A container of combustible material

Abstract

The present invention provides a vessel for a combustible material, comprising: a vessel body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being concave and bounded by a flange at the outer edge of the top surface; a protrusion in the top surface, the protrusion including a protrusion peak, the protrusion peak being below a plane defined by the flange; a plurality of holes disposed in a side wall of the protrusion, the plurality of holes penetrating the top surface and the bottom surface of the vessel body; and a combustible material supported by the top surface. The vessel can be used with an electric hookah device.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 201480080535.2. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of hookahs, and more particularly to containers of combustible material that can be used in electrically operated hookah devices. Background Art

[0003] The hookah, also known as narghile, argileh, shisha, hubble-bubble and goza, is a popular device for water pipe smoking. Traditional hookahs use charcoal to ignite the combustible material and produce smoke. The combustible material is placed in a pot, covered with perforated aluminum, and charcoal bricks are lit and placed on top. Air is drawn into the pot by suction through a hose, heating the combustible material and producing smoke. The smoke is drawn into the water by the tube and finally discharged through the hose.

[0004] There are several problems with traditional hookahs. For example, preparing, operating and maintaining a hookah can be a tedious task. Many different tools are required, including scrubs, tips, brushes, etc. The process of preparing a hookah for smoking is time-consuming, cumbersome and requires a certain level of skill. In order to prepare a hookah for smoking, one must handle loose tobacco or other combustible material, place it in a pot and cover it in an appropriate manner so that it can optimally produce smoke. Operating a hookah is also complicated. One must manipulate or replace the charcoal to heat the combustible material at the optimal temperature and ensure that the combustible material is ultimately consumed in its entirety. Finally, maintaining a hookah is an equally arduous task. Cleaning the pot requires removing the consumed combustible material and the resulting juice. In addition, complex disassembly and manual cleaning or replacement of multiple parts may be required.

[0005] There are also several health and safety issues associated with traditional hookahs. For example, the use of charcoal produces toxic chemicals, such as carbon monoxide or metals, which are ultimately inhaled by the user. Furthermore, during operation, the charcoal can become hazardous. There are few safeguards to prevent the user from accidentally touching the charcoal and getting burned. Furthermore, traditional hookahs can easily tip over, and the charcoal is not secured to the bowl. There is a potential risk of charcoal falling into the area surrounding the hookah, causing damage or bodily injury.

[0006] Known to the applicants are U.S. Patent 8,550,091 (YOMTOV et al.) and U.S. Patent Applications 2006 / 0086365 (LIU) and 2010 / 0212679 (BISHARA). LIU, YOMTOV and BISHARA each disclose methods of modifying the hookah with electrical heating components instead of charcoal. The disadvantage is that these electrical heating components are not efficient in terms of electricity. In addition, they do not disclose improvements in simplifying the preparation of the hookah for smoking. Furthermore, they disclose the use of external electrical components and wiring, which may make the hookah less stable and more difficult to transport and operate.

[0007] The applicant is also aware of international patent application WO2013 / 001272 (JALLOUL et al.). JALLOUL discloses a pre-packaged smokable material container. A disadvantage is that the container disclosed in JALLOUL is designed for use with conventional hookah devices and is therefore not suitable for use with electric hookahs. Furthermore, the container requires the use of special holding equipment around conventional hookahs in order to work properly.

[0008] In view of the above, there is a need for an improved electric hookah device and method of operation thereof to overcome at least some of the problems in the prior art. There is also a need for an improved vessel suitable for use with an electric hookah. Summary of the invention

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electric hookah device is provided. The device includes a container for containing liquid and provided with an orifice. The device also includes a housing having a first section and a second section, and a conduit. The first section is removably mounted on the orifice of the container and forms a smoke exhaust chamber together with the container. The smoke exhaust chamber is provided with a smoke outlet, which can be connected to a hose. The second section includes a combustion unit and an electronic device unit. The combustion unit includes a vessel rack and a heating unit, the vessel rack being configured to hold a vessel of a combustible material, and the heating unit being configured to heat the vessel and generate smoke from the combustible material. The electronic device unit includes an electrical power unit and a programmable controller connected to the power unit, the programmable controller being configured to power the heating unit in a controllable manner. Finally, the conduit forms a part of the smoke path from the combustion unit to the smoke outlet. The conduit has a first end and a second end. The first end extends in the combustion unit and the second end extends in the container. The size and configuration of the second end are set to be immersed in the liquid during operation of the device.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an electric hookah device is provided. The method first comprises the steps of providing an electric hookah such as described above. Next, the method comprises the steps of heating the vessel by supplying power from an electric power unit to a heating unit. Finally, the method comprises the steps of controlling the temperature of the heating unit using a programmable controller.

[0011] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vessel for a combustible material. The vessel comprises a vessel body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being concave and bounded at its outer edge by a flange. The top surface of the vessel comprises a protrusion having a highest point of the protrusion below a plane defined by the flange. A plurality of holes are provided in the side wall of the protrusion, the holes penetrating the top and bottom surfaces of the vessel body. Finally, the vessel comprises a combustible material supported by the top surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a hookah device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of a hookah device.

