closed bottom gasifier pod

Abstract

The present invention provides a closed bottom vaporizer pod that prevents vaporizable material from exiting the pod and entering the heat source of a vaporizer. The closed bottom vaporizer pod further reduces contamination and / or mess of the vaporizer and includes a closed bottom capsule, at least one air intake for drawing air into the closed bottom capsule, and at least one air outlet for drawing air out of the closed bottom capsule. An air flow path is created by the at least one air intake, the closed bottom capsule, and the air outlet to prevent contamination of the vaporizer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and apparatuses for containing vaporizable materials, and particularly to vaporizer bags, pods or boxes with closed bottoms, wherein vaporizable materials are contained. Background Technology

[0002] Vaporization is a method of converting a liquid or solid into a gas or vapor without combustion, typically by heating at a threshold temperature below the combustion temperature of the vaporizable material. When a solid is converted into a gas or vapor, this phenomenon is called sublimation. When a liquid is converted into a gas or vapor, this phenomenon is called evaporation or boiling. Evaporation is a surface phenomenon, while boiling is a volumetric phenomenon. Generally speaking, sublimation, evaporation, and boiling are used interchangeably throughout this specification as vaporization, etc.

[0003] In the prior art, a vaporizer is a device for vaporizing the active ingredients of a vaporizable material for the purpose of inhalation by a user. Vaporizable materials can include medicinal waxes, electronic liquids (such as ethylene glycol-based vaporizable liquids, commonly used in "electronic cigarettes" or "vaporizers"), medicinal oils and herbs, including plant materials (usually dried plant materials) such as tobacco, eucalyptus, hookah, mixtures of plant materials, and other vaporizable materials.

[0004] Vaporizers can be portable, such as handheld personal vaporizers, and typically rely on a portable heat source (e.g., a heating element) to heat the vaporizable material until the active ingredient in the material is released or vaporized, usually by reaching the boiling point of the active ingredient in the vaporizable material. The released vapor of the active ingredient is typically inhaled by the user.

[0005] Vaporizers based on this technology can facilitate the consumption of substances by conventional methods, such as smoking or combustion. It is well known that smoking substances cause damage to the user's respiratory system and may deliver carcinogens and other harmful substances associated with the combustion or partial combustion of vaporizable materials into the user's body. Vaporizers, which typically operate at temperatures below the combustion point of the vaporizable material, can ideally reduce the amount of carcinogens and other harmful substances released, as well as the amount consumed by the user.

[0006] As known in the art, personal vaporizers generally include a power source, a heat source such as a heating element, a bowl or chamber for temporarily containing vaporizable material, and a mouthpiece for enabling a user to inhale the vaporized material. In use, a user fills or packs the bowl of the vaporizer with vaporizable material, and then uses the heating element to raise the temperature of the vaporizable material stored or contained within the bowl above its boiling point, thereby causing the active ingredients therein to vaporize. The user then consumes or inhales the vaporized material or vapor through the mouthpiece. This is similar to the technique of using a pipe to smoke, except that the vaporizable material is not combusted but rather vaporized.

[0007] Also similar to using a pipe to smoke, after the active ingredients are vaporized, the bowl of the vaporizer generally must be cleaned to remove any residue remaining therein. The process of cleaning the residue is a cumbersome and time-consuming process, and inadequate cleaning can result in degraded performance of the vaporizer. Moreover, inadequate cleaning of the bowl can contaminate the bowl, which can affect the enjoyment of subsequent uses. SUMMARY

[0008] In embodiments of the present invention, systems and devices that use a vaporizer pod (also referred to as a pouch or cartridge, and used interchangeably herein) are able to eliminate the need to clean the bowl of the vaporizer and provide a zero cleaning system by positioning the air inlet on the vaporizer pod outside of the bowl of the vaporizer. Arranging the air inlet outside of the heat source ensures that when any vaporizable material, residue, and / or other contaminants drop or otherwise exit the vaporizable pod through any opening, such as the air inlet or air outlet, the vaporizable material, residue, and / or other contaminants do not collect within the heat source.

