WO2021042209A1

WO2021042209A1 - Apparatus and methods for heat transfer in vaporization devices

Info

Publication number: WO2021042209A1
Application number: PCT/CA2020/051195
Authority: WO
Inventors: Max Alsayar; Patrick Woods
Original assignee: Hexo Operations Inc.
Priority date: 2019-09-06
Filing date: 2020-09-03
Publication date: 2021-03-11
Also published as: WO2021042210A1

Abstract

A vaporization apparatus includes a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance and a heating element coupled to the ceramic core. The heating element heats the ceramic core and produces a vapor from the vaporization substance. The vaporization apparatus further includes a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance. The rough surface could be part of the ceramic core, be part of the heating element, or be another component of the vaporization apparatus.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN VAPORIZATION DEVICES

Cross-Reference to Related Application

[0001] This application is related to, and claims priority to, United States Provisional Patent Application No. 62/896,666, entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN VAPORIZATION DEVICES”, and filed on September 6, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

[0002] This application relates generally to vaporization devices, and in particular to heat transfer in vaporization devices.

BACKGROUND

[0003] A vaporization device is used to vaporize substances for inhalation. These substances are referred to herein as vaporization substances, and could include, for example, cannabis products, tobacco products, herbs, and/or flavorants. In some cases, active substances in cannabis, tobacco, or other plants or materials extracted to generate concentrates are used as vaporization substances. These substances could include cannabinoids from cannabis, and nicotine from tobacco. In other cases, synthetic substances are artificially manufactured. Terpenes are common flavorant vaporization substances, and could be generated from natural essential oils or artificially.

[0004] Vaporization substances could be in the form of loose leaf in the case of cannabis, tobacco, and herbs, for example, or in the form of concentrates or derivative products such as liquids, waxes, or gels, for example. Vaporization substances, whether intended for flavor or some other effect, could be mixed with other compounds such as propylene glycol, glycerin, medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and/or water to adjust the viscosity of a final vaporization substance.

[0005] In a vaporization device, the vaporization substance is heated to the vaporization point of one or more active substances. This produces a vapor, which may also be referred to as an aerosol. The vapor is then inhaled by a user through a channel that is provided in the vaporization device, and often through a hose or pipe that is part of or attached to the vaporization device.

[0006] In a traditional wick-based vaporization device, an atomizer with a heating element heats a vaporization substance in the wick to vaporize the vaporization substance. Heating of the vaporization substance in the wick is difficult to control, and some of the vaporization substance may be burned instead of being vaporized, especially where the vaporization substance is in direct contact with the heating element. This can result in a burnt taste for a user.

[0007] In a ceramic core vaporization device, an atomizer includes a heating element that is typically embedded in a ceramic core. The ceramic core has a heat capacity and may take some time to heat up before being able to vaporize the vaporization substance. The heat capacity of the ceramic core can enable the vaporization of the vaporization substance to be better controlled, thereby avoiding the vaporization substance being burnt. This can result in better tasting vapor for the user.

[0008] A ceramic core vaporization device may provide vapor that is desirable compared to other vaporization devices such as wick-based vaporization devices, and hence ceramic core technology is an area of substantial interest.

SUMMARY

[0009] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vaporization apparatus including a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance; and a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance.

[0010] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

[0012] In some embodiments, the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel. [0013] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

[0014] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

[0015] In some embodiments, the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

[0016] In some embodiments, the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core.

[0017] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

[0018] In some embodiments, the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

[0019] In some embodiments, the ceramic core includes the rough surface.

[0020] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more ridges.

[0021] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the ceramic core.

[0022] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes an upstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes a downstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

[0025] In some embodiments, the heating element includes the rough surface.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heating element includes a wire, and the rough surface includes an outer surface of the wire. [0027] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more ridges.

[0028] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the heating element.

[0029] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more protrusions.

[0030] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more holes.

[0031] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vaporization apparatus including a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance, the ceramic core including a rough surface; and a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance.

[0033] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor.

[0034] In some embodiments, the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

[0035] In some embodiments, the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel.

[0036] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

[0038] In some embodiments, the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

[0039] In some embodiments, the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core. [0040] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

[0041] In some embodiments, the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

[0042] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more ridges.

[0043] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the ceramic core.

[0044] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

[0045] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more protrusions.

[0046] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more holes.

[0047] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes an upstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

[0048] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes a downstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

[0049] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus.

[0050] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vaporization apparatus including a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; and a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance, the heating element including a rough surface.

[0051] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor. [0052] In some embodiments, the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

[0053] In some embodiments, the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel.

[0054] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

[0055] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

[0056] In some embodiments, the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

[0057] In some embodiments, the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core.

[0058] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

[0059] In some embodiments, the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

[0060] In some embodiments, the heating element includes a wire, and the rough surface includes an outer surface of the wire.

[0061] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more ridges.

[0062] In some embodiments, the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the heating element.

[0063] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more protrusions.

[0064] In some embodiments, the rough surface includes one or more holes.

[0065] In some embodiments, the vaporization apparatus further includes at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus. [0066] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit of parts for a vaporization apparatus as disclosed herein.

[0067] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method including generating vapor using a vaporization apparatus as disclosed herein; and inhaling the vapor.

[0068] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method including providing a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; providing a heating element to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance; and providing a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance.

[0069] In some embodiments, providing the ceramic core includes providing a channel to receive the vapor.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a further heating element to heat air that enters the channel.

[0071] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a chamber to store the vaporization substance.

[0072] In some embodiments, the method further includes arranging the ceramic core within the chamber.

[0073] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a wick.

[0074] In some embodiments, the method further includes arranging the wick between the ceramic core and the chamber.

[0075] In some embodiments, the method further includes embedding the heating element in the ceramic core.

[0076] In some embodiments, providing the rough surface includes roughening a surface of the ceramic core. [0077] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the ceramic core includes forming one or more ridges on the surface of the ceramic core.

[0078] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the ceramic core includes forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the ceramic core.

[0079] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the ceramic core includes forming one or more holes in the surface of the ceramic core.

[0080] In some embodiments, providing the rough surface includes roughening a surface of the heating element.

[0081] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the heating element includes forming one or more ridges on the surface of the heating element.

[0082] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the heating element includes forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the heating element.

[0083] In some embodiments, roughening the surface of the heating element includes forming one or more holes in the surface of the heating element.

[0084] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core.

[0085] Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0087] Fig. l is a plan view of an example vaporization device. [0088] Fig. 2 is an isometric view of the vaporization device shown in Fig. 1.

[0089] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of another example vaporization device.

[0090] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of an example vaporization device tank including a ceramic core.

[0091] Fig. 5 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core including a rough surface.

[0092] Fig. 6 is an isometric view of another example ceramic core including a rough surface.

[0093] Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core including a heating element with a rough surface.

[0094] Fig. 8 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core including a heating element with multiple heating structures.

[0095] Fig. 9 is an isometric view of another example ceramic core including a heating element with multiple heating structures.

[0096] Fig. 10 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core including multiple ceramic layers.

[0097] Fig. 11 is an isometric view of an example vaporization device tank including a ceramic core.

[0098] Figs. 12 and 13 are flow diagrams illustrating methods according to some embodiments. DESCRIPTION

[0099] In a ceramic core vaporization device, the function of the ceramic core includes producing heat using a heating element and transferring heat to a vaporization substance. It is often desired that the ceramic core and vaporization substance be heated relatively rapidly and uniformly, and that heat loss from the ceramic core be minimized or at least reduced. [00100] Increasing the rate of heat transfer to a vaporization substance can increase the rate of vaporization, and reduce the delay between when a user activates a vaporization device and when a vapor is produced. Increasing the rate of heat transfer to a vaporization substance could also increase the quantity of vapor that is produced over a period of time, and thereby increase the quantity of vapor that is available for inhalation by a user. In some cases, if a vaporization substance is not heated rapidly enough to achieve vaporization, then leakage of the vaporization substance from the ceramic core may occur. Leakage can be messy and annoying for a user, and can also damage components of the vaporization device.

[00101] Uniform heating of a ceramic core can help prevent situations in which some locations of the ceramic core are heated to substantially higher temperatures than other locations of the ceramic core. The higher temperature locations may vaporize and even burn a vaporization substance, whereas the lower temperature locations may not reach temperatures that are sufficient to achieve vaporization. Uniform heating can distribute heat to all locations of a ceramic core evenly, and can more consistently heat and vaporize a vaporization substance.

[00102] Heat that is produced by a heating element and not used to heat the ceramic core or vaporize a vaporization substance could be considered a form of heat loss. The lost heat could be transferred from the ceramic core to other components of the vaporization device, and/or could be transferred to the ambient atmosphere. The power efficiency of a ceramic core vaporization device depends, at least in part, on the rate of heat loss from a ceramic core. As such, the power efficiency of a ceramic core vaporization device could be a suitable indicator of heat loss in the ceramic core.

[00103] Embodiments disclosed herein provide structures that may improve heat transfer to a vaporization substance to: improve the rate of heating and vaporization of the vaporization substance, improve the uniformity of heating and vaporization of the vaporization substance, reduce heat loss, reduce leakage of the vaporization substance, and/or improve the power efficiency of a vaporization device.

[00104] Heat transfer to a vaporization substance, and/or any improvement thereof, may be defined, quantized, or characterized in any of various ways. Measurements of heat transfer to a vaporization substance can be used to determine the effect of a structure that is provided to improve heat transfer. For example, measurements of heat transfer in ceramic cores with and without the structure can be compared to determine the effect of the structure.

[00105] The composition and intrinsic properties of a ceramic core could affect heat transfer to a vaporization substance. For example, the thermal conductivity and/or porosity of a ceramic core could affect heat transfer in the ceramic core. Some ceramic materials exhibit a temperature dependent thermal conductivity, and therefore the thermal conductivity of some ceramic cores could vary during use.

[00106] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is quantized in terms of power delivered to the vaporization substance, and/or temperature rise of the vaporization substance per unit time. When measuring the power delivered to a vaporization substance or temperature rise of a vaporization substance, a volume, weight or other measure of the vaporization substance could be fixed for the measurement. This may allow the power delivered and/or temperature rise measurements to be more readily compared between different vaporization devices. For example, the volume of vaporization substance that is measured could be the volume of vaporization substance that flows through a ceramic core over a predefined period of time, or the volume of vaporization substance that is stored in a cartridge. In some embodiments, the volume of vaporization substance that is stored in a cartridge is about 0.5 ml, about 1.0 ml, about 5 ml, or about 10 ml.

[00107] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is defined in relative terms. In one example, heat transfer to a vaporization substance could be quantized as a ratio of the amount of power that is used to produce a vapor to the amount of power that is lost. In another example, heat transfer to a vaporization substance could be quantized as a ratio of the amount of power that is used to produce a vapor to the total amount of power delivered by a power source. This could also be considered a measure of power efficiency. In some implementations, the power delivered by a power source ranges from 1 W to 24 W. The resistance of a heating element in a ceramic core and the voltage supplied by the power source can affect the power delivered by a power source. In some implementations, the resistance of a heating element is in the range of 1.5 W to 5.1 W, and the voltage supplied by the power source is in the range of 3.0 V to 6.0 V. In some embodiments, the power delivered by a power source is 9 W, 7 W, or 6 W at 3.5 +/- 0.5 V.

[00108] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is defined as a rate of vaporization. For example, heat transfer could be quantized in terms of the volume of vaporization substance that is vaporized per unit time, or the volume of vapor that is produced per unit time. The change in enthalpy or DH to induce vaporization of a vaporization substance could range from 49.4 to 91.79 kJ/mol. Change in Gibbs free energy, or AG, is another potentially useful characterizing feature or measure for vaporization of a vaporization substance, potentially ranging from 35.84 to 157.39 kJ/mol in some embodiments.

