WO2017136361A1 - Vaporisateur personnel - Google Patents

Vaporisateur personnel Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017136361A1
WO2017136361A1 PCT/US2017/015885 US2017015885W WO2017136361A1 WO 2017136361 A1 WO2017136361 A1 WO 2017136361A1 US 2017015885 W US2017015885 W US 2017015885W WO 2017136361 A1 WO2017136361 A1 WO 2017136361A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
atomizer
bowl
vaporizing
proximal
valve body
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2017/015885
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
J. Christian Rado
Original Assignee
Lubby Holdings, LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Lubby Holdings, LLC filed Critical Lubby Holdings, LLC
Publication of WO2017136361A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017136361A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/06—Inhaling appliances shaped like cigars, cigarettes or pipes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
    • A24F40/485—Valves; Apertures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M11/00—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
    • A61M11/04—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised
    • A61M11/041—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised using heaters
    • A61M11/042—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised using heaters electrical
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A61M15/0013—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof with inhalation check valves
    • A61M15/0015—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof with inhalation check valves located upstream of the dispenser, i.e. not traversed by the product
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A61M15/0021—Mouthpieces therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/58—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision
    • A61M2205/583—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision by visual feedback
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/82—Internal energy supply devices
    • A61M2205/8206—Internal energy supply devices battery-operated

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to the field of personal vaporizers
  • Personal vaporizers are handheld devices that vaporize a vaporizing medium such as a liquid solution or a wax. The vapor is then inhaled by its user.
  • a typical personal vaporizer has an atomizer having a heating element that selectively heats the medium in order to produce the vapor.
  • a rechargeable battery is also typically employed for powering the atomizer.
  • Personal vaporizers for vaporizing liquid media typically include a fluid chamber that holds the liquid, and a wick that communicates liquid from the chamber to the atomizer.
  • the liquid solution typically includes chemicals such as one or more of propylene glycol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol 400, and an alcohol. Extracted flavorings can also be included in the fluid.
  • Electronic cigarettes are a type of personal vaporizer, and use a liquid solution that includes tobacco-derived nicotine.
  • Personal vaporizers also can be used with liquid solutions that include one or more of various essential oils, including cannabis oil.
  • Personal vaporizers for vaporizing wax media typically include a bowl- or cup- shaped structure at the atomizer into which wax media can be placed. Such personal vaporizers typically do not include a fluid chamber, but instead typically include a detachable mouthpiece that can be removed to provide access to the atomizer cup.
  • Personal vaporizers typically include an air path so that vaporized media can be mixed with air and delivered to the user.
  • air holes are formed in and through various structures of each vaporizer.
  • vaporizing media may leak from the air holes.
  • vaporizers it is desired to keep the profile, such as the cross-sectional area, of the vaporizer as small as possible.
  • Maximizing such vapor delivery entails maximizing the lumen size of a vapor delivery tube from a vaporization chamber to the mouthpiece, while simultaneously maximizing the cross-sectional area of the wick(s) that deliver vaporizing liquid from a tank to the vaporizing chamber.
  • the considerations of reducing device profile while simultaneously maximizing the cross-sectional area dedicated to both the vapor delivery tube and the wick(s) are often competing.
  • the present specification provides a personal vaporizer, comprising: an atomizer module comprising a bowl and a coil arranged in or adjacent the bowl, the bowl configured to accept a wax having an essential oil; a battery assembly, the atomizer module connectable to the battery assembly so that actuation of the battery delivers electrical energy to the coil, causing the coil to heat and vaporize a wax that may be in the bowl; and a tank module selectively attachable to the atomizer module so that the atomizer module is disposed between the tank module and the battery assembly, the tank module comprising a fluid tank configured to contain a vaporizing liquid therewithin, and to deliver a portion of the vaporizing liquid to a vaporizing chamber adjacent the coil; wherein a wax placed in the atomizer module bowl and a vaporizing liquid from the fluid module can be simultaneously vaporized by the coil so as to form a combined vapor by simultaneously vaporizing both the wax and the vaporizing liquid.
  • the present specification provides a personal vaporizer, comprising: a tube comprising a fluid chamber and a vapor passage extending through the fluid chamber; an atomizer module comprising a bowl having an upper edge, a coil being arranged in or adjacent the bowl, the bowl being configured to accept a vaporizing solution inside the tank; a check valve comprising an insulator housing, a conductive shell inside the insulator housing, and a sealing mechanism inside the conductive shell, the sealing mechanism providing a seal inside the conductive shell; and a battery assembly, the atomizer module connectable to the battery assembly through the check valve so that actuation of the battery delivers electrical energy to the coil, causing the coil to heat and vaporize the vaporizing solution.
  • Some embodiments additionally comprise one or more slots formed through a side wall of the bowl.
  • the sealing mechanism comprises a ball and a spring.
  • the bowl has a first wire hole and a second wire hole extending through a bottom wall of the bowl and a second channel extending transversely from the second wire hole.
  • the coil is a heating element having a first connection and a second connection, the first connection extending through the first wire hole and contacting the conductive shell, and the second connection extending through the second wire hole and the channel and spaced away from the conductive shell.
  • the present specification provides a personal vaporizer, comprising: an atomizer module comprising a bowl and a heat element arranged in or adjacent the bowl, a vaporizing chamber defined in the bowl adjacent the heat element; a tank module selectively attachable to the atomizer module, the tank module comprising a fluid tank configured to contain a vaporizing liquid therewithin, the fluid tank comprising a bottom wall having at least one fluid delivery hole extending therethrough; a wick holder supporting a wick and defining a fluid receiver, the fluid receiver in communication with the at least one fluid delivery hole, the wick configured to communicate vaporizing fluid from the fluid receiver to the vaporizing chamber; and a vapor tube extending through the fluid chamber and defining a vapor passage that is separated from the fluid in the fluid chamber; wherein vapor from the vaporizing chamber is directed through the vapor passage.
  • a cross-sectional area of the wick is greater than a cross- sectional area of the vapor passage.
