US20190053536A1

US20190053536A1 - Weatherproof container for smoking supplies

Info

Publication number: US20190053536A1
Application number: US16/104,276
Authority: US
Inventors: Orion McComas
Original assignee: Smokineer LLC
Current assignee: Smokineer LLC
Priority date: 2017-08-17
Filing date: 2018-08-17
Publication date: 2019-02-21

Abstract

A container for smoking supplies includes a body having a first end and a second end. A pipe chamber is defined in the first end and a holder recess is defined in the second end. The pipe chamber is configured to removably receive a smoking pipe such that the smoking pipe extends into the holder recess. Additionally, a holder is at least partially disposed within the holder recess. The holder is slidable within the holder recess between a closed position and a smoking position, and when in the smoking position, a lighting chamber is formed between the body and the holder. The holder includes a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an elongated packer moveably disposed at least partially within the holder. The elongated packer is aligned with the pipe chamber and in the closed position, the packer is positioned proximate the smoking pipe.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/546,998, filed on Aug. 17, 2017, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Container systems can be an effective means to store items for use and smokers may store smoking supplies in container systems for travel and/or outdoor use. In some known smoking storage containers, the smoking components have to be removed prior to use. For example, smoking materials, a smoking apparatus, and a lighter all have to be removed from the container for the user to smoke. When the user is outdoors, this exposes one or more of the smoking components to inclement weather, such as wind, rain, and other weather conditions. These wet and windy conditions can cause problems for the user while trying to load the smoking materials into the smoking apparatus, as well as when packing it into the apparatus, and generally enjoying the smoking experience. Additionally, wind and rain often extinguish the flame of the lighter, making it difficult to light the smoking material. These issues not only complicate the smoking process but also can lead to dropping, breaking, or losing necessary smoking components.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the technology relates to a container for smoking supplies including: a body including a first end and an opposite second end, wherein a pipe chamber is defined in the first end and a holder recess is defined in the second end, and wherein the pipe chamber is configured to removably receive a smoking pipe such that at least a portion of the smoking pipe extends into the holder recess; and a holder at least partially disposed within the holder recess, the holder being slidable within the holder recess between at least a closed position and a smoking position, wherein when in the smoking position, a lighting chamber is formed between the body and the holder, the holder including: a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material; and an elongated packer moveably disposed at least partially within the holder, wherein the elongated packer is aligned with the pipe chamber and in the closed position, the packer is positioned proximate the smoking pipe.
In an example, the body further includes a lighter chamber defined in the first end and open to the holder recess, wherein the lighter chamber is configured to removably receive a lighter. In another example, the holding compartment includes a resealable lid. In yet another example, the lid includes a handle, and the handle is disposed proximate the lighter chamber and configured to retain the lighter within the lighter chamber, when the holder is in the closed position. In still another example, a packer chamber is defined in the holder and the elongated packer is at least partially disposed within the packer chamber, and the elongated packer is moveable between at least an extended position and a retracted position. In an example, the elongated packer includes a head, a tail, and a shaft extending therebetween, and the tail is disposed outside of the holder.
In another example, the holding compartment and the packer chamber are separated by a wall and a hole is defined in the wall, and when the elongated packer is in the retracted position, the head covers the hole, and when the elongated packer is in the extended position, the hole is uncovered. In yet another example, the body further includes a first wall, an opposite second wall, and two opposing side walls, each wall extending between the first end and the second end, and an aperture is defined in one or more of the walls at the holder recess. In still another example, the container further includes a cap selectively engagable with the pipe chamber at the first end of the body and the aperture. In an example, the cap includes a tether, and the tether is coupled to one of the two side walls. In another example, the holder is completely removable from the body. In still another example, the body and the holder are formed from a silicone-based material.
In another aspect, the technology relates to a smoking supply kit including: a container including: a body including a pipe chamber, a lighter chamber, and a holder recess; and a holder at least partially disposed within the holder recess, the holder being positionable within the holder recess between at least a closed position and a smoking position, the holder including a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an elongated packer moveably disposed at least partially within the holder; and a smoking pipe configured to be received at least partially within the pipe chamber, the smoking pipe including a first end extending from the body and an opposite second end configured to receive a portion of the smoking material, wherein the second end extends into the holder recess.
In an example, the kit further includes a lighter removably disposed at least partially within the lighter chamber. In another example, the pipe chamber and the lighter chamber are adjacent to each other such that an ignition system of the lighter is positioned proximate to the second end of the smoking pipe. In still another example, when the holder is in the smoking position, a lighting chamber is formed between the body and the holder, and the lighting chamber is sized such that a flame generated by the lighter can light the smoking material within the second end of the smoking pipe. In yet another example, the smoking pipe is a straight pipe that is substantially cylindrical. In an example, the elongated packer is aligned with the smoking pipe.
In another example, a packer chamber is defined in the holder and the elongated packer is at least partially disposed within the packer chamber, and the packer chamber is in communication with the holding compartment such that when the holder is in the closed position, the smoking material is flowable from the holding compartment to the second end of the smoking pipe via movement of the elongated packer.
In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of manufacturing a container for smoking supplies, the method including: forming a body, wherein a pipe chamber and a lighter chamber are defined in a first end and a holder recess is defined in an opposite second end, wherein the pipe chamber is configured to receive a smoking pipe; forming a holder, wherein the holder includes a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an adjacent packer chamber, wherein the holding compartment includes a resealable lid; inserting an elongated packer at least partially within the packer chamber, wherein the elongated packer is moveable within the packer chamber; coupling the holder to the body, wherein the holder is disposed at least partially within the holder recess such that the holder can move between at least a closed position and a smoking position; and attaching a cap to the body, wherein the cap has a tether that is secured to the body.

