Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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[0001] TITLE OF THE INVENTION
[0002] VAPORIZER
[0003] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0004] This application is a PCT of U.S. Patent Application No.
15/950,083 filed April 10, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/483,868 filed April 10, 2017 and U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/626,451 filed February 5, 2018, the entire contents
of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this disclosure.
[0005] STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED
RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0006] Not applicable.
[0007] REFERENCE TO APPENDIX
[0008] Not applicable.
[0009] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Field of the Invention. The present disclosure relates generally to
vaporizers and more specifically relates to vaporizers for converting oil to a
mist for inhalation by a user.
[0011] Description of the Related Art.
[0012] A vaporizer can be used to convert oil or another substance,
such
as a substance that contains medication or other compounds, to a vapor or mist
for inhalation by a user. Oils can be used to prevent damage to medications
that may be sensitive to solvents or propellants used in applications like
asthma inhalers, or for medications or compounds that cannot be dissolved in
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water. However, at least some conventional vaporizers may suffer from one or
more shortcomings, such as burning or carbonization of the oil, excessive
wicking, leaking, or clogging. For example, burning or carbonization of oil
may occur when a supply of oil is locally depleted relative to a heating coil,
which can allow the coil in the area of depletion to overheat, which can
include becoming red hot. When oil flows into such a depleted area and
comes in contact with the over-heated coil, burning of the oil can occur,
which
can generate smoke that may reach air flow through the device. In at least
some cases, such burning may result in undesirable tastes or flavors during
use
of the device, which can continue for some time or even for the life of the
device, and which can effectively render the device no longer useable.
Carbonization can result in carbon buildup, e.g., on the wick or heating coil
of
the device, which can foul or prevent proper operation or continued use of a
vaporization device. Carbonization can also be indicative that the oil has
been
.. overheated, such as by having been heated to a point that some damage or
change to the chemical nature of the oil has occurred. Carbonization may also
result in undesirable compounds being present in the vapor or air flow exiting
a vaporizer during use, which may include carcinogenic or otherwise
dangerous compounds.
[0013] As another example, at least some conventional vaporizers
include wicking devices for transferring oil from the storage reservoir to an
area for contact with the heating element. However, such wicking devices can
result in leaking of oil from the vaporizer, such as onto a user's hand or
clothing. Excessive wicking can fowl a heating element, such as by providing
too much fluid to heat to the vaporization point. Excessive wicking may also
clog air channels within the device or leave oil exposed to air, which may
result in malfunctions or, e.g., allow volatile medication dissolved in the
oil to
evaporate. In some cases, such evaporation may cause the oil's viscosity to
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change to a point that prevents the oil from being re-liquefied or vaporized
within the device. Excessive wicking and clogging may lead to the loss of
some or all of the oil contained in the vaporizer, or even render the
vaporizer
inoperable such that repair or replacement may be needed. As further
examples, in some cases, the oil used in the vaporizer can be corrosive (e.g.,
having a PH between 8 and 11.5) and may come into contact with metal parts
within the device, which can result in a metallic taste that may be
undesirable
to some users. Additionally, conventional devices may lack a manner of
recycling or trapping condensed oil within the device for prevent waste or
leaking of the oil.
[0014] Accordingly, a need exists in the art for an improved
vaporizer.
The disclosures and teachings herein are directed to systems and methods for
improved vaporizers, portions thereof, devices for use therewith and
corresponding methods.
[0015] BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] A vaporizer according to the present disclosure can include
one or
more portions or components for at least partially vaporizing a substance,
such
as oil, water or another material capable of being vaporized (whether liquid,
solid, or otherwise), to form a mist capable of being inhaled by a user of the
vaporizer. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art
having
the benefits of the present disclosure, commercially available substances for
vaporization commonly include oils or other materials in liquid form;
however, that need not be the case, and such materials can alternatively (or
collectively) exist in a non-liquid form, such as, for example, a solid or
semi-
solid form. For purposes of convenience, the term "oil" is used in this
disclosure to refer collectively to any substance capable of vaporization by
way of an apparatus or method according to the disclosure, whether in liquid,
solid, or another form, and whether now known or later developed.
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[0017] In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include a
plurality of
portions that cooperate with one another, such as, for example, a feed
mechanism, a vaporization chamber, a heat source, and a power supply. One
or more of such portions can, but need not, be disposable or replaceable,
separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment,
a feed mechanism and vaporization chamber can be at least partially
incorporated into a disposable portion of a vaporizer that can be interchanged
with one or more other portions of the device, such as a body or frame for
coupling one or more vaporizer components to one another. In at least one
embodiment, one or more portions of a vaporizer can be refillable, such as,
for
example, a feed mechanism or a portion of a feed mechanism for housing or
storing oil or another substance to be vaporized, which can include housing a
component that houses or otherwise stores such substance.
[0018] In at least one embodiment, a feed mechanism can be adapted
for
receiving, storing and feeding one or more oils into a vaporization chamber,
separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment,
a feed mechanism can be adapted for routing fluid from one location to
another, which can include comprising one or more conduits or flow paths,
such as air flow channels for routing vapor from a vaporization chamber to a
mouthpiece or other portion of a vaporizer and a mouth piece for routing vapor
from within a vaporizer to a user.
[0019] In at least one embodiment, a vaporization chamber can be
adapted for supporting generation of oil vapor and for mixing vapor with air
flowing through a vaporizer. A vaporization chamber can be adapted for
collecting condensed vapor, trapping oil overflow, such as from excessive
wicking, and preventing excessive wicking or leaked oils from getting to the
outside of the vaporizer, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.
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[0020] In at least one embodiment, a heat source can be adapted for
heating oil sufficiently to vaporize at least a portion of the oil, which can
be
any portion of the oil according to a particular application. In at least one
embodiment, a heat source can be or include an electrically powered source of
heated air, which can be directed at a feed mechanism for generating vaporized
oil. In at least one embodiment, a heat source can be or include a heating
coil,
such as a coil made from a nickel chrome alloy or another suitable material,
which can be heated via battery or another electrical power source. In at
least
one embodiment, a heat source can be or include one or more other sources,
such as a laser or a light emitting diode (LED) having a light frequency
sufficient for heating an oil in accordance with a particular application or
embodiment of a vaporizer according to the disclosure.
[0021] In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include a power
supply for generating heat for vaporization of the oil, such as, for example,
a
battery or other self-contained electric power source. A vaporizer can include
one or more switches, such as a switch for turning on and off power to one or
more portions of the device, an internal or other time-out switch for turning
off
the power if power is applied to one or more portions of the device for longer
than a set time period (e.g., ten seconds, or a longer or shorter time period,
.. which can be any time period according to an application). In at least one
embodiment, a vaporizer can include an air flow switch, such as a pressure
sensor, for allowing power to be applied, e.g., to a heat source when air is
flowing through the vaporizer and/or preventing application of power when air
is not flowing through one or more portions of the vaporizer. In at least one
embodiment, a power supply can be or include a battery, such as a Lithium cell
or other battery. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include one or
more controllers for controlling one or more aspects of vaporizer operation,
such as, for example, for controlling power applied to a heating element,
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operation time, voltage or current applied to a heating element, recharging of
a
battery cells, or another aspect of operation, separately or in combination,
in
whole or in part.