  • a combined cross-sectional area of all of the at least one fluid delivery holes is less than a cross-sectional area of the vapor passage.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery assembly for use in some embodiments
  • Figure 2 is a side view of the battery assembly of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a side view of a vaporizing structure and mouthpiece in accordance with one embodiment
  • Figure 4 is a side view of a personal vaporizer comprising the vaporizing structure of Figure 3 attached to the battery assembly of Figure 1;
  • Figure 5 is a side view of an embodiment of a personal vaporizer having a modular construction
  • Figure 6 is an exploded view of the personal vaporizer of Figure 5;
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of a vaporizing structure in accordance with another embodiment
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 8-8 of Figure 7;
  • Figure 9 is a close-up view of the atomizer module of the structure of Figure 8, depicting a wax media disposed in an atomizer cup;
  • Figure 10A is a perspective view of an atomizer cup according to one embodiment
  • Figure 10B is a bottom view of the atomizer cup of Figure 10A;
  • Figure IOC is a top view of the atomizer cup of Figure 10A;
  • Figure 11 A is a perspective view of a check valve according to one embodiment
  • Figure 1 IB is an exploded view of the check valve of Figure 11A;
  • Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 7;
  • Figure 13 is a side view of another embodiment of a personal vaporizer
  • Figure 14 is an exploded view of mouthpiece, tank and atomizer modules of the personal vaporizer of Figure 13;
  • Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 15-15 of Figure 14, except that the tank and atomizer modules are shown connected to one another;
  • Figure 16 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a check valve
  • Figure 17 is a close up view of an atomizer module portion of the structure depicted in Figure 15;
  • Figure 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an atomizer cup
  • Figure 19 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the atomizer of Figure 14;
  • Figure 20 is an exploded view of the tank module of Figure 14;
  • Figure 21 A is a perspective view of a transfer member of the tank module of Figure
  • Figure 21B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 21B-21B of Figure 21A;
  • Figure 22A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a wick holder;
  • Figure 22B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22B-22B of Figure 22A;
  • Figure 23 is an exploded view of the mouthpiece embodiment of Figure 14.
  • the battery assembly 20 may include a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, enclosed within a battery casing 22.
  • the battery casing 22 may include an elongated body 24 that extends from a base or distal end 26 to a top or proximal end 28.
  • An electronic controller may also be included within the casing 22 to control voltage, current, timing and the like.
  • a button 29 may be provided for selectively actuating electricity delivery from the battery 20 to the atomizer. In some embodiments, the button 29 can include a light that indicates when power is being delivered.
  • the battery casing 22 defines a mount boss 30.
  • the mount boss 30 includes connecting structures for connecting vaporizing structures, such as atomizers and fluid chambers, to the battery.
  • the elongated body 24 is disposed distally of the mount boss 30.
  • the body 24 may include a decorative coating or sleeve that is configured to enhance the look of the vaporizer.
  • the body 24 may come in many different colors and/or have one or more unique and aesthetically pleasing surface treatments.
  • Some embodiments may include a decorative sleeve that is selectively removable.
  • the battery assembly mount boss 30 comprises an externally threaded portion 32 adjacent the decorative body 24.
  • the externally threaded portion 32 has a diameter somewhat smaller than a diameter of the decorative body 24.
  • An extension 34 extends in a proximal direction from the externally threaded portion 32, preferably terminating in a top or proximal surface 36.
  • the extension 34 preferably is tubular, defining a mount cavity 40 therewithin and having internal threads 42.
  • a diameter of the tubular extension 34 is less than the diameter of the externally threaded portion 32.
  • a battery contact 44 is disposed within the tubular extension 34 at the base of the mount cavity 40.
  • vaporizing structures are attachable to the battery mount boss 30.
  • Such vaporizing structures typically include an atomizer and a fluid chamber, which can be provided as separate pieces or combined as a single structure.
  • the vaporizing structures can be of various styles, sizes, and configurations.
  • the atomizer and fluid chamber are provided as one prefabricated cartridge. In some embodiments, such cartridges are disposable. In some embodiments, the fluid chamber is refillable so that the cartridges are reusable. In other embodiments, the atomizer and fluid chamber are separately formed and selectively attachable and detachable from one another.
  • Vaporizing structures can also be attached to the battery assembly 20 in various ways.
  • an atomizer can threadingly engage the external threads 32 of the battery mount boss 30.
  • an atomizer may threadingly engage the internal threads 42 of the mount cavity extension 40.
  • a pin or other elongated contact extends into the mount cavity 40 to engage the battery contact 44 so as to communicate power from the battery 20 to the atomizer.
  • Additional embodiments can employ non-threaded connection structures such as detents, friction fits, J-locks, and the like.
  • a cartridge 50 is illustrated.
  • a cartridge 50 can be obtained from PenVape, and is sold under the trademark Indica.
  • the illustrated cartridge 50 comprises an elongated cartridge body 52 that extends from a distal or battery end 54 to a top or proximal end 56.
  • the body 52 includes a fluid chamber 60 configured to hold a vaporizing medium such as a liquid solution comprising essential oils.
  • the illustrated chamber 60 is made of a polymer material that is preferably at least partially transparent so that a user can see the level of essential oils remaining within the fluid chamber 60.
  • An atomizer 70 is provided at and adjacent the distal end 54, which atomizer 70 is operatively connected to the fluid chamber 60.
  • the atomizer 70 comprises a coil (not shown) constructed of a durable, electrically-conductive material, such as titanium or another metal, which coil generates heat when subjected to an electric current.
  • a vaporization chamber is defined between the fluid chamber 60 and the atomizer coil.
  • a wick communicates liquid from the fluid chamber 60 to the vaporization chamber.
  • an elongated vapor passage 72 is formed adjacent the fluid chamber 60 and extends from the vaporization chamber to a vapor outlet 74 that is formed proximal of the fluid chamber 60.
  • the illustrated atomizer 70 includes a battery connector pin 76 extending distally from a terminal surface 78 of the atomizer 70.
  • the illustrated battery connector pin 76 is externally threaded.
  • Air intake holes (not shown) are formed through the terminal surface 78. During use, air is drawn through the air intake holes and through the atomizer 70 into the vaporization chamber, where it is mixed with atomized fluid to form a vapor. The vapor exits the vaporization chamber through the vapor channel 72 and is exhausted through the vapor outlet 74.
  • the proximal end 56 of the cartridge 50 includes a mouthpiece engagement portion 80 that has a reduced diameter relative to a diameter of the elongated body 52 in the chamber 60 and/or atomizer 70 portions.
  • the vapor outlet 74 opens within this mouthpiece engagement portion 80.
  • a recessed portion 82 of the outer wall in the mouthpiece engagement portion 80 is provided, and the vapor outlet 74 is formed adjacent the recessed portion 82. As such, the vapor outlet 74 is directly aligned with the flow path of vapor moving through the vapor channel 72.
  • a mouthpiece seat 84 is defined on the cartridge 50.
  • the diameter of the cartridge 50 abruptly changes from that of the chamber 60 to that of the mouthpiece engagement portion 80.
  • a mouthpiece 90 can be placed atop the cartridge 50.