[0009] In embodiments of the present invention, a closed-bottom vaporizer pod includes a body having an open top end and an opposite open bottom end. A capsule containing vaporizable material is sealably attached at the bottom end of the body, thereby creating a closed-bottom vaporizer pod. A mouthpiece is arranged or secured on the open top end to facilitate a user inhaling air from the closed-bottom vaporizer pod. In embodiments, the closed-bottom vaporizer pod is placed in a vaporizer and positioned within a heat source of the vaporizer, wherein the vaporizable material is heated by the heat source to its boiling point temperature. Heating the active ingredients present in the vaporizable material to its boiling point creates a vapor that is inhaled through an outlet.

[0010] In broad aspects of the present invention, a closed-bottom vaporizer pod includes a closed-bottom capsule for storing vaporizable material therein, at least one air inlet for drawing air into the capsule, and at least one air outlet for drawing air out of the capsule, wherein the at least one air inlet is proximal or adjacent to the at least one air outlet, and an air flow path is created by the at least one air inlet, the capsule, and the at least one air outlet.

[0011] In a broad aspect of the application, a system for vaporizing vaporizable material includes a vaporizer having a heat source and a capsule for storing vaporizable material therein, the capsule including at least one air inlet for drawing air into the capsule and at least one air outlet for drawing air out of the capsule, wherein the capsule is held within the vaporizer and the at least one air inlet is located outside of the heat source.

[0012] In another broad aspect of the application, a vaporizer for receiving a vaporizer pod and enabling an end user to vaporize an active ingredient of vaporizable material stored within the vaporizer pod, the vaporizer including a housing having an aperture aligned with a chamber for receiving the vaporizer pod therein, a heat source disposed within the housing for providing sufficient heat to the vaporizer pod to vaporize the vaporizable material stored therein, a vacuum insulator disposed within the housing for containing and directing heat from the heat source toward the vaporizer pod having a closed bottom, a spacer for spacing the heat source from the vacuum insulator, and a power source for powering the heat source. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1A is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the application showing a vaporizer pod including a capsule, an air inlet, and an air outlet extending from a bottom of the capsule and positioned on an opposite side of the air inlet;

[0014] Figure 1B is a schematic side view of an embodiment according to Figure 1A disposed within a heat source;

[0015] Figure 2A is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the application showing a vaporizer pod including a capsule, an air inlet, and an air outlet extending from a bottom of the capsule and positioned on an opposite side of the air inlet;

[0016] Figure 2B is a schematic side view of an embodiment according to Figure 2A disposed within a heat source;

[0017] Figure 3A is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the application showing a vaporizer pod including a capsule, an air inlet, and an air outlet extending from a bottom of the capsule and positioned on an opposite side of the air inlet;

[0018] Figure 3B is a schematic side view of an embodiment according to Figure 3A disposed within a heat source;

[0019] Figure 4AThis is a schematic side sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a vaporizer pod, which includes a capsule, an air inlet, and an air outlet. The air outlet extends from the top of the capsule away from the capsule and is located near the air inlet.

[0020] Figure 4B It is based on Figure 4A A schematic side sectional view of an embodiment, arranged within a heat source;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a mouthpiece, a body having at least one air inlet, and a capsule for storing vaporizable material;

[0022] Figure 6 It is based on Figure 5 A side sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 7 It is based on Figure 5 An enlarged side view of the capsule;

[0024] Figure 8 This is an enlarged side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a capsule with radially extending ribs;

[0025] Figure 9 It is based on Figure 5 Side sectional view of the mouthpiece and the body;

[0026] Figure 10 This is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing the nozzle and the body having an outer tube and an inner tube;

[0027] Figure 11 It is based on Figure 10 Side sectional view of the mouthpiece and the body;

[0028] Figure 12 This is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a vaporizer for receiving a vaporizer pod;

[0029] Figure 13 It is based on Figure 12 A top view of the vaporizer, showing the orifice for passing through the receiving vaporizer pod;

[0030] Figure 14 It is based on Figure 12 A side sectional view of the vaporizer, showing the heat source, power source, and three-pronged cage with vaporizer pod stopper;

[0031] Figure 15 This is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing the heat source, cage, and vaporizer pod stopper;

[0032] Figure 16 This is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing the holding device;

[0033] Figure 17 is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a closure mechanism;

[0034] Figure 18A is a plan view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a hatch door in a closed position;

[0035] Figure 18B is a side view of a hatch door according to Figure 18A ; and

[0036] Figure 19 is a plan view of a hatch door according to Figure 18A in its open position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Applicants have noted that there are a number of methods to reduce the contamination of the vaporizer bowl by residue left behind after the vaporizable material is consumed or inhaled by the user.

