U.S. patent application number 17/371521 was filed with the patent office on 2021-10-28 for smoking apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is WAREHOUSE GOODS LLC. Invention is credited to Bruce A. Hoch, Charles V. Hoch.
Application Number | 20210329968 17/371521 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005708547 |
Filed Date | 2021-10-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210329968 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hoch; Charles V. ; et
al. |
October 28, 2021 |
SMOKING APPARATUS
Abstract
A smoking apparatus comprising a main body comprising a
combustion chamber fluidly coupled to an aperture in a mouthpiece;
an outer layer at least partially surrounding the main body; and
wherein the outer layer is formed of an at least partially
transparent material and the main body is at least partially
visible within the outer layer.
Inventors: |
Hoch; Charles V.; (Boca
Raton, FL) ; Hoch; Bruce A.; (Boca Raton,
FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
WAREHOUSE GOODS LLC |
Boca Raton |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005708547 |
Appl. No.: |
17/371521 |
Filed: |
July 9, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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16688815 |
Nov 19, 2019 |
11058148 |
|
|
17371521 |
|
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62890979 |
Aug 23, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29C 45/14819 20130101;
A24F 1/30 20130101; B29C 45/0001 20130101; B29L 2031/7414 20130101;
A24F 1/32 20130101; B29K 2083/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 1/32 20060101
A24F001/32; B29C 45/14 20060101 B29C045/14; B29C 45/00 20060101
B29C045/00; A24F 1/30 20060101 A24F001/30 |
Claims
1. A smoking apparatus comprising: a main body of a first material
including a combustion chamber fluidly coupled to an aperture of a
mouthpiece, the main body having an outer shape; an outer layer of
a second material at least partially surrounding the main body, the
second material having a deformable property; wherein the outer
layer is non-separable from the main body.
2. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a
receptacle positioned at least partially within the combustion
chamber, and wherein the receptacle shields the outer layer from
contact with combustibles positioned within the receptacle.
3. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the main body has a
sidewall thickness around the aperture such that the main body
forms a rim around a periphery of the aperture and the outer layer
is spaced away from the aperture around the periphery of the
aperture at the rim by the sidewall thickness.
4. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one
decorative feature is positioned on an outer surface of the main
body, wherein the outer layer encapsulates the at least one
decorative feature, and wherein at least a portion of the outer
layer contacts the main body adjacent to the decorative
feature.
5. The smoking apparatus of claim 4, wherein the decorative feature
is contained in the outer layer.
6. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein an outer surface of
the outer layer has a shape that includes relief features that
replicate surface features of the main body.
7. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outer layer is
secured to the main body by overmolding and forms a single part
with the main body.
8. The smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first material has
an elastically deformable property.
9. A smoking apparatus comprising: a main body with an outer
surface and fluid pathway extending through the main body, the main
body having an outer shape; an outer layer at least partially
covering at least a part of the outer surface of the main body; and
wherein the main body and the outer layer are joined together to
form a single part.
10. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, wherein the main body is
formed of a material having an elastically deformable property.
11. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: a
receptacle assembled to the main body and outer layer.
12. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, wherein an outer shape of the
outer layer is substantially dissimilar to the outer shape of the
main body.
13. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, wherein the main body further
comprises at least one decorative feature defined on the outer
surface of the main body, wherein the outer layer encapsulates the
decorative feature, and wherein at least a portion of the outer
layer contacts the main body adjacent to the decorative
feature.
14. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, wherein a power source is
configured to supply power to an electrical component positioned
within the main body or outer layer.
15. The smoking apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: a power
source configured to supply power to an electrical component,
wherein the electrical component is configured to ignite a
combustible material, and wherein the outer layer is at least
partially molded about at least a part of the outer surface of the
main body.
16. A smoking apparatus comprising: a main body of a first moldable
material having a deformable property, and including a combustion
chamber fluidly coupled to an aperture of a mouthpiece, the main
body having an outer shape; an outer layer of a second material at
least partially surrounding the main body, the second material
having a deformable property; wherein the outer layer is
non-separable from the main body.
17. The smoking apparatus of claim 16, wherein at least one
decorative feature is positioned on an outer surface of the main
body, wherein the outer layer encapsulates the at least one
decorative feature, and wherein at least a portion of the outer
layer contacts the main body adjacent to the decorative
feature.
18. The smoking apparatus of claim 16, wherein an outer surface of
the outer layer has a shape that includes relief features that
replicate surface features of the main body.
19. The smoking apparatus of claim 16, wherein an outer surface of
the outer layer has a shape which is substantially dissimilar to
the outer shape of the main body.
20. The smoking apparatus of claim 16, wherein a power source is
configured to supply power to an electrical component positioned
within the main body or outer layer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] The application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application
No. 62/890,979 filed 23 Aug. 2019, titled "Smoking Apparatus"; and
to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/688,815 filed 19 Nov. 2019,
titled "Smoking Apparatus" which are all incorporated by reference
herein, in their entirety and for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The following detailed description relates to a smoking
apparatus. More particularly, the description relates to a smoking
apparatus with a main body with an outer layer of an at least
partially transparent material.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Current silicone smoking apparatuses offer advantages, such
as durability and lightweight characteristics. They may have a
limited variety of desired visual effects implemented with respect
to a particular shape. There may be perceived disadvantages when
comparing silicone to the traditional pipe material of glass. One
of those disadvantages may be the limitation of visual effects that
can offer uniqueness within a particular shape. Generally, silicone
rubber is visibly differentiated from glass by a solid surface
and/or opaque or semi-opaque appearance, and it may be considered
difficult to create visual depth effects where silicone is used in
the manufacture of the smoking apparatus.
[0004] Another potential disadvantage of current silicone smoking
apparatuses is the temporary or permanent discoloration and/or
irreversible oxidation or damage to silicone pipes from general
use. For example, a surface of silicone rubber may be temporarily
or permanently discolored or damaged when exposed to the tars that
may be produced when burning smoking products such as tobacco or
hemp. This damage may be in the form of discoloration, and may be
more noticeable when the silicone pipe is clear, transparent or
light in color. Solid colored silicone rubber may mask the
oxidation, which is why it may be used in smoking apparatuses.
Silicone may also become dirty more easily than other materials,
such that clear or lighter colored silicones may not typically be
used for devices that will be constantly or consistently subjected
to handling.
[0005] There is a need for a smoking apparatus which includes an
enhanced variety of aesthetic appearances, and/or improved
performance related to discoloration or oxidation.
SUMMARY
[0006] In an example, a smoking apparatus includes a main body of a
first material including a combustion chamber fluidly coupled to an
aperture of a mouthpiece. The main body has an outer shape. An
outer layer of a second material at least partially surrounds the
main body. The second material has a deformable property. The outer
layer is formed of an at least partially transparent material and
the outer shape of the main body is at least partially visible
through the outer layer.
[0007] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a receptacle
positioned at least partially within the combustion chamber. The
receptacle shields the outer layer from contact with combustibles
positioned within the receptacle.
[0008] In an example, the main body further includes at least one
decorative feature positioned about an outer surface of the main
body. The outer layer surrounds the at least one decorative
feature.
[0009] In an example, the at least one decorative feature is placed
on the outer surface of the main body. The outer layer surrounds
the at least one decorative feature.
[0010] In an example, the at least one decorative feature is formed
on the outer surface of the main body. The outer layer surrounds
the decorative feature.
[0011] In an example, the main body forms a border about the
aperture of the mouthpiece, and the outer layer is positioned
adjacent the border.
[0012] In an example, an outer surface of the outer layer has a
shape which is substantially similar to a shape of an outer surface
of the main body.
[0013] In an example, an outer surface of the outer layer has a
shape that includes relief features created by surface features
positioned on the main body.
[0014] In an example, the outer layer is overmolded onto the main
body.