  • the mouthpiece 90 preferably includes an elongated tubular body 92 defining a lumen, and extends from a base 94 to an outlet end 96.
  • the base 94 of the mouthpiece 90 fits over the mouthpiece engagement portion 80 of the cartridge 50, and the base 94 of the mouthpiece 90 engages and rests upon the mouthpiece seat 84 of the cartridge 50.
  • a removable fill cap 98 is disposed at the proximal/mouthpiece end 56 of the cartridge 50.
  • the removable fill cap 90 can be removed so as to provide access to the fluid chamber 50 so that liquid or flavorings can be selectively added to the chamber.
  • the cartridge 50 can be mounted to a typical battery assembly 20 so that the cartridge 50 functions as the vaporizing structure for the illustrated embodiment of a personal vaporizer.
  • the externally-threaded battery connector pin 76 is advanced into the battery mount cavity 40 and threaded with the internal threads 42 of the battery mount boss extension 34.
  • the cartridge 50 is threadingly advanced so that the battery connector pin 76 engages the battery connector 44 of the battery assembly 20, and the terminal surface 78 of the atomizer 70 engages and sits upon the top surface 36 of the battery mount boss 30.
  • the air intake slots 46 of the mount boss 30 enable the cartridge's air intake holes to communicate with the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the user inserts the mouthpiece 90 into his mouth, presses the battery button 29, and draws a breath. Pressing the button 29 triggers the atomizer 70 to heat liquid provided to the vaporization chamber from the fluid chamber 60, thereby vaporizing the liquid in the vaporizing chamber.
  • the user pulls air through the air intake slots 46 of the battery mount boss extension 34 into the mount cavity 40 and through the air intake holes of the cartridge atomizer 70. The air further flows into the vaporization chamber and is mixed with the vaporized liquid, forming a vapor. The vapor then flows through the vapor channel 72 and through the vapor outlet 74 into the mouthpiece 90, which directs it into the user's mouth and lungs.
  • a personal vaporizer 99 comprises an atomizer module 100 and a mouthpiece module 102 that are threadingly attachable to one another.
  • the atomizer module 100 has a distal end 104 that is threadingly attachable to the mount boss 30 of the battery 20 so that, as in the embodiment discussed above, electric power can be provided to the atomizer.
  • a distal end 106 of the mouthpiece module 102 is threadingly attachable to and detachable from a proximal end 108 of the atomizer module 100.
  • the mouthpiece module 102 preferably is tubular, delivering vapor generated in the atomizer module 100 to and through a mouthpiece 110 at its proximal end 112 for delivery to the user.
  • a user gains access to the atomizer by detaching the mouthpiece module 102.
  • the user may then deliver vaporizing media, such as a wax, through the open proximal end 108 of the atomizer module 100 and into a bowl- shaped structure (not shown).
  • the user preferably replaces the mouthpiece module 102 in order to use the personal vaporizer 99.
  • a vaporizing chamber is defined in the atomizer above the bowl and, in some embodiments, in at least part of the mouthpiece module. Notably, in this embodiment, there is no tank for storing a liquid vaporizing medium.
  • the illustrated embodiment is configured for use vaporizing non-liquid (i.e., wax) vaporizing media that is manually delivered to the vaporizing chamber by the user, in contrast with, for example, liquid media that can be automatically delivered from a storage structure such as a tank to the vaporizing chamber (such as via a wick).
  • a storage structure such as a tank to the vaporizing chamber (such as via a wick).
  • FIG. 7 an embodiment of a hybrid vaporizing structure 120 is shown.
  • the illustrated hybrid vaporizing structure can be attached to a battery assembly 20 so as to be used as a personal vaporizer.
  • the vaporizing structure 120 comprises a tank module 130 and an atomizer module 140 that are selectively detachable from one another.
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the vaporizing structure 120 of Figure 7.
  • the hybrid vaporizing structure is usable with liquid vaporizing media as well as non-liquid (i.e., wax) vaporizing media, both separately and simultaneously.
  • the atomizer module 140 comprises an atomizer 142 and a check valve 144 enclosed within an atomizer module housing 146.
  • the atomizer housing 146 comprises a proximal end 148 that preferably is threaded so as to be selectively attachable to the tank module 130.
  • a pin 150 at a distal end 152 of the atomizer housing 146 is configured to attach to the battery mount boss 30.
  • the pin 150 is configured to attach to the internal threads 42 in the mount cavity 40 of the battery mount boss 30.
  • Air passages 154 are formed through the pin.
  • the atomizer 142 preferably is a skillet-style atomizer comprising a cylindrical bowl- or cup-shaped container, or bowl, defining bottom and side walls 162, 164 and being open at the top.
  • the bowl 160 is an insulator, and can be made of an insulator material such as a ceramic.
  • a heating element 166 is contained within the bowl 160. In the illustrated embodiment the heating element 166 comprises a pair of wire coils 170 wrapped about transversely-extending insulating cores 172, or wicks.
  • the wire coils 160 can be constructed of a durable, electrically-conductive material such as a metal (such as titanium, kanthal, or nichrome) that provides durability and electrical conduction to selectively power the atomizer 142.
  • a vaporizing chamber 180 is defined within the bowl 160, above and around the coils 170.
  • the coils 170 are electrically connected to the battery and, when energized, vaporizing media at or adjacent the coils will be atomized/vaporized.
  • a single wire can be used to create both of the coils.
  • each coil is formed by its own wire.
  • additional embodiments may employ only one, or more than two, coils.
  • other embodiments may employ other types of heating element structures, including electricity-based and/or gas-based structures.
  • a raised foundation 182 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 162, and the coils 170 are positioned atop the raised foundation 182.
  • Air slots 184 extend through the raised foundation 182. In the illustrated embodiment two air slots 184 are formed, and each air slot aligns with a respective one of the coils so as to deliver air flow directly to the respective coil.
  • First and second wire holes 186, 188 extend through the bottom wall 162 of the bowl 160.
  • a channel 196 is formed on the distal surface of the bottom wall 162 of the bowl 160, and extends from the second wire hole 188 to a side of the bowl 160.
  • a first end portion 192 of the coil wire extends through the first wire hole 186, and a second end portion 194 of the coil wire extends through the second wire hole 188 and through the channel 190.
  • electrical energy from the battery 20 can be applied across the first and second wire portions 192, 194 to energize the coil.
  • the wire holes 186, 188 are at opposite sides of the raised foundation 182. It is to be understood, however, that the wire holes can be located anywhere along the bottom wall or, in other embodiments, side wall of the bowl.
  • the illustrated embodiment is particularly suited for non-liquid vaporizing media such as a wax 200, which is depicted in the vaporizing chamber in Figure 9.