[0014] Figure 2A According to one embodiment, Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a programmable controller in a hookah device.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a hookah device.

[0016] Figure 4 According to one possible embodiment, Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a housing in a hookah device.

[0017] Figure 5 According to one possible embodiment, Figure 1 A top view of a heating plate in a hookah device.

[0018] Figure 6 According to one possible embodiment, Figure 1 A perspective view of a vessel holder in a hookah device.

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a vessel according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 8A yes Figure 7 Attached view of the vessel.

[0021] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A A cross-sectional view of the vessel taken along line BB.

[0022] Figure 8C yes Figure 8B Detail taken along line C.

[0023] Fig. 9is a flow chart illustrating a process for inserting a vessel into a hookah device according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig.10 is a flow chart illustrating a process for controlling a heating unit in a hookah device according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig.11 is a flow chart illustrating, according to one embodiment, Fig.10 The process is used to individually control the heating elements during the process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] In the following description, the same reference numerals refer to similar elements. If certain elements are more clearly identified in certain drawings, they may not be identified in other drawings. The embodiments described in this specification are only preferred embodiments; they are given for illustrative purposes only.

[0027] Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, position descriptions such as "top", "bottom", "side", "lower", "upper", etc. are made in the context of the drawings and should not be considered limiting or implying an orientation to be taken during use.

[0028] 1. Overview

[0029] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to a possible embodiment, an electric hookah device 1 is provided. The hookah 1 is mainly composed of a housing 6 installed above a container 2, wherein a conduit 28 extends between the two.

[0030] The container 2 is a can configured to contain a liquid 31. The container may be made of any liquid-impermeable material, such as plastic or glass. The container 2 is provided with a sidewall 5 extending between a base 3 and an orifice 4. In the embodiment shown, the container 2 is substantially cylindrical, but other configurations are possible. The base 3 allows the container to rest stably. In the present embodiment, the base 3 is a flat surface, but other configurations are possible. For example, the base 3 may include legs, or its size and shape may be set to fit in a standard car cup holder. In the present embodiment, a pedestal 7 is provided on the base 3. The pedestal 7 may be made of, for example, silicone or rubber, which helps prevent lateral movement of the hookah 1 while also increasing its stability. In some embodiments, the base 3 may be provided with an adapter for mounting in a standard car cup holder or the like. The orifice 4 is an opening that allows the liquid 31 to be injected into the container 2, and its size and shape are set to allow the housing 6 to be mounted thereon. In the present embodiment, the container 2 is assembled to the housing 6 via a threaded connection 35. Preferably, the connection between the container 2 and the housing 6 is airtight, for example, using a gasket mounted on the tank. Of course, other types of connections are also possible, such as snap connections, magnetic connections or press-fit connections, which can also provide airtight sealing.

[0031] The housing 6 comprises a first section 8 and a second section 9. The first section 8 is mounted above the orifice 4 of the container 2 and forms a smoke exhaust chamber 12 together with the container 2. The smoke exhaust chamber 12 is an isolated space in which smoke can accumulate while being inhaled by a user. The smoke exhaust chamber 12 is provided with a smoke outlet 14 allowing smoke to leave the smoke exhaust chamber. The smoke outlet 14 may be connectable to a hose 15, preferably by an airtight connection, for example via a seal fixed to the end of the hose 15. In operation, the user inhales through the hose 15, drawing smoke into the smoke exhaust chamber 12 and eventually out through the smoke outlet 14.

[0032] The smoke exhaust chamber 12 is also provided with a one-way valve 34. The one-way valve 34 is a passage that allows gas to leave the smoke exhaust chamber 12 when a positive pressure, i.e., a pressure greater than the ambient atmospheric pressure, is applied to the smoke exhaust chamber 12. When zero or negative pressure is applied, the one-way valve 34 acts as a barrier to effectively prevent gas from passing through and maintain any vacuum applied to the smoke exhaust chamber 12. This configuration allows the one-way valve 34 to close when a user inhales through the smoke outlet 14, so that the user can inhale smoke from the smoke exhaust chamber 12 as if there were no valve. However, when there is an excess of smoke, or if there is stale smoke in the smoke exhaust chamber, the user can instead blow through the smoke outlet 14, causing the one-way valve 34 to open, so that smoke is discharged from the smoke exhaust chamber. In the illustrated embodiment, the one-way valve 34 is an umbrella valve disposed near the lower side of the first section 8 of the housing 6. The body of the valve 34 can be located outside the housing 6 and installed by a pipe joint connected to the inner side of the housing 6. Other valve positions and configurations are certainly possible. The present invention also allows the use of other types of non-return valves, such as ball valves.Some embodiments without non-return valves can be provided.

[0033] In some embodiments, the smoke exhaust chamber 12 may include multiple smoke outlets 14 for connection to multiple hoses 15. In such embodiments, the smoke outlets 14 may also include a one-way valve 34. In this configuration, the user will be able to inhale along one of the hoses 15 without losing any suction through the other smoke outlets 14 because the other smoke outlets 14 will be blocked by their respective one-way valves 34.