[00109] It should be noted that the rate of vaporization in a ceramic core could be affected by such factors as heat capacity of the vaporization substance, the rate of flow of a vaporization substance through the ceramic core, and/or other factors. Heat capacity is based on composition of the vaporization substance. Regarding flow of a vaporization substance, relatively small or low flow would be expected to produce more rapid vaporization versus a relatively larger or high flow which would need more time to get to the vaporization temperature.

[00110] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is defined as the time delay between activation of a vaporization device and the production of vapor. Activation of a vaporization device could include the delivery of electrical power to a heating element in ceramic core. In some cases, the time delay between activation of a vaporization device and the production of vapor can range from 1 to 3 seconds. A ceramic core that can produce vapor 1 second after activation of a vaporization device could be considered to have improved heat transfer compared to another ceramic core that can produce vapor 3 seconds after activation of a vaporization device, where other components of the vaporization devices, such as the power supplies, are similar.

[00111] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is quantized as the temperature that a ceramic core can achieve during use. This temperature value could be compared to the amount of electrical power being delivered to the ceramic core. The temperature profile of a ceramic core could also or instead be considered when quantizing heat transfer to a vaporization substance. The temperature profile could provide an indication of the uniformity of temperature and heating achieved in a ceramic core. As noted above, relatively uniform temperature and heating may be a desirable quality of a ceramic core to more consistently heat and vaporize a vaporization substance. In some implementations, the uniformity of temperature in a ceramic core decreases as the peak temperature of the ceramic core increases.

[00112] In some embodiments, heat transfer to a vaporization substance is quantized in terms of a surface area of a ceramic core that is in contact with the vaporization substance, and the temperature of that surface area. The surface area of a ceramic core could include both external and internal surface area. An example of internal surface area is the surface area defined by pores formed in a ceramic core.

[00113] These are illustrative examples of how heat transfer to a vaporization substance is characterized in some embodiments. Other embodiments may characterize heat transfer in terms of fewer, different, and/or additional parameters. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular manner of expressing heat transfer.

[00114] For illustrative purposes, specific example embodiments will be explained in greater detail below in conjunction with the figures. It should be appreciated, however, that the present disclosure provides many applicable concepts that can be embodied in any of a wide variety of contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. For example, relative to embodiments shown in the drawings and/or referenced herein, other embodiments may include additional, different, and/or fewer features. The figures are also not necessarily drawn to scale.

[00115] The present disclosure relates, in part, to vaporization apparatus such as vaporization devices for vaporization substances that include active substances such as cannabinoids or nicotine. However, the vaporization devices described herein could also or instead be used for vaporization substances without an active substance.

[00116] As used herein, the term “cannabinoid” is generally understood to include any chemical compound that acts upon a cannabinoid receptor. Cannabinoids could include endocannabinoids (produced naturally by humans and animals), phytocannabinoids (found in cannabis and some other plants), and synthetic cannabinoids (manufactured artificially). [00117] For the purpose of this specification, the expression “cannabinoid” means a compound such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabigerol monomethylether (CBGM), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabidiol monomethylether (CBDM), cannabidiol-C4 (CBD-C4), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabidiorcol (CBD-C1), delta- 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (A9-THC), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A), delta-9- tetrahydrocannabionolic acid B (THCA-B), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid-C4 (THCA-C4), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-C4, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), delta-9- tetrahydrocannabiorcol (THC-C1), delta-7-cis-iso tetrahydrocannabivarin, delta-8- tetrahydrocannabinol (A8-THC), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabicyclovarin (CBLV), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabinol (CBN), cannabinol methylether (CBNM), cannabinol-C4 (CBN-C4), cannabivarin (CBV), cannabinol-C2 (CBN-C2), cannabiorcol (CBN-C1), cannabinodiol (CBND), cannabinodivarin (CBVD), cannabitriol (CBT), 10-ethoxy-9hydroxy- delta-6a-tetrahydrocannabinol, 8,9-dihydroxy-delta-6a-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabitriolvarin (CBTV), ethoxy-cannabitriolvarin (CBTVE), dehydrocannabifuran (DCBF), cannabifuran (CBF), cannabichromanon (CBCN), cannabicitran (CBT), 10-oxo-delta-6a- tetrahydrocannabionol (OTHC), delta-9-cis-tetrahydrocannabinol (cis-THC), 3,4,5,6-tetrahydro- 7-hydroxy-alpha-alpha-2-trimethyl-9-n-propyl-2, 6-methano-2H-l-benzoxocin-5-methanol (OH- iso-HHCV), cannabiripsol (CBR), trihydroxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (triOH-THC), cannabinol propyl variant (CBNV), and derivatives thereof.

[00118] Examples of synthetic cannabinoids include, but are not limited to, naphthoylindoles, naphthylmethylindoles, naphthoylpyrroles, naphthylmethylindenes, phenylacetylindoles, cyclohexylphenols, tetramethylcyclopropylindoles, adamantoylindoles, indazole carboxamides, and quinolinyl esters.

[00119] In some embodiments, the cannabinoid is CBD. For the purpose of this specification, the expressions “cannabidiol” or “CBD” are generally understood to refer to one or more of the following compounds, and, unless a particular other stereoisomer or stereoisomers are specified, includes the compound “A2-cannabidiol.” These compounds are: (1) A5-cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methyl-5-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol); (2) A4-cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methyl-4-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol); (3) D3 -cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methyl-3-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol); (4) A3,7-cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methylenecyclohex-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol); (5) A2-cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol); (6) DI-cannabidiol (2-(6- isopropenyl-3-methyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl4,3-benzenediol); and (7) Dό-cannabidiol (2- (6-isopropenyl-3-methyl-6-cyclohexen-l-yl)-5-pentyl-l,3-benzenediol).

[00120] In some embodiments, the cannabinoid is THC. THC is only psychoactive in its decarboxyl ated state. The carboxylic acid form (THCA) is non-psychoactive. Delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-TH(2) and delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Dd-THC) produce the effects associated with cannabis by binding to the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain.

[00121] A cannabinoid may be in an acid form or a non-acid form, the latter also being referred to as the decarboxylated form since the non-acid form can be generated by decarboxylating the acid form. Within the context of the present disclosure, where reference is made to a particular cannabinoid, the cannabinoid can be in its acid or non-acid form, or be a mixture of both acid and non-acid forms.

[00122] A vaporization substance may include a cannabinoid in its pure or isolated form or in a source material that includes the cannabinoid. The following are non-limiting examples of source materials that include cannabinoids: cannabis or hemp plant material (e.g., flowers, seeds, trichomes, and kief), milled cannabis or hemp plant material, extracts obtained from cannabis or hemp plant material (e.g., resins, waxes and concentrates), and distilled extracts or kief. In some embodiments, pure or isolated cannabinoids and/or source materials that include cannabinoids are combined with water, lipids, hydrocarbons (e.g., butane), ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, or mixtures thereof.

[00123] In some embodiments, the cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is only psychoactive in its decarboxylated state. The carboxylic acid form (THCA) is non-psychoactive. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (A9-THC) and delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Dd-THC) produce the effects associated with cannabis by binding to the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain.

[00124] In some embodiments, the cannabinoid is a mixture of THC and CBD. The w/w ratio of THC to CBD of the vaporization substance may be about 1:1000, about 1:900, about 1:800, about 1:700, about 1:600, about 1:500, about 1:400, about 1:300, about 1:250, about 1:200, about 1:150, about 1:100, about 1:90, about 1:80, about 1:70, about 1:60, about 1:50, about 1:45, about 1:40, about 1:35, about 1:30, about 1:29, about 1:28, about 1:27, about 1:26, about 1:25, about 1:24, about 1:23, about 1:22, about 1:21, about 1:20, about 1:19, about 1:18, about 1:17, about 1:16, about 1:15, about 1:14, about 1:13, about 1:12, about 1:11, about 1:10, about 1:9, about 1:8, about 1:7, about 1:6, about 1:5, about 1:4.5, about 1:4, about 1:3.5, about 1:3, about 1:2.9, about 1:2.8, about 1:2.7, about 1:2.6, about 1:2.5, about 1:2.4, about 1:2.3, about 1:2.2, about 1:2.1, about 1:2, about 1:1.9, about 1:1.8, about 1:1.7, about 1:1.6, about 1:1.5, about 1:1.4, about 1:1.3, about 1:1.2, about 1:1.1, about 1:1, about 1.1:1, about 1.2:1, about 1.3:1, about 1.4:1, about 1.5:1, about 1.6:1, about 1.7:1, about 1.8:1, about 1.9:1, about 2:1, about 2.1:1, about 2.2:1, about 2.3:1, about 2.4:1, about 2.5:1, about 2.6:1, about 2.7:1, about 2.8:1, about 2.9:1, about 3:1, about 3.5:1, about 4:1, about 4.5:1, about 5:1, about 6:1, about 7:1, about 8:1, about 9:1, about 10:1, about 11:1, about 12:1, about 13:1, about 14:1, about 15:1, about 16:1, about 17:1, about 18:1, about 19:1, about 20:1, about 21:1, about 22:1, about 23:1, about 24:1, about 25:1, about 26:1, about 27:1, about 28:1, about 29:1, about 30:1, about 35:1, about 40:1, about 45:1, about 50:1, about 60:1, about 70:1, about 80:1, about 90:1, about 100:1, about 150:1, about 200:1, about 250:1, about 300:1, about 400:1, about 500:1, about 600:1, about 700:1, about 800:1, about 900:1, or about 1000:1.

[00125] In some embodiments, a vaporization substance may include products of cannabinoid metabolism, including 1 l-hydroxy-A9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC).

[00126] These particulars of cannabinoids are intended solely for illustrative purposes. Other embodiments are also contemplated.

[00127] As used herein, the term “terpene” (or “decarboxylated terpene”, which is known as a terpenoid) is generally understood to include any organic compound derived biosynthetically from units of isoprene. Terpenes can also or instead be derived through chemical synthesis. Terpenes may be classified in any of various ways, such as by their sizes. For example, suitable terpenes may include monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, or triterpenes. At least some terpenes are expected to interact with, and potentiate the activity of, cannabinoids. Examples of terpenes known to be extractable from cannabis include aromadendrene, bergamottin, bergamotol, bisabolene, borneol, 4-3-carene, caryophyllene, cineole/eucalyptol, p-cymene, dihydroj asmone, elemene, farnesene, fenchol, geranylacetate, guaiol, humulene, isopulegol, limonene, linalool, menthone, menthol, menthofuran, myrcene, nerylacetate, neomenthylacetate, ocimene, perillylalcohol, phellandrene, pinene, pulegone, sabinene, terpinene, terpineol, 4-terpineol, terpinolene, and derivatives thereof.

[00128] Additional examples of terpenes include nerolidol, phytol, geraniol, alpha-bisabolol, thymol, genipin, astragaloside, asiaticoside, camphene, beta-amyrin, thujone, citronellol, 1,8- cineole, cycloartenol, and derivatives thereof. Further examples of terpenes are discussed in US Patent Application Pub. No. US2016/0250270.

[00129] In general, a vaporization substance includes one or more target compounds or components. A target compound or component need not necessarily have a psychoactive effect. One or more flavorants, such as any one or more of: terpene(s), essential oil(s), and volatile plant extract(s), may also or instead be a target compound for vaporization in order to provide flavor to a vapor flow. A vaporization substance may also or instead include other compounds or components, such as one or more carriers. A carrier oil is one example of a carrier.

