U.S. patent application number 11/322956 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-01 for inhaler.
Invention is credited to Stephen G. Nelson.
Application Number | 20070045288 11/322956 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37802609 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070045288 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nelson; Stephen G. |
March 1, 2007 |
INHALER
Abstract
There is disclosed an apparatus having a housing, a heating
element, a heating element switch, a heating chamber, a heating
chamber cover, and a controller. The housing is handheld. The
heating element is disposed within the housing. The heating element
switch may be electrically coupled with the heating element. The
heating chamber is disposed within the housing. The heating chamber
cover may be adapted to at least partially eject the heating
chamber from the housing when the heating chamber cover is
displaced relative to the housing. The controller is electrically
coupled with the heating element switch. The controller is adapted
to control a transfer of energy to the heating element. The
controller may be adapted to prevent the transfer of energy to the
heating element if the heating chamber cover is not in a closed
position relative to the housing.
Inventors: |
Nelson; Stephen G.; (San
Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SoCAL IP LAW GROUP LLP
310 N. WESTLAKE BLVD. STE 120
WESTLAKE VILLAGE
CA
91362
US
|
Family ID: |
37802609 |
Appl. No.: |
11/322956 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60713611 |
Sep 1, 2005 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
219/533 ;
219/201 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 15/008 20140204;
A24F 40/20 20200101; A61M 2205/8206 20130101; A61M 2205/3561
20130101; A24F 40/46 20200101; A24F 40/51 20200101; A61M 15/0023
20140204; A61M 15/0083 20140204; A61M 2205/3584 20130101; A61M
2205/52 20130101; A61M 11/041 20130101; A61M 11/042 20140204; A24F
40/60 20200101; A61M 15/0025 20140204; A61M 2205/3569 20130101;
A61M 2205/3553 20130101; A61M 2205/3592 20130101; A61M 15/06
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
219/533 ;
219/201 |
International
Class: |
H05B 3/00 20060101
H05B003/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a housing adapted to be handheld a
heating element disposed within the housing a heating element
switch electrically coupled with the heating element a heating
chamber disposed within the housing a heating chamber cover adapted
to at least partially eject the heating chamber from the housing
when the heating chamber cover is displaced relative to the housing
a controller electrically coupled with the heating element switch,
the controller adapted to control a transfer of energy to the
heating element wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the
transfer of energy to the heating element if the heating chamber
cover is not in a closed position relative to the housing.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the heating chamber cover is
adapted to lock in a closed position relative to the housing when a
temperature of the heating chamber is greater than a predetermined
temperature.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a storage device
adapted to record a time that energy was transferred to the heating
element an alarm adapted to provide a next use reminder based on
the time that energy was transferred to the heating element.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the controller is adapted to
prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if a
predetermined time has not elapsed from the time that energy was
transferred to the heating element.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a mouthpiece
displaceable relative to the housing, the mouthpiece at least
partially defining a cavity which is adapted to receive a volatized
phyto material, wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the
transfer of energy to the heating element if the mouthpiece is not
displaced relative to the housing.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 further comprising a tube disposed
between the mouthpiece and the heating chamber, the tube adapted to
flex, the tube at least partially defining the cavity.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a first temperature
sensor disposed within the heating chamber, wherein the controller
is adapted to prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element
if the first temperature sensor provides a first signal indicating
at least a first predetermined temperature within the heating
chamber.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 further comprising a second temperature
sensor proximate the heating element, wherein the controller is
adapted to prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if
the second temperature sensor provides a second signal indicating
at least a second predetermined temperature proximate the heating
element, the second predetermined temperature different than the
first predetermined temperature.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the controller is adapted to
prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if an ambient
temperature exterior to the housing exceeds a third predetermined
temperature different than both the first and second predetermined
temperatures.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the apparatus is an inhaler
device.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a storage device
adapted to record a time that energy was transferred to the heating
element an alarm adapted to provide a next use reminder based on
the time that energy was transferred to the heating element a
mouthpiece displaceable relative to the housing, the mouthpiece at
least partially defining a cavity which is adapted to receive a
volatized phyto material a tube disposed between the mouthpiece and
the heating chamber, the tube adapted to flex, the tube at least
partially defining the cavity a first temperature sensor disposed
within the heating chamber a second temperature sensor proximate
the heating element wherein the heating chamber cover is adapted to
lock in a closed position relative to the housing when a
temperature of the heating chamber is greater than a predetermined
temperature wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a predetermined time
has not elapsed from the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the
transfer of energy to the heating element if the mouthpiece is not
displaced relative to the housing wherein the controller is adapted
to prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if the
first temperature sensor provides a first signal indicating at
least a first predetermined temperature within the heating chamber
wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the transfer of energy
to the heating element if the second temperature sensor provides a
second signal indicating at least a second predetermined
temperature proximate the heating element, the second predetermined
temperature different than the first predetermined temperature
wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the transfer of energy
to the heating element if an ambient temperature exterior to the
housing exceeds a third predetermined temperature different than
both the first and second predetermined temperatures wherein the
apparatus is an inhaler device.
12. An apparatus comprising: a housing adapted to be handheld a
heating element disposed within the housing a heating element
switch electrically coupled with the heating element a heating
chamber disposed within the housing a mouthpiece displaceable
relative to the housing, the mouthpiece at least partially defining
a cavity which is adapted to receive a volatized phyto material a
controller electrically coupled with the heating element switch,
the controller adapted to control a transfer of energy to the
heating element wherein the controller is adapted to prevent the
transfer of energy to the heating element if the mouthpiece is not
displaced relative to the housing.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a heating chamber
cover adapted to at least partially eject the heating chamber from
the housing when the heating chamber cover is displaced relative to
the housing.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the controller is adapted to
prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if the
heating chamber cover is not in a closed position relative to the
housing.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the heating chamber cover is
adapted to lock in a closed position relative to the housing when a
temperature of the heating chamber is greater than a predetermined
temperature.
16. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a storage device
adapted to record a time that energy was transferred to the heating
element an alarm adapted to provide a next use reminder based on
the time that energy was transferred to the heating element.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the controller is adapted to
prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if a
predetermined time has not elapsed from the time that energy was
transferred to the heating element.
18. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a tube disposed
between the mouthpiece and the heating chamber, the tube adapted to
flex, the tube at least partially defining the cavity.
19. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a first
temperature sensor disposed within the heating chamber, wherein the
controller is adapted to prevent the transfer of energy to the
heating element if the first temperature sensor provides a first
signal indicating at least a first predetermined temperature within
the heating chamber.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 further comprising a second
temperature sensor proximate the heating element, wherein the
controller is adapted to prevent the transfer of energy to the
heating element if the second temperature sensor provides a second
signal indicating at least a second predetermined temperature
proximate the heating element, the second predetermined temperature
different than the first predetermined temperature.
21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the controller is adapted to
prevent the transfer of energy to the heating element if an ambient
temperature exterior to the housing exceeds a third predetermined
temperature different than both the first and second predetermined
temperatures.
22. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the apparatus is an inhaler
device.
23. A storage medium having instructions thereon which when
executed by a processor will cause the processor to perform actions
comprising: controlling a transfer of energy to a heating element
of an apparatus adapted to be handheld preventing the transfer of
energy to the heating element if a heating chamber cover of the
apparatus is not in a closed position relative to a housing of the
apparatus.
24. The storage medium of claim 23 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising recording a time
that energy was transferred to the heating element providing a next
use reminder based on the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element.
25. The storage medium of claim 24 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a predetermined time
has not elapsed from the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element.
26. The storage medium of claim 23 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a mouthpiece of the
apparatus is not displaced relative to the housing.
27. The storage medium of claim 23 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a first temperature
sensor of the apparatus, the first temperature sensor disposed
within a heating chamber of the apparatus, provides a first signal
indicating at least a first predetermined temperature within the
heating chamber.
28. The storage medium of claim 27 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a second temperature
sensor of the apparatus, the second temperature sensor proximate
the heating element, provides a second signal indicating at least a
second predetermined temperature proximate the heating element, the
second predetermined temperature different than the first
predetermined temperature.
29. The storage medium of claim 28 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if an ambient temperature
exterior to the housing exceeds a third predetermined temperature
different than both the first and second predetermined
temperatures.
30. The storage medium of claim 29 embodied in an inhaler
device.
31. The storage medium of claim 23 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising recording a time
that energy was transferred to the heating element providing a next
use reminder based on the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element preventing the transfer of energy to the heating
element if a predetermined time has not elapsed from the time that
energy was transferred to the heating element preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a mouthpiece of the
apparatus is not displaced relative to the housing preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a first temperature
sensor of the apparatus, the first temperature sensor disposed
within a heating chamber of the apparatus, provides a first signal
indicating at least a first predetermined temperature within the
heating chamber preventing the transfer of energy to the heating
element if a second temperature sensor of the apparatus, the second
temperature sensor proximate the heating element, provides a second
signal indicating at least a second predetermined temperature
proximate the heating element, the second predetermined temperature
different than the first predetermined temperature preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if an ambient temperature
exterior to the housing exceeds a third predetermined temperature
different than both the first and second predetermined
temperatures.
32. The storage medium of claim 31 embodied in an inhaler
device.
33. A storage medium having instructions thereon which when
executed by a processor will cause the processor to perform actions
comprising: controlling a transfer of energy to a heating element
of an apparatus adapted to be handheld preventing the transfer of
energy to the heating element if a mouthpiece of the apparatus is
not displaced relative to a housing of the apparatus.
34. The storage medium of claim 33 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a heating chamber
cover of the apparatus is not in a closed position relative to the
housing.
35. The storage medium of claim 33 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising recording a time
that energy was transferred to the heating element providing a next
use reminder based on the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element.
36. The storage medium of claim 35 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a predetermined time
has not elapsed from the time that energy was transferred to the
heating element.
37. The storage medium of claim 33 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a first temperature
sensor of the apparatus, the first temperature sensor disposed
within a heating chamber of the apparatus, provides a first signal
indicating at least a first predetermined temperature within the
heating chamber.
38. The storage medium of claim 37 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if a second temperature
sensor of the apparatus, the second temperature sensor proximate
the heating element, provides a second signal indicating at least a
second predetermined temperature proximate the heating element, the
second predetermined temperature different than the first
predetermined temperature.
39. The storage medium of claim 23 having further instructions
thereon which when executed by the processor will cause the
processor to perform further actions comprising preventing the
transfer of energy to the heating element if an ambient temperature
exterior to the housing exceeds a third predetermined temperature
different than both the first and second predetermined
temperatures.
40. The storage medium of claim 39 embodied in an inhaler device.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION
[0001] This application claims priority from Provisional
Application No. 60/713,611, filed Sep. 1, 2005, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS AND TRADE DRESS
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. This patent
document may show and/or describe matter which is or may become
trade dress of the owner. The copyright and trade dress owner has
no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent
disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent
files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright and trade
dress rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
[0003] 1. Field
[0004] This disclosure relates to inhaling devices.