  • a user can remove the tank module 130 from the atomizer module 140 and then deposit the wax 200 through the proximal opening and into the bowl 160.
  • the tank module 130 comprises a tank top wall 202, tank bottom wall 204, and cylindrical outer wall 206 that cooperate to define a fluid chamber 210, or tank.
  • the fluid chamber 210 is configured to hold a liquid solution such as a vaporizing solution comprising essential oils.
  • a seal 212 adjacent the tank bottom wall 204 is configured to sealingly engage the outer wall 206.
  • the outer wall in the illustrated embodiment can be made of a glass or polymer material that preferably is at least partially transparent so that a user can see the level of essential oil-based vaporization liquid remaining within the fluid chamber.
  • a vapor tube 220 extends generally axially through the fluid chamber 210, extending through the tank top wall, through the fluid chamber 210 and through the tank bottom wall 204.
  • a proximal portion 222 of the vapor tube 220 extends proximally from the tank top wall 202 and a distal portion 224 of the vapor tube 220 extends distally from the tank bottom wall 204.
  • fluid in the fluid chamber 210 is isolated from the vapor tube 220.
  • the tank 210 can have an opening 226 through the top wall 202 through which vaporizing solution can be added to the fluid chamber.
  • a tank cap 228 can be removably placed atop the top wall of the tank.
  • a plug 229 extending from the tank cap 228 can be fit into and through the tank opening 226 so as to removably seal the opening.
  • the cap 228 and plug 229 can be made of an elastomeric material such as silicone rubber.
  • one or more fluid delivery tubes 230 are formed through the tank bottom wall 204 to communicate the fluid chamber 210 with the vaporizing chamber 180.
  • a wick 240 (shown in only one of the fluid delivery tubes) can be disposed in each of the fluid delivery tubes 230.
  • a proximal end 242 of the wick 240 extends into the fluid chamber 210 and a distal end 244 of the wick 240 extends into the vaporizing chamber 180, terminating at or adjacent the heating element 166.
  • the wicks 240 can deliver a controlled amount of vaporizing solution from the tank to the atomizer through capillary action, gravity, pressure differential between the tank and the vaporizing chamber, and other forces.
  • wick supports 246 comprise elongated portions of the fluid delivery tubes 230 that accommodate and support the wicks.
  • the vapor tube 220 has a vapor passage 250 or lumen that extends from the proximal portion 222 of the vapor tube 220 to the distal portion 224 of the vapor tube 220 and does not communicate with the fluid chamber 210. As shown in Figures 8 and 12, the distal portion 224 of the vapor tube 220 extends into the atomizer module 140 so as to be within and/or in communication with the vaporizing chamber 180. An inlet opening 252 is provided in the distal portion 222 so that the vapor passage 250 can receive vapor generated in the vaporizing chamber 180. In the illustrated embodiment, two inlet openings 252 are provided through a side wall of the vapor tube 220.
  • An outlet of the vapor passage is defined at the proximal portion of the vapor passage.
  • the outlet 254 is aligned with an axis of the vapor passage 250.
  • a mouthpiece can be connected to the proximal portion 224 of the vapor tube 220 so that the vapor passage 250 will open into the mouthpiece.
  • the proximal portion 222 can form a mouthpiece for a user to pull vapor from the vaporizing chamber through the vapor tube.
  • the proximal portion can be externally threaded and/or provided with a detent structure so that a separately- formed mouthpiece can be releasably attached.
  • the elastomeric cap When a mouthpiece is attached to the proximal portion, the elastomeric cap can be squeezed against the tank top wall to provide an additional seal for the tank opening. Also, the cap can be elastically compressible, behaving as a lock washer for the mouthpiece.
  • a user in use, can place a vaporizing wax media 200 in the bowl 160 of the atomizer module 140 and then attach the tank module 130, which can be filled with a vaporizing liquid, to the atomizer module 140.
  • the battery button When the battery button is actuated, a portion of the wax 200 in the bowl 160 is vaporized. Simultaneously, a portion of the vaporizing solution that is delivered to the heating element 160 via the wick 240 is also vaporized.
  • the vaporized wax and solution is combined with air to form a vapor that is delivered from the vaporizing chamber 180 through the vapor tube 220 and mouthpiece and into the user's lungs.
  • the present device enables a user to simultaneously vaporize a non-liquid vaporizing media (i.e., the wax) and a liquid vaporizing solution, and to mix the vapors and deliver the combination vapor to the user.
  • Waxes tend to provide a vapor having a relatively high concentration of the essential oils entrained within the wax, and thus provide a highly concentrated vapor.
  • a bowl of wax tends to be fully vaporized after just a few pulls.
  • Liquid solutions tend to provide a vapor having a lower concentration of essential oils, and thus provides a less concentrated vapor.
  • a tank can store a relatively large volume of solution, and thus a tank of solution tends to last a relatively long time.
  • the present embodiment enables a higher volume of essential oils per user pull than has been previously available. Additionally, various blends of waxes and liquid solutions can now easily be enjoyed.
  • tank modules and atomizer modules can easily be detached, switched out and reattached, enabling the user to easily and quickly switch between flavors and liquid solution types.
  • a user may have several tank modules, each of which is filled with a different flavor or type of liquid solution. The user can quickly and easily switch between these tank modules as desired.
  • the tank modules do not need to have their own atomizer; thus, individual tank modules can be relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain.
  • one embodiment of the conductive check valve 144 includes a housing 258, a valve body 260, and a sealing structure 262.
  • the valve body 260 is made up of a pin 264 and cap 266, each of which preferably is made of an electronically conductive material such as a metal.
  • the conductive pin 262 comprises a hollow proximal cylinder 270 that necks down into a smaller diameter hollow distal cylinder 272.
  • a valve seat 274 is defined where the proximal cylinder 270 necks down into the distal cylinder 272.
  • the conductive cap 266 covers the open end of the proximal cylinder 270 so that the sealing structure 262 is captured between the conductive pin 264 and the conductive cap 266.
  • the conductive cap 266 has an internally threaded side wall 276 extending distally and engaging with external threads formed on the proximal cylinder 270 of the pin 264.
  • the conductive cap 266 can be fixed to the proximal cylinder 270 by welding, interference or press fit, snap fit, adhesive, or other attachment means.
  • the housing 258 also comprises a hollow proximal cylinder 280 that necks down into a smaller-diameter hollow distal cylinder 282.
  • the housing 258 is configured to complementarily approximate the shape of the assembled pin 264 and cap 266 that define the valve body 260.