[0034] The second section 9 of the housing houses a combustion unit 16 and an electronics unit 22. The combustion unit 16 is where the combustible material (e.g., tobacco) is heated to produce smoke. The combustion unit 16 includes a vessel holder 18 and a heating unit 20. The vessel holder 18 is a seat that is sized and shaped to support the vessel 100. The vessel 100 can be filled with the combustible material. In some embodiments, the vessel 100 is pre-packaged, meaning that they can be filled and sealed before being placed in the vessel holder 18. The heating unit 20 is an electric device that can heat the combustible material to a smoking temperature. The electronics unit 22 contains a large number of electronic devices required to operate the hookah 1. It can include an electrical power unit 24 that powers the heating unit 20, and a programmable controller 26 that controllably powers the heating unit 20.

[0035] The conduit 28 is used to guide smoke from the combustion unit 16 to the smoke exhaust chamber 12. It includes a first end 29 extending into the combustion unit 16 and a second end 30 extending into the container 2. In operation, the second end 30 is preferably immersed in the liquid 31. In this configuration, the conduit 28 forms a part of a smoke path 32 from the combustion unit to the smoke outlet 14. The smoke path 32 starts in the combustion unit 16 where smoke is initially generated, passes through the conduit 28, then enters the container 2, arrives below the liquid 31, enters the smoke exhaust chamber 12 upward through the liquid 31, and finally goes out through the smoke outlet 14. The user inhales through the smoke outlet 14, causing the smoke to travel along the smoke path 32 and then reach the user's mouth. In a preferred embodiment, each component connected along the smoke path 32 includes an airtight seal. In this way, inhaling from the smoke outlet 14 generates suction, which draws smoke from the combustion unit 16 exclusively. With the seal, there is no gap between the components where air can be inhaled and suction loss occurs. Of course, other configurations are possible as long as the duct fulfills its role as the smoke path 32 .

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, conduit 28 is a straight vertical rod made of glass. In this configuration, conduit 28 can be removed via combustion unit 16 for maintenance. First end 29 is also flared, which ensures that conduit 28 can only be inserted in one possible orientation, and also helps to form a seal between conduit 28 and combustion unit 16. Of course, other conduit 28 configurations and materials are also possible. For example, conduit 28 can be made of any material that does not react with water. Conduit 28 can also be a bendable tube such as made of plastic or rubber. In a preferred embodiment, conduit 28 is sealed along its length. This means that there is no loss when smoke travels from combustion unit 16 until it is immersed in liquid 31 below container 2. In certain embodiments, each end 29, 30 of conduit 28 can be provided with an introduction hole or diffusion hole 33. In an alternative embodiment, the conduit can be made by connecting several subsections together.

[0037] 2. Shell

[0038] In the present embodiment, the housing 6 is a cylindrical shape complementary to the container. It can be made of metal or any other heat-resistant material, such as plastic or ceramic. The housing 6 is provided with a removable cover 42 for covering the combustion unit 16. The removable cover 42 is provided with an air inlet 46, which allows ambient air to enter the combustion unit 16 when suction is applied by the conduit 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the air inlet 46 is fixed, but in other embodiments, the cover 42 can be provided with an adjustment mechanism, such as a rotatable disk, which allows the size and / or quantity of the air inlet to be controlled. In this configuration, the user can control how much air the ignited combustible material can obtain according to his or her smoking preference. Preferably, the cover 42 can include a heat-insulating material, such as silicone or ceramic, so as to protect the external user from being burned by the combustion unit 16.

[0039] Further references Figure 4 , a removable cover 42 is attached to the housing 6 via a hinge 44. In this way, the cover can be raised from one side to allow access to the vessel rack 18. The cover is provided with a latch mechanism 43 for keeping the cover closed. In the present embodiment, the latch mechanism comprises a tongue in the cover 42 and a corresponding groove in the housing 6. Other types of latching mechanisms are also possible. For example, the cover can be kept closed using magnetism. In the present embodiment, the latch can be disengaged by lifting the cover with sufficient force. In other embodiments, the latch can be disengaged by a button or by electrical control. The latch mechanism 43 can also be provided with a controllable locking mechanism. In this case, when the hookah is operated, the latch mechanism can be locked to prevent the user from opening the cover 42 when the heating mechanism is at a dangerous temperature.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 6 is provided with a partition 38, in this embodiment a plate, which separates the first and second sections 8 and 9. When the housing 6 is assembled on the container, the plate 38 completes the smoke exhaust chamber 12 by covering the orifice 4 of the container 2. The plate 38 is used to isolate the second section 8 from the first section 9 and to block smoke or liquid in the smoke exhaust chamber 12 from entering the second section 8. The housing 6 is also provided with a vessel rack 18 near the upper portion of the second section 9. The vessel rack 18 and the plate 38 are spaced apart, thereby defining an electronic device chamber 23 for accommodating the electronic device unit 22.