[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0006] Herbs and botanicals have been used for thousands of years
by both ancient and modern civilizations. Aromatherapy, herbology,
and phyto-inhalation products are popular among many people.
[0007] At least a billion people worldwide smoke tobacco and other
phyto materials. However, because of health considerations or
various laws and regulations, smoking is now prohibited in many
airplanes, restaurants and other public places.
[0008] Products are now being introduced to deliver the pleasures
of smoking without polluting the environment. Examples of such
products include nicotine chewing gum and patches.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an inhaler.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of an inhaler.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an inhaler with a
cover removed.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an inhaler with a
cover removed.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an inhaler with a
cover removed.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a heating chamber and consumable
product.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of a volatization
assembly.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a perspective exploded view of a volatization
assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples
shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on
the apparatus and methods disclosed or claimed.
[0018] Description of Systems
[0019] Referring now to FIG. 1, there are shown a front perspective
view of a volatizing device 100. The term volatize refers to
causing a material to evaporate, become volatile, become a vapor or
be carried by a vapor. The volatizing device 100 may be designed to
volatize a phyto material. The term phyto refers to a plant. The
term plant refers to any organism constituting the kingdom
Plantae.
[0020] In general, volatizing devices volatize a substance.
Essential components of such substances are commonly referred to by
the coined terms substituent or constituent. However, as used
herein, the term constituent refers only to a phyto material or an
essential oil.
[0021] The volatizing device 100 may include a front housing 110, a
rear housing 112, a display 114, a mouthpiece 116, a power button
118, a temperature increase button 120, a temperature decrease
button 122, two indicator lights 126, a mouthpiece cover 128, a
mouthpiece slider 129, and a heating chamber cover 130.
[0022] The term housing refers to a structure that at least
partially covers, protects, or encloses a device. As assembled, the
front housing 110 and the rear housing 112 may provide a structure
for the volatizing device 100. The volatizing device 100 may be
designed to be handheld. The term handheld refers to a device that
is designed to be operated while held in the hand of a person. A
handheld device may be held and operated in one hand, or may be
held with one hand and operated with a second hand, or may be held
in one hand and operated in another fashion. A handheld device may
be portable, fit within a person's shirt pocket, slacks pocket,
purse, or handbag. Additionally, a handheld device may be adapted
to be secured to something (e.g., a wristband or a belt) via a
clip, an adhesive, a Velcro.RTM. type hook and loop fastener, or
other securing device. A handheld device is typically lightweight.
Thus, the volatizing device 100 is both portable and designed for
privacy.
[0023] For example, the dimensions of the volatizing device 100 may
be 3 inches in width, 4 inches in length and 1 inch in depth or
other dimensions. The front housing 110, rear housing 112,
mouthpiece 116, mouthpiece cover 128 and heating chamber cover 130
may include a plastic material, a metal material, a composite
material, a ceramic material and/or combinations thereof.
[0024] The materials selected for the components of the volatizing
device 100 may be determined based on cost of manufacture, life
cycle durability, vibration and shock resistance, resistance to
deformation based on heat, and other factors. In order to prevent
lacerations of a person's skin or clothing, the exterior surfaces
of the volatizing device 100 may be beveled, rounded, and/or
relatively smooth. In order to prevent discomfort and/or burns to a
person's skin or clothing, the components of the volatizing device
100 may include heat insulating features. For example, the interior
of the volatizing device features may include an insulating foam
fill. Additional insulating features may include surface coatings
and/or treatments such as powder coating and or paints utilizing
ceramic and/or other insulating materials.
[0025] The term mouthpiece refers to a portion of an apparatus
adapted both to allow a fluid to flow there through and at least
partially fit on or within a mouth of a person or mammal. The
mouthpiece 116 may at least partially define a cavity. The term
cavity refers to a hollow space at least partially surrounded by a
housing. The mouthpiece 116 may include a material selected to be
comfortable, both in texture and taste to a person's lips and
tongue. The mouthpiece 116 may have dimensions of 3/4 inches in
width, 1/2 inch in depth and 2 inches in length, or other
dimensions. The mouthpiece 116 may be disposed at a position which
is both comfortable for a person to hold the volatizing device 110
and inhale a volatized material from the mouthpiece 116.
[0026] The mouthpiece 116 may be adapted to be at least partially
retractable into the volatizing device 116. In a retracted
position, the mouthpiece cover 128 may be displaced to cover, hide
and/or protect the mouthpiece 116. The term displace refers to the
act of physically shifting, sliding, moving, or rotating something.
For example, the mouthpiece may slide and/or rotate to a position
within the volatizing device 116.
[0027] In turn, the mouthpiece cover 128 may be slid, shifted,
and/or rotated to hide the mouthpiece 116. By enclosing the
mouthpiece 116, germs, debris or other undesirable substances may
be prevented from building up on the mouthpiece 116. When the
volatizing device 100 is operated, a user may inhale a volatized
fluid via the mouthpiece 116. The term fluid includes liquids
and/or gases which may or may not include suspended fine
particulate solids. Examples of volatized materials which a person
may inhale include nicotine, essential oils, elixirs, therapeutic
agents, tonics, pharmaceuticals, phyto based constituents and/or
other remedies.
[0028] The mouthpiece 116 may be the sole or primary exit for
volatized materials. If volatization occurs with the mouthpiece 116
either retracted and/or covered, unsafe temperature and/or pressure
may build up within the volatizing device 110 and cause a failure.
Therefore, the volatizing device 100 may include safety features
that prevent operation while the mouthpiece cover 128 is covering
or partially covering the mouthpiece 116 and/or when the mouthpiece
is retracted or partially retracted within a cavity defined by the
front housing 110 and rear housing 112. Such safety features may be
mechanically activated and/or electronically activated.
