Personal Vaporizer

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems and methods utilizing a first housing magnet of a vaporization device cartridge port oriented generally in a first polarity configuration and a second housing magnet of the cartridge port oriented generally in a second polarity configuration, wherein the second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration to properly orient and place the cartridge in the vaporization device. The systems and methods may further include alternative or complementary aspects for applying cartridge orientation and mating, such as mechanical interference aspects.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to vaporization devices, and more particularly to vaporization devices that use a removable cartridge that can be mounted to the vaporization device according to a particular orientation. Background Art

[0002] Personal vaporizers, often referred to as "vaping" devices, have emerged and rapidly gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to smoking traditional tobacco. Personal vaporizers can release a certain amount of nicotine contained in a liquid by heating the liquid to the point where it becomes an aerosol. This aerosol is inhaled much like the smoke from a traditional cigarette. Although the release of nicotine is one possible use of this device, this use is not limiting.

[0003] Personal vaporizers now come in a wide range of features and price points. One commonality in the use of vaporizers is the need to atomize fluid. The fluid is typically provided in a chamber or cartridge, which also often contains a heating element to vaporize the fluid in the chamber. Some vaporizers require the user to manually refill a permanent or reusable chamber. This can be cumbersome and creates further complications as the heating element degrades or changes based on use and fluid residue accumulation.

[0004] Therefore, various vaporizers use removable disposable boxes containing fluid and heating elements for vaporization. In order to utilize these boxes, they must be electrically connected with the vaporization device to power and control the heating element. The attachment of these boxes is often achieved by friction fit, buckle or stopper. In order to keep the manufacturing cost low, the personal vaporizer shell is usually constructed as an extruded form cut into a certain length to accommodate the internal components of the vaporizer and provide a groove or other housing for the removable box. The shape of these extruded forms is usually symmetrical to avoid uneven stress in the extrusion die and promote their manufacture in addition. Although this goal of reducing costs and promoting the manufacture of these devices is commendable, there is a competitive goal of ensuring that the box is properly oriented in the device for use. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a design for the unique box orientation used in the personal vaporizer, as discussed in more detail below. Summary of the invention

[0005] In an example, a personal vaporizer includes a housing defined by a height extending along a first axis, a width extending along a second axis, and a depth extending along a third axis. The personal vaporizer also includes: a battery; a charging assembly configured to charge the battery; and a cartridge port 109 configured to receive a cartridge. The personal vaporizer further includes a first housing magnet of the cartridge port 109 generally oriented in a first polarity configuration and a second housing magnet of the cartridge port 109 generally oriented in a second polarity configuration, wherein the second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration. The personal vaporizer also includes an electrical contact for the cartridge port 109.

[0006] In an example, an example method may include providing a vaporization device with a housing having a first housing magnet and a second housing magnet. The first housing magnet is generally oriented in a first polarity configuration, and the second housing magnet is generally oriented in a second polarity configuration. The second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration. The method may also include providing a cassette configured to contain a fluid for vaporization. The cassette is configured to mate with the housing and has a first cassette magnet and a second cassette magnet. The first cassette magnet is configured to attract the first housing magnet and repel the second housing magnet when coupling the cassette with the housing, and the second cassette magnet is configured to attract the second housing magnet and repel the first housing magnet when coupling the cassette with the housing. The method also includes coupling the cassette with the housing according to the polarity of the magnets.

[0007] Additional and alternative aspects will become apparent upon examination of other portions of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Therefore, those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs will more easily understand how to utilize the novel systems and methods of the present invention, some illustrative examples of which will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 A view illustrating an example of a vaporizer, cartridge, and charger;

[0010] Figure 2 A view illustrating an example vaporizing apparatus;

[0011] Figure 3 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0012] Figure 4 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0013] Figure 5 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0014] Figure 6 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0015] Figure 7 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0016] Figure 8 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0017] Fig. 9 Another view illustrating an example vaporization device;

[0018] Fig.10 A view illustrating an example of a vaporizer, cartridge, and charger;

[0019] Fig.11 An exploded view illustrating an example vaporizer and cartridge;

[0020] Fig.12 A view illustrating an instance box;

[0021] Fig.13 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0022] Fig.14 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0023] Fig.15 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0024] Fig.16 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0025] Fig.17 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0026] Fig.18A Another view illustrating the example box;

[0027] Fig.18B Another view illustrating the example box;

[0028] Fig.19 Another view illustrating the example box;

[0029] Fig. 20A Description of magnets arranged to place and secure a cartridge in a vaporizer device according to a specific orientation;

[0030] Fig. 20B Description of a magnet arranged to repel and prevent placement of a cartridge in a vaporization device according to a particular orientation;

[0031] Fig.21 A view illustrating an example vaporizing apparatus;

[0032] Fig. 22 A view illustrating an example box; and

[0033] Fig.23 Another view illustrating the instance box. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The systems and methods herein disclose vaporization devices, uses thereof, and techniques for actively placing a disposable or reusable vaporizer cartridge in a vaporizer device according to a desired or preferred orientation.