[0022] A vaporizer can include a reservoir for holding oil, a chamber
for
holding vapor, a feeder for feeding oil from the reservoir to the chamber, and
a
heater for heating oil. A feeder can be configured to feed oil from the
reservoir to the chamber by capillary action. A feeder can include a wick that
can be at least one of ceramic, sintered metal, aluminum oxide, which can
include aluminum oxide held together with quartz glass or another bonding
material or agent, and a combination thereof. A vaporizer can include a plug
sealingly coupled to the reservoir and configured to slide relative to at
least a
portion of the reservoir. A plug can be configured to move from a first end of
the reservoir toward the feeder as a volume of oil within the reservoir
decreases. A plug can be configured to at least partially resist sinking into
a
volume of oil within the reservoir, such as by at least partially floating or
by
way of being mechanically or otherwise constrained. A vaporizer can include
a feed control mount coupled to the reservoir and the chamber and configured
to hold the feeder in fluid communication with the reservoir and the chamber.
A heater can include at least one of a laser, a resistance heater, a wire, a
coil, a
wire at least partially disposed in a housing, and a combination thereof.
[0023] A vaporizer can include a controller coupled to the heater and
can
be configured to heat the heater to a first temperature for a first time
period,
reduce the temperature of the heater, and maintain the heater at a second
temperature for a second time period. A first time period can be shorter or
longer than a second time period. A controller can be configured to control
one or more heaters by at least one of controlling voltage supplied to the
heater, controlling current supplied to the heater, and a combination thereof.
A
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controller can be configured to control one or more heaters by pulse width
modulation of power supplied to the heater(s).
[0024] A reservoir can be disposed in a reservoir housing, and a
reservoir
housing can include a first flow passage or other passages in fluid
communication with a chamber or other portion of a vaporizer. A vaporizer
can include a mouthpiece coupled to the reservoir housing, and a mouthpiece
can include a second flow passage or other passages in fluid communication
with a first flow passage. A heater can be configured to heat at least a
portion
of the feeder. A vaporizer or portion thereof, such as a feeder, can be,
include,
or be configured to couple with a porous tab adapted to store oil in one or
more
pores thereof. A tab can be at least one of ceramic, sintered metal, aluminum
oxide and a combination thereof. A vaporizer can include a filter coupled to
the feeder or another component, such as a feed control mount, and a heater
can be configured to heat at least a portion of the filter.
[0025] A vaporizer can include a reservoir housing comprising a
reservoir configured to hold oil and a first flow passage fluidically separate
from the reservoir, a feed control mount coupled to the reservoir housing, a
chamber coupled to the feed control mount and configured to hold vapor, an
air inlet disposed in the chamber, a feeder coupled to the feed control mount
and disposed in fluid communication with both the reservoir and the chamber,
a heater configured to heat oil disposed within the chamber, and a plug
slideably and sealingly coupled to the reservoir.
[0026] A feeder can be configured to feed oil from the reservoir to
the
chamber, which can include by capillary action. A plug can be configured to
move from a first end of the reservoir toward the feeder as a volume of oil
within the reservoir decreases, such as during use of the vaporizer. A
vaporizer can include a controller coupled to the heater and can be configured
to heat the heater to a first temperature for a first time period, reduce the
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temperature of the heater, and maintain the heater at a second temperature for
a
second time period. A second time period can be shorter than, longer than, or
equal to a first time period.
[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE
DRAWINGS
[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a
vaporizer according to the disclosure.
[0029] Figure 2 is an isometric view of the vaporizer of Figure 1.
[0030] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the
vaporizer of
Figure 1.
[0031] Figure 4 is another cross-sectional view of the vaporizer of
Figure
1.
[0032] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the
vaporizer of Figure 1.
[0033] Figure 6 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of vaporizer having a laser furnace according to the disclosure.
[0034] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many
embodiments of a lens assembly according to the disclosure.
[0035] Figure 8 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a feed mechanism according to the disclosure.
[0036] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a feed control mount according to the disclosure.
[0037] Figure 10 is an isometric view of another of many embodiments
of a vaporizer according to the disclosure.
[0038] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the vaporizer of
Figure 10.
[0039] Figure 12 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of
a
feeder according to the disclosure.
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[0040] Figure 13 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a tube furnace assembly according to the
disclosure.
[0041] Figure 14 is a schematic view of another of many embodiments
of
a vaporizer having a laser furnace according to the disclosure.
[0042] Figure 15 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a filter according to the disclosure.
[0043] Figure 16 is a schematic view of some of many embodiments of a
filter element according to the disclosure.
[0044] Figure 17 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a plurality of filters according to the
disclosure.
[0045] Figure 18 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a reservoir adapted to couple with one or
more tabs according to the disclosure.
[0046] Figure 19 is a schematic view of some of many embodiments of a
tab according to the disclosure.
[0047] Figure 20 is one of many embodiments of an ideal temperature
profile for vaporization of an oil according to the disclosure.
[0048] Figure 21 is one of many embodiments of an energy profile sent
to a coil according to the disclosure.
[0049] Figure 22 is one of many embodiments of a PWM profile output
for delivering power to a coil according to the disclosure.
[0050] Figure 23 is one of many embodiments of an analog equivalent
of
a PWM profile according to the disclosure.
[0051] Figure 24 is one of many embodiments of an expanded power
profile to a coil according to the disclosure.
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[0052] Figure 25 is yet another of many embodiments of a power
profile
for vaporization of an oil according to the disclosure.
[0053] Figure 26 is yet another of many embodiments of a power
profile
for vaporization of an oil according to the disclosure.
[0054] DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0055] The Figures described above and the written description of
specific structures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope
of
what Applicants have invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather,
the Figures and written description are provided to teach any person skilled
in
the art to make and use the invention(s) for which patent protection is
sought.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial
embodiment of the disclosure are described or shown for the sake of clarity
and understanding. Persons of skill in this art will appreciate that the
development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the
present disclosure can require numerous implementation-specific decisions to
achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment(s).
Such implementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are not limited
to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related and
other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location and
from time to time. While a developer's efforts might be complex and time-
consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be, nevertheless, a routine
undertaking for those of skill in the art having the benefits of this
disclosure.
[0056] The embodiment(s) disclosed and taught herein are susceptible
to
numerous and various modifications and alternative forms. The use of a
singular term, such as, but not limited to, "a," is not intended as limiting
of the
number of items. The use of relational terms, such as, but not limited to,
"top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "down,"
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"up," "side," "first," "second," "inlet," "outlet" and the like are used in
the
written description for clarity in specific reference to the Figures and are
not
intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the appended claims unless
otherwise indicated. The terms "couple," "coupled," "coupling," "coupler,"
and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device
for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting
therein,
forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for
example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably,
directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of
members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming
one member with another in a unity fashion. The coupling can occur in any
direction, including rotationally. The terms "include" and "such as" are
illustrative and not limitative, and the word "can" means "can, but need not"
unless otherwise indicated. The term "end" can, but need not, be or include a
terminal end unless otherwise indicated. Notwithstanding any other language
in the present disclosure, the embodiment(s) shown in the drawings are
examples presented for purposes of illustration and explanation and are not
the
only embodiments of the subject(s) hereof.