  • the valve body 260 fits snugly within the housing 258.
  • the housing 258 is formed of an electrically insulative material such as Delrin.
  • the check valve 144 is disposed immediately distal of the atomizer 142 within the atomizer module housing 146.
  • the check valve 144 is placed within the atomizer module housing 146 so that the insulative check valve housing 258 engages the atomizer module housing 146 and electrically insulates the valve body 260 relative to the atomizer module housing 146.
  • a distal end 284 of the conductive pin 264 of the valve body 260 extends distally a short distance from the distal pin 150 of the atomizer module housing 146, and thus is configured to engage the contact 44, which is a first pole of the battery connector, when the atomizer module 140 is connected to the battery assembly 20.
  • the atomizer module housing 146 preferably is electrically conductive so that the pin 150, when engaged with the internal threads 42 of the battery mount cavity 40, engages a second pole of the battery connector.
  • a first portion 192 of the heating coil wire extends through the first wire hole 186 of the atomizer bowl 160.
  • the first wire portion 192 is sandwiched between the conductive check valve cap and the atomizer.
  • the first wire portion is electrically connected to the conductive check valve 144, which in turn is electrically connected to the first pole of the battery.
  • the second wire portion 194 extends through the second wire hole 188 and into the channel 190.
  • the second wire portion 194 extends through and out of the channel 190 so that it is sandwiched between the bowl 160 and the conductive atomizer module housing 146, which is electrically connected to the second pole of the battery.
  • the channel 190 has a depth greater than a thickness of the second wire portion 194.
  • the channel 190 enables the second wire portion 194 to be spaced from the conductive portions of the check valve (such as the cap 266 and pin 264), and no electrical connection is made between the second wire portion 194 and the check valve 144.
  • An electric circuit is defined from the first pole of the battery through the electrically conductive check valve 144 to the first wire portion 192, through the coil 170 to the second wire portion 194, and from the second wire portion through the atomizer module housing 146 to the second pole of the battery.
  • the circuit When the circuit is energized, electric current is applied across the heating element coil, which quickly generates heat to vaporize media within the vaporizing chamber.
  • an insulator can be applied in the channel to electrically insulate the second connection from the valve body.
  • the second wire hole may be formed through a side wall of the bowl so that the second wire portion never approaches the conductive valve body.
  • the atomizer module housing 146 is made of a conductive material.
  • portions of the atomizer module housing can be made of non-conductive materials, but a conductive layer or portion can be provided that communicates with the second pole of the battery, and which is positioned to be attachable to the second wire portion.
  • the battery connector has a plurality of air intake slots 46 so that air can enter the battery mount cavity 40.
  • the atomizer housing distal pin 150 has air passages 154 that communicate with air passages 286 formed through the insulative check valve housing, and with air passages 288 formed through the check valve pin 264 to enable air to flow from within the battery mount cavity 40 into the hollow valve body 260.
  • the conductive cap 266 of the valve body 260 has a bore 290 extending therethrough. The bore 290 is aligned with the air slots 184 of the atomizer bowl 160 so as to communicate air within the hollow valve body 260 to the vaporizing chamber 180.
  • the sealing structure 262 in the illustrated embodiment comprises a ball 292 and a compression spring 294.
  • One end of the compression spring 294 abuts against or is attached to the conductive cap 266, and a second end of the spring 294 urges the ball 292 against the valve seat 274 so as to form a seal.
  • the seal blocks vaporizing media from the vaporizing chamber, wick(s) or tank from leaking into the distal cylinder 272 of the check valve pin 264.
  • a user drawing a breath generates sufficient suction force or decrease in pressure to dislodge the ball 292 from the valve seat 274.
  • air flow will push the ball 292 out of engagement with the valve seat 274.
  • vaporizing media that may have accumulated in the vaporizing chamber will be vaporized, and fluid that may have accumulated in the valve body 260 proximal of the ball 292 will be drawn into the atomizer bowl 160 and vaporized.
  • the spring 294 automatically urges the ball 292 back into engagement with the seat 274.
  • the distal tip 150 preferably is connected to the battery mount, and preferably a mouthpiece is attached to the proximal portion 222.
  • the user loads the device with vaporizing media by ensuring the fluid chamber 210 comprises vaporizing liquid and/or detaching the tank module 130 from the atomizer module 140, placing a wax W in the vaporizing chamber 180, and then replacing the tank module 130.
  • the user then presses the battery button 29 and draws a breath through the mouthpiece.
  • the heat element coils 170 quickly heats up, vaporizing wax W within the vaporizing chamber 180 and/or liquid L delivered by the wick 240.
  • Atmospheric air A is drawn through the battery air intake slots 46 and into the hollow pin 264 through the air passages 154, 286, 288.
  • the ball 292 is dislodged from the seat 274 and air A flows around the ball 292 and through bore 290 and air slots 184, past the coils 170 and into the vaporizing chamber 180, where it is mixed with atomized vaporizing media, becoming a vapor V.
  • the vapor V flows proximally through the inlet opening 252 and into the vapor passage 250, from which it is delivered via the mouthpiece to the user.
  • a downstream one-way valve can be incorporated inside the vapor tube in order to prevent vaporizing media from leaking out of the vapor tube during periods of nonuse.
  • the downstream one-way valve can be nonconductive and can have any of various valve structures.
  • the conductive check valve 144 prevents leaks of both liquid and non-liquid vaporizing media.
  • a conductive check valve can be employed in embodiments of personal vaporizers configured for use solely with only one of liquid and non-liquid vaporizing media as well as embodiments configured for use with both liquid and non-liquid vaporizing media.
  • the illustrated embodiment employs a ball-and-spring type valve, it is to be understood that other embodiments can employ check valves having any of various types of check valve structure.
  • the check valve will employ a housing or other conductive pathway through which electrical energy may pass as it is supplied to the atomizer.
  • the illustrated embodiment discloses a particular circuit that extends through the valve body and through the conductive cover, which is insulated relative to the valve body, it is to be understood that other embodiments can employ different specific circuit pathways, which pathways preferably employ structure of the device to supply electric current.
  • the illustrated hybrid personal vaporizer 300 comprises an atomizer module 310 that is releasably attachable to a battery assembly 20.
  • a tank module 320 is releasably connectable to the atomizer module 310, and a mouthpiece module 330 is releasably attachable to the tank module 320.
  • the structure of the illustrated hybrid personal vaporizer 300 is somewhat different than the structure of embodiments described above. To be sure, the illustrated hybrid personal vaporizer employs some features not discussed in previous embodiments. However, certain of the structures operate on principles similar to features described in conjunction with the above embodiments.