[0015] In an example, the second material has an elastically
deformable property.
[0016] In an example, a smoking apparatus includes a main body with
an outer surface and fluid pathway extending through the main body.
The main body has an outer shape. An outer layer is at least
partially molded about at least a part of the outer surface of the
main body. The outer layer is formed of an at least partially
transparent material and the outer shape of the main body is at
least partially visible through the outer layer.
[0017] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a proximal
end, and the outer layer at the proximal end has a consistent
thickness.
[0018] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a proximal
end, and the outer layer at the proximal end has a varying
thickness.
[0019] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a terminal
end, and the outer layer at the terminal end has a consistent
thickness.
[0020] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a terminal
end, and the outer layer at the terminal end has a varying
thickness.
[0021] In an example, the smoking apparatus includes a receptacle
and the receptacle is assembled to the main body and outer
layer.
[0022] In an example, an outer surface of the outer layer has a
shape which is substantially similar to an outer shape of the main
body.
[0023] In an example, an outer shape of the outer layer is
substantially dissimilar to an outer shape of the main body.
[0024] In an example, the main body further includes at least one
decorative feature positioned about the outer surface of the main
body. The outer layer is molded over the decorative feature.
[0025] In an example, the outer layer is formed via an insert mold
and positioned about the main body.
[0026] In an example, a smoking apparatus includes a main body with
an outer surface and fluid pathway extending through the main body.
The main body has an outer shape. An outer layer is at least
partially molded about at least a part of the outer surface of the
main body. A power source is configured to supply power to an
electrical component. The outer layer is formed of an at least
partially transparent material and the outer shape of the main body
is at least partially visible through the outer layer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the smoking
apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of the smoking apparatus of
FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view along line 4-4 of the
smoking apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 4B is a partially exploded view of the cross-sectional
view of the smoking apparatus of FIG. 4A.
[0032] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a smoking apparatus
in accordance with an example.
[0033] FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view along line 6-6 of the
smoking apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view along line 7-7 of the
smoking apparatus of FIG. 2.
[0035] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0036] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0037] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0038] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0039] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0040] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0041] FIG. 14 shows a partially exploded view of the smoking
apparatus of FIG. 13.
[0042] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0043] FIG. 16 shows a partially exploded view of the smoking
apparatus of FIG. 15.
[0044] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0045] FIG. 18 shows a partially exploded view of the smoking
apparatus of FIG. 17.
[0046] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0047] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0048] FIG. 21 shows a partially exploded view of the smoking
apparatus of FIG. 20.
[0049] FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0050] FIG. 23 shows a cross-sectional view along line 23-23 of the
smoking apparatus of FIG. 22.
[0051] FIG. 24 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of a smoking
apparatus in accordance with an example.
[0052] FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus in
accordance with an example.
[0053] FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view along line 24-24 of the
smoking apparatus of FIG. 23.
[0054] FIG. 27 shows a simplified block diagram of the smoking
apparatus in accordance with an example.
[0055] FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of a smoking
apparatus in accordance with an example.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0056] The following description generally relates to a smoking
apparatus with a main body with a fluid pathway extending there
through, the main body at least partially covered with an outer
layer of an at least partially transparent, flexible, and/or
resilient material. The application of a flexible material to a
main pipe body may offer many advantages, such as durability,
weight, and ease of varying design aesthetics.
[0057] The apparatus of the current disclosure depicts a smoking
apparatus with a main body at least partially covered by an outer
layer or body. In some examples, the smoking apparatus may include
a layer of an at least partially transparent silicone rubber formed
over a main body to create a single, non-separable part. In some
examples, a smoking apparatus has a main body with a visual effect
that is visibly depicted through an outer layer. In some examples,
the apparatus may be formed using a technique commonly known as
over-molding or insert-molding. In some examples, the main body may
include a lumen or gas pathway extending through it, with an outer
layer formed of an at least partially transparent silicone rubber.
The silicone rubber outer layer or body of the disclosed apparatus
and/or method may provide an advantage in contrast to smoking
apparatuses made of other materials, such as glass, because it is
able to withstand somewhat rough handling, such as that when the
apparatus may be stored, used and/or transported.
[0058] In some examples, the outer layer may appear to be clear or
at least partially transparent, but the outer layer may include
attributes of durable silicone rubber, such as at least one of
being clear, durable, deformable or resilient. Deformation or
resiliency may be interpreted as the elastic deformation of a solid
that is reversible, path-independent (such as deformation being
caused by internal or external loading that includes extension,
compression, bending and twisting) and fully or at least partially
recovered on unloading. For example, if a user presses a finger tip
into the outer layer, the outer layer may deflect as the force is
applied. Once the force from the finger tip is removed, the outer
layer may rebound to appear unchanged. In some examples, the
material may deform and rebound to show a remnant effect, such as a
depression, from the force. In some examples, the outer layer is
elastically, resiliently and/or reversibly deformable, such that it
is capable of absorbing internal or external loading or forces. The
deformation caused by the loading forces may not cause permanent
deformation or damage, or may in some instances result in some
remaining deformation. In some examples, the outer layer may be
elastically deformed upon the application of an external load or
force. Upon the removal or unloading of the external load or force,
the outer layer at least partially or entirely returns or reverts
to its original shape and/or size, or surface contour.
[0059] In some examples, the outer layer may be formed of a
material having a Shore A scale durometer in the range 0-100, in
some examples having an extra soft Shore A durometer inclusive of
the range of 0-10, a soft Shore A durometer inclusive of the range
of 10-35, a medium-soft Shore A durometer inclusive of the range of
35-60, a medium hard Shore A durometer inclusive of the range of
60-80, a hard Shore A durometer inclusive of the range of 80-100,
or a Shore A durometer value in multiple ranges.
[0060] In some examples, the outer layer may be formed of a
material having a Shore 00 scale durometer in the range 0-100, in
some examples having an extra soft Shore 00 durometer inclusive of
the range of 0-50, a soft Shore 00 durometer inclusive of the range
of 50-70, a medium-soft Shore 00 durometer inclusive of the range
of 75-90, a medium hard Shore 00 durometer inclusive of the range
of 90-100, or a Shore 00 durometer value in multiple ranges.
[0061] In some examples, the outer layer may be formed of a
material having a Shore D scale durometer in the range 0-100, in
some examples having an medium hard Shore D durometer inclusive of
the range of 0-30, a hard Shore D durometer inclusive of the range
of 30-60, an extra hard Shore D durometer inclusive of the range of
60-100, or a Shore D durometer value in multiple ranges.
[0062] In some examples, the main body, if made of a moldable
material, may have similar properties to the outer layer. In some
examples, the main body may be rigid, flexible, durable,
deformable, or resilient. In some examples, the main body may be
formed of a material with a Shore 00, Shore A, or Shore D scale
durometer.
[0063] In some examples, the apparatus is a smoking apparatus
constructed of a base part or main body that may extend to all
openings and surfaces that may come in contact with the tars or
contamination from a combusted smoking product, or heat from a type
of ignition source. In examples where the main body extends to an
outlet opening and surfaces that may come in contact with the
contaminants described above, the main body may help to protect the
outer layer from heat from a type of ignition source, provides
oxidation resistance, and effectively prevent or reduce the
oxidation and/or discoloration from contaminants. In some examples,
a smoking apparatus includes a main body including a receptacle or
bowl positioned at an inlet to the main body, the bowl also
covering the opening in the outer layer and surrounding surface
from the same heat, oxidation, contaminants and/or discoloration.
In some examples, the apparatus is constructed to help add at least
one visual depth effect.
[0064] Additionally, the present disclosure includes a method of
utilizing a manufacturing technique in one example of forming the
disclosed smoking apparatus.