[00130] Turning now to vaporization devices in more detail, Fig. 1 is a plan view of an example vaporization device 100. In Fig. 1, the vaporization device 100 is viewed from the side. The vaporization device 100 could also be referred to as a vaporization device, a vaporization device pen, a vape pen or an electronic or “e-” cigarette, for example. The vaporization device 100 includes a cap 102, a chamber 104, a base 106 and a battery compartment 108.

[00131] The cap 102 is an example of a lid or cover, and includes a tip 112 and sidewalls 114 and 115, which are sides or parts of the same cylindrical sidewall in some embodiments. The cap 102, in addition to sealing an end of an interior space of the chamber 104, also provides a mouthpiece through which a user can draw vapor from the vaporization device 100 in some embodiments. The mouthpiece is tapered as shown in Fig. 1, and/or otherwise shaped for a user’s comfort. The present disclosure is not limited to any particular shape of the cap 102.

[00132] The cap 102 could be made from one or more materials including metals, plastics, elastomers and ceramics, for example. However, other materials may also or instead be used. [00133] In other embodiments, a mouthpiece is separate from the cap 102. For example, a cap may be connected to a mouthpiece by a hose or pipe that accommodates flow of vapor from the cap to the mouthpiece. The hose or pipe may be flexible or otherwise permit movement of the mouthpiece relative to the cap, allowing a user to orient the mouthpiece independently from the cap.

[00134] The chamber 104 is an example of a vessel to store a vaporization substance prior to vaporization. Although embodiments are described herein primarily in the context of vaporization liquids such as oil concentrates, in general a chamber may store other forms of vaporization substances, including waxes and gels for example. Vaporization substances with water-based carriers are also contemplated. A vaporization device may be capable of vaporizing water-based carriers with emulsified cannabinoids, for example. The chamber 104 may also be referred to as a container, a housing or a tank.

[00135] The chamber 104 includes outer walls 118 and 120. Although multiple outer walls are shown in Fig. 1 at 118 and 120, the chamber 104 is perhaps most often cylindrical, with a single outer wall. The outer walls 118 and 120 of the chamber 104 may be made from one or more transparent or translucent materials, such as tempered glass or plastics, in order to enable a user to visibly determine the quantity of vaporization substance in the chamber. The outer walls 118 and 120 of the chamber 104 may include markings to aid the user in determining the quantity of vaporization liquid in the chamber. The outer walls 118 and 120 are made from one or more opaque materials such as metal alloys, plastics or ceramics in some embodiments, to protect the vaporization substance from degradation by ultraviolet radiation, for example. The chamber 104 may have any of a number of different heights and/or other dimensions, to provide different interior volumes.

[00136] The chamber 104 engages the cap 102, and may be coupled to the cap, via an engagement or connection at 116. A gasket or other sealing member may be provided between the chamber 104 and the cap 102 to seal the vaporization substance in the chamber.

[00137] Some chambers are “non-recloseable” or “disposable” and cannot be opened after initial filling. Such chambers are permanently sealed once closed, and are not designed to be opened and re-sealed. Others are recloseable chambers in which the engagement at 116, between the cap 102 and the chamber 104, is releasable. For example, in some embodiments the cap 102 is a cover that releasably engages the chamber 104 and seals a vaporization substance in the chamber 104. One example of a releasable engagement disclosed elsewhere herein is a threaded engagement or other type of connection, with an abutment between the chamber 104 and the cap 102 but without necessarily an actual connection between the chamber and the cap. Such a releasable engagement permits the cap 102 to be disengaged or removed from the chamber 104 so that the chamber can be cleaned, emptied, and/or filled with a vaporization substance, for example. The cap 102 is then re-engaged with the chamber 104 to seal the vaporization substance inside the chamber.

[00138] Fig. 1 also illustrates a stem 110 inside the chamber 104. The stem 110 is a hollow tube or channel through which vapor can be drawn into and through cap 102. The stem 110 may also be referred to as an air channel, a central column, a central post, a chimney, a hose or a pipe. The stem 110 includes outer walls 122 and 124, although in many embodiments the stem is cylindrical, with a single outer wall. Materials such as stainless steel, other metal alloys, plastics and ceramics may be used for stems such as the stem 110. The stem 110 couples the cap 102 via an engagement or connection 126. Similar to the engagement or connection 116, the engagement or connection 126 is a releasable engagement or connection in some embodiments, and includes a releasable engagement between the stem 110 and the cap 102. In some embodiments, the engagement 126 is in the form of, or includes, a releasable connection.

[00139] Although labeled separately in Fig. 1, the engagements at 116 and 126 are operationally related in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments screwing the cap 102 onto the stem 110 also engages the cap with the chamber 104. This is one example of a threaded connection that also releasably maintains an abutment between the chamber 104 and the cap 102 but without an actual connection between the chamber and the cap. Similarly, screwing the cap 102 onto the chamber 104 may also engage the cap with the stem 110.

[00140] An atomizer 130 is provided at the base of the stem 110, inside the chamber 104. The atomizer 130 may also be referred to as a heating element, a core, or a ceramic core. The atomizer 130 includes sidewalls 131 and 133, which actually form a single cylindrical or frustoconical wall in some embodiments, and one or more wicking holes or intake holes, one of which is shown at 134. The sidewalls of the atomizer 130 may be made from a metal alloy such as stainless steel, for example. The sidewalls 131 and 133 of the atomizer 130 are made from the same material as the stem 110 in some embodiments, or from different materials in other embodiments.

[00141] The atomizer 130 engages, and may couple with, the stem 110 via an engagement 132, and with the base 106 via an engagement 136. Although the engagements 132 and 136 may be releasable, the stem 110, the atomizer 130, and the base 106 are permanently attached together in some embodiments. The atomizer sidewalls 131 and 133 may even be formed with the stem 110 as an integrated single physical component.

[00142] In general, the atomizer 130 converts the vaporization substance in the chamber 104 into a vapor, which a user draws from the vaporization device 100 through the stem 110 and the cap 102. A vaporization substance, which could include a vaporization liquid, is drawn into the atomizer 130 through the wicking hole 134 and a wick in some embodiments. The atomizer 130 may include a heating element, such as a resistance coil around a ceramic wick, to perform the conversion of the vaporization substance into vapor. A ceramic atomizer may have an integrated heating element such as a coiled wire inside the ceramic, similar to rebar in concrete, in addition to or instead of being wrapped in a coiled wire. A quartz heater is another type of heater that may be used in an atomizer.

[00143] In some embodiments, the combination of the atomizer 130 and the chamber 104 is referred to as a cartomizer.

[00144] The base 106 supplies power to the atomizer 130, and may also be referred to as an atomizer base. The base 106 includes sidewalls 138 and 139, which form a single sidewall such as a cylindrical sidewall in some embodiments. The base 106 engages, and may also be coupled to, the chamber 104 via an engagement 128. The engagement 128 is a fixed connection in some embodiments. In other embodiments the engagement 128 is a releasable engagement, and the base 106 can be considered a form of a cover that releasably engages the chamber 104 and seals a vaporization substance in the chamber 104. In such embodiments, the engagement 128 may include a threaded engagement or connection or an abutment between the chamber 104 and the base 106, for example. A gasket or other sealing member may be provided between the chamber 104 and the base 106 to seal the vaporization substance in the chamber. Such a releasable engagement enables removal or disengagement of the base 106 from the chamber 104 to permit access to the interior of the chamber, so that the chamber can be emptied, cleaned, and/or filled with a vaporization substance, for example. The base 106 is then re-engaged with the chamber 104 to seal the vaporization substance inside the chamber.

[00145] The base 106 generally includes circuitry to supply power to the atomizer 130. For example, the base 106 may include electrical contacts that connect to corresponding electrical contacts in the battery compartment 108. The base 106 may further include electrical contacts that connect to corresponding electrical contacts in the atomizer 130. The base 106 may reduce, regulate or otherwise control the power/voltage/current output from the battery compartment 108. However, this functionality may also or instead be provided by the battery compartment 108 itself. The base 106 may be made from one or more materials including metals, plastics, elastomers and ceramics, for example, to carry or otherwise support other base components such as contacts and/or circuitry. However, other materials may also or instead be used.

[00146] The combination of a cap 102, a chamber 104, a stem 110, an atomizer 130, and a base 106 is often referred to as a cartridge or “cart”.

[00147] The battery compartment 108 could also be referred to as a battery housing. The battery compartment 108 includes sidewalls 140 and 141, a bottom 142 and a button 144. The sidewalls 140 and 141, as noted above for other sidewalls, form a single wall such as a cylindrical sidewall in some embodiments. The battery compartment 108 engages, and may also couple to, the base 106 via an engagement 146. The engagement 146 is a releasable engagement in some embodiments, such as a threaded connection or a magnetic connection, to provide access to the inside of the battery compartment 108. The battery compartment 108 may include single use batteries or rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. A releasable engagement 146 enables replacement of single-use batteries and/or removal of rechargeable batteries for charging, for example. In some embodiments, rechargeable batteries are recharged by an internal battery charger in the battery compartment 108 without removing them from the vaporization device 100. A charging port (not shown) may be provided in the bottom 142 or a sidewall 140, 141, for example. The battery compartment 108 may be made from the same material(s) as the base 106 or from one or more different materials.

[00148] The button 144 is one example of a user input device, which may be implemented in any of various ways. Examples include a physical or mechanical button or switch such as a push button. A touch sensitive element such as a capacitive touch sensor may also or instead be used. A user input device need not necessarily require movement of a physical or mechanical element.

[00149] Although shown in Fig. 1 as a closed or flush engagement, the engagement 146 between the base 106 and the battery compartment 108 need not necessarily be entirely closed.

A gap between the sidewalls 138, 139 of the base 106 and the battery compartment 108 at the engagement 146, for example, may provide an air intake path to one or more air holes or apertures in the base that are in fluid communication with the interior of the stem 110. An air intake path may also or instead be provided in other ways, such as through one or more apertures in a sidewall 138, 139, elsewhere in the base 106, and/or in the battery compartment 108. When a user draws on a mouthpiece, air is pulled into the air intake path and through a channel. In Fig. 1, the channel runs through the atomizer 130, where air mixes with vapor formed by the atomizer, and the stem 110. The channel also runs through the cap 102 in some embodiments.

[00150] The battery compartment 108 powers the vaporization device 100 and allows powered components of the vaporization device, including at least the atomizer 130, to operate. Other powered components could include, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), speakers or other elements to provide indicators of, for example, device power status (on / off), device usage status (on when a user is drawing vapor), etc. In some embodiments, speakers and/or other elements generate audible indicators such as long, short or intermittent “beep” sounds as a form of indicator of different conditions. Haptic feedback could also or instead be used to provide status or condition indicators. Varying vibrations and/or pulses, for example, may indicate different statuses or actions in a vaporization device, such as on/off, currently vaporizing, power source connected, etc. Haptic feedback may be provided using small electric motors as in devices such as mobile phones, other electrical and/or mechanical means, or even magnetic means such as one or more controlled electronic magnets. [00151] As noted above, in some embodiments, the cap 102, the chamber 104, the stem 110, the atomizer 130, the base 106 and/or the battery compartment 108 are cylindrical in shape or otherwise shaped in a way such that sidewalls that are separately labeled in Fig. 1 are formed by a single sidewall. In these embodiments, the sidewalls 114 and 115 represent sides of the same sidewall. Similar comments apply to outer walls 118 and 120, sidewalls 131 and 133, outer walls 122 and 124, sidewalls 138 and 139, sidewalls 140 and 141, and other walls that are shown in other drawings and/or described herein. However, in general, caps, chambers, stems, atomizers, bases and/or battery compartments that are not cylindrical in shape are also contemplated. For example, these components may be rectangular, triangular, or otherwise shaped.