[0035] As used herein, directions or ends described as "top", "above", "on", etc. refer to the end of the housing 110 that receives the cassette 130 along the first axis 1, and directions or ends described as "bottom", "below", "under", etc. refer to the end of the housing 110 on which the charging cover 170 is arranged. The "front" side may refer to the side from which the power source 196 protrudes when the charging cover 170 is arranged in the charger 190, which is opposite to the "back" side along the third axis. A side element may be an element connecting the front side and the back side or between the front side and the back side. As can be appreciated, in alternative geometries (e.g., symmetrical cross-sections, such as squares), some such distinctions are eliminated, although some (e.g., top and bottom) may not be eliminated.

[0036] Figures 1 to 19 Various examples of vaporization systems 100 are described. System 100 generally includes a device that can house the electronics that control the vaporization process. These electronics can include a power supply and a controller. The device can include a recess, bracket, or other housing for receiving a removable cartridge described more fully below.

[0037] The vaporization system 100 can be defined as three-dimensional according to three axes (axis 1, axis 2, and axis 3), as in, for example, Figure 4 , 6 , 14 and 16. Specifically, Figures 1 to 10 Various views of a vaporizing device are shown that is defined by housing 110 (including cutout portion 111) and charging hood 170 alone and / or in conjunction with cassette 130 and charger 190. Details of the illustrated components are provided below.

[0038] Vaporization system 100 may be made of a variety of materials. In embodiments, one or more of housing 110, charging cover 170, charger 190, and / or cassette 130 may be constructed of plastic, metal, carbon fiber, or other materials and combinations thereof. In embodiments, subassemblies may be formed of different materials (e.g., aluminum housing 110, polymer charging cover 170).

[0039] Fig.11An exploded view of a vaporizer and cartridge 130 is provided. Many of the components of the vaporizer are contained within a housing 110, which is defined by a height extending along a first axis 1, a width extending along a second axis 2, and a depth extending along a third axis 3. The housing 110 may have a generally and irregular hexagonal cross-section (i.e., in a plane defined by the second axis 2 and the third axis 3). Alternative embodiments may utilize any shape that the designer imagines, including square, rectangular, and other regular or irregular polygons, curved or partially curved contours, triangular arrangements, and the like. The vaporizer is elongated along a first axis 1, with its length partially defined by a charging hood 170. The housing 110 includes a solid portion and a cutout portion 111, wherein the cutout portion 111 and (in an embodiment) a portion of the space below it comprise a hollow portion of the housing 110, which defines a cartridge port 109 in which the cartridge 130 is nested or mounted for use with the vaporizer. In embodiments, the housing 110 need not be elongated, but may have other form factors (e.g., cubic, spherical, etc.) as may be imagined by the designer. The housing 110 (or other elements herein) may be formed of a thermally insulating material to prevent the outer surface of the vaporization device from heating. As described, the housing 110 may be defined by a plurality of walls extending along or through one or both of a solid (e.g., containing electrical and other components of the vaporization device) and a hollow (e.g., a port or other empty space for receiving the cassette 130) portion. As described, there may be a curved larger front wall and rear wall (e.g., a first and second wall front wall extending primarily along the second axis 2) and a smaller side wall connecting the larger wall (e.g., a third and fourth side wall extending primarily along the third axis 3 and the first axis 1). Alternatively, each flat surface may define a wall (e.g., a first, second, third, and fourth wall extending primarily along the second axis 2 and the first axis 1 and a fifth and sixth wall extending primarily along the third axis 3 and the first axis 1). In alternative embodiments, the ratio of the wall dimensions may be varied to support other shapes described herein.

[0040] As described above, the housing 110 and / or the cassette 130 may lack symmetry to ensure the proper orientation of the cassette 130 relative to the housing. Asymmetry can be achieved in various ways. For example, when comparing the first side and its opposite side (for example, according to one or more of the height, width and depth), the housing 110 may be expanded, tapered, stepped or have different profiles or shapes. The cassette 130 or its portion may be shaped to be combined with the asymmetric housing 110. In addition, the cassette 130 or its portion may be asymmetric, even if the housing 110 is substantially symmetrical. In the illustrated example, the cassette 130 is placed in the portion of the housing and may be substantially aligned along the first axis. As described herein, the cassette 130 may contain a heating element to heat the liquid stored in the cassette and produce the desired aerosol. The cassette port 109 is configured to receive the cassette 130 at the first end of the housing 110 along the first axis, wherein the charging cover 170 is positioned at the opposite end of the housing 110 along the first axis.

[0041] The cassette 130 includes a shell 138 defining a fluid compartment 146. The shell 138 may be coupled to a mouthpiece 132 having at least one steam tube 136 configured to allow steam to leave the cassette 130. The shell 138 may be configured to abut against or over a portion of the housing 110 when the cassette 130 and the cassette port 109 are nested and may or may not include a geometric shape that is complementary to the profile of the housing 110. In order to allow airflow between the mouthpiece 132 and one or more of the shell 138 and / or the membrane 142 (described below), the mouthpiece 132 may include one or more gaskets 134 that mechanically interfere with a tight fit. In an example, a steam or fluid permeable material (e.g., felt, wadding, and the like) may be placed in the gap created by the gasket 134, which may spread the steam, stop droplets or combustion residue, filter the steam, and / or cool the steam. In an example, a mouthpiece cover or shield may be arranged to plug at least one steam pipe 136 and cover some or all of the mouthpiece 132 to provide hygienic protection for the mouthpiece when not in use. Although the steam pipe 136 is shown as a cylindrical shape, other cross-sectional shapes may be used. In an embodiment in which there are two or more steam pipes 136, multiple cross-sectional shapes may be used in a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement. Although two steam pipes 136 are shown in a symmetrical arrangement, an asymmetrical arrangement may be utilized (e.g., one or more steam pipes 136 are disposed to one side and not disposed on the other side along the second axis 2). The mouthpiece 132 may have a curved profile at least in a plane defined by the first axis 1 and the second axis 2. The edge of the mouthpiece 132 may be curved, and the mouthpiece 132 (and / or the housing 138 and / or the fluid compartment 146 to which the mouthpiece 132 is connected) may have a profile suitable for allowing inhalation therefrom by placing the mouth against the mouthpiece 132 or by placing the mouthpiece 132 partially or completely in the mouth of the user. The mouthpiece 132 may include one or more grooves that may surround one or more steam tubes 136. Such grooves may allow steam to be dispersed from the steam tubes 136 prior to inhalation or for other functions.