[0057] Applicants have created systems and methods for vaporizing
oil,
such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil and derivatives thereof, tetrahydrocannabinol
(THC) oil, or other oils having medication therein, for human inhalation. In
at
least one embodiment, a system for vaporizing oil, or a vaporizer, can include
a reservoir for holding oil, a feeder for feeding oil, a chamber for
supporting
vaporization of oil, an air inlet, an air outlet, a flow path between the
inlet and
the outlet, a heater for heating oil, and a power source for powering the
heater.
Additional functions and aspects of the systems and methods of the present
disclosure are described in further detail below with reference to the
Figures.
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[0058] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a
vaporizer according to the disclosure. Figure 2 is an isometric view of the
vaporizer of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the
vaporizer of Figure 1. Figure 4 is another cross-sectional view of the
vaporizer
of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the
vaporizer of Figure 1. Figure 6 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of vaporizer having a laser furnace according to the disclosure.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many embodiments of
a lens assembly according to the disclosure. Figure 8 is an exploded isometric
view of one of many embodiments of a feed mechanism according to the
disclosure. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a feed control mount according to the disclosure. Figure 10 is
an isometric view of another of many embodiments of a vaporizer according to
the disclosure. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the
vaporizer
of Figure 10. Figure 12 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of
a feeder according to the disclosure. Figure 13 is an exploded isometric view
of one of many embodiments of a vaporizer having a tube furnace assembly
according to the disclosure. Figure 14 is a schematic view of another of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a laser furnace according to the disclosure.
Figure 15 is an exploded isometric view of one of many embodiments of a
vaporizer having a filter according to the disclosure. Figure 16 is a
schematic
view of some of many embodiments of a filter element according to the
disclosure. Figure 17 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a plurality of filters according to the
disclosure. Figure 18 is an exploded isometric view of one of many
embodiments of a vaporizer having a reservoir adapted to couple with one or
more tabs according to the disclosure. Figure 19 is a schematic view of some
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of many embodiments of a tab according to the disclosure. Figures 1-19 are
described in conjunction with one another.
[0059] In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer 100, such as a system
for
vaporizing oil, can include a body 102, such as a housing or cover, for at
least
partially housing or otherwise supporting one or more other components of
vaporizer 100. Vaporizer 100 can include a mouthpiece 104 for routing fluid
and communicating with a user's mouth or lips during use of vaporizer 100.
For example, mouthpiece 104 can be configured to comfortably or otherwise
couple with a user's lips for directing vapor and/or air from within vaporizer
100 or a portion thereof to a user for inhalation. Vaporizer 100 can further
include one or more heaters 106 coupled to body 102 for heating at least a
portion of oil (not shown) housed within vaporizer 100. Vaporizer 100 can
include a feed control mount 108 for holding or otherwise supporting a feeder
110 in fluid communication with one or more other components of vaporizer
100, such as a reservoir 112 for holding or housing oil and a vapor chamber
114 for holding or housing oil vapor. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer
100 can include one or more filters 113 (see, e.g., Figures 15-17) for
filtering
material, such as oil, to be vaporized. Filter 113 can, but need not, be
coupled
to or part of feeder 110. Vaporizer 100 can include one or more inlets 116,
.. such as an opening or port, for allowing air to flow into or out of one or
more
components of vaporizer 100, such as vapor chamber 114, and one or more
flow passages 122 for routing or otherwise directing fluid flow in or through
vaporizer 100 or one or more portions thereof. In at least one embodiment,
vaporizer 100 can include one or more power supplies 124, such as a battery or
.. plurality of batteries, for powering heater 106 or one or more other
components of vaporizer 100. Vaporizer 100 can include one or more
actuators 125, such as a button, switch or other control, for activating
and/or
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deactivating the device, such as by way of controlling electrical or other
communication between a power supply 124 and heater 106.
[0060] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include one or
more reservoirs 112, such as a storage space, tank or chamber, for holding oil
to be vaporized during use of the vaporizer. Reservoir 112 can have any size,
shape, or volume according to a particular application or physical embodiment
of the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many,
reservoir 112 can have a volume sufficient to hold one gram of oil, but that
need not be the case, and reservoir 112 can have a volume for holding more or
less than one gram of oil, such as between zero grams and one gram of oil, or
more than one gram of oil, such as between one and one hundred grams of oil,
or more. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many, reservoir 112
can be at least generally cylindrical and can have a diameter of about 1/4
inch
and a length of about 1 inch. However, that need not be the case, and
reservoir
112 can have any size or shape, which can include a size based on desired
volume or a shape based on compatibility with one or more other components
of a physical embodiment of vaporizer 100.
[0061] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include one or
more plugs 128, such as a float or stopper, for supporting the functionality
of
vaporizer 100, such as by supporting the storage or flow of oil within or
through vaporizer 100. Plug 128 can be made from an oil resistant or repellant
material (e.g., polycarbonate, rubber, or acetal) and can be configured to
float
relative to the oil in reservoir 112. For example, plug 128 can be arranged to
at least partially float on top of the oil supply, and can have a clearance
with an
internal surface 126 or wall of reservoir 112 for limiting or preventing the
flow
of oil past plug 128 in the reservoir. Plug 128 can be adapted to float atop
the
oil in reservoir 112 and follow the oil level down as the oil supply is
depleted
during use of vaporizer 100, which can help ensure reservoir 112 is emptied
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completely or efficiently. Plug 128 can be adapted to function as a fill
mechanism, such as an inlet for allowing oil to be added to reservoir 112. For
example, plug 128 can be or include a rubber or other elastic portion 130
adapted for allowing a needle to pass there through for injecting oil into the
reservoir 112. As another example, plug 128 can include a valve (not shown)
or other optionally sealable opening for communicating with the interior of
reservoir 112. In at least one embodiment, plug 128 can protect the oil in
reservoir from exposure to air or other portions of vaporizer 100. As other
examples, plug 128 can be adapted for at least partially preventing bubbles
from forming in the oil in reservoir 112 and for keeping the oil in contact
with
one or more other components (e.g., feeder 110) for supporting proper flow of
the oil within vaporizer 100. In at least one embodiment, plug 128 can be
adapted for at least partially equalizing or otherwise affecting pressure
inside
and outside of reservoir, which can also support flow of the oil during use of
vaporizer 100.