  • the atomizer module comprises an atomizer 332 and a check valve enclosed within an atomizer module housing 336.
  • the atomizer module housing 336 comprises a proximal end 338 that preferably is threaded so as to be selectively attachable to the tank module 320.
  • An internal transverse wall 340 is disposed between the proximal end 338 and a distal end 342 of the atomizer module housing 336.
  • Air slots 344 are formed at the distal end 342.
  • a distal cavity 346 is defined within the atomizer module housing 336 between the distal end and the transverse wall 340.
  • a proximal cavity 348 is defined between the proximal end and the transverse wall 340. As shown, the conductive check valve 334 is supported by the transverse wall 340. The atomizer 332 is disposed in the proximal cavity 348.
  • the check valve 334 comprises a housing 352, an insulator 352, a pin 360, a ball 362 and a cap 364.
  • the insulator 352 fits between the housing 352 and the pin 360 in order to electrically insulate the housing 352 from the pin 360 and to space the housing from the pin 360.
  • both the housing and the pin 360 are electrically conductive.
  • the pin 360 preferably is hollow and has a seat 366 defined between a proximal and a distal cavity 370, 372.
  • the cap 364 attaches to the proximal end of the pin 360 so as to enclose the proximal cavity.
  • the cap 364 preferably is electrically conductive.
  • the cap 364 comprises a plurality of cap apertures 374 that are radially spaced from a center point that is aligned with an axis of the pin 360.
  • the cap 364 preferably is solid at its center point.
  • the ball 362 is contained within the proximal cavity and is constrained to move between engagement with the seat 366 and contact with the center point of the cap 364. When the ball 362 is engaged with the seat 366, fluid flow is blocked from moving between the proximal and distal cavities of the pin 360.
  • the housing preferably includes a distal threaded tip 378 that is sized and configured to threadingly engage the internal threads 42 of the battery mount cavity 40 so that the housing can be electrically connected to the second pole of the battery.
  • a distal tip 380 of the pin 360 extends a short distance distally of the housing distal tip and is configured to engage the battery contact 44 when the housing distal tip is engaged with the battery mount cavity 40. As such, the pin distal tip engages the first pole of the battery.
  • the pin 360 has a plurality of side apertures 382 distal of the seat 366.
  • the check valve housing 350 has a plurality of side apertures 384. Each of these apertures open into a space 386 between the pin 360 and the housing so that air may flow freely from within the distal cavity of the atomizer module 310 into the pin cavities.
  • the ball 362 is configured to be urged into engagement with the seat 366 by forces such as gravity, when the personal vaporizer is upright, and/or by flow of vaporizing media in a distal direction through the proximal cavity of the pin 360.
  • forces such as gravity, when the personal vaporizer is upright, and/or by flow of vaporizing media in a distal direction through the proximal cavity of the pin 360.
  • flow of vaporizing media in a direction tending to leak from the device will urge the ball 362 into sealing engagement with the seat 366.
  • any type of biasing member, and any type of check valve structure can be employed as desired.
  • a mount aperture 388 is formed through the transverse wall 340 of the atomizer module housing 336, and the check valve housing 350 is press-fit into the mount aperture 388 so that the check valve 334 is held in place within the atomizer module 310 with a proximal portion of the check valve 334 extending into the proximal cavity and a distal portion of the check valve 334 extending into the distal cavity.
  • the atomizer 332 comprises an atomizer bowl 390 having a proximal cavity 392 and a distal cavity 394.
  • a bottom wall 396 is defined between the proximal and distal cavities, and a side wall 398 of the bowl 390, in combination with the bottom wall 396, defines the proximal and distal cavities.
  • a pair of arcuate cradles 399 are formed on the proximal side of the bottom wall 396.
  • the arcuate cradles 399 generally complementarily correspond to the curvature of heating element coils 400 that are arranged adjacent the cradles.
  • An air slot 402 is formed in each cradle so as to be aligned with the corresponding coil.
  • a pair of first wire holes 404 is formed through the bottom wall 396 and open into the distal cavity.
  • a pair of second wire holes 406 are also formed through the bottom wall 396 but do not open into the distal cavity. Instead, the second wire holes extend through a portion of the side wall and open at a distal end of the side wall.
  • Channels 408 are formed in the side wall so as to extend from each second wire hole to a side surface of the bowl 390.
  • the bowl 390 preferably is fit into the proximal cavity of the atomizer module housing 336 so that distal ends of the side walls engage the transverse wall 340, and the proximal portion of the check valve 334 extends into the distal cavity of the bowl 390.
  • at least portions of a plurality of the cap apertures 374 are aligned with each air slot.
  • a first wire end portion 414 of the coil extends through one of the first wire holes 404 and is placed into contact with the conductive check valve cap 364 without contacting the conductive check valve housing 350.
  • a second wire end portion 416 of the coil extends through one of the second wire holes 406 and into contact with the conductive atomizer module housing 336, which is physically and electrically connected to the conductive check valve housing 350.
  • the first wire end portion is connected through the check valve cap 364 and pin 360 to the first pole of the battery
  • the second wire end portion is connected through the atomizer module housing 336 and check valve housing 350 to the second pole of the battery, defining a circuit enabling the battery to energize the coils when actuated.
  • the tank module 320 comprises a tank top wall 420 that supports a proximal seal for 22.
  • a tank base 424 is configured to support an O-ring for 26, and defines a bottom wall 428.
  • a tubular outer wall 430 is disposed between the top and bottom wall 428.
  • a vapor tube 440 extends proximally from the base and defines a vapor passage 441 therewithin.
  • a proximal end 442 of the vapor tube 440 threadingly engages the tank top wall 420 so that the tank top wall 420 can be advanced toward the base.
  • the outer wall 430 When the top wall 420 is threadingly advanced over the proximal end of the vapor tube 440, the outer wall 430 is sandwiched between the top and bottom walls so as to create seals with the proximal seal and O-ring and define a fluid chamber 444, or tank, therewithin.
  • a proximal portion 446 of the vapor tube 440 extends proximally from the tank top wall 420.
  • a central aperture is formed in the bottom wall 428 and communicates with the vapor passage 441.
  • a distal end 148 of the base is threaded so as to threadingly connect to the atomizer module housing 336.
  • a transfer member 450 comprises a cylindrical body 452 having a proximal flange flange 454.
  • a proximal face 456 is defined on a proximal side of the proximal flange.
  • a proximal connector for freight extends proximally from the proximal face and is configured to engage the central aperture of the base.
  • the proximal connector is threaded so that the proximal face can be advanced and fit snugly against the distal face of the tank module bottom wall 428.