[0065] FIGS. 1-4B and 6-7 are various views of an example of a
smoking apparatus. In some examples, the smoking apparatus may
include a proximal end or enlarged end or enlarged portion 101
coupled with a stem 114 extending away from the enlarged end. On
the other end of the stem, opposite the proximal end or enlarged
end 101, is the terminal end 103. A fluid pathway is formed through
the smoking apparatus, from the proximal end to the terminal end.
In some examples, and with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the smoking
apparatus 100 includes a main body 102 and an outer layer 104, and
the fluid pathway extends through the main body. The outer layer
104 may be a layer that at least partially covers various portions
or segments of the main body 102, and as shown here, may
encapsulate various portions or segments, or substantially the
entirety, of the main body 102. In some examples, the outer layer
104 is formed of an at least partially transparent material, in
which case the shape, size, and color of the main body 102, and any
other features if present, may be visible through the at least
partially transparent outer layer 104.
[0066] In some examples, the main body 102 is formed using a
solid-colored material, such as silicone rubber. Examples of
silicone rubber for use in some example embodiments include
compression molded, platinum cured silicone. In some examples, the
main body may or may be formed with cured pigments. In some
examples, the outer layer, which may form an outer body, may have a
generally consistent thickness about the main body. In some
examples, different portions of the outer layer may have a
thickness that varies. In some examples, an outer surface 181 of
the outer layer may have the same, similar, or different shape from
an outer surface 183 or outer shape of the inner layer.
[0067] In some examples, the outer layer is formed so that the main
body is visible through the outer layer. In some examples, the
outer layer is formed of an at least partially transparent material
and the main body is at least partially visible within the outer
layer. Examples of an at least partially transparent material
include 100% optically clear liquid silicone rubber, clouded clear
compression molded silicone rubber, hardened silicone, and
heat-cured rubber (HCR) silicone.
[0068] In some examples, the main body of a smoking apparatus, such
as the smoking apparatus 100 of FIGS. 1-4B and 6-7, may include a
first or enlarged portion 101 or end coupled with a stem 114
extending away from the enlarged end. On the other end of the stem,
opposite the proximal end or enlarged end 101, is the terminal end
103.
[0069] FIGS. 4A-4B and 6-7 includes various cross sectional views
of the smoking apparatus 100. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of
the smoking apparatus 100 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4B
is a partially exploded view of FIG. 4A. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B,
the enlarged end 101 includes a combustion chamber 106.
[0070] The combustion chamber 106 includes an inlet and may have an
upper region 197 and a lower region 195. The upper region 197 may
include an ignition region 112 formed at least partially by a
recess 132 and receptacle 108. The recess 132 includes a large
aperture 118 formed through the main body 102 and the outer layer
104. A smoking product or combustibles 99 may be placed at least
partially within the ignition region 112.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 7, the lower region 195 of the combustion
chamber 106 may also include a vent aperture 128 formed in a
sidewall 130 of the enlarged end 101. The vent aperture 128 may be
fluidly connected to a lower region 195 of the combustion chamber
via a lumen 129.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 3, the stem 114 may include a lumen 127
that ends through the stem 114, fluidly connecting the combustion
chamber with an aperture 126 of the terminal end 103. In some
examples, the terminal end 103 is a mouthpiece 110. The stem and
terminal end may be formed at an angle with the combustion chamber.
In some examples, the angle may be substantially perpendicular,
substantially 90 degrees, or between 45 and 135 degrees.
[0073] In some examples the outer layer 104 and main body 102 may
include features to help assemble various components together, such
as at T4 in FIG. 4A. As shown in FIG. 4B, the combustion chamber's
recess 132 includes a first groove 182 and flange 180 formed in the
outer layer 104, and a second groove 184 formed in the main body
102. The first groove 182, flange 180, and second groove 184 may
help to form the aperture 118. In some examples, the shape of the
first groove 182, flange 180 and second groove 184 may be similar
or different. The overall shape of the aperture 118 may be
circular, oval, square, oblong shaped, etc. In this example, the
flange 180 of the combustion chamber is formed in the outer layer
104, and the second groove 184 that receives the flange 111 of the
receptacle 108 is formed in the main body 102.
[0074] The shape of the aperture 118 may be designed to receive the
receptacle 108 for holding a smoking product. As shown in FIGS. 4A
and 4B, in some examples, the ignition region 112 is formed at
least partially by the receptacle 108. The receptacle 108 may be
positioned in the upper region 197 of the combustion chamber 106.
The receptacle 108 may be received in the large aperture 118, and
the groove 182 and flange 180 of the combustion chamber's recess
132 may help to position the receptacle with the main body 102 and
outer layer 104. In some examples, the receptacle does not engage
with grooves or flanges of the combustion chamber of the main body
and outer layer, and in some instances, may be press-fit into
place.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 4B, in some examples, the receptacle 108
may be a tapered bowl, funnel, and/or shaped container with an
aperture 191 positioned at a bottom end 189. The receptacle 108 may
include a lip 109 at its upper edge, and a flange 111 extending
around an outer surface of the receptacle 108 and spaced below the
lip 109 to form a groove 113. The combustion chamber's flange 180
may be received into the receptacle's groove 113 formed between the
lip 109 and flange 111 to removably secure the receptacle within
the aperture 118 of the recess 132 of the combustion chamber. The
receptacle lip 109 may be designed to seat within the recess's
first groove 182 and against the flange 180. The receptacle flange
111 may be designed to seat within the second groove 184 of the
combustion chamber 106. The position of the lip 109 of the
receptacle 108 may extend partially over the outer layer 104, as
shown in FIG. 4A. In some examples, the grooves and flanges that
form the recess 132 may be different on other product structures.
In some examples, the features of the receptacle such as the lip,
flange and groove, may be different on other product structures. In
some examples, the receptacle does not include flanges or lips and
may take the form of a funnel, bowl, or cylindrical container with
at least two openings.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 4A, the outer layer 104 surrounds various
portions of the main body 102. In some examples, the thickness of
the outer layer 104 at different locations may be similar, such as
about the stem 114 at T1 and T7. In some examples, the thickness
may vary, such as decreasing in dimension from thickness T1 to T2
to T3 at the mouthpiece 110 formed in the terminal end 103. In some
examples, the thickness may be zero at some locations if
desired.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 4A, in some examples, the thickness of the
outer layer 104 may be such that the outer layer has a generally
similar shape to that of the main body. For example, the thickness
of T8 may be somewhat constant around a portion of the enlarged end
101, so that the shape of the outer surface 181 of the outer layer
104 is similar to the shape of the outer surface 183 of the main
body 102 at that specific location or segment.
[0078] In some examples, the thickness may vary, such as at T5,
where the shape of the outer layer is dissimilar and includes
different features as that of the shape of the main body 102. For
example, the outer layer 104 has a flat face 138 whereas the
corresponding main body portion is rounded.
[0079] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the smoking apparatus
100 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1, showing the upper region 197
and lower region 195 of the combustion chamber. Similar to that
shown in FIG. 4A, the thickness of the outer layer T11 and T10 may
be generally similar and consistent in some examples, so that the
shape of the main body 102 is replicated by the outer surface 181
of the outer layer 104 near or about enlarged end 101. As shown by
thickness T19, the outer layer thickness may vary and be dissimilar
to the corresponding part of the main body that the outer layer is
positioned about.
[0080] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the smoking apparatus
100 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2, with a view of the lumen 127
and lower region 195 of the combustion chamber. The thicknesses T12
and T13 are larger than thicknesses T14 and T15, such that the
hourglass exaggerated shape of the main body at those locations
about the stem 114 is less exaggerated in the outer layer 104. The
varied thickness makes the outer layer 104 appear bulkier or more
robust than the main body 102 at the stem 114. The thicknesses T16
and T17 vary to enhance or further exaggerate the shape of the
outer layer near the mouthpiece 110 formed in the terminal end
103.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 4A, a smoking product 99 may be positioned
within the ignition region 112 of the smoking apparatus. In use,
the smoking product 99 is ignited to form a gaseous combusted
product. The combusted product in the ignition region may be drawn
into the lower region 195 of the combustion chamber. The drawn
combusted product may then be drawn through the lumen 127 of the
stem 114 and exit the apparatus at the aperture 126 formed at the
mouthpiece in the terminal end 103.