[0042] In an embodiment, the mouthpiece 132 may be fluidly coupled to a sensor for detecting a puff or a deviation from a pressure baseline. The sensor may be coupled to the circuit board 116 and initiate heating and vaporizing the fluid in the cartridge 130 based on the detection of a puff or a pressure change. In this way, vaporization may be controlled when a user actively seeks to utilize the vaporization device 100. In an embodiment, a microphone may be used alone or in combination with a pressure sensor to detect a puff or a pressure change to initiate heating. In an embodiment, a puff or cessation of puffing may stop heating or serve as a "shutdown" function for the device. In an alternative or complementary embodiment, the microphone may utilize sound alone or in combination with a puff to enable or disable heating (or other functions of the vaporization device 100). In an embodiment, a microphone or other air pressure sensor may convert air pressure into high and low levels to control an electrical output. In a particular embodiment, air pressure measurements from the sensor may be converted into high or low levels that can be recognized by a control unit, which are then used to activate or deactivate a heating element (e.g., heating element 154).

[0043] As discussed, the cassette 130 defines a fluid compartment 146 filled with a vaporizable fluid for simulating the act of smoking. A film 142 may be disposed between the cassette 130 and the mouthpiece 140 to provide a fluid barrier between the mouthpiece 140 and the fluid compartment 146. The film 142 may include a plug 144 extending downward from the film 142 to be received within the opening of the fluid compartment. The plug 144 may have an annular stopper at the tip that compresses after insertion and expands beyond the mouth of the opening when the plug is inserted into the fluid chamber 146 to secure the film to the cassette 130.

[0044] The opening in the cassette 130 can be used as a fluid port to fill the fluid cavity 146. The plug 144 can be configured to secure the fluid port of the fluid compartment 146, which can be plugged after initial filling or after refilling the compartment. According to an example, the cassette 130 is designed to be asymmetric, that is, lacking symmetry about an axis to ensure proper orientation during manufacturing, filling, and use. As described in more detail herein, asymmetry can be invoked in various physical properties. For example, to facilitate manufacturing and proper filling orientation, the fluid port in the fluid cavity 146 can be set in an offset position, where it is spaced from the central axis of the cassette 130. Fig.11130, the fluid port is offset from the central axis and is only provided on a single side of the cassette 130, thereby creating a physical asymmetry in the cassette relative to the central axis. As mentioned, this asymmetry facilitates orientation during manufacturing by providing a visual cue (i.e., offset fluid ports) visible to workers or visual systems in the assembly chain to orient the cassette for filling and final assembly. Correspondingly, the film 142 has an offset plug 144 on one side that is inserted into the fluid opening to create a similar asymmetry to facilitate proper orientation and assembly thereof. In an example, the steam conduit 150 is positioned in the fluid cavity along the central axis of the cassette 130. The asymmetry created by providing a single fluid port offset from the center can prevent interference or contamination of the steam conduit 150 and / or other elements of the cassette 130.

[0045] The mouthpiece 140 may be attached to the fluid chamber 146 in a variety of known ways, including, but not limited to: mechanical fasteners, such as latches, retainers, screws, interference fits, and the like; chemical fasteners, such as adhesives, welds, or other bonding agents; or integrally forming the mouthpiece with the fluid compartment as a unitary structure. In an example, mechanical fasteners are used. The fluid compartment 146 may include a tab 148 to nest with the tab hole 140 of the housing 138, thereby removably coupling these elements. In alternative examples, other means of fixedly or removably joining the fluid compartment 146 and the housing 138 may be utilized, including adhesives, integral formation, melting, friction fit, and the like. The fluid compartment 146 is shown as having a generally and irregular hexagonal cross-section in a plane defined by the second axis 2 and the third axis 3 and a generally rectangular cross-section in a plane defined by the first axis 1 and the third axis 3. However, any other shape that the designer imagines may be used. As described, the cartridge port 109 has a corresponding shape to allow the fluid compartment to be at least partially nested with the cartridge port 109 of the housing 110. The fluid compartment 146 can be at least partially nested in the hollow portion of the cartridge port 109 of the housing 110 and fully contained therein or protruding therefrom when placed. As described more fully below, power from a power source such as a battery can be delivered to the heating element 154 within the fluid compartment 146 by providing corresponding electrical contacts within the base of the fluid compartment 146 and the cartridge port 109 to energize the heating element 154.