BREIF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure, it being understood, however, that the technology described herein is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary container for smoking supplies in a closed position.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the container in an extended smoking position.

FIGS. 2A-2F are a top view, a front view, a back view, a bottom view, a left view, and a right view, respectively, of the container shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 3 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the container shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 4 is a right view of another container for smoking supplies.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the container shown in FIG. 4.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are cross-sectional views of the container shown in FIG. 4 in a closed position and a smoking position, respectively.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method of manufacturing a container for smoking supplies.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the smoking containers and methods that are the subject of this disclosure are described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but is extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, in general, elements of the exemplary containers may be described as depicted in the figures (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” etc.). These general terms are utilized for clarity and only to distinguish the various elements from each other.
The examples of a personal weather-resistant smoking container described herein enable a single container to be used for storing and carrying smoking components, while also, enabling the container to be configured to form a weather-resistance chamber for burning smoking materials therein. As such, a user may have a single container that prevents smoking components from being lost, and that creates an enjoyable smoking experience even in inclement weather without wind and/or rain from extinguishing a lighter or the smoking materials. In aspects, the container includes a body that is configured to support a smoking apparatus and a lighter, and a holder that is configured to support a holder compartment and a packer. The holder is slidable with respect to the body such that a weather-resistant lighting chamber is formed for the user to light smoking material within the container. Additionally, the container is rugged being wear and weather-resistant, such that the smoking components are protected therein. Furthermore, the container includes a smoking material packer that is configured to channel smoking material towards the smoking apparatus without requiring access inside the container. As such, the container enables the entire smoking procedure to be weather-resistant and enjoyable in inclement weather. For example, in rain, wind, snow, etc. Moreover, the weather-resistant seal also facilitates an airtight seal so as to reduce or prevent the smell of the smoking pipe or the smoking material to emanate therefrom.
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary container 100 for smoking supplies in a closed position. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the container 100 in an extended smoking position. Referring concurrently to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the container 100 includes a body 102 having a first end 104 and an opposite second end 106. The body 102 also includes a front wall 108, an opposite back wall 110, and two opposing side walls, a left side wall 112 and a right side wall 114, extending between the first end 104 and the second end 106. The container 100 also includes a holder 116 that is coupled to the second end 106 of the body 102. The holder 116 is slidable within the body 102 such that the holder 116 is moveable between the closed position as shown in FIG. 1A and the smoking position as shown in FIG. 1B. Additionally, the holder 116 may be completely removed from the body 102 as required or desired.
The body 102 is configured to hold and support a smoking accessory 150 (e.g., a smoking pipe shown in FIG. 3) and a lighter 152 (shown in FIG. 3). The holder 116 is configured to hold smoking material and includes an elongated packer 118 that is aligned with the smoking pipe. In operation, the holder 116 can be slid into the body 102, forming the closed position (shown in FIG. 1A), for carrying and transport. While in the closed position, the smoking pipe can also be loaded with smoking materials without requiring the pipe and/or smoking material to be removed from the container 100. To load the smoking pipe with smoking material, the elongated packer 118 may extend at least partially away from the holder 116. The smoking material stored in the holder 116 can then be channeled towards the elongated packer 118, so that when the packer 118 is depressed back into the holder 116, the smoking material can be pushed into the smoking pipe. As described herein, smoking material may be any substance or mixture for combustion (or vaporization) and inhalation.