[0041] The plate 38 may be provided with a channel allowing fluid communication between the smoke exhaust chamber 12 and the components in the second section 9. In this embodiment, there is a conduit channel 40 connecting the combustion unit 16 to the smoke exhaust chamber 12. In the embodiment shown, the conduit channel 40 is a hollow tube extending from the plate 38 to the bottom of the vessel rack 18 in the combustion unit 16. The size and shape of the hollow tube 40 are set to receive the conduit 28. It will be appreciated that the hollow tube 40 allows communication between the combustion unit 16 and the smoke exhaust chamber 12 via the conduit 28 while maintaining isolation between the electronics chamber 23 and the smoke exhaust chamber 12, thereby protecting the electrical components housed in the electronics chamber 23 from the liquid 31 or smoke in the smoke exhaust chamber 12. If the hookah device 1 is tilted or inverted, the liquid 31 traveling through the conduit channel 40 will travel within the confines of the tube 40 until it reaches the vessel rack 18. Therefore, the liquid 31 does not have a path to enter the electronics chamber 23. In this configuration, there is a permanent seal independent of the conduit 28 between the smoke exhaust chamber 12 and the electronics chamber 23. Therefore, the conduit 28 can be easily removed without affecting the seal. In some embodiments, the conduit channel 40 can be used to complete the smoke path 32. For example, the conduit 28 can be configured so that the first end 29 is sealedly connected to the lower side of the conduit channel 40 in the plate 38. In this configuration, the conduit channel 40 is used to guide the smoke from the combustion unit 16 downward to the plate 38, and the conduit 28 completes the smoke path 32 and guides the smoke from the plate 38 to the container 6. In other embodiments, the conduit channel 40 can be a simple hole in the plate 38, and the conduit 28 can pass through the hole. However, the liquid 31 may enter the electronics chamber 23 through the area between the conduit and the channel hole 40. Therefore, additional sealing is required between the conduit 28 and the plate 38 around the hole 40. This seal will be affected by the position and configuration of the conduit 28, it is difficult to ensure a particularly good seal, and it is difficult to remove the conduit 28.

[0042] The plate 38 may be provided with additional channels to allow some electronic devices, such as specialized sensors, to communicate with the smoke exhaust chamber 12. In the illustrated embodiment, there is a sensor channel 41. The sensor channel 41 connects the sensor 17 in the electronics chamber 23 to the smoke exhaust chamber 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor channel 41 is a small hole with a cylindrical wall located on the plate 38 and just above the smoke outlet 14. The cylindrical wall is configured to be attached to the input end of the pressure sensor 17 via, for example, a flexible tube, while the body of the sensor 17 is located in the electronics chamber 23. The pressure sensor 17 can detect pressure changes in the smoke exhaust chamber 12 to determine when the user inhales through the smoke outlet 14. The sensed information can be used to control the hookah. Preferably, there is a permanent seal around the sensor channel 41 so that no smoke or liquid 31 can enter the electronics chamber 23. In other embodiments, other types of sensors can be used to detect gas flow in the smoke exhaust chamber, such as turbines, motion sensors or smoke detectors. Some embodiments allow the use of multiple sensors, each with their own channels. Additionally, a passageway may be used to allow the detection portion of the sensor to enter the smoke exhaust chamber 12 .

[0043] In more detail, the electronics chamber 23 is configured to house a plurality of electronic components. Within the electronics chamber 23 is an electronic support 27, which is configured to receive and support the power unit 24 and the programmable controller 26. The housing 6 is also provided with air holes 25 in the electronics chamber 23 to help cool the electronic components. It may also be provided with one or more input / output (I / O) outlets 58 to allow I / O elements 56 such as lights or buttons to be seen and / or interact with the outside of the housing 6. In some embodiments, one of the I / O elements 56 may be an LED or a series of LEDs. The LED may be a power level indicator to indicate the power level of the power unit 24. The LED may also be a power status indicator light to indicate the power status of the heating unit, for example to indicate whether the heating unit is operating at full power, operating in a low power mode, or to indicate whether the heating unit is in on / hot or off / safe for processing. Other embodiments may also have decorative LEDs, or LEDs to illuminate components of different functions such as the heating unit 20, the vessel rack 18, or the container 2. For example, the housing 6 may be provided with LEDs in the form of circles which shine downwardly towards the container, and these LEDs may also be used to indicate the power status of the heating unit or other functional status of the hookah.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the power unit 24 is a direct current (DC) power unit including a rechargeable battery. However, in other embodiments, the power unit 24 may be an alternating current (AC) power unit. The power unit 24 may include a protection circuit module (PCM) to protect the battery from overcharging, overdischarging or leakage. It may also include a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple, for monitoring the temperature of the battery. The power unit 24 may also include an AC-DC converter to allow the battery to be charged by external AC power. The device may be powered only by the power unit 24, or may also be powered by external power, which may be AC ​​or DC. The external power may be received by the power inlet 58 on the side of the housing 6. The DC power from the power unit 24 is used to power the programmable controller 26. The heating unit 20 may also be powered by DC power, or by AC power.

[0045] Further references Figure 2A In this embodiment, the programmable controller 26 is a printed circuit board (PCB) including a processor 261 and a programmable memory 262. In some embodiments, the PCB 26 may also include a wireless communication device 263, such as a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi chip. The PCB 26 is electrically connected to the heating unit 20, the I / O element 56, and the sensor 17. In response to input signals from the sensor 17, the I / O element 56, and / or the wireless communication device 263, the controller 26 operates the heating unit 20 according to its program instructions. Details about the program instructions will be given later in this disclosure.