[0062] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include a feeder
110, such as a conduit or wick, for feeding oil from one portion of the
vaporizer to one or more other portions of the vaporizer, such as from
reservoir
112 to a chamber 114, such as a vaporization chamber for supporting
vaporization of at least a portion of the oil in vaporizer 100. In at least
one
embodiment, feeder 110 can be a portion of a feed mechanism 132, or feed
assembly, comprising one or more other portions of vaporizer 100, such as one
or more of an oil storage reservoir 112, oil or other flow control device such
as
feeder 110, one or more vapor flow passages 122, such as a flow channel to
mouth piece 104, and an oil filling device or inlet such as plug 128 or a
portion
thereof. In at least one embodiment, feeder 110 can be or include a capillary
for feeding oil by way of capillary action, which can help overcome or
compensate for changes in the viscosity of the oil within vaporizer 100 due to
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internal or external temperature changes, such as due to use of the device or
during use of the device in different environments. In such an embodiment,
feeder 110 can exhibit a capillary action that at least partially reduces or
minimizes the time that may elapse during replenishment of a vaporization
zone 134 with oil from reservoir 112. In at least one embodiment, feeder 110
can be or include a capillary made from a porous ceramic or sintered metal
material, which can have a filter size of, for example, about 30 to about 90
microns, or another filter size according to a particular physical embodiment
of
the disclosure, which can be any filter size. In at least one embodiment,
feeder
110 can be or include a porous ceramic or sintered metal capillary feed device
that can be or become low in density and low in mass, which can help
minimize an amount of energy sufficient to increase the temperature of the oil
to its vaporization point. As another example, feeder 110 can be or include
aluminum oxide, which can include aluminum oxide held together with quartz
glass or another bonding material or agent. As will be understood by one of
ordinary skill having the benefits of the present disclosure, embodiments of
the
disclosure can be configured for use with one or more types of oil, which can
have differing vaporization temperatures, and that material of feeder 110 or a
portion thereof can be chosen to facilitate flow and vaporization of oils of
different types as needed or desired for a physical embodiment of vaporizer
100.
[0063] In at least one embodiment, vaporization chamber 114 can be
adapted for supporting vaporization of oil, such as from a liquid or other
form
to a vapor, which can include a colloidal suspension of droplets in air within
or
flowing through vaporizer 100 or one or more portions thereof. Chamber 114
can include one or more inlets 116 for allowing airflow into the chamber and
one or more outlets 136 for allowing airflow and/or oil vapor out of the
chamber. In at least one embodiment, one or more inlets 116 and/or outlets
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136 can include a flow control, such as a valve, orifice, or other structure
for
limiting, directing or otherwise controlling air flow. Chamber 114 can include
an inlet 116 or other air intake adapted for controlling flow of vapor or
droplets away from a heat source or other component of the vaporizer. For
example, inlet 116 can be configured for preventing flow away from a heat
source at a rate that can adversely affect vaporization, such as by resulting
in
too much or too little heating of or vaporization of the oil. In at least one
embodiment, chamber 114 can be adapted for keeping oil vapor or droplets
from getting into contact with a heat source, such as a heating coil, laser or
other heater described elsewhere herein. In at least one embodiment,
vaporization chamber 114 can include or be coupled in fluid communication
with feeder 110 or feed mechanism 132 for receiving oil from reservoir 112
for vaporization. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted for
routing oil vapor (or other vapor, e.g., if a substance other than oil is used
or
present) to or though one or more air channels or passages (such as flow
passage 122) within or through vaporizer 100 without being forced or
otherwise routed too close to a heat source (further described below), which
can include having a feeder 110, feed mechanism 132 or other portion of
vaporizer 100 shaped and arranged for directing vapor away from such heat
source during use of vaporizer 100. For instance, vapor can be routed to
mouthpiece 104 via flow passage 122 in a direction longitudinally opposite of
vaporization zone 134 or a heat source along central longitudinal axis X of
vaporizer 100. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted for
collecting or controlling condensate within a portion of the vaporizer (e.g.,
condensation due to temperature change), which can include routing or
recycling of oil condensate to or back to feeder 110, such as a capillary or
other feed mechanism described herein, via one or more flow paths, such as
return passage 138.
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[0064] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can at least
partially
prevent or minimize burning of oil by preventing oil from coming into direct
contact with a heat source, such as heater 106 or heater 206 (further
described
below). For example, oil can be held in place by capillary action of feeder
110. Further, flow and/or flow rate of the oil can be controlled by capillary
action of feeder 110. Such holding and control of the oil can be accomplished
or affected by, for example, the material type or density of feeder 110.
Carbonization of the oil can be prevented or minimized by preventing oil from
coming into contact with a heat source, which can include disposing oil for
heating within at least a portion of feeder 110 and disposing feeder 110 or
vaporization zone 134 distally from the heat source, such as a distance d
across
vaporization chamber 114, which can be any distance according to a physical
embodiment of the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, distance d can be a
distance sufficient to at least partially minimize carbonization or the
potential
for carbonization of the oil while nonetheless being small enough for
facilitating adequate heating of the oil for vaporization.
[0065] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted for
at
least partially preventing or minimizing leaking of oil, such as by
controlling
or limiting the flow of oil in or through feeder 110. Oil can be prevented
from
leaking from feeder 110 due to the energy needed to separate the oil from the
feeder or a portion thereof. In at least one embodiment, leaking can be at
least
partially prevented by plug 128 (which can include portion 130 thereof), which
can be floating on top of oil in reservoir 112 and which can prevent bubbling
of the oil and bias the oil in contact with feeder 110 (and/or feed control
mount
108) or a portion thereof, which can be or include a wicking feed material
such
as one or more of those described elsewhere herein. In at least one
embodiment, leaking can be at least partially prevented by preventing at least
a
portion of plug 128 from sinking into the oil. For example, plug 128 can be
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coupled to reservoir 112 so that plug 128 follows the oil level down (with
reference to the orientation shown in the Figures, although it could be
another
direction, such as up) as oil is removed from reservoir 112 during use of
vaporizer 100 by a user while also being at least partially prevented or
otherwise kept from moving into the oil or more than a distance into the oil.
In
at least one embodiment, plug 128 can be configured to at least partially
float
on or in oil within reservoir 112. In at least one embodiment, plug 128 can be
configured to at least partially resist movement in a direction toward oil in
reservoir 112, such as by being coupled with reservoir 112 by friction fit,
interference fit, or the like.
[0066] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can at least
partially
prevent or minimize clogging of one or more passages or conduits, such as
flow passage 122, by minimizing the exposure of oil in reservoir 112 to air,
including by way of plug 128, and by way of minimizing the potential for
evaporation of the oil within vaporizer 100. For example, plug 128 can be
sealingly coupled to reservoir 112 for minimizing air ingress into reservoir
112. Clogging of one or more air intake openings or vents, such as inlet 116,
can be prevented by minimizing the escape of oil from feeder 110 or a portion
thereof, such as a ceramic or other feed structure. Loss of oils due to not
being
able to get the oils to flow, i.e., due to partial or complete inoperation of
vaporizer 100 after some amount of use by a user, can also be minimized or
prevented. Feeder 110 can be made at least partially from a porous ceramic,
sintered metal or other material that can hold up to the PH levels of the oil,
which can at least partially prevent or reduce the chance of experiencing a
metallic taste or flavor during use of the device. Exemplary ceramic materials
can include aluminum oxide and silicon carbide. Exemplary sintered metal
materials can include passivated stainless steel and phosphor bronze.
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[0067] In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include one or
more heaters 106 for heating oil during use, such as by heating at least a
portion of oil to a vaporization point or vaporization temperature. The
vaporization temperature can depend on the oil or oils used in vaporizer 100.