Once the smoking pipe is loaded with smoking material, the holder 116 can be slid at least partially out of the body 102 and into the smoking position (shown in FIG. 1B), such that a lighting chamber 120 is formed between the body 102 and the holder 116. The holder 116 forming a weather-resistant seal with the second end 106 of the body 102. While in the smoking position, a user can reach into the lighting chamber 120 through an aperture 122 defined on each wall 108, 110 of the body 102 and actuate the lighter supported by the body 102. As such, a flame generated by the lighter can light the smoking material within the smoking pipe all within the lighting chamber 120 formed within the container 100. By containing the lighter and the smoking pipe within the lighting chamber 120, the container 100 forms a wind-resistant and water-resistant barrier to facilitate smoking in inclement and adverse weather conditions. For example, to facilitate smoking in wind, rain, and/or snow. Furthermore, by storing the smoking material also within the container 100, the user is not required to expose the smoking material to the inclement and adverse weather conditions while smoking. Thus, enabling a weatherproof container and smoking apparatus for use with travel and/or outdoor activities.
The container 100 may also include a cap 124 that can be selectively secured to the body 102. As illustrated, the cap 124 is coupled to the first end 104 of the body 102 such that a mouthpiece of the smoking pipe is covered and there is a weather-resistant seal between the cap 124 and the body 102. The cap 124 may include a flexible tether 126 that secures the cap to the body 102. In one example, the tether 126 may extend from the cap 124 and include a free end having a knob 128, which is received within a corresponding notch 130 defined in the left wall 112 of the body 102. This connection prevents the cap 124 from being lost or misplaced. The knob 128 and the notch 130 connection may enable the tether 126 and the cap 124 connected thereto to be removable and/or replaceable from the body 102 as required or desired.
The cap 124 can also be coupled to the body 102 at either of the apertures 122, when the container 100 is in the smoking position (shown in FIG. 1B). By covering the aperture 122 that is not in use for the lighter, the cap 124 provides a weather-resistant seal with the body 102 and restricts wind and water penetration to the lighting chamber 120 during smoking operations. However, airflow into the lighting chamber 120 is still enabled through the uncovered aperture 122 so that the lighter may have oxygen lighting operations. In some examples, the cap 124 may include one or more air holes 132 defined therein to facilitate further airflow into the lighting chamber 120 when the cap 124 is attached. The air holes 132 are shaped and sized so that wind gusts are not directly channeled into the lighting chamber 120, but baffled so that the lighter may still light in high wind conditions while receiving oxygen. Furthermore, by including the aperture 122 on both the front and back walls 108, 110, the container 100 enables operation by both left and right hand smokers. In the closed position (shown in FIG. 1A), the apertures 122 are blocked by the holder 116 so that water penetration into the lighter and smoking pipe is prevented. Additionally, in the closed position the container 100 is substantially airtight so that the smell of the smoking pipe and smoking material is contained within the container 100.
In the example, the holder 116 includes a first end 174 (shown in FIG. 3) and an opposite second end 134. The first end is received within the body 102 and the second end 134 includes a shoulder 136. When the first end is received within the body 102 a weather-resistant seal is formed between the body 102 and the holder 116. At the second end 134 of the holder 116, one or more tabs 138 may be formed with the shoulder 136 and are configured as grips so that a user can pull on the holder 116 and slide the holder 116 relative to the body 102. The tabs 138 may be receivable in a corresponding recess 140 within the second end 106 of the body 102 while in the closed position. As illustrated, the recess 140 is formed in the walls 108, 110 and proximate the second end 106. In other examples, the tabs 138 may be located anywhere else on the holder 116 to enable the movement of the holder 116 as described herein. For example, the tab 138 may extend from the second end 134 of the holder 116 so that a user can pull on a handle-like element. The tabs 138 enable a more easy movement and/or removal of the holder 116 from the body 102.
The outer surfaces of the body 102 and/or the holder 116 may include one or more cutouts 142. In the example, the body 102, the holder 116, and the cap 124 may be formed from a silicone-based material, and the cutouts 142 facilitate a more efficient manufacturing process. The silicone material is sturdy and rugged to protect the smoking components therein, at least partially elastic and flexible to enable movement of the container 100, as well as tear resistance and weather-resistant to facilitate use in adverse weather conditions. As such, the container 100 is able to maintain its overall shape, as well as have components that can easily slide and seal with respect to each other. For example, the body 102 and/or the holder 116 can at least partially deform to couple to one another. In another example, the tabs 138 may be depressed so as to facilitate sliding the holder 116 from the closed position to the smoking position. Additionally, the silicone material is heat resistant such that a lighter can be used within the container 100 without melting or deforming the material. It should be appreciated, however, that any other material that enables the container 100 to function as described herein may be used as required or desired (e.g., glass, metal (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, etc.), plastics, wood or the like). Furthermore, the cap 124 may be formed from the substantially same material as the body 102 such that the cap 124 is flexible and moveable, or be a different material such as glass, metal, wood, etc.