[0046] The arrangement of the electronic components within the electronics chamber 23 may vary according to different embodiments. Preferably, the electronics are evenly arranged around a common central axis, ie the conduit 28, to ensure an even weight distribution for overall stability and centering balance of the hookah device 1.

[0047] 3. Heating unit

[0048] In more detail, Figure 2 As best shown in , the heating unit 20 includes a heating plate 21. The heating plate 21 is a flat disk-shaped heating element that can be supplied with electricity to heat the combustible material in the vessel 100 to a smoking temperature. In the present embodiment, the heating plate 21 is supported above the vessel rack 18 by a heating plate support 19. In this configuration, the heating plate 21 is not in direct contact with the vessel 100. The heating plate 21 and the support 19 can also be integrated in a removable cover 42. In this configuration, when the cover 42 is opened, the heating element 21 moves with the cover 42. Other configurations are certainly possible. For example, the heating plate 21 can be arranged below the vessel rack, or can be integrated into the vessel rack 18.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the heating plate 21 is constructed so that its temperature and heat distribution can be controlled. Figure 5 , the heating plate 21 may include separate heating sections 60a, 60b and 60c. Each heating section includes individually controllable resistive elements 62a, 62b and 62c. In this configuration, specific sections of the heating plate 21 can be activated by the electronics unit 22 so as to heat only the corresponding portion of the combustible material contained in the vessel. This allows the combustible material to burn at a desired temperature while also facilitating optimal output from the vessel. Other variations are also possible. For example, portions of the resistive element 62a of one heating section 60a may be interwoven with the resistive element 62b of another section 60b. Of course, the heating plate may be provided with more than one resistive element. Figure 5 More or fewer heating zones are shown.

[0050] The heating unit 20 may also include a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple 63, for monitoring the temperature of the combustion unit 16. In the present embodiment, the thermocouple is integrated into the heating plate 21 and measures the temperature of the heating plate 21. The signal from the thermocouple may be interpreted by the programmable controller 26 to control the operation of the heating unit 20. In other embodiments, the temperature sensor may be arranged elsewhere. For example, the temperature sensor may be integrated into the vessel rack 18 or into the removable cover 42.

[0051] Each of the resistor elements 62a, 62b, 62c in the heating unit 20 is electrically connected to the electronics unit 22 via connection lines 64a, 64b and 64c. Each resistor element 62a, 62b, 62c has a dedicated connection for providing current to it from the power unit 24. The current flowing out of the power unit 24 is controlled by the programmable controller 26. Of course, in other embodiments, the heating unit 20 can be powered by a different type of connection to the power unit 24. For example, it can be heated by magnetic induction. In this embodiment, the thermocouple 63 is directly connected to the programmable controller 26 via the connection line 64d. In other embodiments, for example, it can be connected wirelessly.

[0052] 4. Utensil rack

[0053] Still reference Figures 1 to 3 , the vessel holder 18 is a receptacle that is sized and shaped to receive the vessel 100. The vessel holder 18 is complementary in shape to the vessel 100 so that the vessel 100 can fit stably within the vessel holder 18 and so that an airtight seal exists between the vessel holder 18 and the vessel 100. In this embodiment, the vessel holder 18 sits on a lip within the housing 6 and rests on the top of the conduit passage tube 40 and is sealingly connected to the conduit passage tube 40. In addition, the vessel holder 18 is also sized to act as a cap on the top of the electronics chamber 23 to seal the electronics chamber from the combustion unit 16.

[0054] Further references Figure 6 , the vessel holder 18 includes a concave portion 51 and a flange 47 around its periphery for connection with the shell. In the present embodiment, the concave portion 51 is an inverted dome for receiving the corresponding portion of the vessel 100, but in other configurations, the concave portion 51 can have different shapes to accommodate different vessel designs. The vessel holder 18 is also provided with a central aperture 48 to allow the catheter 28 to pass through and enter the catheter channel 40. In the present embodiment, the central aperture 48 is configured to support the catheter 28 when the catheter 28 is inserted. In particular, the central aperture 48 includes an abutment portion 49, which is a flat area near the lower portion of the dome 51. The abutment portion 49 is used to provide a normal force to resist the expansion of the first end 29 of the catheter 28, thereby preventing the catheter 28 from completely passing through the central aperture 48.

[0055] In more detail, the vessel rack 18 may include a mechanism for easily removing the vessel 100 therefrom. In the present embodiment, the removal mechanism is a notch 52. The notch 52 is a small cutout or recess in the vessel rack 18, near the position where the flange 47 meets the dome 51. The notch 52 is arranged so that when the vessel is assembled in the vessel rack 18, the notch 52 is against the outer edge of the vessel 100. The size of the notch 52 is set to accommodate the user's finger or nail to allow the user to achieve leverage below the vessel 100 to easily remove the vessel 100. Other types of removal mechanisms are also possible. For example, the removal mechanism can be a lever, an actuating rod, or a controllable compressed air jet.