[0029] Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a rear perspective
view of the volatizing device 100. In this view, a mouthpiece
slider 129 is visible. The mouthpiece slider is an example of a
mechanical device which may displace the mouthpiece 116. The
mouthpiece slider 129 may be attached to or integral to the
mouthpiece 116. The mouthpiece slider 129 may be adapted to slide
through a slot 131. The slot 131 may be defined by the rear housing
112, the front housing 110 (not shown) or other portion of the
volatizing device 100. Other examples (not shown) of mechanical
devices that may displace the mouthpiece 116 include winding knobs,
springs, belts, wheels and other devices.
[0030] A sensor (not shown) may detect whether the mouthpiece 116
is extended or not. This sensor may be used to control whether some
or all functions of the volatizing device 100 are operable. For
example, while the device may be able to power up when the
mouthpiece 116 is extended, volatization may be restricted. As a
safety precaution, extension of the mouthpiece 116 coupled with
switching of the power button 118 may both be required for
activation of the volatization device 100.
[0031] The heating chamber cover 130 is a cover adapted to at least
partially conceal and/or enclose an aperture (not shown) in the
front housing 110 and/or the rear housing 112 at a location
proximate to a heating chamber (described below). The heating
chamber cover 130 may be displaceable relative to the front housing
110, the rear housing 112, another portion of the volatizing device
100 or combinations thereof.
[0032] In FIG. 2, the heating chamber cover 130 is shown in a
closed position. The term closed refers to the blocking,
preventing, or obstruction of access to the interior or contents of
a structure. The term position refers to an arrangement of parts in
relation to one another or to an external source of orientation or
reference.
[0033] The heating chamber cover 130 may be displaced from the
closed position to an open position. Referring briefly to FIG. 5,
there is shown a front perspective view of an inhaler with a cover
removed. In FIG. 5, the heating chamber cover 130 is in an open
position, and a heating chamber 148 is accessible to a user of the
volatizing device 100. Although the heating chamber cover 130 is
shown as a device which slides among open and closed positions, the
heating chamber cover 130 may be displaced among open and closed
positions via rotations, which may include hinges, pins, pivots or
other rotating devices, notches, snapping on and off and other
electrical and/or mechanical methods.
[0034] The heating chamber cover 130 may provide protection to the
user such that when the volatizing device 100 is being operated,
the user and/or materials proximate the volatizing device 100 are
not subjected to burns and/or fire. Such protection may be achieved
by providing a heat insulation barrier between the heating chamber
148 and the exterior of the volatizing device 100.
[0035] As volatization is a process which requires heat, the
heating chamber 148 may achieve harmful temperatures. As a safety
feature, the heating chamber cover 130 may lock in position
relative to the volatizing device 100 if the heating chamber 148
exceeds a predetermined temperature. A predetermined temperature
may be selected as 120.degree. F. or another temperature. The term
lock refers to fastening together or closing of one thing relative
to another. The term fasten refers to causing parts which are
separate to hold together. The locking feature may be achieved via
expansion of coupled materials, a latch, a cam, a gear, electronic
controls or other means. Thus, the locking feature may prevent
burns, fires and/or other harm.
[0036] The power button 118, the temperature increase button 120,
the temperature decrease button 122, and a heater button 124 (FIG.
3) may be push-button switches. The term switch refers to a device
for making, breaking, opening, closing, or modifying the
connections of an electrical circuit. A button or push-button is a
type of switch which may have the shape of a disk, ball, other
shape that is able to be pushed, indented, or deformed inward by a
person's finger, thumb or hand.
[0037] The power button 118, the temperature increase button 120,
the temperature decrease button 122, and the heater button 124 may
be other types of switches. The location of the switches may be
selected based on ease of operation and ergonomics while holding
the volatizing device 100 in a single hand. Thus, the switches may
all be located on the front housing 110 or the rear housing 120.
The front housing 110 and the rear housing 120 may be designed such
that when assembled, they form, in combination, a plurality of
sides (not shown). For example, the front housing 110 and the rear
housing 120 may define an elongate rectangular solid, a cylinder, a
sphere or other geometry. Thus, an example the heater button 124
may be disposed on a left side of the volatizing device 100 as
shown in FIG. 3.
[0038] To promote safe operation, the location of the switches may
be distributed around the volatizing device 100 in order to prevent
accidental activation. Although the power button 118 may serve as
the primary switch for enabling the volatizing device 100,
additional switches may be required to be activated simultaneously
and/or in a timed sequence to activate the volatizing device
100.
[0039] Moreover, the power button 118, the temperature increase
button 120, the temperature decrease button 122 and the heater
button 124 may be a single switch (not shown) that interacts with a
controller (not shown) and the display 114. In such an embodiment,
a user of the volatizing device 100 may have the ability to scroll
through menus and enter various information to control the
volatizing device 100. Such information may include the user's
name, password, type of material to be volatized, amount of
material to be volatized, heat and temperature parameters for
volatization, time, date, and other information.
[0040] A display is a device which provides a visual image.
Examples of displays include light emitting diodes (LED), liquid
crystal displays (LCD) and other display types. Additional examples
of displays include a single or plurality of analog gauges, wheels,
needle pointers and other mechanical indicators. The display 114
may be disposed on, within or behind the front housing 110, the
rear housing 112 or both. The display 114 may be a single unit or a
combination of display units (not shown). The display 114 may have
dimensions and geometry that are familiar to users of handheld
devices. For example, the display 114 may have a width of 2 inches
and a length of 4 inches, or other dimensions. The display 114 may
provide various information including the temperature within a
heating chamber (discussed below).