[00152] Fig. 2 is an isometric view of the vaporization device 100. In Fig. 2, the cap 102, the chamber 104, the stem 110, the atomizer 130, the base 106 and the battery compartment 108 are illustrated as being cylindrical in shape. As noted above, this is not necessarily the case in other vaporization devices. Fig. 2 also illustrates a hole 150 through the tip 112 in the cap 102. The hole 150 is coupled to the stem 110 through a channel in the cap 102. The hole 150 allows a user to draw vapor through the cap 102. In some embodiments, a user operates the button 144 to vaporize a vaporization substance for inhalation through the cap 102. Other vaporization devices are automatically activated, to supply power to powered components of the vaporization device when a user inhales through the hole 150. In such embodiments, a button 144 need not be operated to use a vaporization device, and need not necessarily even be provided at all.

[00153] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of another example vaporization device 300. Reference number 301 in Fig. 3 generally designates a vaporization device tank, with a ceramic core 302 coupled to a chamber 303 that stores a vaporization substance. The vaporization device tank 301 is powered by a power source such as a battery, inside a compartment 305, that physically and electrically connects to the vaporization device tank. In some implementations, the vaporization device 300 has a control system (not shown) to control the supply of power from the power source to the vaporization device tank 301.

[00154] During use, the vaporization substance from the chamber 303 flows or seeps into the ceramic core 302, which heats the vaporization substance using a heating element (not shown) enough to atomize or vaporize the vaporization substance, thereby producing vapor. The vapor can be drawn out of and away from the ceramic core 302 through a stem 304 and out of the vaporization device 300 through a mouthpiece 306. The structure and operation of the vaporization device 300 are consistent with those of the example vaporization device 100 in Figs. 1 and 2, and is presented as a further example to illustrate another shape and form factor of a vaporization device. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in conjunction with these and/or other types of vaporization devices.

[00155] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of an example vaporization device tank 400 including a ceramic core 402. The vaporization device tank 400 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the vaporization device tank can be seen. In the illustrated example, the vaporization device tank 400 and the ceramic core 402 are cylindrical in shape. The vaporization device tank 400 can be implemented in a vaporization device, non-limiting examples of which are shown in Figs. 1-3. It is to be understood that the vaporization device tank 400 is a very specific example and is provided for illustrative purposes only.

[00156] In some implementations, as shown in the illustrated example, the vaporization device tank 400 has a chamber 407 for storing a vaporization substance. The chamber 407 is cylindrical in shape and at least partially surrounds the ceramic core 402, and is in fluid communication with the ceramic core via an inlet 401. During use of the vaporization device tank 400, the ceramic core 402 receives the vaporization substance from the chamber 407 through the inlet 401. In other implementations, there is no such inlet 401 or chamber 407, and the vaporization substance is supplied to the ceramic core 402 by other means such as manual application by a user, for example.

[00157] The ceramic core 402 has a heating element 404 at least partially embedded therein. The heating element 404 heats the ceramic core and produces a vapor from the vaporization substance. More generally, a heating element could be coupled to a ceramic core in other ways, such as being coupled to a surface of the ceramic core. A physical characteristic of the ceramic core 402, such as density or porosity, enables the vaporization substance to flow through the ceramic core, particularly when the vaporization substance has been heated by the heating element 404 to reduce its viscosity. [00158] Many ceramics include or are formed from a combination of ingredients, for example water, resin and other binders. Many ceramics also include a combination of oxides and/or nitrides such as those formed by compounds of aluminum, lead, silicon, boron, magnesium, and titanium for example. Some notable examples include aluminium oxide, silicon nitride, beryllium oxide, and aluminum nitride. In some applications, these compounds may be combined with oxides of nickel manganese, cobalt, and/or iron. Silica may also be used in microporous ceramics. In some embodiments, a ceramic core may be made from 99Ak0₃, 97Ah0₃, sapphire and/or ZrCk. The ceramic core 402, as well as the other ceramic cores disclosed herein, could be formed of different combinations of ingredients to achieve different physical characteristics such as porosity or density.

[00159] In some implementations, the vaporization device tank 400 has an element or component to feed the vaporization substance to the ceramic core 402. An example of such an element or component is a wick as shown at 403, disposed between the ceramic core 402 and the chamber 407. In some implementations, the wick 403 is made from cotton or any other suitable material that has a lower porosity than the ceramic core 402. In some implementations, the porosity of the wick 403 is high enough so that the vaporization substance can easily flow through the wick and make contact with the ceramic core 402 even without any heating from the heating element 404 embedded in the ceramic core. The wick 403 may help provide more even contact between the vaporization substance and the ceramic core 402. In other implementations, a vaporization device tank has no such wick 403.

[00160] In some implementations, the heating element 404 is a coil heater with a number of coil turns or loops embedded in the ceramic core 402. Three of these coil turns or loops are identified by an oval in the illustrated example, but more coil turns or loops are visible in Fig. 4. The number of coil turns or loops is implementation specific. Other examples of heaters or heating elements are also provided herein.

[00161] The heating element 404 is embedded into the ceramic core 402 during manufacture of the ceramic core in some embodiments. The ceramic core 402 has a heat capacity, and thus embedding the coil turns or loops in the ceramic core can help to avoid a situation in which the coil turns or loops directly contact the vaporization substance and become too hot, burning rather than vaporizing the vaporization substance or at least certain components of the vaporization substance.

[00162] A channel generally indicated at 405 is in fluid communication with the ceramic core 402 to receive vapor from the ceramic core. The ceramic core 402 at least partially surrounds the channel 405. In some implementations, the heating element 404 is positioned closer to an inside or interior portion of the ceramic core 402 and closer to the channel 405 as shown, such that the vaporization substance may reach progressively higher temperatures as it flows through the ceramic core towards the channel 405. When the vaporization substance flowing through the ceramic core 402 is sufficiently heated, it is atomized or vaporized to produce a vapor, which can be drawn into the channel 405 and out of vaporization device tank 400, as shown at 408. In other implementations, the heating element 404 is positioned in a middle portion of the ceramic core 402. In other implementations, the heating element 404 is positioned outside of the ceramic core 402 and around or in the channel 405.

[00163] The temperature at which the vaporization substance is vaporized to produce the vapor may depend on any one or more of a number of factors such as the vaporization substance being used, thermal conductivity of the ceramic core 402, and/or thermal conductivity of the vaporization substance itself. In a specific example, the temperature at which the vaporization substance is vaporized may be around 300°F or higher. In another specific example, the temperature of the vaporization substance should not exceed 600°F or else it may bum.

[00164] During use, the heating element 404 heats up the ceramic core 402 and generates vapor from the vaporization substance by vaporizing the vaporization substance that flows through the ceramic core. The vapor can be drawn through the channel 405, and an air inlet 406 is disposed beneath the ceramic core 402 to facilitate airflow 408 for the channel 405 through the ceramic core. In some implementations, the heating element 404 is powered by a power source (not shown) and controlled by a control system (not shown). In some implementations, the power source and the control system are disposed in a compartment that physically and electrically connects to the vaporization device tank 400. Such connections include electrical connections (not shown) between the heating element 404 and the power source and/or the control system. [00165] Although the channel 405 is labelled at the top of the view shown in Fig. 4, it should be appreciated that embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented in any of various sections or parts of a channel 405, including any one or more of: downstream from the ceramic core 402 in a direction of air flow during use of a vaporization device, which is above the ceramic core 402 in the view shown in Fig. 4, such as in the stem or chimney of a vaporization device; within a section or part of the channel that passes through or along the ceramic core 402; and upstream from the ceramic core 402 in a direction of air flow during use of a vaporization device, which is below the ceramic core 402 in the view shown in Fig. 4, such as in an intake section toward the air inlet 406.

[00166] Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to atomizers, ceramic cores, heating elements and other components of a vaporization device that include a surface area increasing structure to increase a surface area for heat transfer to a vaporization substance.

[00167] Heat that is produced by a heating element in a ceramic core could be transferred to a vaporization substance at least in part through conductive heat transfer. For example, heat from the heating element could be conducted through the ceramic core and transferred to the vaporization substance. The rate of conductive heat transfer is typically proportional to surface area. By way of example, a formula for the rate of conductive heat transfer (q conduction ) between two materials that are in contact is provided below: (Equation 1)

[00168] In equation 1, T_a and T_b are respective temperatures of the two materials, k_a and k_b are respective thermal conductivities of the two materials, Ax_a and Ax_b are respective lengths of the two materials, r is the thermal contact resistance between the two materials, and A is the contact surface area between the two materials. According to equation 1, q_COnduction is proportional to A , and therefore increasing the contact surface area between two materials can increase the rate of conductive heat transfer from one material to the other. As such, increasing the contact surface area between a ceramic core and a heating element and/or between a ceramic core and a vaporization substance, for example, could increase the rate of conductive heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance. [00169] Heating elements could also transfer heat to a vaporization substance in part through convective heat transfer. A formula for the rate convective heat transfer ( ({convection ) between an object and a fluid is shown below:

(Equation 2)

[00170] In equation 2, T₀ is temperature of the object, Tf is temperature of the fluid, h is a heat transfer coefficient, and A is surface area between the object and the fluid. Equation 2 illustrates that the rate of convective heat transfer is also proportional to surface area, and therefore increasing the contact surface area between a ceramic core and a fluidic vaporization substance could increase the rate of convective heat transfer to the vaporization substance.

[00171] Radiative heat transfer is another possible mechanism for transferring heat to a vaporization substance, and is proportional to the surface area of the vaporization substance that is exposed to the radiation. A radiator could be implemented in a ceramic core and/or elsewhere in a vaporization device to produce radiation for radiative heat transfer to a vaporization substance. Radiation could also or instead be emitted from a ceramic core and/or a heating element when these components are heated to a sufficient temperature to produce blackbody radiation, for example.

[00172] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide surface area increasing structures to increase surface area for conductive, convective and/or radiative heat transfer from a heating element and ceramic core to a vaporization substance. A surface area increasing structure could be a part, feature or element of a ceramic core and/or of a heating element. A surface area increasing structure could also or instead be part of a channel, a chamber, a mouthpiece or any other component of a vaporization device, or be provided as a separate component.

[00173] In some embodiments, a surface area increasing structure increases a surface area by a certain amount or by a certain percentage. For example, if the surface area for conductive, convective and/or radiative heat transfer from a ceramic core is X, then implementing a surface area increasing structure in that ceramic core could increase the surface area by 0.05X, 0.1X, 0.2X, 0 5 X, X, 2X or 5X. An actual increase in surface area relative to a smooth surface or a surface that otherwise does not include a surface area increasing structure as disclosed herein may be calculated based on surface profile or shape of a particular surface area increasing structure that is used. Similar comments apply to the surface area for conductive, convective and/or radiative heat transfer from a heating element.

[00174] In some embodiments, a surface area increasing structure includes a surface of a ceramic core and/or a heating element that is configured to increase the total or effective surface area of that surface. The effective surface area is the surface area that is in contact with, or otherwise contributes to heat transfer to, a vaporization substance. Configuring a surface to increase surface area could include defining a path length between two points on the surface that is longer than a straight line distance or displacement between the two points. In other words, the path length on or along the surface could be greater than a physical extent (for example, height or width) of that surface. In some embodiments, a surface area increasing structure creates or defines additional surfaces of a ceramic core and/or a heating element that contribute to heat transfer to a vaporization substance.

[00175] In some embodiments, a surface area increasing structure increases an outer surface area of a ceramic core and/or a heating element. A surface area increasing structure could also or instead increase an unsealed internal surface area of a ceramic core or heating element. For example, a surface area increasing structure could create or modify a porosity in a ceramic core to increase surface area within the ceramic core.