[0056] The vessel holder 18 may also be configured to accommodate a removable cover 42. In this embodiment, the vessel holder 18 is provided with a cutout or recess 54 for accommodating the hinge mechanism 44 in the cover 42.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, there is an airtight seal between the vessel holder 18 and the vessel 100. The vessel holder 18 can therefore be provided with a groove 50 for tightly receiving a portion of the vessel 100, and an O-ring 55 or a gasket can also be provided at the location where the vessel holder 18 engages with the vessel 100. For example, the O-ring or gasket can be provided in the dome 51. Preferably, there is also an airtight seal between the vessel holder 18 and the conduit 28. Therefore, an O-ring or gasket can also be provided at the location where the conduit 28 engages with the vessel holder 18. For example, the O-ring or gasket can be provided along the expansion portion of the conduit 28, or along the abutment portion 49 of the vessel holder 18.

[0058] In some embodiments, the vessel rack 18 may be provided with sensors to provide information about the vessel 100 to the programmable controller 26. For example, the vessel rack 18 may be provided with a scanning sensor 53, such as an optical scanner, a radio frequency identifier (RFID) scanner, etc., to detect whether the vessel 100 is new or used. Similar scanning sensors 53 may also be used to detect whether the vessel is authentic or a replica, such as by scanning a barcode or other visual or RFID presented on the vessel 100. In alternative embodiments, the scanning sensor 53 may be arranged elsewhere, such as in the cover 42.

[0059] As can be appreciated from the embodiments described so far, the various containers 2, electronics compartment 23 and combustion unit 16 are stacked one above the other along a common vertical axis, i.e., along the axis of the conduit / rod 28, with the container 2 forming a base on top of which the hookah device 1 is supported. Under this configuration, the weight is evenly distributed to allow the hookah device 1 to be stably supported, even when the container 2 is empty, and no additional support members around the base are required. When the container 2 is filled with liquid 31, the additional weight provided by the liquid 31 is located near the base of the hookah device 1, thereby providing it with a lower center of gravity and thus stability. This stable configuration, in combination with the sealed compartment, the use of the packaging vessel 100 and the absence of hot charcoal, makes it less likely that the hookah device 1 will spill liquid 31 or hot material.

[0060] 5. Utensils

[0061] refer to Figure 7 , a single view of one embodiment of a vessel 100 for combustible material is shown. The vessel 100 has a concave section 103, the outer edge of which is defined by a flange 104, and the inner edge of which is defined by a protrusion 105. The concave section 103 supports a combustible material 101, such as tobacco. The protrusion includes a side wall 106 extending upward toward a highest point 113 of the protrusion. The side wall 106 includes a plurality of holes 108, which are preferably slightly higher than the mid-height of the protrusion, and the size of these holes is set to allow smoke from the vessel to pass through while blocking the passage of combustible material.

[0062] Further references Fig. 8A , 8B 8C, the shape of the protrusion in this embodiment is set for contact with the conduit in the hookah device. The protrusion is hollow to allow smoke to be drawn into the conduit through the hole 108. The height of the protrusion 105 is preferably at the same height as the flange 104, or just below the height of the flange 104. In other words, the flange 104 defines a plane 114 extending across the top of the vessel 100, and the protrusion is below the plane 114.

[0063] The vessel includes a top surface 109 and a bottom surface 110. The top surface 109 is configured to support the combustible material 101, while the bottom side 110 is configured to rest on a vessel stand. The top surface 109 may be lined with a waterproof material to prevent liquid from the combustible material from escaping the vessel. The bottom surface 110 may be provided with, for example, a sealing element 118, such as a plastic or rubber O-ring, to ensure an airtight seal with the vessel stand and / or conduit. The flange 104 is provided with a wrap section 112 for fitting within a corresponding section of the vessel stand to provide a tighter seal.

[0064] In this embodiment, the concave section 103 is dome-shaped with a flat lower portion 107. Other shapes are possible, such as a cylinder. In the embodiment shown, liquid from the combustible material can accumulate near the bottom of the dome 103 and will be concentrated to a small area around the protrusion 105. In this configuration, the liquid will only wet a small amount of the combustible material, rather than spreading out and covering a larger area as if the vessel were cylindrical.

[0065] In the present embodiment, hole 108 is arranged at a higher height so that liquid cannot enter easily, thereby effectively preventing liquid from entering the conduit and making cleaning easier. Hole 108 can be arranged on the top of protrusion 105, but in the present embodiment, they are arranged to be slightly higher than the half height of protrusion 105, to obtain the best smoke flow. In this configuration, the hole is effectively arranged at the middle point of the height of the available combustible material. When vessel 100 is filled with combustible material, the material will be piled up higher than hole 108. Therefore, when the combustible material burns, smoke can be easily sucked down a short distance and enter into the hole. When burning, the combustible material will eventually drop to below the hole. At this time, smoke can be easily sucked up a short distance until the hole. Because liquid accumulates at the bottom of dome 103, the hole is located above the height of liquid accumulation.