[0046] The steam chamber 152 may be contained in the fluid compartment 146, rather than vaporizing all of the material in the cartridge 130 (limiting its usable length) or vaporizing a portion of the material in the entire reservoir fluid (which may be inefficient, draining the battery and contaminating unused fluid with residue). The steam chamber 152 allows a small amount of fluid to enter from the larger fluid compartment 146, thereby isolating the fluid therein during vaporization. The steam chamber 152 may include an inclined geometry (they may be inclined or curved) to keep more fluid close to the heating element 154 and / or prevent steam accumulation outside the steam conduit 150. The steam chamber 152 may also include a mating portion for coupling the steam chamber 152 to the heating chamber 156. The mating portion may include a cross-section that is smaller than other portions of the heating chamber 156 in one or more dimensions. The heating element 154 is at least partially contained in the steam chamber 152, or may be contained in a heating chamber 156 that is operably coupled to the steam chamber 152 and fluidly connected. The heating chamber 156 may include a complementary part that is mated or nested with the mating part of the steam chamber 152. The heating chamber 156 may include a size that is substantially equal to or greater than the heating element 154. Although the heating element 154 is shown as a coil that is wound around a cylindrical object or a column and is arranged longitudinally substantially along the second axis 2 (wherein one or more conductive parts point to the spring pin 166 along the first axis 1), other heating element configurations may be adopted without departing from the scope or spirit of innovation. The steam conduit 150 extends from the steam chamber 152 through the fluid compartment 146, the film 142 and the housing 138 to establish fluid communication with the mouthpiece 132, thereby isolating the steam from the cooler fluid and preventing it from dispersing or leaking out before inhalation. Although it is shown as cylindrical and centered, the steam conduit 150 can adopt any shape or cross section imagined by the designer and can be asymmetrically offset or arranged as imagined by the designer. The steam conduit can be fixedly disposed between the two containers of the cassette 130 and is stopped from moving by the geometry of such containers or cassettes 130.

[0047] The fluid compartment 146 is closed by a connector 158 at a location opposite the mouthpiece end (along the first axis). The connector 158 provides an anchor for the steam chamber 152 and associated elements and provides electrical communication through the fluid compartment 146 via one or more spring pins 166. The spring pins 166 provide a conductive path from the battery 118 and associated circuitry to the heating element 154. Although the spring pins 166 are shown as two posts that are generally centered, an asymmetric arrangement with an even or odd number of spring pins 166 may be utilized without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. The post collar 164 provides a fluid permeable path through which the spring pins 166 can pass through the connector 158 to maintain electrical communication with the heating element 154. The connector 158 may include a protrusion (e.g., pointing toward the mouthpiece end along the first axis 1) for connecting the connector 158 to one or more of the heating chamber 156, the steam chamber 152, and / or other elements within the housing 110. The connector 158 may include a base having a cross-section that is larger than other portions (in a plane defined by the second axis 2 and the third axis 3) that may be nested in, cover, or wrap around an end of the fluid compartment 146. In an embodiment, the connector 158 need not be symmetrical and may include protrusions or other subcomponents in an uneven or non-centered configuration. The connector 158 also includes a cartridge magnet recess 159 to accommodate cartridge magnets 160 and 161. The first cartridge magnet 160 is configured to attract the first housing magnet 120 and repel the second housing magnet 121 when coupling the cartridge 130 with the vaporization device. The second cartridge magnet 161 is configured to attract the second housing magnet 121 and repel the first housing magnet 120 when coupling the cartridge 130 with the vaporization device. In other words, the cartridge magnets are generally oriented in a polarity configuration such that cartridge 130 will attract, engage, and resist decoupling when inserted in a first manner, and cartridge 130 will repel and avoid coupling when inserted in a second manner that is generally 180 degrees different from an alternative configuration (as measured in a plane defined by the second and third axes).

[0048] The fluid compartment 146 defines the shape of a portion of the cassette 130. As described, the fluid compartment 146 may have a generally and irregular hexagonal cross-section (i.e., when viewed on a plane defined by the second axis 2 and the third axis 3). Other cross-sections may be utilized as the designer imagines, as long as they are smaller than or substantially equal in size to the internal dimensions of the hollow portion of the housing 110. In alternative embodiments, the fluid compartment 146 (or other portions nested in or mated with the housing 110) may have a profile, shape, form factor, etc. different from that of the housing 110, but still match the hollow portion defining the cassette port 109 (e.g., the fluid compartment of the cassette may be an irregular hexagon matching an irregular hexagonal cassette port while the housing has a pyramid shape). The housing 138 may take any shape, but as described includes a protruding portion configured to match the cutout portion 111. The housing 148 (or other elements herein) may be formed of an insulating material to prevent the outer surface of the vaporization device from heating up. In alternative embodiments, the housing 138 does not include a protruding portion. The housing 138 may change cross-section throughout its dimensions, flaring or tapering and changing from a beveled edge to a rounded edge (e.g., the area near the mouthpiece 132 may be rounded). In yet further embodiments, the housing 138 need not be included, and the mouthpiece 132 may be directly connected to the fluid compartment 146.

[0049] As explained, the cassette 130 need not be symmetrical. The various elements in the cassette 130 need not be centered or evenly distributed, and the cassette 130 need not have a symmetrical form factor about any axis. Moreover, the first cassette magnet 160 and the second cassette magnet 161 cause asymmetry in the cassette 130 in view of their generally opposite polarities.