[0041] The indicator lights 126 may be separate or distinct from
the display 114. The indicator lights 126 may provide information
that indicates that a battery (not shown) has sufficient charge to
perform a volatization operation. The indicator lights 126 may
illuminate when the unit is ready to volatize a material or is
actively volatizing a material. The indicator lights 126 may
identify an unsafe condition and indicate an automatic shutdown,
for example excessive heat or battery failure. The indicator lights
may be disposed proximate the display 114 or near one of the
switches, for example the power button 118, or other location.
[0042] The volatizing device 100 may include an illuminator (not
shown), for example a small light bulb or LED, which may
temporarily illuminate the display 114 should the operating
environment be dim or dark. Additionally, the display 114 may be
designed to support Braille. Such an embodiment may include a
plurality of small dots, disks or balls that variably protrude from
the display in order to communicate information to a blind person.
Additionally, the display 114 may be designed to support sound.
Such an embodiment may include a speaker or other sound emitting
device.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, there are shown
perspective exploded views of a volatization assembly 138. The
volatization assembly 138 may include the mouthpiece 116, a vapor
tube 140, a mouthpiece extension device 142, a chamber lid 144, an
upper seal 146, a heating chamber 148, a lower seal 150, a heating
element 152, a heating element housing 154, and a heating element
cover plate 156. The majority of the volatization assembly 138 may
be disposed within a cavity defined by the front housing 110 and
the rear housing 112. However, some portions of the volatization
assembly 138 may extend outside of the front housing 110 and the
rear housing 112.
[0044] The mouthpiece 116 may be disposed at one end of the
volatization assembly 138. The mouthpiece 116 may be attached to,
integral with or abut the vapor tube 140. The mouthpiece 116 and
the vapor tube 140 may, in combination, define a cavity for fluids
to flow therethrough. Thus, the mouthpiece 116 may receive a
volatized material in fluid form via the vapor tube 140.
[0045] The vapor tube 140 may be expandable. The term tube refers
to a hollow elongated body that is adapted to convey fluids. The
term expandable refers to the ability to modify a body's shape such
that the modified body has a larger volume than the original body.
For example, the vapor tube 140 may expand via bending, folding,
elongating, or stretching. The vapor tube 140 may also be adapted
to retract, contract or compact to a smaller size and volume.
[0046] The mouthpiece extension device 142 is a member that assists
in displacing the mouthpiece 116 and/or the vapor tube 140. The
mouthpiece extension device 142 may be integral to, attached to, or
abut the mouthpiece slider 129 (FIG. 2). The mouthpiece extension
device 142 may be integral to, attached to, or abut either the
mouthpiece 116 or the vapor tube 140. The mouthpiece extension
device 142 may be embodied as a spring as shown in FIG. 7, as a
lever as shown in FIG. 8 or another member. The mouthpiece
extension device 142 may be displaced upward to shift the
mouthpiece 116 into an extended position when the mouthpiece cover
128 is in the open position.
[0047] Disposed from top to bottom between the vapor tube 140 and
the heating element 152 may be a chamber lid 144, an upper seal
146, a heating chamber 148 and a lower seal 150.
[0048] The chamber lid 144 may be integral to, attached to, or abut
an opening 141 of the vapor tube 140. The chamber lid 144 and the
vapor tube 140 may at least partially define a cavity through which
a fluid may flow. Thus, the vapor tube 140 may receive a volatized
material via the chamber lid 144.
[0049] The upper seal 146 may be disposed between the chamber lid
144 and the heating chamber 148. The upper seal 146 may be integral
to, attached to, or abut one or both of the chamber lid 144 and/or
the heating chamber 148. The upper seal 146 may have a permeable
surface and/or at least partially define a cavity along with the
chamber lid 144. Thus, the chamber lid 144 may receive a volatized
material via the upper seal 146.
[0050] The upper seal 146 and the lower seal 150 may include a
mesh, filter, or screen to prevent non-vapor or solid material from
passing from the heating chamber 148 to either the chamber lid 144
or the heating element 152. Using a mesh, filter, or screen may
prevent loose tobacco or herbs from coming in contact with the
heating element 152 resulting in ignition. Additionally, the mesh,
filter, or screen may prevent solid particulate matter from being
inhaled by a human or other mammal and/or emitted into the
environment.
[0051] The lower seal 150 may be disposed between the heating
chamber 148 and the heating element housing 154. The lower seal 150
may abut, be integral with or attached to the heating chamber 148
and the heating element 152 and/or the heating element housing 154.
The lower seal 150 may be permeable to fluids.
[0052] The heating element 152 may be disposed at least partially
within the heating element housing 154. The heating element 152 may
include an electrical resistive material, for example, an aluminum
alloy, a ferrous alloy, carbon filament yarns, and equivalents
thereof similar to the materials used in an electrocautery surgical
tool, a heating element of an automotive cigarette lighter, or an
electric stove heating element. Additionally, the heating element
152 may include a honeycomb ceramic heating element, an infrared
heating element, and/or an inductive heating element. The term
heating element refers to a component which radiates heat based at
least in part on a chemical reaction, electrical resistance,
friction, electromagnetic fields, inductance or other physical
effect.
[0053] The heating element cover plate 156 may be disposed
abutting, integral to, or attached to an end of the heating element
housing 154. The heating element housing 154 and the heating
element cover plate 156 may include a heat resistant material with
insulating properties. Heat resistant materials include ceramics,
sintered metals, composites, fabrics and other materials.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown the heating chamber
148 and a consumable product 158. The heating chamber 148 may at
least partially define a cavity. The heating chamber 148 may have
the geometry of a hollow sphere, rectangular solid, cylinder or
other shape. The consumable product of FIG. 6 is a constituent 158.
