices, and then allow users to send their device settings directly to a neighboring device.

FIGS. 19L-19O demonstrate how a user can share their Vapor Profiles. Though these screenshots only show the sharing of Vapor Profiles, which includes set-point temperature, hold time, and heating mode, it is possible for the user to be able to share any of their device's parameters. In the screenshots below the user has the option to either Input an alpha-numeric code to import in another user's Vapor Profiles, users can also generate their own alpha-numeric code to share their Vapor Profiles with other users, and users have the ability to post their Vapor Profile to a public community located within the APP for other users to download the posted Vapor Profile.

In this embodiment of the invention, the Vapor Profiles may be tied to an alpha-numeric code that is generated by the APP and stored on servers that are called upon by other users APPs when sharing Vapor Profiles. FIGS. 20A-20D details how the alpha-numeric code paired to device parameter settings are stored on a server by one user, and later called upon by a different user. Though the current embodiment of the invention utilizes alpha-numeric codes, other common methods of sharing the device settings can be used such as: QR codes, direct sending of settings to other users.

Another aspect of the disclosed invention is the ability for a user to be able to post and share their device settings through a section of the APP (see FIGS. 21A-21D). This section of the APP can allow users to name their Vapor Profiles, and give a description of their vapor profiles. Users will be able to see other users parameters, and decide if they wish to download the parameters or not into their device, overwriting their device's current settings. Users would also be able to see the number of downloads by other users for different Vapor Profiles, to indicate popularity of different settings. Additionally, different sections of the APP can exist where different types of users can post their vapor profiles, with one section being curated by the manufacturer of the electronic vaporizer, another including notable influencers'settings, and the other being the general community of users.

The foregoing invention has been described in accordance with the relevant legal standards, thus the description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the disclosed embodiment may become apparent to those skilled in the art and fall within the scope of the invention.