[0050] Continuing with the vaporization device, the housing 110 provides energy storage and control for operating the heating element 154, thereby providing a vaporization effect. The housing cover 112 can isolate the interior of the housing 110 from the cassette 130. In an example, the housing cover 112 can include a gasket or other seal to make the housing 110 fluid-proof, thereby protecting its electrical components from being damaged by fluid leaking from the cassette 130 or other sources. The housing cover can be a solid cover with a substantially flat top surface (or other shapes for mechanically and electrically interfacing with the cassette 130) and a bottom surface for holding and arranging the components in a solid or filled portion of the housing 110. In an example, the housing cover 112 can include a flexible tack 113. The flexible tack 113 can be asymmetrically arranged to one side of the housing 110. In an embodiment, the flexible tack 113 can be used to maintain a seal that overlaps or is integrated with the housing cover 112. This seal may be inserted into or wrapped around the flexible tack 113 and then extend up on one side and around the housing cover 112 with the spring base 115 and magnet 119 extending through the housing cover 112. In an embodiment, the flexible tack 113 may be comprised of air tack silicon or similar material.

[0051] An electrical base 114 is also included in the housing 110. The electrical base 114 is operably coupled to one or more spring bases 115 that pass through the housing cover 112 to contact the spring pins 166, thereby providing power from the battery 118 to the heating element 154. As illustrated, the electrical base 114 may include a generally flat bottom portion on which the spring base 115 is placed. In embodiments where the spring pins 166 are asymmetric, the spring base 115 may be similarly arranged. The battery 118 may be sized to fit within the housing 110, and may be sized to maximize the battery capacity therein (e.g., occupying all available space or matching an alternative geometry to optimize capacity or efficiency). In embodiments, the battery 118 may be designed to use a volume less than that defined by the housing 110 in one or more dimensions to be arranged side by side with other elements in the same space in two or more dimensions (e.g., the circuit board 116 and the battery 118 may partially or completely overlap along one or more axes). Additionally, battery 118 (or other elements herein) may be arranged to fit inside frame 122. In embodiments, two or more batteries or battery cells may be represented by battery 118. Battery 118 may be a battery that is permanently affixed in housing 110, or may be a removable or replaceable battery.

[0052] The housing 110 also contains a circuit board 116. The circuit board 116 receives input from a user and controls the power provided to the heating element 154 through the user input and automatically controls the power provided to the heating element 154 based on at least feedback from the heating element 154. In this way, steam is generated in a controlled manner, can be turned on and off, and in examples can be provided at a higher or lower temperature. The circuit board 116 can be shaped according to the size of the housing 110.

[0053] The frame 122 may support or position various components within the housing 110. The charging contacts may provide electrical communication to spring contacts 178 within the charging interface 176, thereby allowing charging of the battery 118. In embodiments, other numbers of spring contacts 178 may be utilized, and they may be arranged asymmetrically.

[0054] The housing 110 may also contain a charging plate 123 (for charging a light for indicating device status, for example), a cover 124, and magnets 126 (for securely nesting the vaporization system 100 in a charger, such as the charger 190). The elements within the housing 110 may be designed to nest within the reduced volume defined by the frame 122. The frame 122 may take on a variety of shapes that may utilize the exterior of the volume defined by the housing 110, or may be sized to be smaller than the interior dimensions of the housing 110 to arrange elements that are not neatly stacked therein or to provide air gaps between elements therein or between elements and / or the housing 110. The frame 122 may include asymmetrical aspects or arrange elements asymmetrically within the housing 110. In an embodiment, one side of the frame 122 is solid (e.g., having a flat shape or surface that contours the wall of the housing 110) but is open on the other side to expose, for example, the circuit board 116 and the battery 118. In an alternative embodiment, the frame 122 may be fully skeletonized, providing support only around the elements housed within the housing 110. The frame 122 may be constructed of a variety of materials (e.g., metal, plastic, carbon fiber, etc.) and may be constructed of a different material than that used for the housing 110. In embodiments, a seal around the housing cover 112 or other elements integrated into the frame 122 provides a friction fit to prevent its removal from the housing 110. In embodiments, the frame 122 engages the housing cover 170 and may be removed from the housing 110 by pulling downward on the first axis 1. In embodiments, wires, circuits, printed circuit board tape, or other electrical communication elements may extend along one or more surfaces of the frame 122 to avoid interference with other elements contained therein.

[0055] The first housing magnet 120 and the second housing magnet 121 are positioned at the top of the frame 122 and nested within the housing 110. The first housing magnet and the second housing magnet are oriented so that substantially opposite polarities are arranged relative to the first axis, thereby repelling the cassette 130 when improperly oriented and attracting the cassette 130 when properly oriented. In embodiments, the first housing magnet 120 and the second housing magnet 121 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or possess different magnetic fluxes.

[0056] At the end of the housing 110 opposite the cassette 130 along the first axis, the charging cover body 172 closes the housing 110. The charging base 174 allows electrical communication between the spring contact 178 and the charger 190. In an embodiment, a portion of the charging cover body 172, a portion of the housing 110 disposed directly above it, or an intermediate element may be translucent or transparent. A light-emitting diode or other element may be disposed therein and provide visual signals related to the operation of the vaporizing device. For example, when charging, this portion may flash red; when fully charged, it may change to another color in a constant light or flashing mode. Similarly, during use or deactivation, the emitted light may provide battery power, device function, and other feedback.