[00176] Various examples of surface area increasing structures are illustrated in Figs. 5 to 11.

[00177] Fig. 5 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 500 including a rough surface

502. The ceramic core 500 further includes a heating element 504 embedded therein, and an inner surface 506. The ceramic core 500 is cylindrical in shape, with a hollow center providing the inner surface 506. The ceramic core 500 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen.

[00178] The heating element 504 could be similar to the heating element 404 of Fig. 4, for example. [00179] The rough surface 502 is provided on an outer surface of the ceramic core 500. In some implementations, the rough surface 502 is or includes such an upstream surface of the ceramic core 500 in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core. For example, the rough surface 502 could be adjacent to a wick or a chamber that is a source of a vaporization substance for the ceramic core 500. The vaporization substance could flow into the ceramic core 500 through the rough surface 502, and towards the inner surface 506.

[00180] Other implementations of a rough surface on a ceramic core are also contemplated. For example, a rough surface could also or instead be implemented on the inner surface 506 of the ceramic core 500. The inner surface 506 could be or include a downstream surface of the ceramic core 500 in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

[00181] The rough surface 502 is an example of a surface area increasing structure, and is intended to be illustrative of a non-uniform, uneven and/or irregular surface. The term “rough” is intended to encompass all of these types of surface profile descriptors, or generally a surface that is not simply flat and uniform along its entire extent. The description of surface area increasing structures provided herein may apply, at least in part, to rough surfaces. A rough surface could be implemented in a vaporization device or apparatus to increase surface area for heat transfer from a heating element to a vaporization substance.

[00182] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the rough surface 502 includes multiple ridges and grooves that extend along the circumference of the ceramic core 500. The rough surface 502 increases the path length along the outer surface of the ceramic core 500 in the axial direction, and therefore increases the surface area of the ceramic core. Ridges could also or instead be implemented in other orientations. For example, ridges could extend along the length (in the axial direction) of a cylindrical ceramic core to increase a path length in the azimuthal (also referred to as the tangential) direction. In some embodiments, ridges could be spiraled along a length of a ceramic core.

[00183] In addition to ridges and grooves, other structures could also or instead be implemented to increase surface area and provide a rough surface. Non-limiting examples of these structures include one or more protrusions, holes, bumps, flanges, grooves and/or edges. Any or all structures on a rough surface of a ceramic core could be formed during fabrication of the ceramic core, or they could be formed by roughening a substantially smooth surface of a ceramic core through machining or etching, for example. Alternatively, a jacket or sleeve that includes a rough surface could be coupled to a ceramic core.

[00184] In some embodiments, a rough surface of a ceramic core covers only a portion of the outer surface of the ceramic core. This could provide a smooth or flat portion of the outer surface that can be used for sealing the perimeter of the ceramic core to prevent leakage in a vaporization device, for example. A ceramic core could also or instead be sealed along a rough surface using an elastomeric material that can conform to the shape of the rough surface. To the extent that rough surfaces and/or other features disclosed herein might increase flow of vaporization substance into a vaporization device channel to such a degree that the vaporization substance collects in the channel instead of being vaporized, features such as those disclosed in United States Provisional Application No. 62/896,225, filed on September 5, 2019, incorporated in its entirety herein by reference, may be implemented to manage liquid in the channel.

[00185] During use of the ceramic core 500 in a vaporization device, for example, the rough surface 502 could increase the rate of heat transfer to a vaporization substance. Heat could be transferred via conduction from the heating element 504, through the ceramic core 500, to the rough surface 502. In some implementations, the rough surface 502 could be in contact with a vaporization substance stored in a chamber of a vaporization device. In further implementations, the rough surface 502 could be in contact with a wick disposed between the rough surface and the chamber. In either case, the increased surface area provided by the rough surface 502 could increase the rate of thermal conduction to the vaporization substance that is proximate the rough surface, which could heat the vaporization substance more rapidly. A possible benefit of heating the vaporization substance more rapidly includes more rapidly reducing the viscosity of the vaporization substance to promote flow through the ceramic core 500. This could increase the rate at which the vaporization substance enters and flows through the ceramic core 500, and therefore increases the rate at which the vaporization substance can be vaporized for inhalation.

[00186] Fig. 6 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 600 including a rough surface 606. The ceramic core 600 is cylindrical in shape with a hollow center, and the rough surface 606 is provided on an inner surface of the ceramic core that is defined by the hollow center. The ceramic core 600 further includes a heating element 604 embedded therein, and an outer surface 602. The heating element 604 could be similar to the heating element 404 of Fig. 4, for example. The ceramic core 600 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen.

[00187] In some implementations, the rough surface 606 is or includes a downstream surface of the ceramic core 600 in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core. The rough surface 606 could be adjacent to a channel, formed by the hollow center of the ceramic core 600, which receives a flow of vapor from the ceramic core 600.

[00188] The rough surface 606 includes multiple ridges and grooves that extend into the channel and along the circumference of the inner surface of the ceramic core 600. The ridges are not perpendicular to the inner surface of the ceramic core 600, but are instead inclined, tilted, sloped, slanted or angled relative to the inner surface. The slope of each ridge forms an acute angle between a surface of the ridge, illustratively the top surface of the ridge, and the inner surface of the ceramic core 600. An obtuse angle is also formed between another surface of each ridge, illustratively the bottom surface of the ridge, and the inner surface of the ceramic core 600.

[00189] The ridges of the rough surface 606 have a cross-section that is generally similar to that of a parallelogram. However, this is only an example, and other shapes and sizes of ridges are also contemplated.

[00190] The rough surface 606 is an example of a surface area increasing structure that increases the path length along the inner surface of the ceramic core 600 in the axial direction, and therefore increases the surface area of the ceramic core. The angle of the ridges of the rough surface 606 could also or instead have other benefits.

[00191] During use of the ceramic core 600 in a vaporization device, for example, the rough surface 606 could be adjacent to, or form part of, a channel for receiving vapor and possibly air. In the illustrated example, the vapor could flow in an upwards direction through the hollow center of the ceramic core 600. The ridges of the rough surface 606 are tilted or angled in the direction of the flow of the vapor. Heat from the heating element 604 could vaporize a vaporization substance to produce the vapor, which flows through the rough surface 606 and into the channel. The angle of the ridges could help to direct this vapor upwards as it enters the channel.

[00192] The angle of the ridges of the rough surface 606 could also or instead help mitigate leakage from the ceramic core 600. For example, any liquid vaporization substance that reaches and/or forms in the channel could be directed towards the inner surface of the ceramic core 600 by the angle of the ridges. This liquid vaporization substance could include condensation of vapor in the channel and/or vaporization substance that flows through the rough surface 606 without being vaporized, for example. The liquid vaporization substance could collect on the top surface of the ridges. Therefore, the angled ridges could inhibit the flow of liquid vaporization substance out of the ceramic core 600, thereby reducing leakage. The vaporization substance that collects on the ridges could then be vaporized by heat from the heating element 604. The collection of vaporization substance on the ridges could be encouraged by gravity, for example when the ceramic core 600 is operated or stored in the orientation illustrated in Fig. 6.

[00193] Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 700 including a heating element 702 with a rough surface 704. The ceramic core 700 is a hollow cylinder having an outer surface 706 and an inner surface 708. The ceramic core 700 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen.

[00194] The heating element 702 is a wire that is embedded in the ceramic core 700 in some implementations. The wire could be coiled and/or could include discrete rings. The rough surface 704 is an outer surface of the heating element 702 in the example shown, and includes multiple ridges and grooves that extend along the length of the heating element. The rough surface 704 increases the path length along the circumference of the heating element 702.

Ridges could also or instead be implemented in other orientations on a heating element. For example, ridges could extend along the circumference of a wire to increase the path length along its length. In some implementations, the ridges are spiraled along a length of the heating element 702.

[00195] The rough surface 704 is an example of a surface area increasing structure, and is intended to be illustrative of a non-uniform, uneven and/or irregular surface. The ridges and grooves of the rough surface 704 increase the surface area of the surface, and therefore increase the contact area between the ceramic core 700 and the heating element 702. Other structures, such as one or more protrusions, holes, bumps, flanges, grooves and/or edges, for example, could also or instead be implemented to increase the surface area of the rough surface 704. In some embodiments, a rough surface of a heating element includes relatively thin fins that protrude radially from an axis of the heating element. These fins could extend along a length of the heating element. For example, the ridges of the rough surface 704 could be narrowed to create such fins. This could be considered a “hub and spoke” heating element design.

[00196] Surface area increasing structures could be formed in a heating element during fabrication of the heating element, or they could be formed by roughening a substantially smooth surface of a heating element through machining or etching, for example. Alternatively, a jacket or sleeve including the rough surface 704 could be coupled to the heating element 702. For example, in an implementation the heating element 702 is a wire that has a smooth outer surface, and the rough surface 704 is provided by a thermally conductive jacket that is formed or otherwise installed around the wire.

[00197] During use of the ceramic core 700 in a vaporization device, for example, heat is transferred via conduction from the heating element 702, through the rough surface 704, to the ceramic core. The increased surface area of the rough surface 704 could increase the rate of heat transfer to the ceramic core 700, and cause the ceramic core to heat up more rapidly. A possible benefit of heating the ceramic core 700 more rapidly is that a vaporization substance flowing through the ceramic core, from the outer surface 706 to the inner surface 708, could be vaporized more rapidly. Another possible benefit of heating the ceramic core 700 more rapidly is reducing the viscosity of the vaporization substance to promote its flow through the ceramic core. As such, a user could experience reduced delay between when the heating element 702 is turned on (for example, when the user activates a vaporization device and power is delivered to the heating element) and when a vapor is generated.

[00198] Fig. 8 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 800 including a heating element 802 with multiple heating structures 804, 806, 808. The heating element 802 further includes multiple connections 814, 816 between the heating structures 804, 806, 808. In the illustrated example, the ceramic core 800 is a hollow cylinder having an outer surface 810 and an inner surface 812. The ceramic core 800 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen.

[00199] The heating element 802 includes discrete rings of the heating structures 804, 806,

808 that extend along the azimuthal direction of the ceramic core 800. The rings are aligned along the axial direction of the ceramic core 800, and are separated from each other such that one ring of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 is not coupled to another ring of the heating structures. Other examples of heating elements include a wire coil having multiple heating structures disposed along the length of the coil.

[00200] In each of the rings, the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are aligned along the radial direction of the ceramic core 800. The heating structure 804 is embedded within the ceramic core 800 at a position that is approximately equidistant from the outer surface 810 and the inner surface 812. The heating structure 806 is embedded within the ceramic core 800 at a location that is proximate the outer surface 810, and the heating structure 808 is proximate the inner surface 812. The heating structure 808 is at least partially coupled to the inner surface 812, and extends into the space defined by the inner surface in the example shown. In some implementations, this space forms part of a channel for a vaporization device.

[00201] The heating structures 804, 806, 808 could be made from electrically conductive materials and/or thermally conductive materials. In some implementations, the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are made from the same material(s), and in other implementations the heating structures are made from two or more different materials. Examples of electrically conductive materials include metals, graphite, semiconductors, various electrically-conducting nanomaterials (e.g. carbon nanotubes), conductive polymers and various combinations thereof.

At least some of these materials are also thermally conductive. Examples of thermally conductive materials that are not electrically conductive include aluminum nitride.

[00202] In each of the rings, the heating structure 804 is coupled to the heating structure 806 via the connection 814, and to the heating structure 808 via the connection 816. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of each of the connections 814, 816 is relatively thin in the axial direction compared to the cross-sections of the heating structures 804, 806, 808, and the connections are continuous along the circumference of the ceramic core 800. Either or both of the connections 814, 816 could be made from or include one or more electrically and/or thermally conductive materials. Any or all of these materials could be the same materials that the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are made from, or different materials.