  • a plurality of elongate secondary fluid delivery holes 460 extend longitudinally through the proximal face and the body.
  • the transfer member 450 is attached to the base so that the secondary fluid delivery holes 460 are at least generally aligned with the fluid delivery holes formed through the bottom wall 428.
  • the proximal face generally sealingly engages the distal face of the tank module bottom wall 428 so that fluid from the tank will flow through the fluid delivery holes and secondary fluid delivery holes, and not between the proximal face and distal face of the tank module bottom wall 428.
  • the transfer member 450 can be press-fit against the bottom surface of the tank bottom wall 428. Other methods can also be used to attach the proximal face of the transfer member 450 tightly to the bottom surface of the tank bottom wall 428.
  • a distal cavity 462 is formed in the transfer member body 452, and the secondary fluid delivery holes 460 extend through the body and open into the distal cavity 462.
  • a plurality of transversely-directed vapor inlets 464 are also formed in the transfer member body.
  • the vapor inlets 464 are placed so as to not intersect or interfere with the secondary fluid delivery holes 460.
  • the vapor inlets communicate with a central vapor chamber 466 formed within the body, which central vapor chamber 466 is aligned with the proximal connector so that the central vapor chamber 466 is in communication with the vapor passage 441.
  • vaporizing fluid from within the fluid chamber 444 can be delivered to the vaporizing chamber 180 by flowing through the fluid delivery holes 429 of the bottom wall 428 and further through the secondary fluid delivery holes of the transfer member 450 into the vaporizing chamber 180. After being atomized, the vapor flows from the vaporizing chamber into the vapor inlets of the transfer member 450 to the central vapor chamber 466 and further to the vapor passage 441, from which it is delivered to the mouthpiece module 330.
  • a wick holder 470 is configured to fit into and attach to the distal cavity of the transfer member 450.
  • the wick holder 470 includes proximal threads 472 adapted to engage internal threads of the transfer member 450 so that the wick holder 470 can be attached to the transfer member 450.
  • the wick holder 470 defines a wick holding passage 474 which, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally tapered to decrease in diameter moving distally. As such, the wick holding passage 474 can securely hold a wick therewithin.
  • a proximal space 476 having a diameter greater than the wick holding passage is defined proximal of the wick holding passage.
  • a wick 480 can be retained by the wick holding passage for some for.
  • a proximal end 482 of the wick 480 is disposed in or distal of the proximal space 476, and the distal end 484 of the wick 480 is disposed at or adjacent the heating element of the atomizer 332.
  • the wick 480 has a generally circular cross- section, is generally longitudinally aligned with the heating element, and has a diameter greater than one half the length of each heating element coil, more preferably greater than two thirds the length of each heating element coil, and in some embodiments greater than about three fourths the length of each heating element coil. In further embodiments the wick diameter is about the same as or greater than the length of each heating element coil.
  • the wick 480 is completely distal of the bottom wall 428 of the tank so that no wick portion extends into the fluid chamber 444.
  • fluid flowing through the delivery holes is unconstrained by any wick or any other throttling structure.
  • fluid flow through the secondary fluid delivery holes is unconstrained by the presence of any wick. Instead, fluid flows freely through the fluid delivery holes and secondary fluid delivery holes, and accumulates in the proximal space above the wick. The proximal space enables fluid to spread out and evenly soak the wick.
  • the proximal space and wick are disposed within the proximal cavity of the atomizer module housing 336.
  • a cross sectional area of the wick is about the same as or greater than a cross-sectional area of the vapor passage 441.
  • the cross- sectional area of the wick preferably is greater than the combined cross-sectional area of all of the fluid delivery holes.
  • the cross- sectional area of the vapor passage is greater than the combined cross-sectional area of the fluid delivery holes.
  • the diameter of the vapor tube 440, and cross-sectional area of the vapor passage 441 can be maximized while the cross-sectional area dedicated to delivery tubes 429 is minimized, but without negatively affecting delivery flow of fluid through the wick 480 to the heating element 400.
  • a ratio of the vapor passage diameter to an outer diameter of the tank module 320 is greater than 0.2. In further embodiments, the ratio is between 0.2 and 0.3, and in further embodiments the ratio is about 0.25.
  • wick holder 470 In the illustrated embodiment, a single, relatively large, centrally-located wick is held by the wick holder 470. It is to be understood that other embodiments may employ a plurality of wick holding passages, and thus may hold a plurality of wicks. The plurality of wicks may each be smaller in diameter than the wick illustrated in Figure 15, although the wicks collectively may present a cross-sectional area approaching, the same as, or even greater than the wick in the illustrated embodiment, or greater than the cross-sectional area of the vapor passage. Additionally, such embodiments can be configured so that wicks are more evenly distributed about the vaporizing chamber 180, and at or adjacent most or all portions of the heating element coils.
  • the wick holder 470 can be removed from the transfer member 450 and replaced with another wick holder.
  • the replacement wick holder may have a different configuration, may use different wick materials, or may simply be a new wick that hasn't been fouled by extensive use.
  • a user may wish to select a wick calculated to maximize device performance for a particular range of liquid viscosities.
  • the wick holder attaches to structure of the tank module 320, and comes with the tank module as the tank module 320 is detached from the atomizer module. As such, the wick holder is easily accessed by simply removing the tank module, and without disassembling the tank.
  • the illustrated transfer member 450 and wick holder 470 are generally cylindrical in shape, and the illustrated wick holder 470 attaches to the transfer member 450 via a threaded connection. It is to be understood that, in additional embodiments, various ways of connecting the wick holder to the transfer member can be employed, such as a j-lock, detent, or slide-in mechanism. Also, the transfer member and/or wick holder and/or wick may have a non- circular cross-section. For example, in some embodiments the wick holder and wick may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, and may be sized to correspond to the cross-sectional footprint of the heat element coils. As such, the wick may deliver vaporizing fluid to every part of the coils.
  • the mouthpiece module 330 comprises a tubular mouthpiece 490, which in some embodiments can be substantially transparent, that is received into a proximal cavity into of a mouthpiece base 494.
  • a distal portion 496 of the mouthpiece base comprises an O-ring seat 498 that receives an O-ring 499.
  • a mouthpiece mount 500 has a central threaded passage 502 that engages the proximal portion of the vapor tube 440 so that the mouthpiece module 330 can be tightened atop the tank module 320.
  • a distal cavity 504 of the mouthpiece mount receives an elastomeric seal
  • the central threaded passage 502 opens into a proximal cavity 510 of the mount 500, into which the distal portion of the mouthpiece base is placed.