[0057] In an example, the charging cover 170 may include one or more magnets 180 for orienting the charging base in the charger based on the complementary magnets of the charger. As with other magnets herein, the polarity of the magnets 180 in the charging cover 170 may be oriented in a substantially opposite orientation to match the complementary biasing magnets in the charger 190, thereby attracting and placing the charging cover 170 in the charger 190 when properly oriented and repelling and preventing the charging cover 170 from being placed in the charger 190 when rotated out of the proper orientation. Alternatively or complementary to the magnetic or friction fit arrangement between the charging cover 170 and the charger 190, the charging cover 170 may include a geometric shape (e.g., a groove of a particular size or position) to match the complementary geometry of the charger 190 (e.g., a protrusion that mates with the groove) to securely place the charging cover 170 in the charger 190. The charging cover 170 may take a variety of shapes that may substantially match or deviate from the shape of the housing 110 in one or more dimensions. In an embodiment, the charging cover 170 may have a different shape than the housing 110 and be shaped to mate with the charger 190. In an embodiment, multiple charging covers 170 may be provided to mate with different chargers, each charging cover matching the shape or interface of the housing 110 on one side and transforming to a different shape on the other side to match the charger 190.

[0058] The charger 190 includes a charging port 192 that receives the charging hood 170 and includes electrical contacts to provide power to the vaporizing device via the charging hood 170 and its associated elements, a charging extension 194 that couples the charging port to a power source, and a power source 196. Although the power source 196 is shown as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, it should be understood that any power source may be used without departing from the scope or spirit of the innovation.

[0059] The vaporization device herein may include additional elements without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, a light emitting diode (LED) or other visual interface element may be used to easily depict to the user the amount of fluid remaining in cartridge 130, the amount of charge remaining on battery 118, the operating state of the vaporization device (e.g., active, inactive, hot, cold), etc. In an example, multiple visual interfaces may be included, such as a cutout showing the portion of the cartridge placed, various LEDs or lights, a screen, etc.

[0060] In embodiments, the multicolor LED 125 may be built into the housing 110 or between elements positioned around it (e.g., the housing 110 and the charging cover body 172, the housing 110 and the cover 124). In embodiments, the LED 125 may be within or behind a translucent portion, a fiber optic portion, or other light-transmitting material. In this manner, the LED 125 may be turned on or off, brightened or dimmed, changed color, flashed, etc. to indicate the status of one or more aspects of the vaporization system 100. Examples of information conveyed by the LED 125 may include charging or battery status (e.g., fully filled, partially filled, low on power), device power status (e.g., on, off, heating or producing vapor, cooling, or not producing vapor), cartridge fill status (e.g., full of vaporizable liquid, partially filled, almost empty, or empty), connection status (e.g., paired with an app, pairing in progress, not paired), physical connection status (e.g., cartridge properly or improperly placed, properly or improperly placed for charging), etc. LED 125 may also assist in locating vaporizer device 100 or signal by flashing, blinking, changing color, etc., when a device locating function is activated.

[0061] In embodiments, circuit board 116 (or other electronic components) may include wireless communication components, such as a wireless transmitter or wireless transceiver. The wireless components may be used to pair vaporization device 100 with another device (e.g., via Bluetooth or other near field communication, including but not limited to RF, Zigbee, IR, and the like) or a network (e.g., WiFi, cellular network). Based on this connection, data regarding the status and functionality of vaporization device 100 may be provided to a user-available interface (e.g., a mobile application, website, widget). In embodiments, settings of vaporization device 100 may also be controlled on the interface. Settings may include, for example, operating temperature, preference or enablement of device location functionality (see below), notification enablement (device sounds and lights based on device location, usage, battery, fluid, functionality or degradation, etc., application notifications, email notifications, etc.), power saving mode (e.g., when the radio is enabled based on the presence or absence of cartridge 130, heating and cooling schemes), etc.

[0062] In an embodiment, the interface may include a "find my device" function. The "find my device" function may cause vaporizer device 100 to emit a sound or vibration (e.g., from a speaker integrated into circuit board 116 or other portion of vaporizer device 100). The "find my device" function may alternatively or complementary indicate the location or orientation of vaporizer device 100 relative to the location of a display providing the interface (e.g., a user's mobile phone or laptop). Other information communicated may include battery or charging status, charging time, remaining battery time, cartridge or liquid status, liquid empty time, improper cartridge placement, improper charging placement, device functionality (e.g., heating, cooling, producing vapor, not producing vapor, malfunctioning), and the like.

[0063] To protect the battery, pairing with a device or network may be performed in a manner that reduces or limits the "on time" of a radio associated with vaporizer 100 (integrated into circuit board 116, operably coupled to circuit board 116 as a separate component). The wireless component may be awakened in a short time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) to allow the wireless component to search, find, and link with another component. Other components of circuit board 116 may include a test component for the battery that measures voltage or current and converts analog to digital for acquisition by the electronic components that communicate with the wireless component. The functionality of locating vaporizer 100 initiated using a user device may provide arrows, sound and light instructions, sound or tactile feedback on an interface displayed using the user device that changes frequency, intensity, or rate based on proximity, etc.