FIGS. 2A-2F are a top view, a front view, a back view, a bottom view, a left view, and a right view, respectively, of the container 100. Referring concurrently to FIGS. 2A-2F, certain components are described above, and thus, are not necessary described further. In the example, the elongated packer 118 at least partially extends out of the second end 134 of the holder 116. The elongated packer 118 includes a tail 200 that is disposed outside of the holder 116. The tail 200 is configured as a grip such that the user can extend and retract the elongated packer 118 from the container 100 along a longitudinal axis 146 (shown in FIG. 2B). At least one retainer hole 148 can be defined through the body 102 from the front wall 108 to the back wall 110 and proximate the first end 104. The retainer hole 148 is configured to receive a portion of a retainer device (e.g., a lanyard) to leash and secure the container 100 to other objects like a backpack, a jacket, or the like.
FIG. 3 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the container 100. As described above, the container 100 includes the body 102, the holder 116, the elongated packer 118, the cap 124, a smoking pipe 150, and a lighter 152. At the first end 104 of the body 102, a pipe chamber 154 and a lighter chamber 156 are defined. The body 102 also includes a holder recess 158 defined in the second end 106. In the example, the pipe chamber 154 is formed as a through-hole extending from the first end 104 to the holder recess 158 and is configured to removably receive the smoking pipe 150 such that the pipe 150 can extend from outside of the body 102 to the holder recess 158. For example, the smoking pipe 150 includes a first end 160 (e.g., the mouth end) and an opposite second end 162 (e.g., the bowl end), which is configured to receive a charge of smoking material. In the example, the smoking pipe 150 may be a straight pipe that is substantially cylindrical in shape. In other examples, the smoking pipe 150 can be any other shape and/or size as required or desired.
The smoking pipe 150 is positionable within the pipe chamber 154 such that the first end 160 extends from the body 102 and the second end 162 extends into the holder recess 158. In the example, the smoking pipe 150 is frictionally secured within the pipe chamber 154, however, the smoking pipe 150 may also be removed from the pipe chamber 154 as required or desired. In other examiners, the smoking pipe 150 may be integrally formed with the body 102 or may be fixed within the pipe chamber 154 so that it is not a removable component. The smoking pipe 150 may be formed from glass, metal (e.g., aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, etc.), plastics, wood or the like and may be substantially the same material as the body 102 or be a different material as the body 102.
The pipe chamber 154 includes an enlarged annular opening 164 at the first end 104 of the body 102. The annular opening 164 is configured to receive a portion of the cap 124 such that the cap 124 can be coupled to the body 102. More specifically, the cap 124 includes a lip 166 and a sealing groove 168. The lip 166 is configured to engage with the annular opening 164 so as to provide a weather-resistance seal between the cap 124 and the body 102. The cap 124 also defines a pipe recess 170 so that the cap 124 can be positioned around the first end 160 of the smoking pipe 150 when coupled to the body 102.
The lighter chamber 156 is defined proximate the first end 104 of the body 102, but is only open to the holder recess 158. The lighter chamber 156 is configured to removably receive the lighter 152. Generally, the lighter 152 includes a container filled with a flammable fluid and an ignition system (e.g., a strike and a flint) and the lighter 152 is positioned such that the ignition system is disposed within the holder recess 158. In other examples, any other type of heat producing element (e.g., an electric heating element) may be used as required or desired. The lighter chamber 156 may include one or more elongated channels 172 that extend at least partially along the length of the chamber 156 such that the lighter 152 may be easily replaced and suction against the container is reduced or eliminated. In one example, the lighter 152 may be removed from the lighter chamber 156 by pressing on the first end 104 of the body 102, and since the body 102 can be formed from silicone, the lighter chamber 156 can flex and begin to slide the lighter 152 out of the chamber 156. In other examples, the lighter chamber 156 may have a cover at the first end 104 of the body 102 for access therein. Additionally or alternatively, the lighter 152 may be integrally formed within the body 102. For example, the body 102 forms a refillable container that holds the flammable fluid and an ignition system is supported within the holder recess 158, or an electronic heating element may be disposed within the holder recess 158.
In the example, the pipe chamber 154 and the lighter chamber 156 are adjacent to each other at the first end 104 of the body 102. As such, when the body 102 is supporting the smoking pipe 150 and the lighter 152, the second end 162 of the pipe 150 is positioned proximate to the ignition system of the lighter 152 and within the holder recess 158 at approximately the same distance. This enables for a user to smoke out of the pipe 150 via the container 100. For example, when the container 100 is in use, the container 100 can be turned sideways with the left wall facing upwards so that the smoking pipe 150 can be located above the lighter 152. As such, the flame produced by the lighter travels upward and can be used to ignite and combust the smoking material contained in the pipe 150.