For example, in at least one embodiment, heater 106 can heat oil to a
temperature of from about 270 degrees Fahrenheit to about 360 degrees
Fahrenheit, or another temperature sufficient to vaporize at least a portion
of
the oil, which can be any temperature according to a particular application or
oil used therefor. As noted above, in at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100
can be adapted to segregate or distance heater 106 and the oil for at least
partially preventing direct contact between heater 106 and the oil, for
instance,
to prevent or minimize overheating, burning or carbonization of the oil. In at
least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted to vaporize at least a
portion of oil stored therein at a temperature of less than 375 degrees
Fahrenheit. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted to heat
at least a portion of oil stored therein to a temperature for supporting flow
of
oil within vaporizer 100 or a portion thereof, such as through feeder 110,
which can include, for example, heating oil to about 160 degrees Fahrenheit or
another temperature between an ambient temperature and a burning or
carbonization temperature of the oil. Vaporizer 100 can be adapted to
vaporize oil disposed in vaporization zone 134, which can include heating at
least a portion of feeder 110.
[0068] As shown, for example, in Figures 1-6, heater 106 can be or
include a laser heater and can include one or more lasers 140 for heating the
.. oil, such as a laser for converting electrical energy into light and/or
heat
adapted to heat the oil, which can include a beam directed at or onto at least
a
portion of feeder 110. Such an embodiment of heater 106 can be referred to as
a laser furnace and can include various components for supporting operation of
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laser 140, such as, for example, one or more heat sinks 120, one or more
diodes 142, laser control electronics 144, and the like. In at least one
embodiment, vaporizer 100 can be adapted to heat oil with laser 140 by
heating feeder 110 or filter 113 (if present). Laser temperature can be
controlled in one or more of at least two ways, separately or in combination,
in
whole or in part. For example, the power applied to laser 140 can be varied
for
controlling the temperature of laser light directed to feeder 110 or otherwise
directed within vaporizer 100 for heating the oil. As another example, the
amount of heat applied to feeder 110 or otherwise directed within vaporizer
100 for heating the oil can be controlled by way of Pulse Width Modulation
(PWM), or the high speed switching of the laser on and off. In at least one
embodiment, PWM control can allow for a laser, such as, for example, a 1.6
watt or 2.2 watt laser, to energize the oil to a vapor state quickly, which
can
include instantaneously or about instantaneously upon application of the laser
light to the oil or another portion of vaporizer 100 for heating the oil. In
at
least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include a laser 140 that operates at a
resonant frequency of from about 40 hertz to about 50 hertz and a duty cycle
of about 20% to about 30%. In at least one embodiment, the time to
vaporization can depend on the time elapsed between activation(s) of heater
106, laser 140 or vaporizer 100, which can affect the temperature of the oil
at
the time of an activation, separately or in combination with other factors,
such
as, for example, the ambient temperature in the location of use. Additionally,
or individually, PWM can allow for control of the length of time for which
laser 140 is activated or applied during use and for control of the activation
time sufficiently to prevent burning of the oil due to overheating. In at
least
one embodiment, laser 140 can be adapted to concentrate the application of
heat to the oil for reducing the vapor droplet size relative to one or more
other
embodiments of heat sources described herein. In at least one embodiment, a
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heater 106 having a laser 140 can reduce the power consumption for heating
the oil relative to one or more other embodiments of heater 106 or vaporizer
100 (200, etc.). Laser light can be concentrated on one or more locations,
such
as a focus point or focal point, which can include controlling the light with
or
otherwise passing the light through one or more lenses 118, for heating the
oil,
which can, in at least one embodiment, result in less power consumption for
heating the oil to a temperature (which can be any temperature) versus the
power consumption of a heating coil for heating the oil to that temperature.
For example, a heating coil (further described below) can heat some or all of
vaporization chamber 114 and/or feeder 110 prior to oil vaporization taking
place. Lens 118 can be or include one or more convex lenses, concave lenses,
ball lenses, or other lenses, separately or in combination, in whole or in
part.
In at least one embodiment, a laser light frequency of laser 140 can be
selected
in consideration of the thermal absorption characteristics of feeder 110, feed
mechanism 132, one or more oils used with vaporizer 100, or one or more
other components of vaporizer 100, separately or in combination, in whole or
in part. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include a laser 140
having a light frequency of, for example, about 435 or 445 nanometers (blue);
however, other light frequencies are possible, which can include any light
frequency according to a particular application or physical embodiment of the
disclosure (e.g., greater than or less than 445 nanometers).
[0069] In at least one embodiment, laser 140 can produce a
concentrated
and controllable heat source that can be directed to a capillary feeder, such
as
feeder 110, or other portion of feed mechanism 132 for efficiently heating oil
in the vaporizer, such as in vaporization zone 134. Temperature can be
controlled by controlling the on/off time of the laser light, which can be
controlled as a percentage of laser activation time. Temperature can be
controlled by controlling the voltage and/or current to laser 140, such as for
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setting thermal heating of one or more localized areas on the feeder or
elsewhere within the vaporizer (e.g., vaporization zone 134) for heating at
least
a portion of the oil therein. Power consumption can be minimized through
localized thermal heating with laser 140. The power consumption of the laser
diode 142 and laser control electronics 144 of laser 140 can be less than the
power consumption of one or more other types of heat sources, such as a
heating coil. In at least one embodiment, vapor droplet size can be reduced
(versus one or more other heat sources) by laser heating of the oil, such as
due
to the localized heating on feed mechanism 132 or another component of
.. vaporizer 100, such as feeder 110. A reduction of droplet size can help
prevent condensation of oil within vaporizer 100. In at least one embodiment,
vaporizer 100 can include a laser 140 having a laser temperature configured to
reduce or avoid burning or carbonization of the oil. In at least one
embodiment, laser 140 can have an adjustable focus point, which can include
by way of one or more lenses 118. In at least one embodiment, laser 140 can
have a set focus point and can be adapted to be defocused for achieving oil
vaporization, which can help avoid or prevent burning and carbonization of
oil. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 100 can include one or more safety
interlocks or other safety features for at least partially minimizing the risk
of
damage to a user's eyes or otherwise, such as, for example, focus or defocus
features. In at least one embodiment, for example, laser 140 can include a
focus point set for preventing damage to a user's eyes in the event one or
more
other safety features fails. For instance, while the focal point of laser 140
can
be of a relatively hot temperature (e.g., 550 degrees Fahrenheit), the focal
point can be configured so that the light from laser 140 is diffused enough
over
a relatively short distance (e.g., a distance from vaporization zone 134 to
mouthpiece 104) to minimize or prevent damage to a user's eye. As another
example, vaporizer 100 or one or more portions thereof (e.g., body 102,
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reservoir 112, or chamber 114) can be configured for preventing light from
laser 140 from being viewed by a user (at least absent disassembly of the
device) or limiting or controlling any viewable light so as to avoid or
minimize
any potential for harm to a user's eyes.