The constituent 158 may be a phyto material or essential oil. The
constituent 158 may be formed and adapted for being disposed within
the heating chamber 148. Examples of a constituent are a pre-formed
cartridge of tobacco, a compressed matrix of material similar to a
medicine tablet, or a matrix of material similar to a sponge,
surgical cotton, compressed surgical cotton or gauze used to hold a
liquid form of constituent, essential oils, or herbs.
[0055] Unlike smoking where 80%-90% of the essential ingredients
are burned off and never absorbed by the lungs, volatization is
very efficient. Thus, the quantity of a phyto material, such as
tobacco, to safisfy a user may be substantially less than that in a
cigarette or cigar. Hence, a user may save money by not purchasing
as much tobacco. Moreover, the volafization process releases
substantially less byproducts into the environment as the majority
of a volatized material is transferred directly to a user's lungs.
In turn, second hand smoke and foul odor issues may be
substantially eliminated.
[0056] Each volatization operation may correspond to an inhalation
of a fluid. The number of inhalations per constituent 158 may
depend upon the nature of the constituent, the moisture content of
the constituent, and the user's lung capacity. For some materials
or constituents, one or two inhalations may be all that is
necessary to extract all of the essential ingredients. Other
constituents, tobacco for example, may require multiple
inhalations.
[0057] Many phyto materials volatize between 100 and 150 degrees
Celsius. The nicotine in tobacco, for example, vaporizes between
approximately 180 and 200 degrees Celsius. Volatile oils such as
camphor and mint vaporize at as low as 30 to 60 degrees Celsius.
Some medicinal herbs vaporize at 190 to 210 degrees Celsius.
However, the moisture content and ambient pressure may determine
the ideal volatization conditions. Many phyto materials ignite at
235.degree. C. Thus, a predetermined maximum temperature for the
heating chamber 148 may be set at 230.degree. C. or other
temperature.
[0058] The heating chamber 148 may include a heat resistant
material with insulating properties. The term chamber refers to a
structure which at least partially encloses a space designed for a
special purpose, such as volatizing or heating. The heating chamber
148 may have a cylindrical form with open ends, a spherical mesh, a
porous cube or other geometry. The cross section of the heating
chamber 148 may have a rectangular, circular, triangular or other
shaped geometry. The size of the heating chamber 148 may be
selected based on the number of volatizations a given quantity of
constituent may be used for. For example, a one gram sample of
constituent, which may require 500 cubic millimeters or other
volume, may provide multiple doses or inhalations of volatized
material.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 8, the volatizing device 100 may
include a sensor (not shown). The term sensor refers to a device
designed to respond to a physical stimulus and transmit a resulting
signal. The term signal refers to a detectable physical quantity or
impulse, such as a voltage, current, or magnetic field strength.
Examples of sensors include temperature sensors, pressure sensors,
mass sensors, displacement sensors, and other sensors.
[0060] The sensor (not shown) may be disposed proximate the heating
element 152. The term proximate refers to being physically very
near. The sensor (not shown) may provide a signal to a controller
(described below). Thus, the controller may monitor the temperature
of the heating element 152. Additional sensors may be disposed
within the heating chamber 148, upstream and/or downstream of the
heating chamber 148 and/or exterior or integral to the front
housing 110 or rear housing 112. Such sensors may provide the
controller with data regarding the ambient environmental
conditions, the parameters of the heating element 152, the heating
chamber 154, the constituent 158, the volatized fluid (not shown),
and other elements of the volatizing device 100.
[0061] Referring again to FIG. 5, the volatizing device 100 may
include an extractor 160, an extractor spring 161, and an extractor
pivot 162. The extractor 160, extractor spring 161 and extractor
pivot 162, in combination, form an embodiment of an ejector. The
term ejector refers to a device that drives something out or
physically displaces something. An ejector may be electronically
and/or mechanically activated. Examples of ejectors include levers,
slides, springs, and displaceable magnets.
[0062] With respect to the ejector of FIG. 5, when the heating
chamber cover 130 is shifted to an open position such that the
heating chamber 148 is exposed, the extractor 160 rotates about the
extractor pivot 162. In turn, the ejector lifts the upper seal 146,
and the extractor spring 161 ejects the heating chamber 148 from
the volatization assembly 138.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, there is shown a front
perspective view of an inhaler with a cover removed. The volatizing
device 100 may include a battery 132, a front circuit board 134, a
side circuit board 136, and the volatization assembly 138.
[0064] The battery 132 may be supplemented with or substituted with
a USB power source, a solar cell, a vehicle's accessory power
source, a household AC power or other power source. The term
battery refers to a cell, group of cells, electrical device or
system which converts stored chemical and/or mechanical energy into
electrical energy by a reversible chemical and/or mechanical
process, and can provide electrical power to a circuit or system.
The battery 132 may have a geometry to provide easy installation
and replacement. Examples of batteries include alkaline, nickel
cadmium, nickel metal hydride, lithium ion, polymer lithium ion,
and other materials. The battery 132 may be rechargeable and/or
disposable.
[0065] The battery 132 may be recharged by installing the
volatizing device 100 into a recharging cradle (not shown) or by
plugging a power cord into a power connector (not shown). When the
volatizing device 100 is being charged, the indicator light 126
and/or the display 114 may identify that the volatizing device is
being charged. Such identification may be via a flashing LED or
display of a string of characters such as "charging." Additional
embodiments of indication include illuminating unique colors for
charge state. For example, red may indicate charging is in process
and green may indicate charging is complete.