[0064] The battery may also be protected in other ways. Insertion or removal of the cartridge 130 may serve as an electrically enabled "on" or "off" function. In an embodiment, the vaporization device 100 remains in a dormant state (e.g., not drawing energy or using power) after assembly until the cartridge 130 is first inserted, at which time the radio associated with the vaporization device 100 is first enabled (e.g., the first Bluetooth ping). In an embodiment, the radio may return to the dormant state after the cartridge 130 is removed from the vaporization device 100. In an alternative embodiment, the radio may remain functional after the cartridge 130 is removed from the vaporization device 100. In an embodiment, the customer may change a setting (e.g., using an application or interface described herein) to determine whether the device is dormant or whether the radio should remain functional when the cartridge is removed after initial use.

[0065] In embodiments, the system may include vaporization device 100 (or other vaporization devices disclosed herein) having a wireless communication component. The system may also include an application or user interface configured to provide one or both of information about the vaporization device and control of the vaporization device. The user interface may include textual or graphical representations of device status or information as discussed herein, and may also allow a user to control the device or modify its functions or settings as disclosed herein.

[0066] Figures 12 to 19 Various views of a cassette 130 are shown including elements or associated components described herein.

[0067] Fig. 20A and 20B A block diagram showing the magnet orientation described herein. Specifically, Fig. 20A The display cartridge 130 is properly oriented relative to the housing 110 so as to match the polarity of the magnets of the cartridge 130 to the opposite polarity of the housing 110, thereby creating attraction and properly positioning the cartridge 130 for use with the vaporization device of the housing 110. Fig. 20B Zhongcong Fig. 20A When the orientation of the cartridge 130 is rotated 180 degrees, the same polarity is aligned between the magnets of the cartridge 130 and the housing 110, thereby generating a repulsive force and preventing the cartridge 130 from being placed in the housing 110. By performing this alignment, the user can be assured that the cartridge is properly placed and that the cartridge will receive power from the vaporization device as expected. This can be particularly important when including electrical contacts with multiple polarities, when the cartridge or vaporization device has an asymmetric design, or when accurate and consistent contact between the electrical communication components of the vaporization device and the cartridge 130 is desired or required for use and / or life.

[0068] As shown, the housing 110 may include a cutout portion 111 with which an extension of the shell 138 mates when the cartridge 130 is coupled to the vaporization device. Figures 21 to 23 As can be appreciated in the drawings, the cutout portion 211 and the extension may not be symmetrical about one or more of the three axes. For example, the housing 210 may include a cutout portion 211 on one side of a first end along a first axis but not on the opposite side of the other end. The cassette 230 may be similarly configured, thereby increasing mechanical interference as an alternative or complementary mechanism for properly orienting the cassette 230 in the housing 210. Figures 21 to 23 Examples of vaporization devices in may also include, for example, charging hood 270 and / or other elements described elsewhere herein. Figures 21 to 23 An example of a cartridge 230 in may also include, for example, a steam tube 236, a shell 238, a tab hole 240, a fluid compartment 246, first and second cartridge magnets 160 and 161, a spring pin 166, and / or other elements described elsewhere herein.

[0069] In embodiments, in addition to the cutout portion 211 and the difference in magnet bias, the housing 210 may also be asymmetrical. For example, the housing 210 may be expanded, tapered, stepped, or have a different profile or shape when comparing a first side to its opposite side (e.g., in terms of one or more of height, width, and depth). The cassette 230 or a portion thereof may be shaped to engage with the asymmetrical housing 210. Furthermore, the cassette 230 or a portion thereof may be asymmetrical even if the housing 210 is generally symmetrical.

[0070] The examples in this article may include a Figures 1 to 23 A method for an apparatus disclosed in . An example method may include providing a vaporization device with a housing having a first housing magnet and a second housing magnet. The first housing magnet is generally oriented in a first polarity configuration, and the second housing magnet is generally oriented in a second polarity configuration. The second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration. The method may also include providing a cassette configured to contain a fluid for vaporization. The cassette is configured to mate with the housing and has a first cassette magnet and a second cassette magnet. The first cassette magnet is configured to attract the first housing magnet and repel the second housing magnet when coupling the cassette with the housing, and the second cassette magnet is configured to attract the second housing magnet and repel the first housing magnet when coupling the cassette with the housing. The method also includes coupling the cassette with the housing according to the polarity of the magnets.

[0071] A further aspect herein may include a method for producing Figures 1 to 23 Method for the apparatus disclosed in . Various components may be constructed and assembled in a frame. A charging cover and an outer shell cover may be attached to the frame, and the frame and charging cover assembly may be inserted into an outer shell. Magnets may be arranged in the charging cover and the outer shell cover to properly place the cartridge in the vaporizing device or to properly place the vaporizing device in the charger. Similarly, the cartridge may be constructed by the following steps: producing the elements described herein; assembling a fluid compartment containing various subcomponents therein; filling the fluid compartment; sealing the fluid compartment; and assembling a housing and a mouthpiece over the top of the fluid compartment. Magnets may be arranged in the cartridge with appropriate polarity to properly place the cartridge in the vaporizing device.