[0082] FIG. 5 is an example of a smoking apparatus 1200 with the
main body 1202 having an inlet in the enlarged end 1201 configured
to receive a smoking product 99. The main body 1202 may include a
combustion chamber 1206 with an ignition region 1212 formed in
either or both of the upper region 1297 or lower region 1295. In
some examples, the shape of the aperture 1218 in the enlarged end
1201 is designed to allow a smoking product to be inserted into the
ignition region 1212 of the combustion chamber 1206 in the main
body. In some examples, the main body may be formed of metal or
glass and the smoking product may be ignited or combusted in the
ignition region 1212.
[0083] FIGS. 8-12 show perspective views of examples of a smoking
apparatus with features that may be similar to those of the smoking
apparatus 100. For example, in FIG. 8, the smoking apparatus 200
includes features similar to the previously described smoking
apparatus 100, with a main body 202 and an outer layer 204. Unlike
the generally smooth outer surface of the main body 102 of FIGS.
1-6, the main body 202 of FIG. 8 includes a decorative feature,
such as ridge 250, positioned about the body 202 in a pattern or
design. In some examples, the main body may include multiple
integrally formed raised or indented features, such as design
elements, surface features (e.g., ridges or valleys) that extend
around at least portions of the outer surface of the main body.
[0084] The decorative features may be positioned about various
portions of the main body, such as the proximal end 201, stem 214,
or terminal end 203 of combinations thereof. "Positioned about" may
be interpreted as including integrally formed features and/or
separately formed features attached to or placed on the outer
surface of the main body. The surface features may be formed
integrally with the main body 202, or alternatively, maybe formed
separately from the main body and secured to the main body prior to
the application of the outer layer over the main body. In some
examples, a pattern formed on the outer surface of the main body
may be replicated in the outer surface of the outer layer.
[0085] For instance, the outer layer 204 may have a shape that is
generally or substantially similar to or the same as the outer
shape of the main body, or be similar to or the same as features
formed on the main body 202. In some examples, the outer surface of
the outer layer has a shape that includes relief features created
by surface features positioned on the main body. In some examples,
the outer layer 204 may have a generally constant thickness,
thereby reflecting or including relief features, such as a ridge
similar to that of a ridge 250 or other raised or indented
features, creating a tactically detectable feature in addition to a
generally smooth outer surface on the outer layer. In some
examples, the outer layer 204 may include inconsistent thickness,
so that there is no relief or that the relief is minimized, and the
raised or indented features formed on the outer surface of the main
body are not tactilely detectable on the outer surface of the outer
layer 204, but still optically visible through the outer layer.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 8, the patterns or designs used may include
a cane pattern, uniform, abstract, singular or repeating patterns,
lines, shapes, or other characteristics, to further create a visual
effect. The ridge 250 may be formed integrally with the main body
202, or alternatively, may be formed separately from the main body
and secured to the main body or the outer surface 283 of the main
body prior to the application of the outer layer 204 over the main
body 202. The outer surface 281 of the outer layer 204 may include
relief that reflects that shape of the underlying ridge or it may
be smooth as shown in FIG. 8.
[0087] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 300
with features that may be similar to those in previously disclosed
examples, with the main body 302 encapsulated at least in part by
the outer layer 304. The smoking apparatus 300 includes at least
one decorative feature, such as a component or decorative element
352 that is a made separately from the main body 302 and applied,
attached, and/or secured to the main body before the outer layer is
formed. The decorative features may be secured to the main body,
such as to the outer surface 383 of the main body to be held in
place during the application of the outer layer, about a variety of
locations on the outer surface 383 of the main body, including
around the proximal end 301, stem 314, or terminal end 303. The
outer layer 304 is formed over the main body 302. Examples of
separable decorative features include but are not limited to any
one or a combination of precious and non-precious gems, stones,
shells, glitter, beads, stickers, charms, buttons, cloth, fiber,
memorabilia, pendants, jewels, logos, natural, human-made, organic,
non-organic elements, compounds, materials, electrical components,
light emitting diode (LED), lights, or LED displays.
[0088] As shown in FIG. 9, the outer surface 381 of the outer layer
304 may be smooth or may have relief formed by the contours of the
surface features positioned on or formed on the main body. In some
examples, the outer layer 304 may be formed in order to replicate
the outline of the decorative features in the outer surface of the
outer layer. This may be done by using an outer layer having a
generally constant thickness that allows the decorative element 352
to be tactilely and optically visible when grasping the outer
surface 383 of the smoking apparatus. In other examples, the outer
surface 383 of the outer layer 304 is maintained as a smooth
surface without the replication of the decorative features. The
outer layer may be formed with a variable thickness so that the
separable decorative features are not tactilely detectable but
still optically detectable or visible. In some examples, the outer
surface 383 may include a combination of smooth surface with
relief.
[0089] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus that
may include similar features as those of previously disclosed
examples, with the main body 402 at least partially encapsulated by
the outer layer 404. The smoking apparatus 400 may include a
decorative feature, such as a raised or indented feature 450
similar to the ridge 250 in FIG. 8, and positioned about the
proximal end, stem, terminal end, or combinations thereof on an
outer surface 483 of the main body 402. In some examples, the
raised or indented feature 450 may be in the form of text or a
symbol that is formed integral with the main body 402. In some
examples, the outer layer 404 may be formed with a generally
constant thickness that allows the feature 450 to be tactilely and
optically detectable when holding the smoking apparatus. In other
examples, the outer layer may be formed with a variable thickness
so that the feature 450 is not tactilely detectable but may still
be optically detectable. In some examples, the top edges of the
feature 450 may be flush, above, or just below the outer surface
481 of the outer layer.
[0090] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 500
that may be similar to previously disclosed examples, with the main
body 502 at least partially encapsulated or covered by the outer
layer 504. In some examples, the main body may be formed from a
material such as wood, metal, fiber, cloth, stone, ceramic,
silicone, plastic or combinations thereof. In some examples, the
features or visible aspects of the material are exposed on the
outer layer of the main body. The smoking apparatus 500 may also
include a decorative feature, such as a pattern or graphic 554,
such as a wood grain or marble, that is implemented onto the outer
surface 583 of the main body 502 or is shown on the outer surface
of the main body. In some examples, the use of the clear outer
layer 504 may also allow for a delicate or non-robust surface
coating to be used to form the pattern 554, as the outer layer will
act as a protective barrier against aesthetic damage or flaking,
while enabling the pattern to be observed or optically
detectable.
[0091] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 600
that may include features similar to previously disclosed smoking
apparatus examples with a main body 602 with an outer layer 604
that may be positioned over, molded, or overmolded onto at least a
portion of the main body. As shown in FIG. 12, the outer surface
681 of the outer layer 604 has an overall shape that is dissimilar
to the overall shape of the main body 602, in part or in total as
here. For example, the proximal end 601 of the main body 602 is
generally spherical, while the surrounding outer layer 604 at that
portion is cube- or block-like. Similarly, the slender stem section
614 and terminal end 603 are not reflected in the shape of the
block-like outer layer 604. The smoking apparatus 600 allows both
the shape of the outer layer 604 and the main body 602 to be
optically detected, while only the dissimilar shape of the outer
layer is tactilely detectable.