[0066] The front circuit board 132 and/or the side circuit board
136 may include a controller. The controller may control operation
of the device 100, including how energy is transferred energy to
the heating element 152. The term transfer refers to the act of
causing energy to pass from one source to another. The term energy
refers to a capacity for doing work. The controller may include one
or more logic arrays, memories, analog circuits, digital circuits,
software, firmware, and processors such as microprocessors, field
programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated
circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs) and
programmable logic arrays (PLAs), an electric device and/or
combinations therein. An electric device may include a computing
device, a processor, a storage device, a memory or combinations
thereof.
[0067] A storage device may include a storage media included with
or otherwise coupled or attached to a computing device. These
storage media include, for example, magnetic media such as hard
disks, floppy disks and tape; optical media such as compact disks
(CD-ROM and CD-RW) and digital versatile disks (DVD and DVD.+-.RW);
flash memory cards; and any other storage media. As used herein, a
storage device is a device that allows for reading and/or writing
to a storage medium. Storage devices include hard disk drives, DVD
drives, flash memory devices, and others.
[0068] By data unit, it is meant a frame, cell, datagram, packet or
other unit of information.
[0069] A "computing device" is a device with a processor and memory
that can execute instructions. Computing devices can be, for
example, personal computers, video game systems, personal video
recorders, digital image recorders, digital video recorders,
digital audio recorders, telephones, personal digital assistants
(PDAs), and special-purpose devices.
[0070] Computing devices may run an operating system, such as
Linux, Unix, MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, Palm OS, and Apple Mac OS X
operating systems. The volatizing device 100 may connect to, be
integrated with, and/or communicate with one or more computing
devices. By having the ability the communicate with other computing
devices, the volatization process may be externally controlled or
monitored. Moreover, programming the controls of the volatizing
device 100 may be performed externally and/or communicated to the
controller for standalone operation.
[0071] Such communications may be achieved via wired
communications, fiber optic communication, and/or wireless
communications such as WiFi.RTM., infrared communication,
Bluetooth.RTM., WiMax, UHF, VHF, CDMA, TDMA, GSM, or other cellular
other wireless communication. The volatizing device 100 may be a
component of a computing device. The volatizing device 100 may
embody one or more computing device.
[0072] The controller may record information. The term record
refers to causing information to be registered by a storage device
via electrical and/or mechanical means so that the information may
be reproduced.
[0073] The information may include, but is not limited to, battery
life remaining, temperature setting of the heating element 152,
temperature setting of the heating chamber 148, number of doses for
a current constituent, date, time, date and time last used, and an
alarm for next use. Such information may be displayed on the
display 114.
[0074] The term alarm refers to a device that causes a notice,
warning, or announcement that calls attention to a circumstance or
event. The alarm for next use may indicate a dispensing time for
sensitive medicines to the user. Examples of an alarm include
information displayed on the display 114, sound projected from a
speaker (not shown), vibration from a vibrating element (not
shown), blinking from the indicator lights 126 and combinations
therein.
[0075] The alarm may activate after a predetermined time period has
elapsed. The term elapsed refers to a passing of time.
[0076] A volatization assembly is a subset of components of a
volatizing device which volatizes a phyto material and allows for
the displacement of the resulting fluid to exit the volatizing
device. Typical resulting fluids from a volatizing device are
inhaled into a user's lungs in a much smoother fashion than typical
smoke.
[0077] Description of Processes of Operation and Use
[0078] Referring again to FIG. 1, the mouthpiece cover 128 may be
slid into the open position. The mouthpiece 116 may then be
extended outside of a cavity defined by the front housing 110 and
rear housing 120. The extension of the mouthpiece 116 may be
achieved via a spring mechanism (not shown), the mouthpiece
extension lever 129 (not shown), or other process. As a safety
feature, when the mouthpiece 116 is in a retracted position, the
controller may prevent operation of the volatizing device 100.
[0079] Referring again to both FIG. 1 and FIG. 5, the heating
chamber 148 may be at least partially ejected from the volatizing
device 100 by displacing the heating chamber cover 130.
[0080] A user may then remove the heating chamber 148. The user may
insert a phyto material, for example, a tobacco cartridge, a loose
tobacco or herb into the heating chamber 148. If the phyto material
is a machine formed tobacco cartridge, the user may insert the
cartridge into the heating chamber 148. The user may center the
cartridge in the heating chamber 148 so the ends of the cartridge
are flush with the ends of the heating chamber 148. If the phyto
material includes loose materials, such as tobacco or herbs, the
user may insert the loose phyto material into one of the heating
chamber 148 that includes a mesh screen.
[0081] A user may then insert the heating chamber 148 into the
volatizing device 100. The user may displace the heating chamber
cover 130 into a closed or locked position. The user may physically
observe a click, snap or resistance indicating proper closure.
[0082] The volatizing device 100 may be powered by switching the
power button 118. In response, the display 114 may display an
alphanumeric message and/or the current temperature to indicate to
a user that the power is on. The user may adjust the temperature
setting by pressing the temperature increase button 120 or
temperature decrease button 122. When the temperature setting is
adjusted as desired the existing setting may remain displayed for a
predetermined time to allow the user to confirm the temperature
setting.
[0083] Once the volatizing device 100 has been prepared for
operation, for example, a constituent has been loaded in the
heating chamber 148, the heating chamber 148 has been loaded in the
volatization assembly 138, the heating chamber cover 130 has been
closed, the mouthpiece 116 has been extended and the power button
118 has been activated, then the volatization process may commence
by activating the heater button 124.