[00203] During use of the ceramic core 800 in a vaporization device, for example, the outer surface 810 could be adjacent to a wick or a chamber that is a source of vaporization substance for the ceramic core, and the vaporization substance could flow through the ceramic core in the radial direction towards the inner surface 812. In these implementations, the outer surface 810 is an upstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance, and the inner surface 812 is a downstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. The heating structures 804, 806, 808 are distributed along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core 800. The heating structure 806 is proximate to the upstream surface of the ceramic core 800, and the heating structure 808 is proximate to the downstream surface of the ceramic core. In other words, the vaporization substance generally flows through the ceramic core 800 in a direction that is parallel to the alignment of the heating structures 804, 806, 808. The heating structures 804, 806, 808 are also coupled to each other along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance by the connections 814, 816. In other implementations, heating structures are distributed and possibly coupled to each other in a direction that is perpendicular to the flow of a vaporization substance through a ceramic core, or in a direction that is at some other angle to the flow of a vaporization substance.

[00204] The heating structures 804, 806, 808 conduct and distribute heat within the ceramic core 800. For example, the heating structure 806 could distribute heat in an area that is proximate to the outer surface 810, the heating structure 808 could distribute heat in an area that is proximate to the inner surface 812, and the heating structure 804 could distribute heat within the ceramic core 800. As the heating structure 808 extends into the hollow center of the ceramic core 800 that could form at least part of a channel, the heating structure could also distribute heat to air inside of the ceramic core. Heating the air in the channel could prevent or inhibit the condensation of vapor in the channel, for example. [00205] The connections 814, 816 have a higher thermal conductivity than the ceramic core 800 in some implementations, and therefore the connections could conduct heat between the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and/or distribute heat to the ceramic core in the areas between the heating structures.

[00206] The electrical conductivities of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and the connections 814, 816 are implementation specific. In some implementations, all of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and the connections 814, 816 are electrically conductive. As such, heat could be generated by all of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and connections 814, 816.

[00207] In some implementations, the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are electrically conductive while the connections 814, 816 are electrically insulating. Each of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 could be electrically coupled to one or more sources of power to generate heat. Alternatively, at least one of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 could be electrically insulated from a power source. The heating structure(s) that are insulated from a power source could conduct and distribute heat that is received from one or more further heating structures of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 via one or more of the connections 814, 816. In one example, the heating structure 804 is electrically insulated from a power source, and the heating structures 806, 808 generate heat that could be transferred to the heating structure 804 by the connections 814, 816. In another example, the heating structures 806, 808 are electrically insulated from a power source, and the heating structure 804 generates heat that could be transferred to the heating structures 806, 808 by the connections 814, 816.

[00208] In some implementations, any or all heating structures that are insulated from a power source are inductively heated by one or more further heating structures of the heating structures 804, 806, 808. For example, the heating structure 806 could be coupled to a source of alternating current (A/C) power that generates heat in the heating structure 806, and also induces a current in the other heating structures 804, 808. The induced current could then generate heat in the heating structures 804, 808.

[00209] In some implementations, one or more of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are electrically insulating but are still thermally conductive. [00210] These implementations of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and the connections 814, 816 are provided by way of example. Other variations of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 and the connections 814, 816 are also contemplated.

[00211] The multiple heating structures 804, 806, 808 of the heating element 802 are an example of a surface area increasing structure. The description of surface area increasing structures provided herein may apply, at least in part, to multiple heating structures of a heating element. Compared to the heating element 404 of Fig. 4, for example, the multiple heating structures 804, 806, 808 provide additional surfaces and surface area that can contribute to heat transfer to a vaporization substance. The multiple heating structures 804, 806, 808 may therefore increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element 802 to a vaporization substance. In some implementations, the increased or additional surface area might provide a more uniform temperature throughout the ceramic core 800, and/or provide more prolonged heating of a vaporization substance. For example, a vaporization substance that flows through a core with heating structures such as the heating structures 804, 806, 808 in the ceramic core 800 could receive a more consistent supply heat than a vaporization substance that flows through a ceramic core with a single heating structure or heating structures that do not extend radially or generally in a direction of mass flow of the vaporization substance through a core. For example, a ceramic core with a single heating structure might only heat the ceramic core and a vaporization substance proximate to the location of that heating structure, whereas a ceramic core with multiple heating structures could heat the vaporization substance proximate to each of the locations of these heating structures. The connections 814, 816 are also an example of a surface area increasing structure, and could similarly provide more consistent and prolonged heating of a vaporization substance.

[00212] In some implementations, the heating structures 804, 806, 808 provide a non-uniform or graduated temperature profile in the ceramic core 800. For example, in the case that the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are electrically insulated from one another, the power delivered to the heating structure 804 could be larger than the power delivered to the heating structure 806, and the power delivered to the heating structure 808 could be larger than the power delivered to the heating structure 804. This could create a non-uniform temperature profile in the ceramic core 800, where the temperature increases in the radial direction towards the central axis of the ceramic core. Lower temperatures may be produced proximate the outer surface 810, and higher temperatures may be produced proximate the inner surface 812. In use, vaporization substance could flow through the ceramic 800 in the radial direction and be gradually heated until reaching its vaporization temperature. The lower temperatures proximate the outer surface 810 could reduce the viscosity of the vaporization substance to encourage flow through the ceramic core 800, and the higher temperatures proximate the inner surface 812 could encourage vaporization of the vaporization substance.

[00213] The number and arrangement of heating structures in a heating element is not limited in the embodiments provided herein. In general, heating structures could include any combination of: at least one heating structure proximate and possibly coupled to an outer surface of a ceramic core, which may be an upstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of a vaporization substance; at least one heating structure located at any radial or otherwise intermediate position within the ceramic core; and at least one heating structure proximate and possibly coupled to an inner surface of the ceramic core, which may be an downstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. Although the cross-sections of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 are illustrated as being rectangular, other cross-sections, such as circular and triangular cross-sections, are also contemplated.

[00214] The number and arrangement of connections provided between different heating elements is also not limited in the embodiments provided herein. In general, the cross-section of the connections could be any size and shape. Furthermore, the connections might not always be continuous along the circumference of a cylindrical ceramic core, and could be broken or discrete in some embodiments. In the ceramic core 800, all of the heating structures 804, 806, 808 in the heating element 802 are coupled together by the connections 814, 816. However, this is not the case in some embodiments. More generally, a heating element could have multiple heating structures that include at least some heating structures that are coupled to together along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. The multiple heating structures could also or instead include at least one heating structure is that not coupled to the other heating structures along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. An example of a ceramic core with multiple heating structures that are not coupled to each other is illustrated in Fig. 9. [00215] Fig. 9 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 900 including a heating element 902 with multiple heating structures 904, 906, 908. The ceramic core 900 is a hollow cylinder having an outer surface 910 and an inner surface 912. The ceramic core 900 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen.

[00216] The heating structures 904, 906, 908 are generally similar to the heating structures 804, 806, 808 of Fig. 8, with the exception that there are no connections between the heating structures 904, 906, 908. As such, the heating structures 904, 906, 908 are not coupled to each other by any electrically conductive components, and the heating structures are electrically insulated from each other.

[00217] The heating element 902 includes discrete rings of the heating structures 904, 906, 908 that extend along the azimuthal direction of the ceramic core 900. In each of the rings, the heating structures 904, 906, 908 are aligned along the radial direction of the ceramic core 900 in the example shown, but this might not be the case in other embodiments. The heating structure 904 is embedded within the ceramic core 900 at a position that is approximately equidistant from the outer surface 910 and the inner surface 912. The heating structure 906 is embedded within the ceramic core 900 at a location that is proximate the outer surface 910, and the heating structure 908 is proximate the inner surface 912. The heating structure 908 is at least partially coupled to the inner surface 912, and extends into and therefore is directly exposed to the space defined by the inner surface.

[00218] During use of the ceramic core 900 in a vaporization device, for example, the outer surface 910 could be adjacent to a wick or a chamber that is a source of vaporization substance for the ceramic core, and the vaporization substance could flow through the ceramic core in the radial direction towards the inner surface 912. In these implementations, the outer surface 910 is an upstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance, and the inner surface 912 is a downstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. The heating structures 904, 906, 908 are distributed along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core 900. The heating structure 906 is proximate to the upstream surface of the ceramic core 900, and the heating structure 908 is proximate to the downstream surface of the ceramic core. [00219] Similar to the heating structures 804, 806, 808 of Fig. 8, the heating structures 904, 906, 908 could be implemented with any of a variety of electrical and thermal conductivities.

Any or all of the heating structures 904, 906, 908 could be coupled to a power source. In addition, at least one of the at least one of the heating structures 904, 906, 908 could be electrically insulated from a power source, and could optionally be inductively heated by a further heating structure of the heating structures 904, 906, 908.

[00220] The multiple heating structures 904, 906, 908 of the heating element 902 are an example of a surface area increasing structure. Each of the heating structures 904, 906, 908 can generate heat and/or distribute the heat in the ceramic core 900, thereby potentially providing a more uniform temperature and prolonged heating of a vaporization substance in the ceramic core 900 compared to a ceramic core with a single heating structure, for example. The heating structure 906 could distribute heat in an area that is proximate to the outer surface 910, the heating structure 908 could distribute heat in an area that is proximate to the inner surface 912, and the heating structure 904 could distribute heat within the ceramic core 900. As the heating structure 908 also extends into the hollow center of the ceramic core 900, the heating structure 908 could distribute heat to the air inside of the ceramic core that could form a channel, for example. In some implementations, the heating structures 904, 906, 908 provide a non-uniform or graduated temperature profile in the ceramic core 900.

[00221] Fig. 10 is an isometric view of an example ceramic core 1000 including multiple ceramic layers 1002, 1004. The ceramic core 1000 is illustrated as a hollow cylinder having an outer surface 1012 and an inner surface 1014. The ceramic layer 1002 forms the outer surface 1012, and the ceramic layer 1004 forms the inner surface 1014. The ceramic layer 1002 includes an embedded heating element 1006, and the ceramic layer 1004 includes multiple embedded electrically and possibly thermally conductive particles, which are illustrated as circles in FIG.

10. Each of the ceramic layers 1002, 1004 is coupled to a bottom support ring 1008 and to a top support ring 1010 in the example shown, but support rings need not necessarily be provided.

The ceramic core 1000 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the ceramic core can be seen. [00222] The ceramic layers 1002, 1004 are hollow cylinders that are sized are shaped to be arranged concentrically. In some implementations, each of the ceramic layers 1002, 1004 is fabricated separately, and then arranged such that the ceramic layer 1002 surrounds the ceramic layer 1004. The inner surface of the ceramic layer 1002 abuts the outer surface of the ceramic layer 1004 such that there is little to no space between the ceramic layers. However, a gap could also be formed between two ceramic layers in some embodiments. In some implementations, the arrangement of the ceramic layers 1002, 1004 is maintained by the support rings 1008, 1010, which are rigidly coupled to the ceramic layers. The support rings 1008, 1010 could be coupled to the ceramic layers 1002, 1004 using an adhesive and/or fasteners, for example. In some embodiments, the arrangement of multiple ceramic layers is instead maintained by the friction created at the abutment(s) between the ceramic layers and/or by coupling the layers to each other by adhesive or some other means for example, and support rings might not be implemented.