[0092] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 700
in accordance with an example. FIG. 14 shows a partially exploded
view of the smoking apparatus 700. The smoking apparatus 700 may
include features similar to previously disclosed smoking apparatus
examples, with a main body 702 at least partially coated or covered
with an outer layer 704, and a receptacle or bowl 708. In this
example, the smoking apparatus 700 may be separable into
subcomponent parts and be reassembled for use when desired. The
separable nature of the smoking apparatus may allow it to be more
easily transported, stored, and/or cleaned. For example, the
smoking apparatus may be disassembled so that the enlarged end 101
is in a first piece 756, and the stem 714 and engagement end or
terminal end 703 are in the a second piece 758.
[0093] In the example of FIGS. 13 and 14, the second piece 758 may
form apertures 726 and 779 on opposite ends, with a lumen 727
extending between the apertures. A male end 760 may be formed by a
collar 781 that extends from around the aperture 779 formed on the
end 777. The collar 781 extends axially from the end 777 and is
continuous from around the aperture 779. The first piece 756 may
include a female end 761 formed by a receiving aperture 775. In
some examples, as shown in FIG. 14, the outer layer 704 may not
extend about the male end 760 of the second piece 758, such that
the male end is formed as part of the main body 702.
[0094] In some examples, the male end 760 forms a press fit with
female end 761. In some examples, the apparatus 700 includes
alignment features for the first piece 756 and second piece 758.
The male end may include a ridge or keyed feature that may engage
with a groove or interlocking structure of the female end 761. For
example, the collar 781 may be keyed or shaped, with the receiving
aperture 775 forming a complementary keyway or shape so that the
first piece 756 and second piece 758 may be assembled in a specific
orientation or so that a specific surface feature may be aligned or
visible when the smoking apparatus is used.
[0095] In some examples, the male end 760 may be threaded and be
threadably engaged with grooved or threaded female end 761.
[0096] To assemble the pipe 700 for use, the male end 760 may be
inserted into the first piece 756 to create the smoking apparatus
assembly 700. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the smoking apparatus
700 may be separated into two pieces at the juncture between the
bulbous proximal end and the stem. The smoking apparatus may be
separable in other portions of the structure, such as mid-way along
the stem. In some examples, the smoking apparatus may be separable
into more than 2 pieces.
[0097] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 800
in accordance with one example. FIG. 16 shows a partially exploded
view of the smoking apparatus 800 of FIG. 15. The smoking apparatus
800 may include features similar to previously described smoking
apparatus examples with a main body 802 with an outer layer 804
positioned over, molded over, or over molded onto at least a
portion of the main body, and a receptacle 808. The use and
operation of the smoking apparatus 800 may be similar to previously
described smoking apparatuses, while the overall shape of the main
body 802 and outer layer 804 may be different than previously
discussed examples. The smoking apparatus 800 allows both the shape
of the outer layer 804 and the main body 802 to be optically
detected, while only the shape of the outer layer 804 is tactilely
detectable.
[0098] The smoking apparatus 800 may include a first piece 856 and
a second piece 858. Both the first piece 856 and second piece 858
may be cylindrically shaped, but with different diameters and
lengths. Similar to the smoking apparatus 700, the second piece 858
may include a male end 860 formed as part of the main body 802, and
the outer layer 804 does not extend about the main body 802 at the
male end 860. The male end 860 may be inserted into a female end
861 formed in the first piece 856 to assemble the pipe. In some
examples, the engagement of the male end 860 and female end 861
forms a press fit with the first piece. In other examples, the male
end may include a ridge, thread, and/or key that may engage with a
groove, threaded or interlocking structure of the female end 861 of
the first piece. In some examples, the first piece 856 may include
a male end and the second piece 858 may include a female end.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 16, the first piece 856 of the smoking
apparatus 800 may include a combustion chamber 806, with an upper
surface 882 formed by both the outer layer 804 and the main body
802. An aperture 818 may be formed by the main body 802 at the
upper surface, the aperture forming an opening to the combustion
chamber.
[0100] The smoking apparatus 800 may also include the receptacle
808. The receptacle 808 includes a lip 809 and body 811 with an
aperture located at the bottom of the body 811. The receptacle may
form an ignition region 812, and a smoking product may be
positioned within the receptacle. The receptacle may be positioned
within an upper region of the combustion chamber, with the lip 809
in an abutment arrangement about the upper surface 882 of the
smoking apparatus. The body 811 of the receptacle may contact or be
adjacent to the main body 802 forming the combustion chamber.
[0101] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 900
in accordance with an example. FIG. 18 shows a partially exploded
view of the smoking apparatus of FIG. 17. The smoking apparatus 900
includes a proximal end 901, a stem 914, and a terminal end 903.
The smoking apparatus includes a main body 902 and an outer layer
904 and a receptacle 908. The proximal end includes a combustion
chamber 906. In the smoking apparatus 900, the stem and terminal
end are linearly disposed with the combustion chamber. The
receptacle 908 may form at least part of the combustion chamber
906. Similar to previously described smoking apparatuses, the outer
layer 904 is generally shaped similar to the main body 902, but may
have a thickness that varies in portions. The smoking apparatus 900
allows both the shape of the outer layer 904 and the main body 902
to be optically detected, while only the shape of the outer layer
904 is tactilely detectable. In use, combusted smoke may be drawn
through the smoking apparatus from the combustion chamber in the
proximal end, through the stem, and exit at a mouthpiece at the
terminal end.
[0102] The proximal end 901 of the smoking apparatus may include a
recess 932 formed by the outer layer 904 and the main body 902. The
outer layer may extend past the main body 902, forming a collar 960
in which the receptacle may be partially positioned within. Similar
to the receptacle 808 of FIGS. 14 and 15, the receptacle 908 may
include a lip 909 and body 911 with an aperture located at the
bottom of the body 911. When assembled, the lip 909 may be
positioned to abut the end 901 formed by outer layer 804, and may
serve to protect that area of the outer layer.
[0103] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 1000
similar to the smoking apparatus 900, except that the combustion
chamber 1006 is not formed at least partially using a separable
receptacle.
[0104] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 1100
in accordance with one example. FIG. 21 shows a partially exploded
view of the smoking apparatus 1100 of FIG. 20. The smoking
apparatus 1100 may include features similar to previously disclosed
smoking apparatus examples, with a proximal end 1101, stem 1114,
and terminal end 1103. The apparatus may also include a stand 1115
formed adjacent the stem 1114 to help stabilize the smoking
apparatus such that it could be rested on a table or surface. The
apparatus 1100 includes a main body 1102 at least partially
surrounded with an outer layer 1104, and a receptacle 1108. The
receptacle 1108 may be positioned within a combustion chamber 1106.
The combustion chamber is fluidly coupled with a lumen extending
through the stem with an outlet in the terminal end.
[0105] The smoking apparatus 1100 may include a first piece 1156,
including the combustion chamber 1106, and a second piece 1158,
including the stem 1114 and terminal end 1103. The first piece 1156
may include a male end 1160 configured to engage with a female end
1161 formed in the second piece 1158. In some examples, the female
end 1161 may be formed by only the outer layer 1104, and the male
end is formed as part of the main body.
[0106] To use, the male end 1160 of the first piece 1156 may be
inserted at least partially within the female end 1161 of the
second piece 1158, and the receptacle 1108 may then be inserted
into or coupled with the combustion chamber 1106 of the first piece
1156. The first piece 1156 may engage with the female end 1161 via
a press or compression fit, or may be threaded and threadably
engage with the female end 1161. In some examples, the stem 1114
may be filled with or include a mixture of gas and liquid, such as
water or water mixed with other liquids.
[0107] The smoking apparatus 1100 may also include a decorative
feature 1150, such as raised or indented features which may be in
the form of a ridge, groove, raised or engraved text or a symbol
that is formed integral with the main body 1102 or that may be
positioned with or attached to the main body 1102 prior to the
outer layer 1104 being applied.