[0084] Energy may be transferred to the heating element 152 (FIG.
7) in response to switching and/or sustained depressing the heat
activation button 124 (FIG. 3). When the heating chamber 148
achieves the predetermined temperature, the controller, based on a
signal provided by a sensor, may cause energy to cease flowing to
the heating element 152. Likewise, when the temperature within
heating chamber 148 falls below the predetermined temperature, the
controller may cause energy to flow to the heating element 152.
[0085] While the heater button 124 is depressed, an indicator light
126 may illuminate and/or a temperature may be displayed on the
display 114. The controller may prevent energy from being
transferred to the heating element 152 when the heating chamber 148
reaches a predetermined temperature, for example 190.degree. C.
Thus, a given constituent will not ignite or burn.
[0086] During operation, a user may press and hold the heater
button 124 for a time sufficient to heat up the heating element 152
and the constituent to a temperature sufficient to volatize or
vaporize the constituent.
[0087] While holding the heater button 124 the user may apply
suction at the mouthpiece 116 by inhaling slightly. The suction
from inhaling may introduce ambient air into the heating element
housing 154 and through the heating chamber 148. The term ambient
refers to surrounding environmental conditions.
[0088] Thus, the ambient air may be heated and then aid in
volatizing the constituent. The resulting volatized fluid may then
pass through the expandable vapor tube 140, through the mouthpiece
116 and into the surrounding environment, a mammal or a human.
[0089] After the user has received a desired quantity of volatized
fluid, the user may switch the power button 118 to power down the
volatizing device 100.
[0090] The controller may provide various safety functions. For
example, the controller may prevent energy from being transferred
to the heating element 152 if the temperature or pressure indicated
by one of the sensors exceeds a predetermined value. For example,
if the temperature of the heating element 152 exceeds 235.degree.
C. or the temperature inside the heating chamber 148 exceeds
230.degree. C., the controller may prevent energy from being
transferred to the heating element 152.
[0091] Predetermined temperatures or pressures may be selected
and/or programmed based on the constituent 158, the heating element
152, the materials which compose the front and rear housings 110,
112 or other parameters. Predetermined temperatures and pressures
may be set below the ignition point of a given constituent 158.
[0092] Following consumption of a phyto material, the user may
desire to remove the volatized phyto material. However, the heating
chamber 148 may be at a harmful temperature. The controller and/or
a mechanical device (not shown) may cause the heating chamber cover
130 to remain in a locked position until the heating chamber 148
cools to a safe temperature.
[0093] Once the heating chamber 148 is relatively cool, the user
may remove the heating chamber 148 and then remove the consumed
material. Consumed material may be blown out, shaken out, be
removed with a cotton swab, a toothpick, a small bristle brush, or
other cleanser or device.
[0094] The battery 132 may require periodic recharging or
replacement. The controller may monitor the charge of the battery
132. If the battery 132 requires recharging, the controller may
cause an image to be displayed on the display 114 and/or an
indicator light 126 to illuminate a predetermined color and/or
blink. Additionally, the controller may cause a speaker (not shown)
to emit a pre-recorded message, a chirp or beep. The controller may
be adapted to notify the user when the batter has 5 minutes of use
remaining or other charge remaining.
[0095] To recharge the volatizing device 100, the user may connect
the volatizing device 100 via a charging transformer into a
standard 120 AC outlet or another power source. During charging,
the controller may cause a message to be displayed on the display
114, and/or an indicator light 126 to illuminate or flash. When the
battery 132 is fully charged, the controller may cause the user to
be so notified.
[0096] The controller may prevent the battery from overcharging or
undercharging. Such techniques are provided with the use of smart
batteries and smart chargers. Thus, the controller may include
software that enables the volatizing device 100 to provide smart
charger functionality.
[0097] Additionally, the controller may prevent energy from being
transferred to the heating element 152 if the heating chamber cover
130 is open or if the mouthpiece 116 is in a retracted position.
This prevents unintentional heating of the heating element 152 if
the heater button 124 is accidentally depressed.
[0098] Heating elements, switches and controllers may fail due to
rapid cycling. Moreover, rapid cycling of the heating element 154
may cause deformation of structural materials such as the front
housing 110 and the rear housing 112. In order to prevent premature
failure of the volatizing device 100, the controller may prevent
energy from being transferred to the heating element 152 if a
predetermined time has not elapsed from the last transfer of energy
to the heating element 152.
[0099] Closing Comments
[0100] The foregoing is merely illustrative and not limiting,
having been presented by way of example only. Although examples
have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those having
ordinary skill in the art that changes, modifications, and/or
alterations may be made.
[0101] Although many of the examples presented herein involve
specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should
be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in
other ways to accomplish the same objectives. With regard to
flowcharts, additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps
as shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the methods
described herein. Acts, elements and features discussed only in
connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from
a similar role in other embodiments.
[0102] For any means-plus-function limitations recited in the
claims, the means are not intended to be limited to the means
disclosed herein for performing the recited function, but are
intended to cover in scope any means, known now or later developed,
for performing the recited function.
[0103] As used herein, "plurality" means two or more.
[0104] As used herein, a "set" of items may include one or more of
such items.
[0105] As used herein, whether in the written description or the
claims, the terms "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having",
"containing", "involving", and the like are to be understood to be
open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the
transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially
of", respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases
with respect to claims.
[0106] Use of ordinal terms such as "first", "second", "third",
etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself
connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element
over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are
performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim
element having a certain name from another element having a same
name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim
elements.
[0107] As used herein, "and/or" means that the listed items are
alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of
the listed items.
* * * * *