[0070] With continuing reference to the remaining Figures, and specific
reference to, for example, Figures 10-13, one or more other embodiments of a
vaporizer according to the disclosure will now be described. In at least one
embodiment, a vaporizer 200 can include a body 202, a mouthpiece 204, a
heater 206, a feed control mount 208, a feeder 210, a reservoir 212, a vapor
chamber 214, which can include an inlet 216, a flow passage 222 and a plug
228. Vaporizer 200 and the foregoing components can generally function in
the manner described above with regard to vaporizer 100 and such similarities
need not be repeated or described again here. However, vaporizer 200 can
differ in one or more respects. For example, in at least one embodiment,
heater 206 can differ from heater 106 in that, rather than (or collectively
with)
including a laser 140, heater 206 can be or include one or more other heat
sources, such as one or more resistance heating elements 226 ("coil 226"),
such as a wire, coil or other conductor, for converting electrical energy into
heat and heating oil within vaporizer 200. In such an embodiment, which is
but one of many, vaporizer 200 can include one or more components for
supporting coil 226. For instance, vaporizer 200 can include one or more
conductors 218 for electrically coupling coil 226 to one or more power
sources, such as a battery or battery pack (see, e.g., power supply 124).
Vaporizer 200 can include a base 220 and top 224 for holding or otherwise
supporting coil 226, such as within or otherwise relative to body 202. Top 224
can be configured to couple with one or more other components of vaporizer
200, such as reservoir 212 or feed control mount 208, for disposing coil 226
in
one or more positions relative to feeder 210 for heating oil within vaporizer
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200. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer 200 can include one or more
couplers 230 for coupling with a power supply, such as by way of a threaded
connection or otherwise, and can include one or more guides 234 for
supporting alignment or electrical communication between a power supply
coupled to coupler 230 and one or more other components of vaporizer 200,
such as conductor 218 or coil 226. In at least one embodiment, heater 206 can
be adapted to heat oil to a vaporization temperature within about 2 seconds of
activation of vaporizer 200 or, as other examples, in less than 2 seconds or
more than 2 seconds from activation.
[0071] In at least one embodiment, heater 206 can be or include an
exposed coil for applying heat to oil, such as by conductively or radiantly
heating feeder 210 or at least a portion of a feed mechanism 232, which can
include one or more filters 213 (if present). In such an embodiment, which is
but one of many, vaporizer 200 can include a radiant thermally reflective or
refractive material 236 (e.g., aluminum foil, ceramic, fiberglass) positioned
behind or otherwise relative to coil 226 for directing heat toward feeder 210
or
another portion of the vaporizer for heating the oil therein. The temperature
of
heater 206 or the oil can be controlled, for example, by controlling the
voltage
or current supplied to the heater 206. In at least one embodiment, vaporizer
100, 200 can include a plurality of filters 113, 213 (see Figure 17), which
can
include filters of the same or different densities or porosities. Filters 113,
213
can be of any size and shape according to a physical embodiment of the
disclosure, and can have any number, size and shape of openings, such as
round, clover, slotted, sliced, rectangular or other holes or fluid paths. A
number of configurations for a filter 113, 213 are shown in Figure 16 for
illustrative purposes (labeled 113a, 113b, etc., for purposes of convenience
of
reference) although it should be understood that such examples are not
limiting
and that other shapes, sizes and configurations of a filter 113, 213 are
possible.
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[0072] In at least one embodiment, heater 206 can include an at least
partially enclosed coil 226, such as a coil or other element at least
partially
contained within a tube or other enclosure (e.g., base 220 and/or top 224),
for
producing heated air flow routed across or directed to feeder 210 or another
portion of vaporizer for heating the oil therein. Such an embodiment of heater
206 can be referred to as a tube furnace. Radiant thermal energy can be
reflected by refractory ceramic or another material (not shown) for increasing
thermal content of the air flow. Similarly, the temperature of heater 206 or
the
oil can be controlled, for example, by controlling the voltage or current
supplied to the heater. Burning or carbonization can be at least partially
prevented or minimized by preventing the oil from coming in contact with
heater 206 or coil 226, or by controlling the air supply through at least a
portion of the device, which can include controlling the power directed to one
or more coils 226 or other heat sources. Heating of feeder 210 or feed
mechanism 232, such as one disposed at least partially within a vaporizing
chamber 214, can include reflecting radiant heat energy from a heat source,
such as a nickel chrome or other heating coil 226, toward feeder 210, such as
a
capillary feed or other feed. Radiant heat can be directed toward feeder 210
or
the oil, which can include coupling a ceramic or other material having
refractive qualities and/or a thermal radiant reflective material in or to at
least
a portion of vaporizer 200, such as to or near heater 206 or another portion
of
vaporizer 200.
[0073] As shown and described above with reference to vaporizers 100,
200, reservoirs 112, 212 can be configured for storing oil in liquid form and
feeders 110, 210 and/or filters 113, 213 can be configured for moving oil from
reservoirs 112, 212, such as by wicking or capillary action, to an area of
vaporizer 100, 200 for heating or vaporization (e.g., vaporization zone 134).
However, this need not be the case, and other embodiments of vaporizers
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according to the disclosure exist. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer 300
can be adapted to vaporize oil that is stored in a form other than liquid
residing
in a reservoir, which can include being adapted to receive or otherwise couple
with one or more tabs 350, such as a tablet, cylinder, or disk, comprising the
oil. A tab 350 according to the disclosure can include, for example, a piece
of
porous ceramic or sintered metal (such as those materials described elsewhere
herein) soaked, injected or infused with oil, such as to the point that the
oil is
held in place by capillary action or is otherwise resistant to being removed
or
rubbed off from tab 350 by touch. In such an embodiment, which is but one of
many, a vaporizer can include a reservoir 312 configured for holding one or
more tabs 350 and for supporting the tab(s) during heating. In at least one
embodiment, a reservoir 312 for tabs can serve as an alternative to a
reservoir
with a wicking feed or other feed as described herein, but that need not be
the
case and, in at least one embodiment, one or more of such reservoirs and
corresponding components can exist collectively. Tab 350 can, but need not,
take place of or be substituted for one or more other components of a
vaporizer, such as one or more of a feeder (e.g., feeders 110, 210) or filter
(e.g., filters 113, 213), in whole or in part.
[0074] In at least one embodiment, tab 350 can include a relatively
limited number of doses relative to a liquid reservoir embodiment, such as
one,
two, three, or up to fifty doses, and can be disposable and/or replaceable
after
use. Tab 350 can provide a convenient and clean way for users to transport or
store oil for use in a vaporizer. A vaporizer configured for coupling with one
or more tabs 350 can include one or more heat sources for heating one or more
tabs 350 to vaporize at least a portion of the oil in the tab(s) during use,
such as
one or more of heaters 106, 206 described elsewhere herein. As another
example, a vaporizer can include a nail heating device, which can include a
chamber heated by a torch, flame, or other heat source that heats the nail to
a
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high enough temperature for causing vaporization of the oil, yet, in at least
one
embodiment, to a temperature below a carbonizing or burning temperature of
the oil. Tab 350 can be adapted to have a thermal mass for providing enough
heat energy to vaporize at least a portion of the oil content of the tab. A
vaporizer can at least partially prevent or minimize carbonization or burning
of
the oil, such as by preventing the oil from coming into direct or other
contact
with a heating coil or other heat source. Oil can be held in place on or
within a
tab 350 by capillary action or another manner according to a particular
application or physical embodiment of the disclosure. Oil can be vaporized by
applying heat to or otherwise heating tab 350. In at least one embodiment, tab
can have a mass that reduces or minimizes an amount of energy needed to heat
the tab or to heat at least a portion of the oil coupled to the tab to a
vaporization point. Tab 350 can have any size or shape according to a
physical embodiment of the disclosure. For example, tab 350 can be disk-
shaped, which can, but need not, include having a raised border or other
portion, such as for surrounding a logo formed or printed on one or more sides
of tab 350. As other examples, tab 350 can be pill-shaped, or another shape,
such as square, cubical, pentagonal, hexagonal, octanol, oblong, or any other
shape for coupling with a reservoir 312 adapted to couple with one or more
tabs 350.