[0108] In some examples, the described smoking apparatuses, such as
smoking apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700,800, 900, 1000,
1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, may be formed using an insert
molding or overmolding process. A method for forming a smoking
apparatus may include forming a main body 102 with a conduit or
lumen 127 extending through the main body 102 between a combustion
chamber 106 and a mouthpiece 110, and positioning, molding, or
overmolding a second material onto or about at least a portion of
the main body 102 wherein the second material forms an outer layer
104.
[0109] In some examples, overmolding is an injection molding
process that allows an additional layer of resin to be added to an
existing molded part to provide a combination of characteristics
that a single material may not provide. In some examples, an
overmolding process may be used to add a soft, functional,
"hand-friendly" layer of rubber-like material, such as a
thermoplastic elastomer over the main body, such as when is formed
of a hard or a soft substrate. An example of a hard substrate is
ceramic, glass, wood or metal and an example of a soft substrate is
a rubber-like material, thermoplastic elastomer, lower-density
foam, cloth, or rope. In some examples, overmolding may be used to
change or enhance the appearance of a part by overmolding material
of a different color or finish to it.
[0110] Like overmolding, insert molding injects a resin over a
first material, but instead of a plastic substrate, the first
material may typically be metal and the injected resin is typically
a rigid plastic. In some examples, metal electrical components or
custom-machined metal parts may be embedded in plastic using an
insert molding process. Similarly, threaded inserts in the smoking
apparatus can be molded into plastic parts for stronger, more
durable assembly of plastic components, for example a separable,
decorative feature that may assembled to and separated from the
smoking apparatus. In some examples, insert molding may be an
alternative to inserting metal parts by either heat staking or
ultrasonic welding, processes by which a molded plastic part is
locally melted to allow the insertion of a metal part. In some
examples, insert molding may be more controllable and allow for
better or improved encapsulation than the other methods. Molded
inserts may also eliminate the need for a secondary insert
installation process.
[0111] The main body 102 may be formed of a variety of materials,
including any one or a combination of silicone rubber, glass, wood,
metal, fiber, plastic, cloth, ceramic, quartz, and/or stone. The
main body 102 is formed to include the gas pathway, or a hollow
lumen 127 that extends between the combustion chamber 106 and the
mouthpiece 110 formed in the terminal end 103 of the smoking
apparatus 100. Once the main body 102 is formed, it may be
positioned within an injection molding tool. The tool may be
designed to create a shaped outer layer 104 or outer body that may
be similar to or different than the shape of the main body. In some
examples, decorative features, such as ridge 250 of FIG. 8,
decorative elements 352 of FIG. 9, raised or indented feature 450
of FIG. 10, may be formed in the outer surface 183 of the main body
102 or coupled to the outer surface 183 of the main body 102 prior
to being inserted into the tool. Once the main body 102 is
positioned within the tool, the material forming the outer layer
104, such as a 100% optically clear silicone rubber, may be
injected into the tool. The injected material surrounds the main
body 102 based upon the design of the tool. Once the material
forming the outer layer 104 has cured or solidified, the main body
102 and outer layer 104, and any decorative features included,
become joined together to form a single part.
[0112] In some examples, the smoking apparatuses disclosed herein,
such as smoking apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700,800,
900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, may include features
that assist in reducing the effects of oxidation. As shown in FIGS.
4A and 4B and 6-7, the main body 102 may extend to most or all
openings and surfaces that may come in contact with airborne tars,
contaminants, or heat from a type of ignition source when the
smoking apparatus is used and/or when a product is combusted
adjacent to or within the combustion chamber. The outer layer 104
surrounds the remaining portions of the main body 102. In some
examples, the exposure of a typical smoking apparatus to heat or an
ignition source at or near the combustion chamber 106 may
contaminate, damage, or aesthetically mark the smoking apparatus.
Similarly, the combusted gaseous product or smoke, which may
include tar and other contaminants, may also temporarily or
permanently contaminate or damage exposed surfaces at or around the
apertures formed in the exterior of a typical smoking apparatus,
such as the mouthpiece aperture 126 and vent aperture 128.
[0113] To help avoid this potential damage, the main body 102 may
define the mouthpiece aperture 126, vent aperture 128, and at least
a portion of the combustion chamber 106. As shown in FIG. 4A, the
main body 102 includes a sidewall thickness SW1 and SW2 around the
mouthpiece aperture 126 of the main body 102 at the terminal end
103. The thicknesses SW1, SW2 of the main body form a border about
the aperture 126, and the outer layer 104 is positioned adjacent to
the border. In this example, the main body 102 forms a rim 125
around the aperture 126, which has a width of approximately SW1 and
SW2 (depending which portion is measured). The outer layer 104 is
formed around the periphery of the sidewall thickness SW1 and SW2
about aperture 126 in the main body 102. In this manner, the outer
layer 104 is spaced away from the aperture 126 to reduce the effect
of the combusted product as it passes through the aperture 126.
This configuration may help to allow the combusted product drawn
through the smoking apparatus to exit at the aperture 126 without
contacting the surrounding over layer. The rim may have an annular
shape having a constant width dimension (SW1=SW2), or a varying
width dimension, or the rim may have a different shape. The rim may
be continuous around the aperture 126, or discontinuous.
[0114] Similar, as shown in FIG. 7, the proximal end 101 includes a
sidewall thickness SW3 and SW4 formed by the main body 102 around
the vent aperture 128, forming a border around the aperture 128. In
this example, the main body 102 forms a rim 119 around the aperture
128, which has a width of approximately SW3 and SW4 (depending
which portion is measured). The outer layer 104 is formed around
the border, at a distance of SW3 and SW4, of the aperture 128 in
the main body 102. In this manner, the outer layer 104 is spaced
away from the aperture 128 to reduce the effect of the combusted
product as it passes through the aperture 128. In use, a user could
choose to cover the vent aperture 128 or leave the vent aperture
uncovered when drawing combusted product through the combustion
chamber 106. This configuration may help to shield the surrounding
outer layer 104 from contact with the potential combusted product
that may flow through lumen 129 and exit the apparatus via vent
aperture 128. These sidewall thickness SW3 and SW4 may help ensure
that combusted gaseous product or smoke only contact or be exposed
to the main body 102. The rim 119 may have an annular shape having
a constant width dimension (SW3=SW4), or a varying width dimension,
or the rim 119 may have a different shape. The rim 119 may be
continuous around the aperture 128, or discontinuous. The rim
structure around an aperture, such as rim 125 and/or rim 119, is
optional and may not be implemented or present on a product
configuration.
[0115] Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 6, in some examples, the
receptacle 108 includes a rim or lip 109 that overlaps a portion of
the recess 132 formed by the outer layer 104. The lip 109 of the
receptacle may further protect the outer layer 104 at that location
from damage from an ignition source and/or the combustion of the
smoking product positioned in the ignition region of the combustion
chamber. Similarly, the position of the receptacle 808 in FIGS. 15
and 16, and receptacle 908 of FIGS. 17 and 18, may also help to
protect the outer layers 804, 904 of the proximal ends 801, 901
from this type of damage. In these examples, the position of the
receptacle 108 when assembled to the proximal end 101 may help
shield the outer layer 104 at the proximal end from damage from
heat of a product combusted in the receptacle 108, as well as help
shield the outer layer 104 from contact with combusted product as
it is drawn through the smoking apparatus 100. Furthermore, with
regard to FIGS. 15 and 16, the male end 860 formed as part of the
main body 802 may also help to shield the outer layer 804 near the
junction of the first piece 856 and the second piece 858 from
contact with the smoke or combusted product as it is drawn from the
combustion chamber and through the stem 814 to the terminal end
803.