The holder recess 158 is sized and shaped to at least partially receive a first end 174 of the holder 116. The holder recess 158 includes an inner surface 176 in which two grooves 178, 180 are defined, and the first end 174 of the holder 116 includes a corresponding collar 182. In the example, the collar 182 is a male half-round element that extends around the perimeter of the first end 174 and fits into the grooves 178, 180 that are a female half-round extending around the perimeter of the inner surface 176. In other examples, the male/female components may be switched on the components or another connection type may be used that enables the container 100 to function as described herein. The holder 116 is slidable within the holder recess 158 such that the container closed position can be formed when the collar 182 is received within the first groove 178. In the closed position, the first end 174 of the holder 116 is directly adjacent to the body 102 and the smoking pipe 150 and the lighter 152 may at least partially extend into the holder 116. Additionally, the holder 116 can be moved to the container smoking position, when the collar 182 is received within the second groove 180. In the smoking position, the lighting chamber 120 is formed within the holder recess 158 and between the body 102 and the first end 174 of the holder 116. In both the closed position and the smoking position, the engagement of the collar 182 of the holder 116 with the respective groove 178, 180 in the body 102 forms a weather-resistant seal for the container 100.
As described above, the smoking position enables a user to access the lighter 152, through the aperture 122, while the body 102 and holder 116 form a weather-resistant structure so that the smoking material in the smoking pipe 150 can be ignited. For further weather-resistance, the aperture 122 not in use may be covered by the cap 124. In this example, the sealing groove 168 of the cap 124 can engage with the aperture 122 so as to form a weather-resistance seal. In this configuration, one or more air holes 132 in the cap 124 may provide oxygen required for lighter ignition. In the example, the body 102 and the holder 116 are formed from a silicone-based material so that the two components are sufficiently flexible to enable the movement between the two positions. Additionally, the holder 116 can be completed removed from the body 102 as required or desired. In other examples, if the container 100 is formed from more rigid materials (e.g., glass or metal), the collar 182 can be formed from a resilient O-ring that engages with the grooves 178, 180 while enabling the sliding movement of the holder 116. Additionally or alternatively, O-ring seals may be provided between the body 102 and the smoking pipe 150, the body 102 and the lighter 152, the body 102 and the cap 124, the holder 116 and the packer 118, and/or the holder 116 and the lid 188 (discussed below).
The holder 116 includes a holding compartment 184 configured to hold smoking material and a packer chamber 186 configured to receive at least a portion of the elongated packer 118 therein. The holding compartment 184 is aligned with the lighter chamber 156 of the body 102 and includes a resealable lid 188. An inner surface 190 of the holding compartment 184 includes a ring extension 192 and the lid 188 includes a corresponding groove 194 so that the lid 188 can coupled (e.g., press fit) within the holding compartment 184 and form a weather-resistant seal. As such, the smoking material is stored in a dry and weather-resistance compartment 184. The lid 188 includes a handle 196 so that the lid 188 can be removed from the holding compartment 184. In the example, the handle 196 is disposed proximate the lighter chamber 156 such that when a lighter 152 is disposed therein, the handle 196 is configured to retain the lighter 152 within the chamber 156, when the container 100 is in the closed position. However, the handle 196 may be flexible and configured to fold towards the lid 188 and not block the aperture 122 if folded. Additionally, the handle 196 is disposed on the opposite side of the lighter's fuel source ignition element so that accidental ignition or fuel release is restricted or prevented.
The lid 188 is offset and recessed from the first end 174 of the holder 116 so that when the container 100 is in the closed position, a portion of the lighter 152 may be disposed within the holder 116 and provide a more compact design. In the example, the lid 188 and the holder 116 are formed from a silicone-based material so that the two components are sufficiently flexible to enable coupling therebetween. Additionally, when the holder 116 is formed from silicone-based material, the holding compartment 184 can also be used as a grinder to crush-up the smoking material stored therein. For example, a user can load the holding compartment 184 with smoking material (e.g., via an external funnel component (not shown)), insert the lid 188, and use compressive force applied from the outer surface to grind the smoking material. In other examples, the holding compartment 184 may be a chamber that is configured to receive a removable smoking material container (not shown). The removable container may store smoking material for the container 100 and which is easy replaceable so that the user is not required to load loose smoking material through the removable lid 188.