[0075] Figure 20 is one of many embodiments of an ideal temperature
profile for vaporization of an oil according to the disclosure. Figure 21 is
one
of many embodiments of an energy profile sent to a coil according to the
disclosure. Figure 22 is one of many embodiments of a PWM profile output
.. for delivering power to a coil according to the disclosure. Figure 23 is
one of
many embodiments of an analog equivalent of a PWM profile according to the
disclosure. Figure 24 is one of many embodiments of an expanded power
profile to a coil according to the disclosure, which can include a sloped
power
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profile, such as for maintaining of a temperature as a wick is increasing in
temperature over time. Figure 25 is yet another of many embodiments of a
power profile for vaporization of an oil according to the disclosure. Figure
26
is yet another of many embodiments of a power profile for vaporization of an
oil according to the disclosure.
[0076] With continuing reference to Figures 1-19, and specific
reference
to Figures 20-26, one or more methods and systems for controlling a vaporizer
will now be described in further detail. As discussed above, a vaporizer
according to the disclosure, such as vaporizer 100 or vaporizer 200, can at
least partially prevent or minimize carbonization or burning of oil, such as
by
at least partially preventing oil from reaching a carbonization temperature.
In
at least one embodiment, this can be accomplished in whole or in part by
controlling at least a portion of the vaporizer, such as the heating element
or
heating system (e.g., heater 106, 206), so that oil reaches a vaporization
temperature but does not reach a carbonization temperature. Figures 20-26 are
described in conjunction with one another.
[0077] In at least one embodiment, a method of controlling a
vaporizer
can include controlling one or more components, such as heater 106, 206 or
another heating system, via Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), which can
include PWM driving of one or more coils 226. In such an embodiment, a
method can include at least partially preventing coil 226 (or another heat
source, such as laser 140) from exceeding a temperature that can cause burning
of oil and/or breakdown of one or more materials, which can be a source for
bad tastes or smoke during use of a vaporizer. In at least one embodiment, a
PWM system 400 can control the power sent to one or more coils 226
accurately and can be controlled by one or more controllers 402, such as a
microprocessor or other processor, for example. In at least one embodiment, a
method can include bringing one or more coils 226 up to a vaporizing
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temperature and decreasing the power for maintaining such a temperature
without letting the coil get hot enough to damage or burn the oil. For
instance,
in at least one embodiment, power to a coil can start out with a 95% signal
and
then drop to a 50% signal to hold a temperature over time (see Figure 21). As
another example, a method can include starting out with an 80% signal or a
100% and dropping to a 30% or other signal after a period of elapsed time to
hold a vaporization temperature over time (see, e.g., Figure 23). As a further
example, PWM system 400 (if present) can be configured for modulating a
power profile or power delivery by way of one or more pulse width changes
over time. For instance, in at least one embodiment, PWM system 400 can be
configured to implement a 95% pulse width for a first period of time (e.g.,
0.1
second or about 0.1 second), such as upon activation of a vaporizer, for
relatively quickly bringing oil to a vaporization temperature, and to
implement
a smaller pulse width (e.g., 30%) for a second period of time for maintaining
a
vaporization temperature during use or a period of use of the vaporizer by a
user (see, e.g., Figure 22). However, these are just examples and, as will be
understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the
present disclosure, the starting signal and maintenance signals can be any
signals required or desired for a physical embodiment of the disclosure, and
can be determined based on consideration of applicable variables for an
embodiment of a vaporizer according to the disclosure, such as, but not
limited
to, oil or material type, feeder type, heater type, volume, target
temperatures,
or any of the other variables described herein, separately or in combination,
in
whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, controller 402 can be configured
to determine or control the slope of a maintenance phase of temperature
control as a function of a temperature of one or more components of a
vaporizer over time, such as, for example, a temperature of one or more
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feeders 110, 210, filters 113, 213 or, as another example, one or more tabs
350
(see, e.g., Fig. 24).
[0078] Further examples of power profiles for controlling vaporizers
according to the disclosure are shown in Figs. 25 and 26 for illustrative
purposes. In at least one embodiment, controller 402 can be configured for
varying voltage delivered to a heater, such as coil 226 or another heat
source,
over time to control the heating of oil during use of a vaporizer. For
example,
a first voltage, which can be a full voltage (such as 3.7 volts or another
voltage), can be applied for a first time period (e.g., 0.1 second to 0.45
second
or another time period) for heating oil to a target temperature, such as a
vaporization temperature, relatively quickly. One or more other voltages, such
as a reduced second voltage (e.g., 1.2 to 3 volts for a coil resistance range
of
2.0 Ohms to 2.4 Ohms), can be delivered for a second time period for
maintaining a temperature, such as a target temperature, of the oil during use
of the vaporizer while at least partially reducing the likelihood of
overheating
or burning of the oil. The voltages and time periods can depend on the type of
oil used in the vaporizer. Once again, the above mentioned time periods and
voltages are described herein for illustrative purposes, and such variables
can,
and likely will, vary from one physical embodiment of a vaporizer 100, 200 to
another, depending, for example, on the size, purpose, materials, power
source,
and oil type of the device. Figure 26 illustrates the principles and methods
described above in more general terms.
[0079] One or more of the oils used with the systems and methods
disclosed herein can be sticky, can range in viscosity, and/or can change
viscosity upon or with exposure to air, temperature changes, or other outside
influences. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer according to the
disclosure
can exhibit improved functionality over conventional devices in light of the
foregoing oil characteristics. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can
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include a feed mechanism comprising an oil storage, such as an oil reservoir,
an oil loading or feeding device, and a cap. In at least one embodiment, a
vaporizer can include a wicking device, which can include one or more paths
for moving oil, such as to a location for vaporization, or one or more
materials
for conducting oil, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at
least
one embodiment, a vaporizer can include a supply or feeder, such as a
capillary supply, which can be exposed to a heat supply or heat source for
vaporizing oil. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include one or
more of a filling device, such as a fluid inlet, a mouth piece, and an air
channel
or air flow path. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include a
heater,
which can be part of a heat device or mechanism, and which can include one
or more of an electrically heated wire or coil, a laser, a sonar device, or a
sonic
vibration device. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include one or
more chambers, which can include a vapor or vaporization chamber, such as
chamber wherein oil can be vaporized, which can include oil being changed
from a liquid to a suspension of droplets, such as droplets suspended or
otherwise disposed in air within or flowing through at least a portion of a
vaporizer. In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include one or more
power supplies, which can include one or more batteries and, for example,
electronics adapted for controlling one or more aspects of vaporizer
operation,
including, but not limited to, electronics for controlling temperature, which
can
include via feed-back sensors, microprocessors for control timing and
displays,
recharging circuitry and controls, and any other function or operation of one
or
more of the vaporizers, systems or methods disclosed herein, separately or in
combination, in whole or in part.