[00223] In some implementations, the heating element 1006 includes a wire coil that is coupled to a source of electrical A/C power, which could provide heat to the ceramic layer 1002. In the ceramic layer 1004, the conductive particles are distributed throughout the ceramic layer. In some implementations, the conductive particles are made of metal and are embedded in the ceramic layer 1004 during fabrication of the ceramic layer. The conductive particles could be dispersed substantially uniformly or evenly throughout the ceramic layer 1004, or the conductive particles could be concentrated in particular areas of the ceramic layer. The size, shape and fill factor of the conductive particles in the ceramic layer 1004 are implementation specific. For example, the conductive particles could be spherical, rectangular and/or triangular in shape. The size of any or all of the conductive particles could range from about 1 nm to about 10 nm, about 10 nm to about 100 nm, about 100 nm to about 1 pm, from about 1 pm to about 10 pm, from about 10 pm to about 100 pm, from about 100 pm to about 1 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, for example. The ceramic layer 1004 could include about 1% conductive particles by volume, about 2% conductive particles by volume, about 5% conductive particles by volume, about 10% conductive particles by volume, about 20% conductive particles by volume, or about 50% conductive particles by volume, for example.

[00224] The conductive particles embedded in the ceramic layer 1004 are an example of multiple heating structures, distributed at least partially along a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core 1000, that provide a surface area increasing structure. During use of the ceramic core 1000 in a vaporization device, for example, the A/C current that flows through the heating element 1006 inductively heats the metallic particles in the ceramic layer 1004. The heating element 1006 could also heat the ceramic layer 1002, but this might not always be the case. In some implementations, the heating element has a relatively small resistance that generates only a small amount of heat in the ceramic layer 1002, but produces a high current to inductively heat the conductive particles.

[00225] A vaporization substance can enter the ceramic layer 1002 through a chamber or wick that is adjacent to the outer surface 1012. The vaporization substance can then flow through the ceramic layer 1002, and potentially be vaporized by any heat generated by the heating element 1006 in this ceramic layer. At least some of the vaporization substance can flow through the ceramic layer 1002 and into the ceramic layer 1004.

[00226] In some implementations, the conductive particles are distributed uniformly in the ceramic layer 1004, and inductive heating of the conductive particles could produce heat uniformly and evenly throughout the ceramic layer. As such, the ceramic layer 1004 could achieve a substantially uniform temperature, and the vaporization substance might be uniformly heated throughout the ceramic layer. A possible benefit of such uniform heating is that the vaporization substance could be vaporized more consistently and more rapidly than in conventional ceramic cores. In some implementations, the heating element 1006 and the conductive particles provide a non-uniform or graduated temperature profile in the ceramic core 1000

[00227] In some implementations, the conductive particles are more densely distributed in the ceramic layer 1004 towards the inner surface 1014. As a result, the temperature of the ceramic layer 1004 could be non-uniform in the radial direction, and could increase towards the inner surface 1014. The vaporization substance could be heated to progressively higher temperatures as it flows through the ceramic layer 1004 until vaporization is achieved.

[00228] In some implementations, the porosity or another physical characteristic of the ceramic layers 1002, 1004 could be different to provide different flow rates through the ceramic layers. For example, the ceramic layer 1004 could have a lower porosity than the ceramic layer 1002 so that a vaporization substance flows through the ceramic layer 1004 more slowly to encourage vaporization.

[00229] The ceramic core 1000 provides one example of multiple heating structures embedded in different ceramic layers. In another example, a ceramic core could include ceramic layers similar to the ceramic layers 1002, 1004, but arranged such that the ceramic layer with embedded conductive particles surrounds the ceramic layer with a heating element to inductively heat the ceramic particles. In a further example, a ceramic core could include a ceramic layer with a heating element and multiple ceramic layers with conductive particles that are inductively heated by the heating element. The conductive particles in different layers could vary in terms of fill factor, size, shape and/or material. The porosity of the different ceramic layers could also or instead vary. In yet another example, a ceramic core could include multiple ceramic layers that each includes a heating element to heat one or more ceramic layers with embedded conductive particles. These ceramic layers could be arranged in any of a variety of different orders relative to a flow of a vaporization substance.

[00230] The embodiments described above largely relate to heating elements that are embedded in and/or coupled to a ceramic core. However, heating elements could also be provided in other locations in a vaporization device, as illustrated by Fig. 11.

[00231] Fig. 11 is an isometric view of an example vaporization device tank 1100 including a ceramic core 1102. The example vaporization device tank 1100 is shown with a section removed so that internals of the vaporization device tank can be seen. The vaporization device tank 1100 further includes an inlet 1101, a wick 1103, a heating element 1104, a channel generally indicated at 1105, an air inlet 1106 and a chamber 1107. Any or all of these components could be similar to the inlet 401, wick 403, heating element 404, channel 405, air inlet 406 and chamber 407 of Fig. 4. The vaporization device tank 1100 differs from the vaporization device tank 400 of Fig. 4 at least in that the vaporization device tank 1100 includes a rough surface 1110 on an inner surface of the ceramic core 1102, and an additional heating element 1112.

[00232] The heating element 1112 is in fluid communication with the channel 1105 to heat air entering, or that enters, the channel, and could include a wire coil that is coupled to a power source. The power source could also be connected to the heating element 1104, or it could be a separate power source. The heating element 1112 is positioned upstream of the ceramic coil 1102 in the direction of air flow through the channel 1105 during use. The heating element 1112 could be coupled to and supported by walls of the vaporization device tank 1100 that are formed by the channel 1105.

[00233] The rough surface 1110 of the ceramic core 1102 is an example of a surface area increasing structure, and could also be considered a non-uniform, uneven and/or irregular surface. The rough surface 1110 includes multiple ridges and grooves that are spiralled along the length of the ceramic core. These ridges and grooves increase the path length on the inner surface of the ceramic core 1102 in the axial and azimuthal directions, and therefore increase the surface area of the ceramic core.

[00234] During use of the vaporization device tank 1100, a vaporization substance flows from the chamber 1107, through the wick 1103, and into the ceramic core 1102. Heat that is produced from the heating element 1104 could vaporize at least some of the vaporization substance in the ceramic core 1102. The rough surface 1110 is a downstream surface of the ceramic core 1102 in the direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core 1102. The rough surface 1110 increases the surface area for vapor to flow into the channel 1105, and therefore could increase the rate at which vapor flows into the channel relative to a smooth surface, for example. Airflow 1114 through the air inlet 1106 and the channel 1105 may carry the vapor away from the rough surface 1110 and out of the vaporization device tank 1100.

[00235] The heating element 1112 heats the air that flows through the channel 1105. In some implementations, this hot air could inhibit the condensation of vapor in the channel 1105. For example, the hot air could mix with the vapor that enters the channel 1105 and help maintain the temperature of the vapor above its vaporization temperature. The spiraled ridges of the rough surface 1110 could circulate air within the channel 1105 and encourage mixing of the vapor and the hot air from the heating element 1112, for example. The hot air from the heating element 1112 could also heat the ceramic core 1102 itself via convection, and the increased surface area of the rough surface 1110 could improve the rate of convective heat transfer to the ceramic core. This convective heat transfer could help vaporize the vaporization substance as it flows through the ceramic core 1102. In some cases, the vaporization substance might flow through the ceramic core 1102 and reach the rough surface 1110 without being vaporized. In such cases, the hot air from the heating element 1112 could circulate and directly heat the vaporization substance through convective heat transfer, which could help inhibit liquid vaporization substance from dripping or leaking from the ceramic core 1102.

[00236] Although ceramic cores are illustrated in the drawings as being cylindrical in shape, other shapes and sizes of ceramic cores are also contemplated. In some embodiments, ceramic cores are conical, rectangular or triangular in shape. Ceramic cores may or may not be hollow.

[00237] Any of the ceramic cores disclosed herein could be implemented in a vaporization device, non-limiting examples of which are shown in Figs. 1-3. In some embodiments, a vaporization device includes one or more of: a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store a vaporization substance; a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive vapor produced by the ceramic core; and a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber. The chamber could be cylindrical in shape and could at least partially surround the ceramic core. The ceramic core could at least partially surround the channel.

[00238] In some embodiments, the vaporization device further includes one or more of: a power source to supply power to a heating element; a control system to control, or for controlling, the supply of power from the power source to the heating element; and a mouthpiece to enable vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization device. The power source could be a battery that is stored in a battery compartment of the vaporization device, such as the battery compartment 108 of Figs. 1 and 2. The control system could be implemented using hardware, firmware, one or more components that execute software stored in one or more non-transitory memory devices, such as a solid-data memory device or a memory device that uses movable and/or even removable storage media, for example. An example of a control system is the base 106 of Figs. 1 and 2. In some implementations, the controller provides control of the heater to regulate the power that is delivered to the heater. The controller could also or instead provide control of a switch disposed between the heater and the power source to regulate the power being delivered to the heater. In general, the controller could be operable or configured to regulate the power being delivered to one or more heaters from one or more power sources.

[00239] According to some embodiments, a kit of parts is provided. The kit of parts could enable a manufacturer or an end user to assemble any ceramic core, vaporization device tank, vaporization device, or other vaporization apparatus disclosed herein. For example, the kit of parts could include a ceramic core as disclosed herein, as well as one or more other parts of a vaporization device to enable the assembly of a vaporization device.

[00240] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance and a heating element to produce a vapor from the vaporization substance. The heating element could be coupled to the ceramic core during assembly of the kit, in order to heat the ceramic core when in use. Alternatively, the ceramic core and heating element may be provided as a single part. For example, the heating element may be at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

[00241] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes or otherwise provides a channel that is in fluid communication with a ceramic core following assembly of the kit. The ceramic core may define the channel, or at least a portion of the channel could be a separate part therefrom. Optionally, the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape and/or the ceramic core is assembled to at least partially surround the channel. In some embodiments, the kit of parts further includes a heating element to be arranged in fluid communication with the channel and to heat air that enters the channel. For example, the further heating element may be positioned within or upstream of the channel.

[00242] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes a chamber to store a vaporization substance. The chamber could be in fluid communication with a ceramic core following assembly of the kit. Optionally, the chamber is cylindrical in shape, and/or is sized and shaped to at least partially surround the ceramic core. The kit of parts may also include a wick that could be disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

[00243] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes a power source, a control system and/or a mouthpiece. When assembled, the power source may be electrically connected to a heating element to supply power to the heating element. The control system may be coupled to the power source to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element. The mouthpiece may be assembled downstream of a ceramic core to enable vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core.

[00244] In some embodiments, a kit of parts is for a vaporization apparatus that includes a rough surface, which may increase surface area for heat transfer from a heating element to a vaporization substance. The rough surface may include one or more ridges, one or more protrusions and/or one or more holes, for example. At least a portion of the rough surface may be provided as a standalone part that could be coupled to the ceramic core and/or to the heating element during assembly. Alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the rough surface may be a surface of another part, such as a surface of the ceramic core and/or the heating element, for example.

[00245] The rough surface may be included in, or coupled to, a ceramic core. For example, the rough surface may be arranged as an upstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core and/or as a downstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core. If the rough surface includes ridges, then the ridges may be spiraled along a length of the ceramic core and/or angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

[00246] The rough surface may be included in, or coupled to, a heating element. For example, the heating element might include a wire and the rough surface might include an outer surface of that wire. If the rough surface includes one or more ridges, then the ridges may be spiraled along a length of the heating element.