[0038] One common method known in the industry is to clean the heating chamber or bowl after each use. However, as noted above, inadequate cleaning of the heating chamber can result in degradation of the heating chamber and a reduction in the performance of the vaporizer and the user experience. Another method known in the art for reducing contamination is to use a replaceable cartridge that houses the vaporizable material therein. However, the use of replaceable cartridges does not completely eliminate contamination or requires cleaning of the open air intake and outlet to the replaceable cartridge. Moreover, the use of replaceable cartridges can be expensive and generally not environmentally friendly as the cartridges are not recyclable.

[0039] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provide a zero clean system and device by eliminating the contamination and / or pollution of the vaporizer bowl.

[0040] In embodiments according to the present invention, the bowl of the vaporizer can be lined with a protective sleeve or liner to isolate the vaporizer bowl from direct contact with the vaporizable material, residue and / or other contaminants. The liner can be sealed at a bottom end to contain the vaporizable material entirely therein and open at an opposite top end for allowing the user to load or contain the appropriate vaporizable material with the liner. The vaporizable material can then be vaporized by the heat source in the vaporizer and the resulting vapor can be inhaled by the user. In the vaporizer industry, the open end of the vaporizer pod (also referred to as a vaporizer pouch or cartridge and used interchangeably herein) is typically arranged in the mouth of the user to inhale or consume any vaporized material from the vaporizer pod. This open end is typically referred to as the top end of the vaporizer pod and, therefore, the end portion away from it is typically referred to as the bottom end.

[0041] Isolating the outer surface of the bowl from the vaporizable material allows the user to not have to clean any residue of the bowl that is created during vaporization of the vaporizable material, thereby increasing the life of the bowl and vaporizer and creating reliable and consistent performance for increased enjoyment by the end user.

[0042] Preferably, the liner will be made of a material that has a melting point sufficiently greater than the boiling point of the vaporizable material so as to prevent the liner from melting when vaporizing the vaporizable material contained therein. The liner should also preferably be made of a material that has a boiling point sufficiently greater than the boiling point of the vaporizable material so as to ensure that the liner will not vaporize and be consumed or inhaled by the user. For example, the liner can be made of metal or glass.

[0043] However, while a liner can be used to isolate the outer surface of the bowl from direct contact with the vaporizable material, the liner itself must also be sufficiently cleaned after each use to ensure that any subsequent use is not contaminated by residue. The process of cleaning the liner is still time consuming and cumbersome.

[0044] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the liner can be made of a material that is relatively easy to discard, so that the liner does not need to be cleaned after each use. In another embodiment, the liner can also be made of a biodegradable material that is compostable, to reduce the overall environmental impact.

[0045] In embodiments, the liner can be a closed-bottom capsule that is used to sealingly attach to the body or tubular extension, such that it forms a closed-bottom vaporizer pod. The tubular extension can be of sufficient length so as to position the capsule and vaporizable material stored therein within the heat source of the vaporizer, and to provide sufficient space to allow a user to place their lips around the tubular extension to inhale the vaporized material.

[0046] In embodiments, the closed-bottom capsule can be made of any rigid or any flexible material, such as paper, plant cellulose, foil, glass, metal, plastic, or any other suitable material as described above. In embodiments, the vaporizer pod, capsule, or cartridge can be reusable, disposable, recyclable, compostable, and / or biodegradable. Embodiments of the closed-bottom vaporizer pod simplify loading and unloading of the vaporizable material into and from the vaporizer, reduce the need to clean the bowl of the vaporizer, and conveniently provide pre-charged pods to the user.

[0047] In embodiments, the closed-bottom vaporizer pod, capsule, or cartridge can include a mouthpiece to help control the flow of air into the capsule and the flow of air out of the capsule as the user inhales the vaporized active ingredient. Increased air flow control increases the potency of the vapor, and the user does not have to inhale as much ambient air to inhale the vaporized active ingredient. The mouthpiece can be used in fluid communication with the capsule to increase the amount of air containing vapor drawn from within the capsule while decreasing the amount of air drawn from the air surrounding the vaporizer pod (as the user inhales). In embodiments, the mouthpiece can be an integral part of the vaporizer pod, or a separate piece that can be permanently or removably affixed to the vaporizer pod.

[0048] The mouthpiece in fluid connection with the capsule can be used by the user to inhale directly through it, or can be used to draw air into an existing mouthpiece or additional component of the vaporizer for temporary storage, analysis, processing, heating, cooling, condensing, diluting the flavor, delivery, or otherwise changing before it is inhaled by the user.

[0049] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in embodiments, the mouthpiece can be adjustable in length and can include mechanisms or components for adjusting the flow of air into and / or out of the mouthpiece and / or the capsule. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece can seal the capsule and / or the mouthpiece using known methods. The mouthpiece can also include screens, filters, valves, or other similar devices that will be used to prevent tar, particulates, or other materials from entering the mouthpiece from the capsule and / or exiting the mouthpiece into the capsule and / or exiting the mouthpiece into the user.

[0050] Reference is made to Figure 1A and 1B In embodiments, the vaporizer pod 10 includes a capsule 20 for holding vaporizable material therein, at least one air inlet 30 in fluid communication with the capsule 20 for drawing air into the capsule 20, and at least one air outlet 40 in fluid communication with the capsule 20 for drawing air containing vapor out of the capsule 20, the vapor being produced by the vaporizable material in the capsule.

[0051] As shown in Figure 1B the vaporizer pod 10 can be positioned within a heat source 50 such that the capsule 20 is held within the vaporizer and the heat source 50, but the air inlet 30 is located outside or external to the heat source 50. Arranging the air inlet 30 external to the heat source 50 will ensure that any vaporizable material from the vaporizer pod 10, and in particular the capsule 20, does not exit or fall out of the capsule 20 into and collect in the heat source 50.

[0052] Reference is made to Figure 2A and 2BIn another embodiment, at least one air inlet 30 of the vaporizer pod 10 can extend from the bottom of the capsule 20 away from the capsule 20 so as to be positioned in the vicinity of the at least one air outlet 40, thereby creating a closed bottom capsule.

[0053] Figure 3A and 3B Another embodiment is shown in which at least one air inlet 30 can extend from the side of the capsule away from the closed bottom capsule 20 and be positioned in the vicinity of the at least one air outlet 40.

[0054] Figure 4A and 4B Another embodiment is shown in which at least one air inlet 30 can extend from the top of the capsule away from the closed bottom capsule 20 and be positioned in the vicinity of the at least one air outlet 40.

[0055] Referring to Figure 5 and 6 In an embodiment, the closed bottom vaporizer pod 10 includes a body 60 having an open top end 70 and an open bottom end 80. As shown, a mouthpiece 90 can be attached to the open top end 70 and a closed bottom capsule 20 containing a vaporizable material is sealingly attached to the bottom end 80.

[0056] As Figure 6 shown in greater detail in FIG. 2, the body 60 further includes an outer tube 100 having an outer ring 110 and an inner tube 120 disposed within the outer ring 110, thereby creating an annular space 130 between the outer tube 100 and the inner tube. In an embodiment, the inner tube 120 can be concentrically disposed within the outer ring 110 of the outer tube 100 and have an upper portion 140 that extends beyond an upper edge 150 of the outer tube 100 (see FIG. 2). The upper portion 140 defines an upper shoulder 160 of the inner tube 120. Figure 10

[0057] In an embodiment, the vaporizer pod 10 can include at least one air inlet 30 at the top end 70 of the body 60 so as to ensure that the closed bottom capsule 20 containing a vaporizable material is within the interior confines of the capsule 20. Positioning the at least one air inlet 30 in the vicinity of the top end 70 of the body 60 allows for multiple air inlets to be positioned outside, exterior or spaced apart and above the heat source in the vaporizer, thereby ensuring that the contents of the closed bottom capsule 20 are completely isolated and prevent the contents of the capsule (residue and / or vaporizable material) from coming into direct contact with the outer surface of the heat source. This complete isolation not only reduces the likelihood of contamination, but also eliminates the need to clean the vaporizer after use.

[0058] Referring again to Figure 5 ​At least one air inlet 30 is located near or adjacent to the opening tip 70 of the body 60 and is in fluid communication with an annular space 130 created between the outer tube 100 and the inner tube 120. As shown, the annular space 130 extends the length of the body 60 and is in fluid communication with a capsule 20 at the closed bottom.

[0059] As shown in the figure, at least one air inlet 30 can be located near or on the side of the top 70 of the vaporizer pod 10. In an embodiment, this at least one air inlet can be two or more air inlets from which air is drawn into the pod 10 and travels through the pod 10 to the bottom capsule 20. Figure 6 As shown, in an embodiment, air can be drawn in through at least one air inlet 30 and travel to the capsule 20 at the closed bottom through at least one inflow channel. To allow air to be drawn out of the capsule 20 at the closed bottom, the pod 10 can also include an outflow channel, such as an inner ring 170, which is isolated from at least one air inlet channel and extends away from the capsule 20 at the closed bottom. As shown, in an embodiment, the outflow channel can be in fluid communication with a mouthpiece 90. The outflow channel can be permanently or removably attached to the capsule 20 at the closed bottom.

[0060] An embodiment including at least one air inlet 30 above the sealed bottom capsule 20 allows the vaporizer chamber 10 to be sealed at the bottom and completely independent, wherein the airflow path begins outside the heat source and exits outside the nozzle 90, and the airflow is always completely isolated from any external surface of the heat source. This enables a completely clean system.

[0061] In the embodiment, reference Figure 7 The capsule 20 with its closed bottom may include an outer shell 180, which is fitted onto an inner shell 190 to create a storage cavity 200 for storing a vaporizable material therein. In an embodiment, the inner shell 190 may be concentrically positioned within and connected to the outer shell 180.

[0062] As shown in the figure, in one embodiment, the inner shell 190 includes a tubular connector 210 at its top end and a tubular extension 220 extending axially away from the connector 210. An aperture 230 is located near the bottom end of the tubular extension 220 for fluidly connecting the storage cavity 200 to the tubular extension 220 and the tubular connector 210.

[0063] In an embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the tubular extension 220 may also include at least one radially extending rib 240 for forming at least one groove 250. Figure 8In the particular embodiment shown, the at least one radially extending rib 240 further comprises four radially extending ribs 240, 240, 240, 240 that define a cruciform annular cross-sectional profile. The outer edge 260 of each radially extending rib 240 engages the inner surface 270 of the outer shell 180 and, in combination with the grooves 250, creates at least one air channel 280 that is fluidly connected to the annular space 130 of the body 60 and the storage cavity 200 of the closed bottom capsule 20.

[0064] Referring again to Figure 6 , the at least one air inlet 30, the annular space 130, the air channel 280, the tubular extension 220 and the tubular joint 210, the inner ring 170 and the mouthpiece 90 all combine to form or create an air flow path such that, when a user places their mouth on the mouthpiece 90 and inhales, external air is drawn from outside of the vaporizer into the annular space 130. The drawn air travels through the annular space 130 into the storage cavity 200. In embodiments, the annular space 130 behaves as an inflow passage. Once the drawn air enters the storage cavity 200, any vaporization material in the storage cavity 200 is able to permeate into and mix with the drawn air.

[0065] The drawn air then travels through the hole 230, through the tubular extension 220 and the joint 210, and into the inner ring 170. Finally, the drawn air is able to exit the vaporizer pod 10 through the at least one air outlet 40 and into the mouthpiece 90 for consumption or inhalation by the user. In embodiments, the inner ring 170 behaves as an outflow passage.

[0066] Referring again to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , in embodiments, the mouthpiece 90 is able to be secured to and in fluid communication with the closed bottom capsule 20 by the body 60. Thus, when a user inhales, all of the air drawn from (or inhaled by) the closed bottom capsule 20 comes from within or inside the closed bottom capsule 20 and includes a higher concentration of vaporization active ingredients.

[0067] As shown in more detail in Figure 9 , in embodiments, the mouthpiece 90 can include an upper lip portion 290 and a bottom tubular wall 300. In embodiments, the bottom tubular wall 300 can further include a wall shoulder 310 for engaging the upper edge 150 of the outer tube 100.

[0068] Referring to Figure 10 and 11The mouthpiece 90 can be secured to the body 60. As shown, in embodiments, the upper portion 140 can extend into the mouthpiece 90, and the upper shoulder 160 of the inner tube 120 can engage the lip shoulder 320 of the mouthpiece 90. The outer tube 100 can also engage the wall shoulder 310 of the mouthpiece 90. The upper portion 140 and the bottom tube-shaped wall 300 create a mouthpiece air channel 330 that places the annular space 130 and the annular inflow channel in fluid communication with the at least one air inlet 30.

[0069] In embodiments, the mouthpiece can comprise a single or multiple components, and can be made in any suitable size, shape, form, or design. It can be made from a variety of flexible or rigid materials, including paper, plant cellulose, foil, glass, metal, plastic, or any other suitable material. It can be disposable, reusable, recyclable, biodegradable, and / or compostable.

[0070] In other embodiments, the air inlets and / or outlets can be designed to fit within existing vaporizer mouthpieces, or can be designed to replace the mouthpieces of vaporizers, or can be designed to work independently, or can be designed to work with additional components, such as a mouthpiece extender, a flavor mouthpiece, a filter, a water-based filtration system, or other accessories.

[0071] Although not shown, in embodiments, the mouthpiece can comprise a mechanism, guide, mount, clip, accessory, or other system for guiding and / or securing the mouthpiece to a vaporizer. In embodiments, the mouthpiece can also comprise a mechanism, guide, mount, clip, accessory, or other system for guiding and / or securing the pod to a vaporizer. In still other embodiments, the mouthpiece can comprise a mechanism, guide, mount, clip, accessory, or other system for removing the mouthpiece and / or pod from a vaporizer.

[0072] Reference is made to Figure 12 In embodiments, the vaporizer pod 10 can be used in a vaporizer 340 that heats the vaporizable material by conduction. That is, the vaporizer 340 can contain a heat source, and the heat source can be in direct contact with the closed-bottom capsule 20 of the pod 10 in order to heat the closed-bottom capsule 20 and its contents. As the active ingredients of the vaporizable material vaporize, a vapor can be inhaled by a user by drawing air from the at least one air inlet 30 into the capsule in order to mix with the vapor, then out of the closed-bottom capsule 20 and through the mouthpiece 90 to be consumed by the user. In embodiments using a conductive vaporizer, the air drawn into the pod 10 can be cold.

[0073] In an embodiment, the vaporizer pod 10 can be used in a vaporizer 340 that heats the vaporizable material by conduction. That is, air passes through a heat source, and the heated air enters the capsule 20 at the closed bottom to heat the vaporizable material to produce a vapor. Once the vapor is produced, the user can inhale, as in the case of the conductive vaporizer described above.

[0074] In another embodiment, the vaporizer pod 10 can be used in a vaporizer 340 that heats the vaporizable material by radiant heating. That is, infrared heating from a heat source spaced from the capsule 20 at the closed bottom can be used to heat the vaporizable material within the capsule 20 at the closed bottom. Similar to the embodiment using conduction as the method of heating, the air that is inhaled into the capsule 20 at the closed bottom can be cool, as cool air is heated within the capsule to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the active ingredients of the vaporizable material.

[0075] In another embodiment, the vaporizer pod 10 can be used in a vaporizer that heats the vaporizable material by conduction, convection, radiant heating, or any combination of the three.

[0076] Referring to Figure 13 , the vaporizer 340 includes a vaporizer aperture 350 for receiving the vaporizer pod 10 therethrough. As Figure 14 shown in greater detail, the vaporizer 340 can include a housing 360 that defines a chamber 370 that is aligned with the vaporizer aperture 350 positioned at a top end 380 of the housing 360, a heat source 390 for providing heat to the vaporizer, an insulator 400, and a power source 410. Although not shown in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the heat source 390 receives the capsule 20 at the closed bottom that contains the vaporizable material therein, and the power source 410 is in operative connection with the heat source 390 to provide the electricity necessary to generate heat.

[0077] Referring to Figure 15In this embodiment, the heat source 390 and the insulator 400 are shown to be isolated from the vaporizer 340. As shown, the insulator 400 can be a vacuum-insulated chamber with an outer wall 420 and an inner wall 430. The insulator 400 retains the heat generated by the heat source 390 within the internal space 440 of the insulated chamber and directs the heat to the capsule of the vaporizer pod 10. The insulator 400 can improve the efficiency of the vaporizer 340, thereby reducing heat loss. In this embodiment, the insulator 400 can reduce the preheating time of the vaporizer 340 and can improve the lifespan of the power supply 410 and the vaporizer 340. In this embodiment, the insulator 400 can retain and / or hold the heat in the heat source 390 to improve and maximize efficiency, keep the power supply and other components of the vaporizer cool so that other components can function properly and avoid overheating, and keep the exterior of the vaporizer cool to the touch so that the user can hold it comfortably.

[0078] As shown in the figure, in one embodiment, the insulator 400 can be tubular with a conical bottom. However, the applicant notes that the shape of the insulator 400 does not have to be conical and can be a shape complementary to the shape of the vaporizer pod fixed therein. In one embodiment, the insulator 400 can simply be a cylindrical tube or other form of insulator.

[0079] As shown in the figure, the heat source 390 can be positioned within the internal space 440 of the insulator 400 and has sufficient dimensions to accommodate the vaporizer pod. Although represented as a tubular ring, the heat source 390 can have various shapes, including coils.

[0080] As also shown in the figure, in an embodiment, the slit 450 (e.g., a cage, fork, handle, tube or other device) helps maintain separation between the heat source 390 and the insulator 400 and helps position the capsule within the heat source 390.

[0081] In an embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, the cage frame 450 can be a three-pronged cage frame. In another embodiment, the cage frame 450 can be a single-pronged cage frame. In another embodiment, the cage frame 450 can also include a vaporizer pod stopper 460 for assisting and / or positioning the pod with its closed bottom within the heat source 390.

[0082] refer to Figure 16 In one embodiment, the vaporizer 340 may include a retaining device 470 for securing the vaporizer pod therein. In another embodiment, the retaining device 470 may be at least one biasing mechanism that provides force in one direction, such as a reed, and is uniformly and circumferentially distributed around the chamber 370 to ensure that the vaporizer pod 10 is secured within the chamber 370 and the vaporizer 340.

[0083] In embodiments, the retaining device 470 can serve a second function to increase the safety of use of the vaporizer. When the retaining device 470 is in contact with the vaporizer pod 10, the retaining device 470 is biased radially outward away from the chamber 370. The radial outward bias of the retaining device 470 can provide a signal to a central processing unit or CPU (not shown) that it is safe to power the heat source 390 as the vaporizer pod has been inserted into the vaporizer. This secondary function as a contact point ensures that the heat source 390 is not powered inadvertently when the vaporizer pod 10 is not present in the vaporizer 340, thereby increasing the life of the vaporizer 340. In embodiments, the retaining device 470 can also send a signal to the CPU when it is in its normal resting position (i.e. not biased) that the vaporizer pod is not in the vaporizer.

[0084] In other embodiments, the signal to indicate whether the vaporizer pod is in the chamber 370 can be achieved by an auxiliary device, such as an auxiliary spring or safety switch.

[0085] In some embodiments, a system for storing machine readable information on each vaporizer pod and a system for reading the machine readable information can be included. The machine readable information can include information about the vaporizable material contained in each pod, the date of manufacture of the pod, the best before date, the amount of vaporizable material contained therein, the amount of vaporizable material consumed, a serial number, information about the pod or its contents, operating parameters for the pod, or other information related or unrelated to the pod. The information can be read only or read and write information, and can be stored on the pod using known techniques, such as printed text and / or graphics. In embodiments, the information can also be stored and machine read using a barcode, RFID, NFC, or other visual, electronic or magnetic communication device.

[0086] The machine readable information can also include programming information to automatically control the performance of the vaporizer by setting the optimal temperature, vaporization time for different vaporizable materials, or to provide instructions to add additional sensory feedback features, such as sound, haptic feedback, temperature changes, etc.

[0087] In embodiments, the machine readable information can be written on the vaporizer pod.

[0088] Referring again to Figure 14 In embodiments, the machine readable information can be provided on the vaporizer pod 10, such as a barcode, and can be read using an optical camera 480. In embodiments, the reading of the machine readable information can be enhanced by means of a light 490 and / or a lens 500.

[0089] The operational parameters stored as machine readable information, such as the optimal temperature, can be relayed to a central processing unit or CPU (not shown) that can control the heat source 390.

[0090] With reference Figures 17 to 19 Embodiments of the gasifier of the present application can also include a closure mechanism 510 that can close when the gasifier is not in use or the gasifier pod is not inserted in the gasifier. The closure mechanism 510 can primarily include a door housing 520 that contains a door 530 and a motor 540 to assist in opening and / or closing the door 530. The closure of the door 530 ensures that external dust or foreign objects do not accidentally enter the chamber 370 and cause damage to the interior of the gasifier 340, the heat source 390 and the insulator 400.

[0091] Although not shown, a portion of the machine readable information can be displayed to the user on a screen, such as an LED screen, disposed on the housing 340. In embodiments, the machine readable information can be transmitted or otherwise communicated to a secondary device for display using Bluetooth® or Wifi or similar technology. In embodiments, the machine readable information can also be communicated to the end user aurally, tactilely or visually.

[0092] In another embodiment, the power source 410 can be recharged using known technology. In a particular embodiment, the power source 410 can be recharged using a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. In another embodiment, however, the gasifier can have a tactile feedback vibrator.

[0093] The information shown and described in detail herein is sufficient to carry out the objects of the present application and the presently preferred embodiments of the present application, and thus represents the broadest subject matter of the present application. The scope of the present application fully encompasses other embodiments apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art in view of the preceding detailed description, and thus the only limitations are imposed by the claims, of which the following are representative. No single element of the preferred embodiments and additional embodiments described herein should be considered a necessary to the practice of the present application unless expressly stated otherwise. The present application is well suited to a wide variety of applications and should not be limited to the implementations described herein, which are given by way of example.

[0094] ​Also, it is not necessary for each and every implementation of the application to solve an

[0095] The example embodiments described herein are not meant to be exhaustive or to limit the application to the precise forms disclosed. They are chosen and described which are thought to explain the principles of the application and its application and practical use to also enable others skilled in the art to understand its teachings.

[0096] As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the foregoing disclosure, many changes and modifications can be made in the practice of this application without departing from the scope or spirit of the application.

Claims

1. A vaporizer for receiving a vaporizer pod and enabling an end user to vaporize a vaporizable material stored within the vaporizer pod, wherein, The vaporizer comprises: a housing having an aperture aligned with a chamber for receiving a vaporizer pod therein; a heat source disposed within the housing for providing sufficient heat to the vaporizer pod to vaporize a vaporizable material stored therein; an insulator disposed within the housing for containing the vaporizer pod and directing heat to the vaporizer pod; a spacer disposed within the insulator for spacing the heat source from the insulator; and a power source for powering the heat source; and The vaporizer pod comprises: a closed-bottom capsule for storing a vaporizable material therein; at least one air inlet in fluid communication with the closed-bottom capsule for drawing air into the closed-bottom capsule; and at least one air outlet in fluid communication with the closed-bottom capsule for drawing air out of the closed-bottom capsule, wherein the at least one air inlet is located proximate the at least one air outlet and an air flow path is created by the at least one air inlet, the closed-bottom capsule, and the at least one air outlet.

2. The gasifier of claim 1, wherein: The at least one inlet is located on one side of the vaporizer pod and the at least one outlet is located at a top end of the vaporizer pod.

3. A system for vaporizing a vaporizable material, the system comprising: a vaporizer having a heat source; and a closed-bottom capsule for storing a vaporizable material therein, wherein: the vaporizer further comprises: a housing having an aperture aligned with a chamber for receiving a closed-bottom capsule therein; a heat source element disposed within the housing for providing sufficient heat to the closed-bottom capsule to vaporize a vaporizable material stored therein; an insulator disposed within the housing for containing the vaporizer pod and directing heat to the vaporizer pod; a spacer for spacing the heat source from the insulator; and a power source for powering the heat source.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: The spacer further comprises a cage.

5. The system of claim 3, the gasifier further comprising: A retaining device for retaining the closed-bottom capsule within the vaporizer.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein: The retaining device further comprises at least one biasing mechanism that is circumferentially distributed about the chamber.

7. The system of any of claims 3-6, the gasifier further comprising: A door.

8. The system of any one of claims 3-6, the closed-bottom capsule further comprising machine-readable information, and wherein the vaporizer further comprises a reader / writer for reading or writing the machine-readable information.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein: The machine-readable information is visually, audibly, or tactilely communicated to an end user.

10. The system of claim 3, wherein: The power source is rechargeable.

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