[0080] In at least one embodiment, a vaporizer can include one or
more
reservoirs for holding oil, one or more chambers for holding vapor, one or
more feeders for feeding oil from a reservoir to a chamber, and one or more
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heaters for heating oil. A heater can include at least one of a laser, a
resistance
heater, a wire, a coil, a wire at least partially disposed in a housing, and a
combination thereof. A feeder can include one or more capillaries or other
structures for moving fluid by capillary action. A vaporizer can be adapted to
heat oil with at least one of a tube furnace, a laser furnace, a wire, a coil,
and a
combination thereof. A vaporizer can include any one or more of the
components or portions as shown or described herein, including by way of the
figures. In at least one embodiment, a method of vaporizing oil can include
feeding oil from a reservoir to a chamber, and heating at least a portion of
an
amount of oil to a vaporization temperature. A method can include moving oil
by capillary action. A method can include heating oil with at least one of a
laser, a resistance heater, a wire, a coil, a wire at least partially disposed
in a
housing, and a combination thereof. A method can include heating oil with at
least one of a tube furnace, a laser furnace, a wire, a coil, and a
combination
thereof. A method of vaporizing oil can include using a vaporizer as shown or
described herein. A method can include using any of the one or more
vaporizer components or portions shown or described herein. A method can
include making, forming, manufacturing, or producing a vaporizer as shown or
described herein or any of the one or more vaporizer components or portions
shown or described herein. A method of storing oil can include storing oil in
a
device or structure as shown or described herein. In at least one embodiment,
a furnace for a vaporizer can include one or more lasers, one or more lenses,
one or more vapor chambers, and one or more feeds. A furnace for a vaporizer
can include one or more bases, one or more tops, one or more wires, and one
or more conductors. An oil storage device can include a tab adapted to couple
with oil. An oil storage device can include a porous tab adapted to store oil
in
one or more pores thereof. A vaporizer can be adapted to couple with a tab
having oil disposed at least partially therein. A vaporizer can be adapted to
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heat at least a portion of one or more tabs or other oil storage devices
disposed
at least partially therein or otherwise coupled thereto.
[0081] A vaporizer can include a reservoir for holding oil, a chamber
for
holding vapor, a feeder for feeding oil from the reservoir to the chamber, and
a
heater for heating oil. A feeder can be configured to feed oil from the
reservoir to the chamber by capillary action. A feeder can include a wick that
can be at least one of ceramic, sintered metal, aluminum oxide, which can
include aluminum oxide held together with quartz glass or another bonding
material or agent, and a combination thereof. A vaporizer can include a plug
sealingly coupled to the reservoir and configured to slide relative to at
least a
portion of the reservoir. A plug can be configured to move from a first end of
the reservoir toward the feeder as a volume of oil within the reservoir
decreases. A plug can be configured to at least partially resist sinking into
a
volume of oil within the reservoir, such as by at least partially floating or
by
way of being mechanically or otherwise constrained. A vaporizer can include
a feed control mount coupled to the reservoir and the chamber and configured
to hold the feeder in fluid communication with the reservoir and the chamber.
A heater can include at least one of a laser, a resistance heater, a wire, a
coil, a
wire at least partially disposed in a housing, and a combination thereof.
[0082] A vaporizer can include a controller coupled to the heater and can
be configured to heat the heater to a first temperature for a first time
period,
reduce the temperature of the heater, and maintain the heater at a second
temperature for a second time period. A first time period can be shorter or
longer than a second time period. A controller can be configured to control
one or more heaters by at least one of controlling voltage supplied to the
heater, controlling current supplied to the heater, and a combination thereof.
A
controller can be configured to control one or more heaters by pulse width
modulation of power supplied to the heater(s).
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[0083] A reservoir can be disposed in a reservoir housing, and a
reservoir
housing can include a first flow passage or other passages in fluid
communication with a chamber or other portion of a vaporizer. A vaporizer
can include a mouthpiece coupled to the reservoir housing, and a mouthpiece
can include a second flow passage or other passages in fluid communication
with a first flow passage. A heater can be configured to heat at least a
portion
of the feeder. A vaporizer or portion thereof, such as a feeder, can be,
include,
or be configured to couple with a porous tab adapted to store oil in one or
more
pores thereof. A tab can be at least one of ceramic, sintered metal, aluminum
oxide and a combination thereof. A vaporizer can include a filter coupled to
the feeder or another component, such as a feed control mount, and a heater
can be configured to heat at least a portion of the filter.
[0084] A vaporizer can include a reservoir housing comprising a
reservoir configured to hold oil and a first flow passage fluidically separate
from the reservoir, a feed control mount coupled to the reservoir housing, a
chamber coupled to the feed control mount and configured to hold vapor, an
air inlet disposed in the chamber, a feeder coupled to the feed control mount
and disposed in fluid communication with both the reservoir and the chamber,
a heater configured to heat oil disposed within the chamber, and a plug
slideably and sealingly coupled to the reservoir.
[0085] A feeder can be configured to feed oil from the reservoir to
the
chamber, which can include by capillary action. A plug can be configured to
move from a first end of the reservoir toward the feeder as a volume of oil
within the reservoir decreases, such as during use of the vaporizer. A
vaporizer can include a controller coupled to the heater and can be configured
to heat the heater to a first temperature for a first time period, reduce the
temperature of the heater, and maintain the heater at a second temperature for
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second time period. A second time period can be shorter than, longer than, or
equal to a first time period.
[0086] Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of
the systems and methods described herein can be devised without departing
from the spirit of Applicants' disclosure. For example, the systems and
methods disclosed herein can be used alone or to form one or more parts of
other vaporizers or vaporizing systems. Further, the various methods and
embodiments of the vaporizers can be included in combination with each other
to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Discussion
of singular elements can include plural elements and vice-versa. References to
at least one item followed by a reference to the item can include one or more
items. Also, various aspects of the embodiments can be used in conjunction
with each other to accomplish the goals of the disclosure.
[0087] Unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise,"
"include," and "has" (including variations and conjugations thereof, such as
"comprises," "including," "have" and so forth) should be understood to imply
the inclusion of at least the stated element or step or group of elements or
steps
or equivalents thereof, and not the exclusion of a greater numerical quantity
or
any other element or step or group of elements or steps or equivalents
thereof.
The devices, apparatuses and systems can be used in a number of directions
and orientations. The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences
unless
otherwise specifically limited. The various steps described herein can be
combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split
into
multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can
be embodied as separate components and/or can be combined into components
having multiple functions.
[0088] The embodiments have been described in the context of
preferred
and other embodiments and not every embodiment of Applicants' disclosure
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has been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described
embodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art having the
benefits of the present disclosure. The
disclosed and undisclosed
embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability
of
Applicants' disclosures, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws,
Applicants intend to fully protect all such modifications and improvements
that come within the scope or range of equivalents of the following claims.
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