[00247] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes a plurality of heating structures distributed along a direction of a flow of a vaporization substance through a ceramic core. These heating structures may increase surface area for heat transfer from a heating element to a vaporization substance, for example. A heating element may include at least some of the heating structures. Alternatively or additionally, at least some of the heating structures may be additional parts thereto. An example of a plurality of heating structures is a plurality of conductive particles that may be embedded in a ceramic core. [00248] The plurality of heating structures may include heating structures that are coupled to each other along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. These heating structures could be obtained as separate parts and coupled to each other during assembly of the kit, or the heating structures could be obtained in a coupled configuration. At least one heating structure might not be coupled to the other heating structures along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. The heating structures may be positioned anywhere along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. For example, a kit may include at least one heating structure that is, or is intended to be following assembly of the kit, proximate a downstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance and/or at least one heating structure that is, or is intended to be following assembly of the kit, proximate an upstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance.

[00249] At least one heating structure may be, or be intended for assembly to be, electrically insulated from a power source. Such a heating structure may also be positioned to be inductively heated by a further heating structure of the plurality of heating structures.

[00250] In some embodiments, a kit of parts includes multiple ceramic layers to be assembled into a ceramic core. The kit of parts could further include heating structures that are embedded in different ceramic layers.

[00251] Other features may be or become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[00252] The foregoing description relates primarily to apparatus embodiments. Other embodiments, including methods, are also contemplated.

[00253] Fig. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1200 according to an embodiment.

The method 1200 includes a step 1202 of generating vapor, which involves using a ceramic core, a vaporization device tank, a vaporization device or any other vaporization apparatus disclosed herein. The method 1200 further includes a step 1204 of inhaling the vapor.

[00254] Step 1202 could include operating a user input device to initiate the delivery of power from a power source to a ceramic core, which vaporizes a vaporization substance to produce the vapor. At step 1204, the vapor could be inhaled through a mouthpiece, for example. [00255] Fig. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1300 according to another embodiment. The method 1300 includes a step 1302 of providing a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance. In some implementations, step 1302 also includes providing a channel to receive a vapor. For example, the ceramic core could be or include a hollow cylinder that forms at least a portion of the channel.

[00256] The method 1300 further includes a step 1304 of providing a heating element to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance. Optionally, the heating element is at least partially embedded inside of the ceramic core.

[00257] The method 1300 also includes a step 1306 of providing a surface area increasing structure to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance. In some implementations, the surface area increasing structure is provided in or on the ceramic core. The surface area increasing structure could also or instead be provided in or on the heating element.

[00258] In some implementations, step 1306 includes providing a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance. For example, step 1306 could include roughening a surface of the ceramic core or otherwise providing a rough surface of the ceramic core. Roughening the surface of the ceramic core may include forming one or more ridges on the surface of the ceramic core, forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the ceramic core, and/or forming one or more holes in the surface of the ceramic core. Optionally, the ridges could be angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

[00259] In some implementations, step 1306 includes roughening a surface of the heating element or otherwise providing a rough surface of the heating element. Roughening the surface of the heating element may include forming one or more ridges on the surface of the heating element, forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the heating element, and/or forming one or more holes in the surface of the heating element.

[00260] In some implementations, step 1306 includes providing a plurality of heating structures, arranged along a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core, to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance. Step 1306 may also include arranging the plurality of heating structures along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core. Optionally, at least some of the plurality of heating structures could be coupled to each other along the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. Step 1306 could further include positioning at least one heating structure of the plurality of heating structures proximate a downstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance, and/or positioning at least one heating structure of the plurality of heating structures proximate an upstream surface of the ceramic core in the direction of the flow of the vaporization substance. At least one heating structure of the plurality of heating structures could be electrically insulated from a power source, and is optionally arranged or positioned to be inductively heated by a further heating structure of the plurality of heating structures.

[00261] In some implementations, arranging or providing the plurality of heating structures includes embedding a plurality of conductive particles in the ceramic core.

[00262] In some implementations, the ceramic core includes a plurality of ceramic layers, and arranging or providing the plurality of heating structures includes embedding at least some of the plurality of heating structures in different ceramic layers of the plurality of ceramic layers.

[00263] In some implementations, the heating element includes the plurality of heating structures. For example, step 1304 may include providing the plurality of heating structures with the heating element. In these implementations, steps 1304 and 1306 may be combined.

[00264] The method 1300 could also include providing other components of a vaporization device. For example, the method 1300 could include: providing a further heating element to heat air entering, or that enters, a channel; providing a chamber to store the vaporization substance; and providing a wick. In some implementations, the ceramic core is arranged within the chamber, and the wick is arranged between the ceramic core and the chamber. The method 1300 could also or instead include providing at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element; a control system to control, or for controlling, the supply of power from the power source to the heating element; and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization device. [00265] The method 1300 could be a method for the production of a vaporization device or components thereof. Although the steps 1302, 1304, 1306 are illustrated as separate steps, they need not be separate in all embodiments. For example, a ceramic core, heating element and surface area increasing structure could be provided as a single component or in a single device. Moreover, it should be appreciated that ceramic cores, heating elements, surface area increasing structures, rough surfaces, heating structures, and/or other components or elements need not necessarily be provided by directly producing or manufacturing them. For example, ceramic cores, heating elements, surface area increasing structures, rough surfaces and/or heating structures could be provided by purchasing or acquiring them from a manufacturer or producer, for example. Therefore, “providing” as used herein is not restricted to, and need not necessarily involve, production or manufacturing by an entity that assembles or uses any of the disclosed embodiments.

[00266] The methods 1200, 1300 are illustrative and nondimiting examples. Various ways to perform the illustrated operations, additional operations that may be performed in some embodiments, or operations that may be omitted in some embodiments, may be inferred or apparent from the description and drawings or otherwise be or become apparent. Other variations of methods associated with manufacturing or otherwise producing a ceramic core, and/or a vaporization device or apparatus may be or become apparent.

[00267] It should also be appreciated that all of the drawings and the description herein are intended solely for illustrative purposes, and that the present invention is in no way limited to the particular example embodiments explicitly shown in the drawings and described herein.

[00268] What has been described is merely illustrative of the application of principles of embodiments of the present disclosure. Other arrangements and methods can be implemented by those skilled in the art.

[00269] For example, features are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Features may be implemented independently, or in any of various combinations.

[00270] While the present invention has been described with reference to specific features and embodiments thereof, various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the invention. The description and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded simply as an illustration of some embodiments of the invention as defined by the appended claims, and are contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, although the present invention and potential advantages have been described in detail, various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of any process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A vaporization apparatus comprising: a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance; and a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance.

2. The vaporization apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor.

3. The vaporization apparatus of claim 2, wherein the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

4. The vaporization apparatus of claim 3, wherein the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel.

5. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising: a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

6. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

7. The vaporization apparatus of claim 6, wherein the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

8. The vaporization apparatus of claim 7, wherein the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core.

9. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 6 to 8, further comprising: a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

10. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

11. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the ceramic core comprises the rough surface.

12. The vaporization apparatus of claim 11, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more ridges.

13. The vaporization apparatus of claim 12, wherein the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the ceramic core.

14. The vaporization apparatus of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the one or more ridges are angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

15. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the rough surface comprises an upstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

16. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the rough surface comprises a downstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

17. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the heating element comprises the rough surface.

18. The vaporization apparatus of claim 17, wherein the heating element comprises a wire, and the rough surface comprises an outer surface of the wire.

19. The vaporization apparatus of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more ridges.

20. The vaporization apparatus of claim 19, wherein the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the heating element.

21. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more protrusions.

22. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more holes.

23. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus.

24. A vaporization apparatus comprising: a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance, the ceramic core comprising a rough surface; and a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance.

25. The vaporization apparatus of claim 24, further comprising: a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor.

26. The vaporization apparatus of claim 25, wherein the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

27. The vaporization apparatus of claim 26, wherein the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel.

28. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 25 to 27, further comprising: a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

29. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 28, further comprising: a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

30. The vaporization apparatus of claim 29, wherein the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

31. The vaporization apparatus of claim 30, wherein the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core.

32. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 29 to 31, further comprising: a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

33. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 32, wherein the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

34. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 33, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more ridges.

35. The vaporization apparatus of claim 34, wherein the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the ceramic core.

36. The vaporization apparatus of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the one or more ridges are angled in a direction of a flow of the vapor.

37. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 35, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more protrusions.

38. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 37, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more holes.

39. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 38, wherein the rough surface comprises an upstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

40. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 39, wherein the rough surface comprises a downstream surface of the ceramic core in a direction of a flow of the vaporization substance through the ceramic core.

41. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 24 to 39, further comprising at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus.

42. A vaporization apparatus comprising: a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; and a heating element, coupled to the ceramic core, to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance, the heating element comprising a rough surface.

43. The vaporization apparatus of claim 42, further comprising: a channel, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to receive the vapor.

44. The vaporization apparatus of claim 43, wherein the ceramic core is cylindrical in shape.

45. The vaporization apparatus of claim 44, wherein the ceramic core at least partially surrounds the channel.

46. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 43 to 45, further comprising: a further heating element, in fluid communication with the channel, to heat air that enters the channel.

47. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 46, further comprising: a chamber, in fluid communication with the ceramic core, to store the vaporization substance.

48. The vaporization apparatus of claim 47, wherein the chamber is cylindrical in shape.

49. The vaporization apparatus of claim 48, wherein the chamber at least partially surrounds the ceramic core.

50. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 47 to 49, further comprising: a wick disposed between the ceramic core and the chamber.

51. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 50, wherein the heating element is at least partially embedded in the ceramic core.

52. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 51, wherein the heating element comprises a wire, and the rough surface comprises an outer surface of the wire.

53. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 52, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more ridges.

54. The vaporization apparatus of claim 53, wherein the one or more ridges are spiraled along a length of the heating element.

55. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 54, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more protrusions.

56. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 55, wherein the rough surface comprises one or more holes.

57. The vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 42 to 56, further comprising at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core during use of the vaporization apparatus.

58. A kit of parts for the vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 57.

59. A method comprising: generating vapor using the vaporization apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 57; and inhaling the vapor.

60. A method comprising: providing a ceramic core to receive a vaporization substance; providing a heating element to heat the ceramic core and produce a vapor from the vaporization substance; and providing a rough surface to increase surface area for heat transfer from the heating element to the vaporization substance.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein providing the ceramic core comprises providing a channel to receive the vapor.

62. The method of claim 60 or 61, further comprising providing a further heating element to heat air that enters the channel.

63. The method of any one of claims 60 to 62, further comprising: providing a chamber to store the vaporization substance.

64. The method of claim 63, further comprising: arranging the ceramic core within the chamber.

65. The method of claim 64, further comprising: providing a wick.

66. The method of claim 65, further comprising: arranging the wick between the ceramic core and the chamber.

67. The method of any one of claims 60 to 66, further comprising: embedding the heating element in the ceramic core.

68. The method of any one of claims 60 to 67, wherein providing the rough surface comprises roughening a surface of the ceramic core.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein roughening the surface of the ceramic core comprises forming one or more ridges on the surface of the ceramic core.

70. The method of claim 68 or claim 69, wherein roughening the surface of the ceramic core comprises forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the ceramic core.

71. The method of any one of claims 68 to 70, wherein roughening the surface of the ceramic core comprises forming one or more holes in the surface of the ceramic core.

72. The method of any one of claims 60 to 67, wherein providing the rough surface comprises roughening a surface of the heating element.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein roughening the surface of the heating element comprises forming one or more ridges on the surface of the heating element.

74. The method of claim 72 or claim 73, wherein roughening the surface of the heating element comprises forming one or more protrusions on the surface of the heating element.

75. The method of any one of claims 72 to 74, wherein roughening the surface of the heating element comprises forming one or more holes in the surface of the heating element.

76. The method of any one or claims 60 to 75, further comprising: providing at least one of: a power source to supply power to the heating element, a control system to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element, and a mouthpiece to enable the vapor to be drawn away from the ceramic core.