[0066] Vessel 100 can be made of any heat-resistant material, such as aluminum. It can also be provided with a breathable membrane 115 or a lid, to accommodate combustible 101 materials and / or to protect the vessel, while allowing air to pass through when in use. For example, perforated aluminum foil 114 can be permanently arranged along the plane defined by flange 114. In this embodiment, vessel 100 can be said to be pre-packaged. Pre-packaged vessel 100 can also be provided with peelable or removable plastic or aluminum cover 119, which can cover the top of perforated aluminum foil 114 and also extend to cover the downside of hollow protrusion 105. Preferably, flange 104 is provided with step 111. This allows removable cover 119 to be attached to flange 104, and not attached to permeable membrane 115. In this configuration, removable cover 119 can be peeled off by the user, and permeable membrane 115 can not be accidentally removed. In certain embodiments, vessel can be provided with identifier tag 116. The identifier tag 116 can be an RFID or an optical tag containing information that allows, for example, a scanner in the hookah device to detect whether the vessel is new or used, or is authenticated or a replica. The optical tag can be laser etched or physically marked. The tag can change when the vessel 100 has been used. For example, digital information can be written to the RFID tag when used, or the optical tag can be made of a material that changes appearance when a predetermined temperature is reached. The tag 116 can also contain a unique key or code that only the authenticated manufacturer knows to allow the hookah device to identify the manufacturing source of the vessel 100. Of course, any other information about the vessel can also be included in the tag 116, such as heating instructions, expiration dates, etc. In the embodiment shown, the tag 116 is arranged adjacent to the flange 104. Of course, in other embodiments, the tag can be arranged elsewhere, such as anywhere along the top surface 109, the bottom surface 110, or even, for example, arranged in the breathable membrane 115. VI. Programmable Controller and Operation Method

[0067] As previously mentioned, the operation of the hookah device is controlled by a programmable controller, which in this example is a PCB containing at least a processor and a programmable memory. The controller takes inputs from feedback signals generated by various sensors, such as a pressure sensor or a smoke flow sensor, and responds by controlling output elements, such as a heating unit or an LED, according to instructions stored in the programmable memory.

[0068] refer to Fig. 9 and 10 , a method for controlling an electric hookah device is shown. The method includes providing an electric hookah, such as the electric hookah described above; heating a vessel by providing power to a heating unit of the hookah; and controlling the temperature of the heating unit of the hookah using a programmable controller of the hookah.

[0069] This method uses Fig. 9 Initially, a process for inserting a vessel into / replacing a vessel in a hookah device is shown. The process can be initiated in a variety of ways. For example, the process can be initiated when a user attempts to open a lid by pushing a button. The button generates a feedback signal, which is received by the controller.

[0070] First, in step 901, the controller uses the feedback signal from the temperature sensor to determine whether the heating unit is at a safe temperature. If the heating unit is overheated, the controller will lock the lid in a closed position and will wait for the heating unit to cool to a safe temperature 902. Once the controller has determined that the heating unit is at a safe temperature, it will allow the lid to open 903. For example, the controller can unlock the lid to allow the user to manually open the lid, or electrically control the actuator to automatically open the lid. Next, the user inserts the vessel 904 and closes the lid 905. The lid can be automatically closed by the controller, such as after the user pushes a button or after the sensor detects the presence of the vessel using an actuator to close the lid. Finally, the controller will use a sensor, such as an optical sensor or an RFID sensor, to detect whether the vessel is new or used 906. If the vessel is not new, the controller will reject the vessel, such as by reopening the lid, or blocking further operation of the hookah device. Similar steps can also be performed to detect the authentication of the vessel by scanning a barcode or RFID to avoid the use of counterfeit vessels.

[0071] Further references Fig.10 , shows the process of operating the hookah device with a download. This process includes heating the vessel in response to the user's inhalation. For example, this process can be initiated by closing the lid and powering on the system by pushing a button. For example, according to the previous process, if a new available vessel is installed and the vessel is accepted, it can be initiated Fig.10 process.

[0072] The process begins by powering a heating unit to a first level, also referred to as full power mode, using power from an electrical power unit (step 1001). The first level is a predetermined state where the temperature is high enough to ignite the combustible material contained in the vessel, for example, between 150°C and 500°C. The heating unit may be powered by providing a predetermined amount of power to the heating unit and / or by monitoring the temperature using a feedback signal and modulating the power to achieve the desired temperature. If there is not enough power to bring the heating unit up to temperature, the controller may power off the unit rather than continuing.

[0073] Once the heating unit has reached the desired first temperature, the hookah is ready for smoking. As long as the hookah remains operational, the heating unit remains at the first temperature. To determine whether the hookah is operational, a timer may be used in conjunction with an inhalation sensor, such as a pressure sensor or a movement sensor in the smoke exhaust chamber. In step 1002, the controller sets the timer to a first predetermined time. Next, the controller waits for a short period of time (step 1003), such as between 5 seconds and 120 seconds. If the user inhales during the short period of time, the timer is reset to the first predetermined time and continues from step 1002 again. If the user has not inhaled during this period, the processor decrements the timer (step 1005). Each time the timer is decremented, the processor checks whether the timer has expired, i.e., the timer has been decremented to zero (step 1006). If there is still time left in the timer, the processor waits again and continues from step 1003. If the timer has expired, the processor will place the system in a low power mode.