[0072] Although aspects of the present invention have been particularly shown and described with reference to the above examples, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various combinations of the disclosed aspects or additional aspects may be contemplated by modifying the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed content. These aspects should be understood to fall within the scope of the present invention as determined based on the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A personal vaporizer, comprising: a housing defined by a height extending along a first axis, a width extending along a second axis, and a depth extending along a third axis, having at least a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls; a power supply disposed in the housing; a charging assembly configured to charge the power supply disposed on a bottom end of the housing along the first axis; box; a cartridge port configured to receive the cartridge having six sides, the cartridge port being disposed on a top end of the housing along the first axis, wherein the cartridge is not symmetrical about an axis of rotation, wherein the cartridge includes a first cartridge magnet and a second cartridge magnet positioned on opposite sides of the axis and spaced apart from each other, wherein the first cartridge magnet has an outward facing pole and the second cartridge magnet has an outward facing pole, the outward facing pole of the second cartridge magnet being opposite to the outward facing pole of the first cartridge magnet; a first housing magnet of the cartridge port generally oriented in a first polarity configuration; a second housing magnet of the cartridge port that is generally oriented in a second polarity configuration, wherein the second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration; an electrical contact of the cartridge port configured to establish electrical communication when the cartridge is placed in the cartridge port; a vapor chamber of the fluid compartment, the vapor chamber being configured to separate a portion of the fluid from the fluid compartment during vaporization; and A frame arranges the power supply, the charging assembly, the first housing magnet, the second housing magnet, and the electrical contacts within the housing.

2. The personal vaporizer of claim 1, comprising: the fluid compartment of the cassette; a housing of the cassette, wherein a cassette dimension is defined by the fluid compartment and the housing, wherein the fluid compartment and the housing are configured to be placed in the cassette port, wherein the fluid compartment is placed in the housing by being at least partially nested in a substantially hollow portion of the cassette port; a first case magnet of the case configured to attract the first housing magnet and repel the second housing magnet when coupling the case and the housing; and A second cassette magnet of the cassette is configured to attract the second housing magnet and repel the first housing magnet when coupling the cassette with the housing.

3. The personal vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the power supply is a rechargeable battery.

4. A personal vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge includes a shell having a first side and a second side relative to an axis of rotation, wherein the first side includes a downward protrusion and the second side includes a flat edge, wherein the shell includes a first groove on the first side thereof for receiving the protrusion, and the shell includes a flat edge on the second side, the flat edge abutting the flat edge on the cartridge when the protrusion is received in the first groove.

5. The personal vaporizer of claim 4, comprising: At least one offset extends from the mouthpiece, the at least one offset configured to provide an air gap between the mouthpiece and the fluid compartment.

6. The personal vaporizer of claim 4, comprising: An electrical heating element of the cassette.

7. The personal vaporizer of claim 6, comprising: A pogo pin extends through the body of the cartridge, the pogo pin being configured to provide electrical communication between the electrical contact and the electrical heating element.

8. The personal vaporizer of claim 6, wherein the electrical heating element is disposed along the second axis.

9. The personal vaporizer of claim 6, comprising: The steam chamber of the cassette; The electric heating element is arranged in the steam chamber.

10. The personal vaporizer of claim 9, comprising: A steam conduit establishes fluid communication between the steam chamber and the mouthpiece.

11. The personal vaporizer of claim 10, comprising: A fluid permeable material is disposed between the steam conduit and the mouthpiece.

12. The personal vaporizer of claim 3, comprising: a fluid port formed in the cassette, the fluid port being offset from the rotational axis; A membrane is disposed between the fluid compartment and the mouthpiece, a portion of the membrane covering the fluid port and including a downwardly extending plug received in the fluid port.

13. The personal vaporizer of claim 2, comprising: a cutout of the housing; and An extension of the cassette is configured to mate with the cutout when the cassette is coupled to the housing.

14. The personal vaporizer of claim 13, wherein the cutout and the extension are not symmetrical about one or both of the first axis and the second axis.

15. The personal vaporizer of claim 3, comprising: A charging cover is in electrical communication with the rechargeable battery.

16. The personal vaporizer of claim 15, comprising: The charging contacts of the charging cover are configured to establish electrical communication with a charger.

17. The personal vaporizer of claim 16, comprising: A charging geometry is configured to mechanically position the charging enclosure in the charger.

18. The personal vaporizer of claim 16, comprising: The charger, wherein the charger is configured to capture at least a portion of the charging cover, and wherein the charging contacts are configured to electrically communicate with the charger when at least the portion of the charging cover is placed in the charger.

19. A method of assembling a personal vaporizer, the method comprising: providing a vaporization device with a housing having a first housing magnet and a second housing magnet, wherein the first housing magnet is generally oriented in a first polarity configuration, and wherein the second housing magnet is generally oriented in a second polarity configuration, wherein the second polarity configuration is generally opposite to the first polarity configuration; Providing a cassette having six sides, the cassette configured to contain a fluid for vaporization, wherein the cassette is not symmetrical about an axis of rotation and has a first cassette magnet and a second cassette magnet, wherein the first cassette magnet and the second cassette magnet are arranged to have opposite polarities facing outward; providing a vapor chamber of a fluid compartment, the vapor chamber being configured to separate a portion of the fluid from the fluid compartment during vaporization; and The cassette is oriented such that opposite polarities on the first and second cassette magnets face the first and second housing magnets to create an attractive magnetic force between the cassette and the housing to pull the cassette into the housing.

20. The method of claim 19, electrically connecting the cassette to the housing as the cassette is drawn into the housing by creating contact between cassette and housing electrical connections in opposing relation when the cassette magnets and housing magnets are aligned to create the attractive magnetic force.

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