The packer chamber 186 is formed as a through-hole extending from the first end 174 to the second end 134 of the holder 116 and is configured to receive the elongated packer 118. For example, the elongated packer 118 may include a head 198, a tail 200, and a shaft 202 extending therebetween. The packer 118 is moveably disposed within the packer chamber 186 with the tail 200 extending out of the second end 134 of the holder 116 and the head 198 fully disposed and tightly fit within the packer chamber 186. The shaft 202 is smaller than the head 198 and the tail 200 so that the packer 118 cannot be easily removed from the holder 116, however, the packer 118 may removable as required or desired. For example, with the holder 116 formed from flexible silicone, the packer 118 may be removed through sufficient force. In another example, the tail 200 may be removed from the shaft 202 (e.g., through a threaded connection) to remove the packer from the holder 116. In still another example, the tail 200 may include a debowler (e.g., an elongated wire and not shown) extending therefrom and is housed within the packer 118 when the tail 200 is coupled to the shaft 202. The debowler may be used to stir and/or unclog the smoking pipe 150 as needed. The elongated packer 118 may be formed from glass, metal (e.g., aluminum, titanium stainless steel, etc.), plastics, wood or the like and may be substantially the same material as the holder 116 or be a different material as the holder 116.
In the example, the packer chamber 186 and the elongated packer 118 are aligned with the smoking pipe 150 and the pipe chamber 154, such that when the container 100 is in the closed position, the head 198 of the packer 118 is positioned proximate the second end 162 of the smoking pipe 150. This orientation enables for the elongated packer 118 to act as a cover for the second end 162 of the smoking pipe 150 and to facilitate loading smoking material that is stored in the holding compartment 184 into the smoking pipe 150. For example, the elongated packer 118 is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position relative to the holder 116. This movement of the packer 118 may be manual or may be at least partially biased (e.g., by a spring). When the elongated packer 118 is in the extended position, the tail 200 is positioned away from the second end 134 of the holder 116. This moves the head 198 towards the second end 134. A wall 204 separates the holding compartment 184 and the packer chamber 186, and a hole 206 is defined in the wall 204 so that the holding compartment 184 and the packer chamber 186 are in flow communication. As such, the extended position of the elongated packer 118 uncovers the hole 206 with the head 198 so that smoking material may flow into the packer chamber 186 and proximate a rounded tip 208 of the elongated packer 118.
When the packer 118 is depressed back into the packer chamber 186 and into the retracted position, the rounded tip 208 moves towards the second end 134 of the holder 116. This channels the smoking material within the packer chamber 186 towards the smoking pipe 150. Since the second end 162 of the smoking pipe 150 extends into the packer chamber 186 when the container 100 is in the closed position, the smoking material can be packed directly into the second end 162 of the pipe 150. In some examples, at least a portion of the rounded tip 208 can be inserted into the smoking pipe 150 for packing and pushing evenly within the pipe 150. Additionally, when the elongated packer 118 is in the retracted position, the head 198 covers the hole 206 so that smoking material is contained within the holding compartment 184. The movement of the elongated packer 118 is at least partially defined by the length of the shaft 202. Because the shaft 202 is smaller than both the head 198 and the tail 200, the head 198 and the tail 200 form stops with the second end 134 of the holder 116. The opening of the packer chamber 186 at the second end 134 of the holder 116 is sized to correspond to the shaft 202 so that the head 198 and the tail 200 are restricted from passing through during packer movement. Accordingly, the container 100 includes a system that enables for the smoking pipe 150 to be loaded with smoking materials without having to extract the pipe 150, the smoking material, and packer 118 into the outside elements.
In some examples, the holder 116 may be completely removed from the body 102. As such, the holder 116, including the smoking material held in the holding compartment 184 and the elongated packer 118, can be used on its own to load a smoking device that is not supported within the body 102. Thus, the holder 116 in use by itself also enables smoking devices to be loaded with smoking material without exposing the smoking material to inclement weather.
FIG. 4 is a right view of another container 300 for smoking supplies. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the container 300. Referring concurrently to FIGS. 4 and 5, the container 300 includes a body 302, a holder 304, a cap 306, an elongated packer 308, and a lid 310. Similar to the example described above, the container 300 is configured to hold a lighter and a smoking apparatus (both not shown for clarity) and store smoking materials. The container 300 is moveable between a closed position, in which the container 300 is compact for travel and which facilitates channeling a charge of smoking material from the holder 304 to the smoking apparatus, via the packer 308, and a smoking position. In the smoking position, the holder 304 is partially extended from the body 302 forming a lighting chamber that is protected from inclement weather conditions such as wind and rain. In this example, however, the container 300 includes additional features that may additionally or alternatively be included in the container 300.