[0074] In the low power mode, the power supply to the heating unit is reduced to a second low power level (step 1007). The second power level is a predetermined state where the heating unit is maintained at a predetermined low power temperature, which is low enough to just keep the combustible material from burning, but high enough to allow it to burn with a small amount of added heat. For example, between 150°C and 500°C. In this way, the device can save power while being able to quickly exit the low power mode when needed.

[0075] Once the heating unit has cooled to the second power level, the processor will set the timer to a second predetermined time (step 1008). The second predetermined time is a period of time after which the device will shut down if it is not operating. Once the timer has been set, the controller will wait for a short period of time (step 1009) before checking to see if the user has inhaled during that period. If the user has inhaled, the heating unit is powered back to the first power level and the process continues from step 1001 in full power mode. If the user has not inhaled, the timer is decremented (step 1011). If the timer has not expired, the processor will wait again and continue from step 1009. However, if the timer has reached zero, the heating unit is powered off (step 1013). When powered off, the device can enter, for example, a low-power sleep mode in which only some components remain operational to detect when the user begins to use the device again. Once the heating unit has been powered off, the user will need to restart the process by, for example, pressing a button or by inhaling through a hose,

[0076] The above process is an exemplary embodiment of a method for operating an electric hookah device. Other variations or additions are possible. For example, the processor may only heat a portion of the heating element at a time. In one embodiment, steps 1001 and 1002 may be combined. Further references Fig.11 , steps 1001 and 1002 may include first resetting the timer 1101, then determining which of the plurality of heating elements to heat (step 1102), and finally individually heating the plurality of heating elements to a first power level (step 1103). In certain embodiments, the processor may include other timers or counters to make a determination in step 1002, so that a portion of the heating elements may be individually powered for a predetermined amount of time or for a predetermined number of inhalations, after which different portions of the heating elements may be powered.

[0077] Further variations are possible. For example, in step 1104, the programmable controller can control the LED, such as by changing the intensity, color, or on / off state of the LED, to indicate whether the device is in full power mode, low power mode, or whether it is sleeping or power is reduced. The LED can also be controlled to indicate whether the heating unit is at a safe temperature, whether the lid has been locked, or the vessel is rejected.

[0078] As previously described, some embodiments of the programmable controller may include a wireless communication device. In such an embodiment, information received via the wireless communication device can be used to program the programmable controller to customize its behavior. For example, a wireless remote or mobile device (such as a smart phone or tablet running an application) can communicate with the programmable controller via the wireless communication device to set the temperature used in the first and second states in steps 1001 and 1007, the non-working time in steps 1003 and 1008, or the intensity, color, or on / off state of the LED in step 1104. In some embodiments, music data can be received via the wireless communication device, in which case the parameters of the LED in step 1104 can be controlled in response to the music data, that is, the change of the LED parameters can be synchronized with the music.

Claims

1. A vessel arranged to be removably inserted into a combustible material for use in a hookah device, comprising: - a vessel body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being concave and delimited by a flange at its outer edge; - a combustible material supported by said top surface; - a cover arranged along a plane defined by the flange to contain the combustible material in the vessel, the cover being air permeable; - a protrusion in said top surface, said protrusion comprising a protrusion peak which is below said plane defined by said flange and said cover; and - a plurality of holes provided in the side wall of the projection, the plurality of holes penetrating the top and bottom surfaces of the vessel body to allow the passage of air in use. 2 . The vessel of claim 1 , said lid comprising a gas permeable membrane extending on said plane defined by said flange. 3 . The vessel of claim 2 , further comprising a removable cover covering at least one of the gas permeable membrane and a bottom surface of the vessel.

4. The vessel according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of holes are disposed in a ring around the protrusion, proximate a midpoint between the top surface and a highest point of the protrusion.

5. The vessel according to claim 1, wherein In use, liquid from the combustible material is retained within the vessel body.

6. The vessel according to claim 1, wherein The protrusion is hollow.

7. The vessel of claim 1 further comprising an identifier tag.

8. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein The identifier tag is one of an optical tag and a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag.

9. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein: The identifier tag is configured to change when the vessel has been used.

10. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein: The identifier tag is capable of having digital information written thereto when in use.

11. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein: The identifier tag includes a material configured to change appearance when a predetermined temperature is reached.

12. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein: The identifier tag contains a unique key or code to identify the authentic product.

13. The vessel according to claim 7, wherein: The identifier tag contains data regarding heating instructions for the vessel.

14. The vessel according to claim 1, wherein The bottom surface includes a seal.

15. The vessel according to claim 14, wherein The seal is an O-ring.

16. The vessel according to claim 1, wherein The vessel is pre-packaged.

17. The vessel according to claim 5, wherein: The protrusion is dome-shaped.

18. The vessel according to claim 17, wherein A trough is provided around the dome, and the liquid is contained in the trough.

19. The vessel according to claim 5, wherein: The plurality of holes are disposed at a height above the liquid.

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