  • the O-ring on the mouthpiece base engages a wall of the mount proximal cavity to create a seal so that vapor that flows through the vapor passage 441 and central threaded passage is further directed through a mouthpiece outlet 512.
  • the user loads the device with vaporizing media by ensuring the fluid chamber 444 comprises vaporizing liquid L and/or detaching the tank module 320 from the atomizer module 310 and placing a wax W in the vaporizing chamber 180, and then replacing the tank module.
  • the user then presses the battery button 29 and draws a breath through the mouthpiece.
  • the heat element coils quickly heat up, vaporizing wax W within the vaporizing chamber 180 and/or liquid L delivered by the wick.
  • Atmospheric air A is drawn through the battery air intake slots 46 and into distal cavity, from which it flows through side holes and into the distal cavity of the pin 360.
  • the ball 362 is dislodged from the seat 366, and air A flows around the ball 362 and through any of the plurality of cap apertures 374 and air slots, past the coils and into the vaporizing chamber, where it is mixed with atomized vaporizing media, becoming a vapor V.
  • the vapor V flows proximally through the vapor inlets of the transfer member 450 and into the vapor passage 441, from which it is delivered via the mouthpiece to the user.
  • replacement liquid L flows from the fluid chamber 444 through the fluid delivery tubes and secondary fluid delivery tubes into the proximal space proximal of the wick. The liquid L spreads across the diameter of the wick, and is then communicated through the wick to the coils 400, where it is atomized and mixed with air A to form the vapor V.
  • the embodiments of a modular, hybrid personal vaporizer disclosed herein can be used with wax alone, liquid solution alone, or both wax and solution at the same time. Further, if being used with both wax and solution at the same time, and one or the other of the wax or solution becomes exhausted, the hybrid personal vaporizer can continue to be used with the remaining material without necessitating any adjustments by the user. Further, it is to be understood that features disclosed herein may be employed with other embodiments of vaporizers, which embodiments may or may not be able to used with one or the other of wax and liquid solutions. Further, features discussed herein may be employed with vaporizers that are not modular.
  • the fluid tank has been configured as a single compartment to hold a single liquid.
  • the tank can be divided into two, three or more chambers and can be configured to hold different liquid media, such as different flavors of liquid and/or different ingredients.
  • such chambers can be configured to contain separate components.
  • a first chamber may contain a basic vaporizing fluid
  • a second and/or third chamber may be configured to contain flavorings.
  • Each chamber communicates with the vaporizing chamber 180 via liquid delivery holes and/or wicks, and thus liquid from each chamber is delivered simultaneously to the vaporizing chamber.
  • the size of the delivery tubes and/or wicks can throttle delivery rates from each chamber, regulating the mixture.
  • the delivery tube(s) and/or wick from the first chamber may be configured to delivery much more volume of fluid to the vaporizing chamber than the delivery tube and/or wick from the second or third chambers.
  • This can be accomplished in various ways, such as by providing delivery tubes of greater cross-sectional area aligned with the first chamber and comparatively small cross-sectional area aligned with the second and/or third chambers, using different wick materials that regulate fluid flow, or the like.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Bioinformatics & Cheminformatics (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
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  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
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Abstract

La présente invention porte sur un vaporisateur personnel conçu pour être utilisable à la fois pour des supports de vaporisation non liquides et pour des supports de vaporisation liquides. Dans certains modes de réalisation, une soupape antiretour électriquement conductrice empêche le support vaporisateur de s'écouler hors des ouvertures d'entrée d'air lors de périodes de non utilisation, et fournit une puissance électrique à un élément chauffant pendant l'utilisation. Dans certains modes de réalisation, aucune des structures de mèche ne s'étend dans une chambre de fluide, mais une mèche s'étend depuis un support de mèche en aval de la chambre de fluide vers une chambre de vaporisation.
PCT/US2017/015885 2016-02-02 2017-01-31 Vaporisateur personnel WO2017136361A1 (fr)

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US62/290,376 2016-02-02

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CN107899112A (zh) * 2017-12-06 2018-04-13 何爱建 一种基于医疗领域的呼吸内科用化痰止咳雾化器
WO2019145684A1 (fr) * 2018-01-24 2019-08-01 Nicoventures Trading Limited Systèmes de fourniture de vapeur
CN111417321A (zh) * 2017-10-05 2020-07-14 德里克·多梅尼西 吸入装置
WO2021143798A1 (fr) * 2020-01-17 2021-07-22 常州市派腾电子技术服务有限公司 Dispositif de génération d'aérosol
EP3858170A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-04 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol
EP3858171A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-04 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol
WO2021152137A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-05 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol

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US20140332019A1 (en) * 2013-01-05 2014-11-13 Qiuming Liu Electronic Cigarette Device, Electronic Cigarette, and Atomizing Device Used in the Same
US20140355969A1 (en) * 2013-05-28 2014-12-04 Sis Resources, Ltd. One-way valve for atomizer section in electronic cigarettes
US20150000684A1 (en) * 2010-12-09 2015-01-01 Shenzhen Smaco Technology Limited Electronic cigarette for convenient battery charging and atomizer starting
US20150020823A1 (en) * 2013-07-19 2015-01-22 Altria Client Services Inc. Liquid aerosol formulation of an electronic smoking article
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US3425414A (en) * 1965-05-28 1969-02-04 William J La Roche Inhalant dispenser
US8186209B2 (en) * 2010-02-11 2012-05-29 Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited Valve with radiating structure for a tire pressure monitoring system
US20150000684A1 (en) * 2010-12-09 2015-01-01 Shenzhen Smaco Technology Limited Electronic cigarette for convenient battery charging and atomizer starting
US20130192622A1 (en) * 2012-01-31 2013-08-01 Altria Client Services Inc. Electronic cigarette
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CN111417321A (zh) * 2017-10-05 2020-07-14 德里克·多梅尼西 吸入装置
CN111417321B (zh) * 2017-10-05 2023-01-10 德里克·多梅尼西 吸入装置
CN107899112A (zh) * 2017-12-06 2018-04-13 何爱建 一种基于医疗领域的呼吸内科用化痰止咳雾化器
WO2019145684A1 (fr) * 2018-01-24 2019-08-01 Nicoventures Trading Limited Systèmes de fourniture de vapeur
WO2021143798A1 (fr) * 2020-01-17 2021-07-22 常州市派腾电子技术服务有限公司 Dispositif de génération d'aérosol
EP3858170A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-04 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol
EP3858171A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-04 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol
WO2021152137A1 (fr) * 2020-01-30 2021-08-05 Nerudia Limited Appareil de distribution d'aérosol

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