The body 302 is illustrated in FIG.4 with the holder 304 not shown for clarity. The cap 306 is attached to a right wall 312 of the body 302 by a tether 314. The cap 306 is also coupled to a back wall 316 of the body 302 at an aperture 318. As described above, when the container 300 is in the smoking position, the cap 306 may be selectively coupled to the body 302 and plug the aperture 318 for further weather-resistance to the lighting chamber. For example, the cap 306 is used to plug the aperture 318 and block wind. The cap 306 may also couple to a front wall 320 of the body 302 as required or desired such that the container 300 can be used by both left and right handed users. A first end 322 of the body 302 may include a guide notch 324 which is configured to receive a portion of the tether 314 when the cap is coupled to the first end 322 of the body 302 and around the smoking apparatus.
Now referring to FIG. 5, a left wall 326 of the body 302 may include a debowler chamber 328. The debowler chamber 328 is configured to store a debowler (not shown) for use with the smoking apparatus. For example, the debowler may be an elongated wire for stirring and/or unclogging the smoking pipe. The holder 304 may include one or more tabs 330 extending from the outer surface. The tabs 330 are sized and shaped to be received within the apertures 318 in the body 302 such that the holder 304 may be more engaged and secured in body 302 in the closed position of the container 300.
FIGS. 6A and 6B are cross-sectional views of the container 300 in a closed position and a smoking position, respectively. Referring concurrently to FIGS. 6A and 6B, certain components are described above, and thus, are not necessary described further. The body 302 includes a pipe chamber 332 and a lighter chamber 334 defined proximate the first end 322 of the body 302. In this example, one or both of the pipe chamber 332 and the lighter chamber 334 may include anti-airlock texture 336 defined on the inner surfaces thereof and to facilitate the insertion and/or removal of the smoking apparatus and the lighter without suction lock within the chambers.
As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the elongated packer 308 is in its retracted position such that a head 338 covers a hole 340 in a holding compartment 342. In contrast, FIG. 6B illustrates the elongated packer 308 in its extended position such that the head 338 uncovers the hole 340 and forms a flow path for smoking material from the holding compartment 342. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 6A, the holder 304 is in its closed position relative to the body 302. In this example, a handle 344 of the lid 310 extends from either the front wall or the back wall and is offset from the center of the lid 310 proximate the elongated packer 308. This enables the handle 344 to assist in retaining the lighter disposed within the lighter chamber 334, while being positioned away from the lighter's fuel source ignition element so that accidental ignition or fuel release is restricted or prevented. In contrast, FIG. 6B illustrates the holder 304 in its smoking position such that a lighting chamber 346 is formed between the holder 304 and the body 302. The aperture 318 enables access for the user to reach the lighter and smoke through the smoking pipe while the container 300 blocks inclement weather conditions.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 400 of manufacturing a container for smoking supplies. The method includes forming a body (operation 402). The body can include a pipe chamber and a lighter chamber that are defined in a first end and a holder recess is defined in an opposite second end. The pipe chamber being configured to receive a smoking pipe. A holder may also be formed (operation 404). The holder can include a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an adjacent packer chamber. The holding compartment includes a resealable lid. An elongated packer is at least partially inserted within the packer chamber (operation 406). The elongated packer being moveable within the packer chamber. The holder is coupled to the body and disposed at least partially within the holder recess (operation 408). The holder being moveable between at least a closed position and a smoking position. The method further includes attaching a cap to the body (operation 410). The cap having a tether that is secured to the body.
As described above a single container may be used for storing and carrying smoking components, while also, being configured to form a weather-resistance chamber for burning smoking materials therein. As such, a user has a single container that prevents smoking components from being lost, and that creates an enjoyable smoking experience in inclement weather. Furthermore, the container includes a smoking material packer that is configured to channel smoking material towards the smoking apparatus without requiring access inside the container. As such, the container enables the entire smoking procedure and components to be weather-resistant and enjoyable in inclement weather. For example, in rain, wind, snow, etc.
It will be clear that the systems and methods described herein are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems within this specification may be implemented in many manners and as such is not to be limited by the foregoing examples. In this regard, any number of the features of the different examples described herein may be combined into one single embodiment and alternate embodiments having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible.
While various examples have been described for purposes of this disclosure, various changes and modifications may be made which are well within the scope contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, the lighter may be an electronic heating element that vaporizes the smoking material. Numerous other changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the disclosure and as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A container for smoking supplies comprising:

a body comprising a first end and an opposite second end, wherein a pipe chamber is defined in the first end and a holder recess is defined in the second end, and wherein the pipe chamber is configured to removably receive a smoking pipe such that at least a portion of the smoking pipe extends into the holder recess; and

a holder at least partially disposed within the holder recess, the holder being slidable within the holder recess between at least a closed position and a smoking position, wherein when in the smoking position, a lighting chamber is formed between the body and the holder, the holder comprising:

a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material; and

an elongated packer moveably disposed at least partially within the holder,

wherein the elongated packer is aligned with the pipe chamber and in the closed position,

the packer is positioned proximate the smoking pipe.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a lighter chamber defined in the first end and open to the holder recess, wherein the lighter chamber is configured to removably receive a lighter.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the holding compartment comprises a resealable lid.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein the lid comprises a handle, and wherein the handle is disposed proximate the lighter chamber and configured to retain the lighter within the lighter chamber, when the holder is in the closed position.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein a packer chamber is defined in the holder and the elongated packer is at least partially disposed within the packer chamber, and wherein the elongated packer is moveable between at least an extended position and a retracted position.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein the elongated packer comprises a head, a tail, and a shaft extending therebetween, and wherein the tail is disposed outside of the holder.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the holding compartment and the packer chamber are separated by a wall, wherein a hole is defined in the wall, and wherein when the elongated packer is in the retracted position, the head covers the hole, and when the elongated packer is in the extended position, the hole is uncovered.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a first wall, an opposite second wall, and two opposing side walls, each wall extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein an aperture is defined in one or more of the walls at the holder recess.

9. The container of claim 8, further comprising a cap, wherein the cap is selectively engagable with the pipe chamber at the first end of the body and the aperture.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the cap comprises a tether, and wherein the tether is coupled to one of the two side walls.

11. The container of claim 1, wherein the holder is completely removable from the body.

12. The container of claim 1, wherein the body and the holder are formed from a silicone-based material.

13. A smoking supply kit comprising:

a container comprising:

a body comprising a pipe chamber, a lighter chamber, and a holder recess; and

a holder at least partially disposed within the holder recess, the holder being positionable within the holder recess between at least a closed position and a smoking position, the holder comprising a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an elongated packer moveably disposed at least partially within the holder; and

a smoking pipe configured to be received at least partially within the pipe chamber, the smoking pipe comprising a first end extending from the body and an opposite second end configured to receive a portion of the smoking material, wherein the second end extends into the holder recess.

14. The smoking supply kit of claim 13, further comprising a lighter removably disposed at least partially within the lighter chamber.

15. The smoking supply kit of claim 14, wherein the pipe chamber and the lighter chamber are adjacent to each other such that an ignition system of the lighter is positioned proximate to the second end of the smoking pipe.

16. The smoking supply kit of claim 15, wherein when the holder is in the smoking position, a lighting chamber is formed between the body and the holder, and wherein the lighting chamber is sized such that a flame generated by the lighter can light the smoking material within the second end of the smoking pipe.

17. The smoking supply kit of claim 13, wherein the smoking pipe is a straight pipe that is substantially cylindrical.

18. The smoking supply kit of claim 13, wherein the elongated packer is aligned with the smoking pipe.

19. The smoking supply kit of claim 18, wherein a packer chamber is defined in the holder and the elongated packer is at least partially disposed within the packer chamber, and wherein the packer chamber is in communication with the holding compartment such that when the holder is in the closed position, the smoking material is flowable from the holding compartment to the second end of the smoking pipe via movement of the elongated packer.

20. A method of manufacturing a container for smoking supplies, the method comprising:

forming a body, wherein a pipe chamber and a lighter chamber are defined in a first end and a holder recess is defined in an opposite second end, wherein the pipe chamber is configured to receive a smoking pipe;

forming a holder, wherein the holder includes a holding compartment configured to hold smoking material and an adjacent packer chamber, wherein the holding compartment includes a resealable lid;

inserting an elongated packer at least partially within the packer chamber, wherein the elongated packer is moveable within the packer chamber;

coupling the holder to the body, wherein the holder is disposed at least partially within the holder recess such that the holder can move between at least a closed position and a smoking position; and

attaching a cap to the body, wherein the cap has a tether that is secured to the body.