[0116] In some examples, the combustion chamber 106 does not
include a receptacle, such as shown in FIGS. 5 and 19. In some
examples, the smoking product 99 may be positioned within the main
body's combustion chamber 1006, 1206 without contacting or
minimizing contact to the outer layer 104.
[0117] In some examples, the main body 102 may be formed using a
colored and/or opaque silicone rubber, which may help to mask the
effects of the heat damage and contaminants. The position of the
outer layer 104 with respect to the main body 102, such that in
some examples it terminates at a distance away from the apertures
126, 128 formed on the main body 102, may help to shield the outer
layer 104 and prevent the heat or damaging smoke from contacting
the outer layer 104 while providing a durable outer layer or
covering for the smoking apparatus. In some examples, the
additional oxidation protection of the outer layer 104 may also
provide a user a way to view a visually interesting main body 102,
formed of a material that may more easily hide or mask any
discoloration or damage from use.
[0118] FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of a smoking apparatus 1300
in accordance with an example, with FIG. 23 a cross-sectional view
of the apparatus 1300 of FIG. 23. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional
schematic view of a smoking apparatus 1600 in accordance with an
example.
[0119] The smoking apparatus 1300, 1600 includes features that may
be similar to those of the smoking apparatus 100, for example the
main body 1302, 1602 and the outer layer 1304, 1604. As shown in
the embodiments of FIGS. 22-24, the outer layer 1304, 1604 may be a
layer that at least partially covers various portions or segments
of the main body 1302, 1602 and as shown here, may encapsulate
various portions or segments, or substantially the entirety, of the
main body 1302, 1602. In some examples, the main body 1302, 1602
may be exposed through the outer layer 1304, 1604, such as at or
near the proximal end 1301, 1601 where the receptacle may be
positioned, or at the mouthpiece 1310, 1610 at terminal end 1303,
1603. For example, the mouthpiece 1310, 1610 includes an exposed
portion 1399, 1699 of the main body 1302, 1602 formed around
aperture 1326, 1626
[0120] In some examples, each portion of the main body 1302, 1602
not covered by the outer layer 1304, 1604 defines an exposed
portion with an exposed surface. The outer layer 1304, 1604
adjacent the exposed surfaces defines an edge that at least in part
defines the shape and/or extent of the exposed portion. For
example, in FIG. 24 the edges 1655, 1657 are generally flush with
exposed portion 1659 of the main body 1602. The exposed portion
1659 of the main body 1602 may protrude to be flush with the outer
surface 1681 of the outer layer 1604. The sidewalls of the exposed
portion 1659 may be normal to the surface of the outer layer, or be
angled towards or away from each other to create different shaped
exposed portions having desired sidewall profiles.
[0121] In some examples, the main body 1302, 1602 protrudes through
and past the outer surface of the outer layer 1304, 1604, such as
at post 1305, 1605. In some examples, the post 1305 may have an
aperture 1323 formed at or near a free end 1321. The aperture may
receive a key ring 1325, lanyard string, chain, charm or the like.
In FIG. 23, the outer layer 1304 may surround and contact the post
1305 at sidewalls 1371, 1375. The sidewalls 1371, 1375 formed by
the outer surface of the outer layer 1604 engage around at least a
portion, such as base 1396 of protrusion 1305 as it extends past
the outer surface 1381 of the outer layer 1304. Alternatively, as
shown in FIG. 24, the sidewalls 1671, 1675 may be spaced away from
the base 1696 of the protrusion 1605, thereby forming a gap 1669
extending from the outer surface 1681 of the outer layer 1604 to
the outer surface 1683 of the main body 1602. The gap may extend at
least partially around the base 1696, or may extend entirely around
the base 1696 to form an annular gap, such as gap 1669. As shown in
FIG. 24, near the proximal end 1601, the outer layer 1604 forms
sidewall 1671. The gap 1669 is formed by sidewall 1671 and outer
surface 1683 of the base 1696 of protrusion 1305.
[0122] In some examples, such as at recessed portion 1661 of FIG.
24, the main body 1602 may be recessed from the outer surface 1681
of the outer layer 1604. For example, the outer layer 1604 may
include exposed sidewalls 1665, 1667 that are the thickness of the
outer layer 1604. The sidewalls 1665, 1667 extend down to the meet
the outer surface 1683 of the main body 1602 at recessed portion
1661. The sidewalls 1665, 1667 form at least a part of the
periphery of the shape of the recessed portion 1661. In some
examples, the sidewall may be substantially normal to the outer
surface 1683 of the main body, such as forming a shoulder as
sidewall 1665. In some examples, the sidewall may be angled towards
or away from the outer surface 1683 of the main body 1602, and such
as sidewall 1667. The configuration of the sidewalls may create a
texture, grip, or an aesthetic or decorative feature, etc.
[0123] In some examples, the main body 1302 is exposed at an area
where the outer layer 1304 thickness decreases, becoming gradually
thinner until the outer layer 1304 does not cover the main body
1302, such as region 1351 of FIG. 23. For example, the edges 1365,
1367 of the outer layer 1304 meet the main body 1302 and define at
least a portion of the shape of the exposed portion 1351 of main
body in FIG. 23. Similarly, the portion 1651 of the main body of
FIG. 24 is exposed. In some examples, the shape of the outer layer
1304, 1604 as it surrounds exposed portions of the main body 1302,
1602 may include benefits such as creating a grip between the outer
layer and main body. In some examples, the transition between the
outer layer and the main body at the exposed portions is smooth to
help prevent snagging. In some examples, as edge of the exposed
region or portion may have a gradual, angled slope, such as at
1667. In some examples, the edge of the exposed portion may form a
shoulder, such as at 1665.
[0124] As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, in some examples, the smoking
apparatus 1300 includes a clasp 1354 to adjustably or releasably
hold a component, such as a tool 1353 that may be utilized when the
smoking apparatus is used, or to help clean or protect the smoking
apparatus when not in use. In some examples, as in FIG. 22, the
clasp 1354 is U-shaped piece of metal or plastic defining a base
1327 and two opposing arms 1331. The arms 1331 are spaced apart,
but may be resiliently biased towards one another. Each arm may be
outwardly curved so that the free end 1329 of each arm 1331 are
closer together than a central portion 1333 of the arms. The clasp
1354 is positioned on the smoking apparatus 1300 and provides a
convenient way to releasably receive a tool 1353 for storage. The
tool 1353, such as a tamper, is received in the clasp by
positioning a portion of the tamper through the space between the
arms, which causes the arms to bias outwardly to allow the portion
of the tamper to seat between the outwardly curved central portions
1333 of the arms 1331.
[0125] The clasp may be secured to the smoking apparatus in a
number of ways, such as by being fastened directly to the main
body. The clasp could be encapsulated in the main body as well.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 22, the base 1327 of the clasp, and
in some examples, possibly a lower portion of each of the arms
1331, are encapsulated in the outer layer 1304.
[0126] In some examples, the clasp 1354 contacts the main body
1302. In some examples, the clasp 1354 may be integrally formed
with the main body 1302 such that the resilient arm may be an
extension of the main body. In some examples, the clasp 1354 is
attached or coupled to the main body 1302 by a fastener. In some
examples, the clasp 1354 does not contact the main body 1302 but is
secured to the smoking apparatus by the outer layer 1304 and held
in position.
[0127] FIGS. 25 and 26 show a smoking apparatus 1400 in accordance
with an example. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the smoking
apparatus 1400, and FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional along line 26-26
of FIG. 25. The smoking apparatus 1400 includes features that may
be similar to those of the previously described smoking
apparatuses, such as a main body 1402 and an outer layer 1404.
Smoking apparatus 1400 includes a proximal end 1401, a terminal end
1403, and a receptacle 1408. The receptacle may be separable or
integrally formed with the smoking apparatus 1400. In this example,
the smoking apparatus may include at least one electrical
component, such as a display, light, heating element, computing
device, communication device, PCB, power source, or the like.
[0128] As shown in FIG. 25, the smoking apparatus 1400 includes a
display 1456. The display may be an output device for the
presentation or communication of visual information. For example,
the display could be an electronic screen, light emitting diode
(LED) or a combination thereof. The display 1456 may be entirely
encapsulated by the outer layer 1404. In some examples, the display
may be at least partially exposed through the outer surface 1481 of
the outer layer 1404, as shown in FIG. 25. In some examples, the
display 1456 may contact the main body 1402, as shown in FIG. 25 or
it may not contact the main body 1402. In the example of FIGS. 25
and 26, the display 1456 is positioned along the stem 1414 of the
smoking apparatus 1400.
[0129] The smoking apparatus 1400 may include multiple displays,
such as second display 1458. The second display 1458 may be
entirely encapsulated by the outer layer 1404, be at least
partially exposed, or extend at least partially past the outer
surface of the outer layer 1404 as shown in FIG. 26. In some
examples, the display 1456 may be entirely encapsulated by the
outer layer 1404, be at least partially exposed, or extend at least
partially past the outer surface of the outer layer 1404. In some
examples, the display may be positioned at or near the proximal end
1401, at or near the terminal end 1403, or positioned at a location
between the ends of the apparatus.
[0130] In some examples, one or both of the displays 1456, 1458 is
an LED feature. The LED feature may include a plurality of lights
for communicating, an accessory feature, or both. The LED feature
may flash or blink in certain patterns based upon an operating
status of the smoking apparatus or its electrical subcomponents.
The display may include decorative features or patterns formed by
the LED or by features separate from the LED. The display may
visually communicate information about the operating status of the
apparatus or device. In some examples, the display(s) 1456, 1458
may be formed as part of a computing device.
[0131] The displays 1456, 1458 may be electrically coupled, for
example via wires 1491, to a power source 1460. The power source
1460 may include a battery. The battery may be a permanent,
replaceable, and/or rechargeable battery. The power source 1460 may
be positioned to be exposed through the outer surface 1481 of the
outer layer 1404, as shown in FIG. 26. In some examples, the
position of the power source 1460 allows for the connection of an
external charging source. In some examples, the power source may be
positioned at a location where the main body 1402 is exposed
through the outer layer, and the power source is exposed or
accessible through the main body. In examples where the power
source is accessible, the power source may be a single use battery
that could be replaced by a user or the source may be a
rechargeable battery. In some examples, the power source may be
charged from an external power source, via a wired or wireless
charging system. As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the battery 1460 may
be electrically coupled to an electrical charging port 1480. An
inlet to the electrical port may be accessible through an outer
surface 1481 of the smoking apparatus. The electrical port may
include a configuration to allow for electrical charging of the
battery via a universal serial bus (USB), mini-USB, micro-USB, etc.
or other type of charging port technology from an external power
source.
[0132] In some examples, the user may input or upload information
to or output data or download information from the apparatus. In
some examples, the charging port may be blocked or protected by a
cover movable 1489 from an open position to a closed position. This
may prevent debris from entering the charging port.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 26, in some examples, the smoking apparatus
may include a heating element 1482. The heating element 1482 may be
positioned within a lower part of the combustion chamber 1406 to
heat or combust smoking product positioned in the receptacle. In
examples where the smoking apparatus does not include a separate
receptacle (for example, see FIG. 5), the heating element may heat
the combustion chamber and combust the product within the
combustion chamber. In some examples, the heating element may be
operated by the input element 1466 or display 1456, 1458. In some
examples, the display may show information about the status or
operation of the heating element. The heating element is
electrically coupled to the battery 1460 or line power. In some
examples, the smoking apparatus may include a temperature sensor
1474 to sense temperature information of the heating element 1482,
record temperature information, and/or provide feedback through the
system to regulate the temperature of the heating element or
combustion chamber. The sensor may or may not be formed as part of
the heating element. In some examples, the sensor may monitor
initial combustion and then turn off.
[0134] Electrical wires 1491 may separately, or in combination,
couple the displays 1456, 1458, heating element 1482, charging port
1480, sensor 1474, and power source 1460. These components may be
used individually and are not required to be used together. The
wires may be positioned adjacent an outer surface 1481 of the outer
layer 1404, be embedded within or extend through the outer layer,
be positioned adjacent to an outer surface of the main body 1402,
contact or be attached to the main body, or be embedded within or
extend through the main body, or combinations thereof. In some
examples, where the outer layer is at least partially transparent,
the wires connecting various electrical components of the smoking
apparatus may be visible.
[0135] FIG. 27 shows a simplified block diagram of the control
system used in smoking apparatus in accordance with an example. In
some examples, the smoking apparatus 1400 includes a computing
device 1470, which may include one or more processing elements
1462, one or more memory components 1472, a power source 1460, once
or more displays 1456, 1458, one or more input/output (I/O)
interfaces 1466, and one or more feedback elements 1476. The
computing device may also include other components generally found
in computing systems, such as communication interfaces and one or
more sensors, among others.
[0136] In some examples, the displays 1456, 1458 are electrically
coupled to a processing element 1462, such as a programmable logic
controller (PLC), and a memory device 1464 so that the displays may
be controlled to send and/or receive information regarding the
status and/or operation of the smoking apparatus. The memory device
may store programming information regarding the displays or
operation instructions or performance history of the apparatus.
[0137] In some examples, the displays include an I/O interface
1466, such as an input element, which may be coupled to send
information to the processing element and control certain aspects
of the smoking apparatus 1400. For example, the displays could
include a touch screen input element. In these examples, a portion
of the display may be exposed outside of the outer layer and main
body. In some examples, the input element 1466 is separate from the
display, such as a button in FIG. 26, such that the display 1456
may be encapsulated but the button 1466 is exposed. In some
examples, the button is encapsulated by the outer layer but may
still be operable via a physical touch, such as if a user squeezes
or applies force to the button to engage it.
[0138] In some examples, the I/O interface may include a
communication interface (such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth,
Bluetooth Low Energy chips, or the like) and communication
components (such as a universal serial bus (USB), mini-USB, and
micro-USB ports/cables). The communication interface may be
operable to communicate, wired or wirelessly, with other external
computing devices, such as a smartphone, tablet, service, or
web-based cloud service.
[0139] In some examples, the charging port 1480 is also
electrically coupled to the computing device 1470 of the smoking
apparatus. This may allow a user to input or output information
about the performance of the smoking apparatus or to control
aspects of the smoking apparatus. For example, the user may be able
to update various electrical configurations of the computing device
by transferring software updates from an external source, such as a
mobile phone, tablet, or laptop coupled to the smoking apparatus
via a cord connected to the charging port or wirelessly via a
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. The user may also be able to
download information, such as use time and performance, via the
charging port.
[0140] FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional schematic view a smoking
apparatus 1500 in accordance with an example. In some examples, the
smoking apparatus 1500 may be similar to previously described
smoking apparatus, such as smoking apparatus 1400. The smoking
apparatus 1500 may include a main body 1502, outer layer 1504, a
display 1556, a power source 1560, and a charging power 1580. In
the example of FIG. 28, the display 1556 is positioned to at least
partially extend past the outer surface of the outer layer 1504,
and the power source 1560 is encased in the outer layer 1504 and
main body 1502. Wires 1591 may connect the display 1556, power
source 1560, and charging port 1580. In this example, the power
source 1560 is a non-replaceable battery that may be charged via an
external power source, such as via a power supplied via the
charging port 1580 or wirelessly via an inductive charger 1582. The
inductive charger 1582 may be Bluetooth configured to send to or
receive information from the smoking apparatus.
[0141] Although the present invention has been described with a
certain degree of particularity, it is understood the disclosure
has been made by way of example, and changes in detail or structure
may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as
defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *