Hookah device

Abstract

A hookah device is disclosed as comprising a heating chamber configured to heat a smoking product, the heating chamber having an opening. A receptacle is provided to contain the smoking product within the heating chamber in use. A closure is movable between a closed position in which the opening is at least partially obscured, and an open position in which the opening is unobscured to allow access to the receptacle. A displacement mechanism is operatively connected to the closure and configured to move the receptacle relative to the opening in response to movement of the closure between the open and closed positions. The receptacle can be supported during raising and lowering relative to the heating chamber.

Description

[0001] Hookah device

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an electronic smoking device, particularly, but not limited to, an electronic hookah device.

[0003] Background of the invention

[0004] A prior art hookah device is shown in WO 2015 / 172224. The device comprises an electronically heated chamber at an upper end thereof configured to receive a capsule comprising a smoking product. The user of the device inhales through a hose and draws air into the capsule. The air entrains a smoking product, which passes through a conduit into water tank provided at the lower end of the device. The smoking products passes through the water in the tank, and through the hose to the user. The device thus acts as similarly to a conventional shisha pipe. However, heating of the smoking product is electronically controlled and takes place within a purposely designed oven, which receives a bespoke capsule to hold the smoking product.

[0005] The inventor has found certain problems with this prior art device. Upon completion of the smoking cycle, the capsule is removed to allow replacement thereof. The device in WO’224 comprises a notch in the heating chamber, which allows a user to lift the capsule out of the heating chamber. However, both the heating chamber and capsule may still be at elevated temperatures after use of the device. This presents a significant risk of injury to the user. The notch is also relatively small, making extraction of the capsule somewhat difficult.

[0006] A further prior art hookah device is shown in WO 2019 / 238149. In that example, a close fit is required between the capsule and the heating chamber. It is proposed that the smoke pipe be used to push the capsule out of the oven to allow easy removal of spent capsules after use. However the use of the smoke pipe as a capsule actuator causes complexity when sealing the smoke pipe, i.e. to ensure all smoke passes along the pipe and does not enter the housing of the device or otherwise escape the smoke pipe. Furthermore, a constant spring force biasing i the capsule out of the heating chamber can be problematic and can not only prevent a correct fit of the capsule in the oven but also can cause unwanted ejection of the capsule under certain scenarios.

[0007] When a close fit between a capsule and heating chamber is needed, e.g. for heating a capsule by conduction, it has also been found that thermal expansion can cause a capsule to jam in the heating chamber under some circumstances. It is not always practical to wait for a device to cool before removing the capsule.

[0008] The present invention aims to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the above problems.

[0009] Statement of Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a hookah device comprising a heating chamber configured to heat a smoking product, the heating chamber having an opening; a receptacle to contain the smoking product within the heating chamber in use; a closure movable between a closed position in which the opening is at least partially obscured, and an open position in which the opening is unobscured to allow access to the receptacle; and a displacement mechanism operatively connected to the closure and configured to move the receptacle relative to the opening in response to movement of the closure between the open and closed positions.

[0011] The displacement mechanism may move the receptacle into engagement with the heating chamber upon closing of the closure. The displacement mechanism may support the receptacle at a predetermined, aligned and / or co-axial orientation relative to the heating chamber in the closed and / or open position, and / or during movement therebetween.

[0012] The displacement mechanism may disengage the receptacle from the heating chamber, e.g. from contact therewith, in response to movement of the closure to the open position. The displacement mechanism may comprise a displacement member configured to engage or abut against the receptacle in use to provide movement thereof. The displacement member may support or guide the receptacle. The displacement member may be movable toward the opening.

[0013] The receptacle may be received within the displacement member. The receptacle may extend through the displacement member, e.g. when seated thereon. The displacement member may at least partially surround the receptacle in use. The displacement member may be annular or ring shaped. The displacement member may engage a side of the receptacle. The displacement member may engage a lower end of the receptacle (i.e. an end opposing the opening in use).

[0014] The displacement member may engage a rim of the receptacle.

[0015] The displacement member may be mounted to the device via a guide. The displacement member may be constrained to a predetermined movement path. The movement path may be a linear movement. The path may be toward / away from the opening. The path may be vertical in use.

[0016] The guide may comprise a shaft or rod provided on one of the lifting member or device chassis. The shaft / rod may be configured to be received by a sleeve, aperture or channel on the other of the lifting member or device chassis. The guide / sleeve may be fixed to the lifting member.

[0017] The displacement member may be biased toward or away from the opening. The receptacle may be biased toward, through or away from the opening. The closure may be biased toward the open or the closed position.

[0018] The bias may be provided by a biasing member. The biasing member may be provided in parallel with the guide. The biasing member may be concentrically mounted with the guide. The biasing member may operatively extend between the guide and the device chassis (e.g. the sleeve / aperture). The biasing member may operatively extend between the displacement member and the device chassis. The biasing member may be operatively provided between the closure and the chassis.

[0019] The displacement member may be operatively connected to the closure via a pivotable linkage. The linkage may comprise an arm or the like. The arm may be curved. The closure may be pivotable mounted to the device via a pivot. The displacement member pivotable linkage may be offset from the closure pivot, such that linear movement of the displacement member is induced in response to rotational movement of the closure. The displacement member linkage may be pivotally connected to the displacement member. The displacement member may be operatively connected to the closure via two independent pivots. The pivots may be offset from one another.

[0020] The closure pivot may be provided on an armature, for example an angled or II- shape armature. The pivot may be provided on one end of the armature and the closure is affixed to the armature at the opposing end thereof. The displacement member linkage may be connected to a point on the armature spaced from the end of the armature (e.g. toward an apex thereof). One of the displacement member linkage and the closure armature may be configured to be received within the other of the displacement member linkage and the closure armature.

[0021] The displacement member may comprise a surface configured to abut a flange / rim of the heating chamber or receptacle in use. The surface may face the opening (i.e. provided at an upper side of the displacement member). The surface may be circular / annular. The displacement member and the closure may be configured to clamp the flange / rim to form an airtight seal therebetween (i.e. the capsule / heating chamber is interposed the closure and the displacement member). The displacement member may comprises a taper / angled surface against the abutting surface. The lifting member may comprise a frustoconical shape.

[0022] The displacement member may disengage the receptacle, e.g. when the receptacle is engaged with the heating chamber. The displacement member may disengage the receptacle when the closure is closed. The displacement member may disengage the receptacle for a portion of the range of movement of the displacement mechanism.

[0023] Movement of the closure and the displacement member may be synchronous. Movement of the closure and the lifting member may be asynchronous.

[0024] The receptacle may be configured to protrude from the opening when the closure is provided in the open position, e.g. beyond a plane of the opening. A rim / flange of the receptacle may be configured to protrude from the opening when the closure is provided in the open position.

[0025] The receptacle may comprise a capsule or container removably received within the heating chamber in use. The capsule or container may comprise a closure. The receptacle may form an integral part of the heating chamber (e.g. the heating chamber may be displaced relative to the opening).

[0026] The device may comprise a release mechanism to selectively provide retention and / or release of the closure.

[0027] The release mechanism may comprise a latch. The latch may be provided on one of a device chassis and the closure, and an engagement formation may be configured to be selectively engaged by the latch on the other of the chassis and the closure. The latch may be biased into engagement with the engagement formation.

[0028] The release mechanism may comprise a manual actuator configured to disengage the latch from the engagement formation.

[0029] The manual actuator may be operatively connected to the latch via an armature. A resilient biasing means may be provided between the armature and the chassis. The resilient biasing means may comprise a foot portion configured to engage the chassis. A spring portion may extend between the armature and the foot portion.

[0030] The arm and the foot portion may be integrally formed.

[0031] The armature may be pivotably mounted to the manual actuator and the chassis, such that linear movement of the actuator induces a rotational movement of the latch.

[0032] The manual actuator may comprise a stop member configured to abut against the chassis or casing of the device to limit movement thereof.

[0033] The armature may comprise two acutely angled arms. One arm may form part of the latch and the other arm may be operatively connected to the manual actuator. The biasing mean may be mounted to one of the arms.

[0034] The pivot may be offset from the angled arm arrangement.

[0035] The manual actuator may comprise a push button. The manual actuator may be biased into an undepressed state.

[0036] The closure may comprise an air inlet therein (e.g. to allow airflow into the heating chamber).

[0037] The release mechanism and / or the displacement mechanism may be electronically controllable. The release mechanism and / or the displacement mechanism may comprise a motor to effect movement thereof.

[0038] The device may comprise a sensor to detect opening of the closure and / or actuation of the release mechanism.

[0039] Heating of the heating chamber may be controlled by a controller. The controller may be in operative communication with the sensor. The controller may be configured limit or prevent heating when opening of the closure and / or actuation of the release mechanism is detected.

[0040] The device may comprise an electronically heated device. The heating chamber may be heated via a heating element. The device may be heated via combustion.

[0041] According to a further aspect, there is provided: a hookah device comprising: a heating chamber configured to heat a smoking product therein and accessible via an opening in the device; a closure movable between a closed position in which the opening is at least partially obscured, and an open position in which the opening is unobscured; and a release mechanism to selectively provide retention and / or release of the closure.

[0042] The closure and / or device may bear a seal such that the closure seals against an opposing portion of the device. The seal may be annular. Air openings in the closure may be located radially inside the seal such that the sela seals around a flow path into the device.

[0043] The device may comprise a housing or casing, e.g. enclosing a head portion of the device and / or around the heating chamber, which may define an outer wall or surface of the device. The closure may be recessed with respect to the housing / casing or the outer surface thereof when closed. An external surface of the closure in the closed position may be substantially flush with an outer surface of the housing.

[0044] Any optional or preferable features described in relation to any one aspect of the invention or defined in any of the appended claims may be applied to any further aspect, wherever practicable.

[0045] The displacement mechanism and / or displacement member may be referred to herein as a lifting mechanism and a lifting member respectively. However it will be appreciated that such a lifting member may displace the receptacle in any suitable direction relative to the heating chamber and / or relative to vertical or horizontal axis as necessary.

[0046] Detailed Description

[0047] Practicable embodiments of the disclosure are described below in further detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0048] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a hookah device;

[0049] Figure 2 shows a side view of the hookah device;

[0050] Figure 3 shows a sectional side view of the hookah device;

[0051] Figure 4 shows a sectional side view of a head portion of the hookah device;

[0052] Figure 5 shows a sectional side view of an ejection mechanism of the hookah device;

[0053] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the ejection mechanism;

[0054] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of the ejection mechanism.

[0055] A hookah device 2 is shown in figures 1 and 2. In general, the device 2 is configured to heat a smoking product to allow inhalation thereof by a user. The smoking product may comprise any suitable form. The smoking product may comprise a tobacco-based product, for example, shisha. The smoking product is provided in a capsule. The capsule is configured to be heated by the device 2. The device 2 may be portable or handheld.

[0056] The device comprises a head portion 4. The head portion 4 is configured to contain the smoking product capsule in use. The device 2 typically receives the capsule on or within the head portion 4. The head portion 4 is provided at the upper end of the device in use.

[0057] The head portion 4 comprises a disc or lenticular / convex shape, e.g. being generally circular in plan and curved in sectional profile at its periphery. The head portion 4 is uppermost and, in the example shown, is wider than a neck portion 12 of the device extending below the head portion towards a base portion 6.

[0058] The device 2 comprises a base portion 6. The base portion provides a reservoir, container or tank for a cooling liquid 8 (e.g. water). The base portion 6 is generally bulbous or rounded. In this example, the base portion 6

[0059] The base portion 6 comprises a flat lower surface 10 to ensure the device 2 stays upright on a supporting surface in use. The lower surface 10 may comprise grip members (e.g. rubber pads or the like). The reservoir of the base portion 6 comprises a transparent material. This allows the user to ensure the water level is correct and / or see the smoking product entering the water during use. The reservoir may comprise glass. The reservoir may comprise a transparent polymer, for example, one or more of: acrylic (PMMA); butyrate; polycarbonate; PET; or PETG.

[0060] The neck portion 12 connects the base 6 and the head portion 4. The neck portion 12 tapers toward the head portion 4. The base portion 6 and neck portion 12 may comprise a pear or tear shape. The head portion 4 is wider than the neck 12 at the interface therebetween. The head portion 4 thus extends outwardly from the neck portion. The head portion 4 thus provides a flange or rim.

[0061] The neck portion 12 provides a handle for the user, e.g. a portion by which the device can be securely gripped. The neck portion 4 may comprise a grip or the like. The grip may comprise a high-friction or profiled material (e.g. rubber etc) or may have the same material as a remainder of the neck / head. The neck portion 12 contains an electronics compartment, which will be described in detail later.

[0062] The head portion 4 and the neck portion 12 may be opaque, i.e. unlike the reservoir of the base portion.

[0063] The head portion 4 and neck 12 are detachable / separable from the base portion 6. The electronics compartment is therefore separable from the base 6. This allows access to the reservoir to add / remove cooling liquid therefrom. The interface between the lower end of the neck portion 4 and the base portion 6 may comprise a screw thread, bayonet or other suitable attachment formation.

[0064] The device 2 is generally circular in cross-section (i.e. when viewed in plan). However, it can be appreciated, the device may comprise any suitable cross- sectional shape, for example of curved or polygonal shape. The cross-sectional shape or width may vary along the axial length of the device 2. The device 2 comprises a housing of a thermally and / or electrically insulating material. Typically the device housing comprises a polymeric / plastics material.

[0065] A hose 14 is connected to the device 2. The hose 14 is removably attached to the device, e.g. at an end of the hose having a connector formation. This allows the hose 14 to be cleaned and / or detached for storage. The hose 14 is received with an aperture or socket 16 in the neck portion 12. An air-tight / sealed connection is preferably formed.

[0066] The hose 14 is therefore fluidly connected to the interior of the base 6, i.e. being in communication with the air space inside the reservoir. The hose 14 is mounted via an interference or friction fit. A hose connector 18 and / or the aperture 16 may comprise a high-friction material (e.g. rubber). The connector 18 is tapered toward an end thereof. In other embodiments, the hose may be mounted to the device 2 via one or more of: a fastener; a latch; a screw thread; an indent / detent arrangement; a clamp or other suitable means.

[0067] In some embodiments, the hose 14 may be connected to the device 2 via a snap- fit or click fit. Typically, a resiliently biased detent is provided on either the device 2 or the connector 18. The detent is configured to snap-fit into a corresponding recess / groove on the connector 18 or the device 2 accordingly. The detent may be biased via a spring or the like. In some embodiments, the detent may comprise an arcuate or annular ring. The detent is received within a correspondingly shape arcuate / annular recess. The hose 14 is flexible. The hose 14 may comprise a flexible polymer. The hose 14 comprises a mouthpiece 20. The mouthpiece 20 may be removable / detachable from the hose 14. The mouthpiece 20 may comprise a removable cover or the like (e.g. to improve hygiene between multiple users).

[0068] The head 4 comprises a closure or lid 22 to provide an opening thereto. This allows insertion of the smoking product capsule containing a smoking product. The lid 22 is pivotably / hingedly attached to the device 2. The lid 22 is provided at the upper end of the device 2. The smoking product is therefore loaded into the upper end of the device. The lid 22 comprises a round / circular shape. The lid 22 is movable between a closed position where the opening is obscured (i.e. closed) and the second position where the opening is unobscured (i.e. open).

[0069] In the closed position, the lid 22 is generally flush with the surrounding portion of the head 4. In the open position, it is angled thereto, e.g. typically at a perpendicular or obtuse angle to a plane of the opening.

[0070] As shown in figure 3, a heater 24 in the form of a heating chamber is mounted within the device 2. The heater 24 is mounted within the electronics compartment 12 and / or head portion 4. The heater 24 is configured to receive the capsule. The heater 24 heats the capsule to vaporise or otherwise disperse one or more ingredient of smoking product in use.

[0071] The walls 26 of the heater 24 are shaped to conform to the shape of the capsule. The capsule thus forms a close fit with the heater in use, e.g. around its periphery. The heater may be defined as an oven or other heating chamber arranged to substantially enclose a capsule for heating through the walls thereof.

[0072] The walls 26 comprise a concave / tapered shape. Typically, the walls 26 are trapezoidal or frustoconical.

[0073] The heater 24 encloses or surrounds the capsule in use. The heater 24 thus forms a heating chamber or cavity. The lid 22 closes the heating chamber 24. The cavity / chamber is thus sealed / enclosed in use. One or more heating element may be provided on, within and / or integral with the walls 26 of the heating chamber 24. The heating chamber 24 comprises a thermally conductive material (e.g. metal). Thus, heat passes through the walls 26 of the heating chamber 24 into the capsule in use.

[0074] In other embodiments, the heating means are displaced from the heating chamber. For example, the heating means may surround or enclose the heating chamber. The heating means may project or direct a beam or airflow into the heating chamber.

[0075] Typically, the heating means comprise a resistive element (i.e. heated by electrical current flowing therethrough). The resistive element may be formed directly on, or be integral with, the walls 26 of the heating chamber. However, any suitable means may be used to heat the heating chamber 24 and / or capsule, for example, one or more of: inductive heating; microwave heating; infrared heating; convective heating (e.g. the heating element is displaced away from the heating chamber wall 26); electronically controlled combustion heating (e.g. using gas or other fuel); and / or oil heating. Electric heating means, allowing electronic control thereof, are preferred so that the heating of a capsule can be carefully controlled.

[0076] As best seen in figure 1 , the lid 22 comprises an air inlet 28 therein.

[0077] The heating chamber 24 therefore comprises one or more air inlet 28 to allow air into the heating chamber 24. This air then mixes with the vaporised product in the heating chamber 24. The air inlet 28 allows air to pass through the lid 22 (i.e. the inlet 28 provides a channel through the lid 22). The air inlet 28 is provided in a central portion of the lid 22 in this example. The air inlet 28 is thus provided over the heating chamber 24 / capsule in use.

[0078] The air inlet 28 may comprise a plurality of apertures or perforations, e.g. an array of through-holes. The air inlet 28 may comprise a grille or mesh to prevent debris entering the inlet 28. The heater 24 may be controlled by electronics in the electronics compartment 12 (e.g. via a heater controller). The electronics may comprise a microcontrol ler / microprocessor; memory (volatile and / or non-volatile); and / or electrical regulation circuitry (e.g. power limiter and / or controller). The electronics compartment 12 comprises any suitable components to provide heating of the heater 24.

[0079] The device 2 may comprise a communication interface. The communication interface may be wired and / or wireless. The wire interface may comprise a USB or Ethernet interface (e.g. USB port). The wireless interface may comprise an interface for communication via one or more of: Wifi; Bluetooth; NFC; Infrared; cellular (e.g. GSM, 3G, 4G, 5G etc.). The device 2 may comprise any suitable antenna for wireless communication.

[0080] The device comprises power supply. The power supply may provide electrical power to the heater 24 and / or the heater controller. The power supply may be mains powered (e.g. via wire or the like). Additionally or alternatively, the power supply comprises a battery 35 or other onboard energy store. The battery may be removable and / or rechargeable. Power transmission to the device 2 for use or recharging may be wired or wireless.

[0081] A power switch 30 or the like may be provided. The device 2 and / or the heater 24 may therefore be manually controlled (e.g. activated / deactivated). The switch may comprise a push switch or touch interface.

[0082] The device 2 comprise an indicator 32. The indicator comprises a light (e.g. an LED) or other visual indicator. The indicator 32 may indicate a status of the device, e.g. a power level to the heater 24 and / or the temperature thereof. The indicator 32 comprise a series of lights. Thus, the number of lights illuminated may be indicative of the power level / temperature of the heater 24 or temperature thereof. In some embodiments, the indicator 32 may comprise a display or the like. The display may be interactive (e.g. a touchscreen). The indicator may indicate the readiness of the device for use.

[0083] The heating chamber 24 is operatively connected to the cooling / water tank 6 via a conduit 34. The heating chamber 24 and the tank 6 are thus fluidly connected. The conduit 34 provides a pipe, tube or channel. The conduit 34 is generally sealed to / against the heating chamber 24 to prevent air leakage therefrom. The conduit 34 extends into the tank 6. The conduit 34 therefore extends into the cooling fluid / water in use. The conduit may comprise a one-way valve to prevent back flow into the heating chamber 24.

[0084] The conduit 34 passes through the electronics compartment / neck 12. The conduit 34 therefore seals or segregates the heating chamber 24 and / or vapourised product from electronic compartment 6 to prevent contamination thereof. The electronics compartment comprises a cavity or hollow to accommodate the conduit 34. The cavity is fluidly isolated from the heating chamber 24 and / or the tank 6.

[0085] A battery 35, or plurality of batteries, surround or enclose the conduit 34. This provides a compact configuration. Typically, the batteries comprise a cylindrical cell like arrangement. The cells are arranged about the circumference of the conduit 34. Between four and eight cells may be used.

[0086] It can be seen that the conduit 34 is wider in the region passing through the neck, i.e. immediately beneath the heater 24. The conduit is narrower in the region extending into the base portion 6, i.e. into the water tank. A constriction may be provided approximately at the lower end of the neck portion, e.g. at the interface with the water tank.

[0087] The conduit 34 comprises a diffuser 36 arrangement. The diffuser 36 is typically provided at an end 38 of the conduit 34. The diffuser may comprise a plurality of apertures or the like for egress of fluid / vapour from the conduit into the water. The end 38 of the conduit 34 may be closed / sealed (i.e. such that all gas / vapour from the conduit passes through the diffuser openings). Alternatively, the end 38 of the conduit 34 may be open. The end 38 may be narrowed or otherwise constricted.

[0088] In use, air passes into the air inlet 28 and into the heating chamber 24. The air then entrains vaporised smoking product in the heating chamber 24. The air / vapour then passes along the conduit 34 and to the coolant in the tank 8. The air and / or vapour is cooled and / or filtered as it passes through the coolant as bubbles. The air / vapour then bubbles up through the coolant and into the hose 20. Typically, air flow is provided by a negative pressure from the user (i.e. at the mouthpiece 20).

[0089] Where a capsule is used, porous / perforated walls are provided on capsule to allow air to enter the capsule and / or to allow the vaporised product to escape therefrom. Porosity may be provided by apertures or perforations on one or more faces of the capsule, typically opposing upper and lower faces. The apertures are typically less than 5mm in diameter

[0090] The head portion 4 is shown in more detail in figure 4. The head portion 4 comprises a casing 40 configured to enclose the internal portions of the head 4. The casing comprises an upper casing 40A. The upper casing 40A is configured to surround the lid 22. The upper casing 40A comprises an opening or aperture 42 therein in which the lid 22 is received (see figure 1 ). The lid is flush with the upper casing when closed.

[0091] The aperture 42 therefore allows access to the heating chamber 24.

[0092] The upper casing 40A may be generally annular. The upper casing 40A abuts against a lower casing 40B. The lower casing 40B may be conical or funnel shape. The lower casing engages an upper end of casing 43 for the neck portion 12.

[0093] The widened shape of the head portion allows an annular space within the head portion surrounding the aperture 42 and / or heating chamber 24. This space is useful for mounting additional components in the head portion, e.g. electronic and / or mechanical components.

[0094] A chassis 44 is provided within the head portion 4. The chassis 44 is configured to support various components within the head portion 4. The chassis 44 may support the heating chamber 24 and / or a capsule ejection mechanism 46, which will be described in detail later. It can be appreciated that chassis 44 may form part of the casing 40,42 or any other support structure for the device 2.

[0095] A lighting arrangement 48 is provided. The lighting arrangement 48 is configured to illuminate the head portion 4. The lighting arrangement 48 is configured to illuminate an outer edge of the of head portion 4. The lighting arrangement 48 comprise a ring or annular shape. A portion of the upper casing 40A adjacent the lighting arrangement 48 may be transparent / translucent. The lighting arrangement 48 comprise a plurality of LEDs. The LEDs are spaced circumferentially about the lighting arrangement 48. The lighting arrangement 48 may be used for general illumination in the head portion and / or may provide visual indica relating to the operation of the device, e.g. of the type described above in relation to indicators 32.

[0096] An antenna or other wireless receiver (not shown) may be provided in the head portion. The antenna / receiver is operatively connected to a wireless communication interface. The interface may comprise one or more of: NFC / RFID, Bluetooth (RTM); Wifi; or other short-range interface. The wireless interface may allow communication with a remote device, for example, a mobile (cellular) phone.

[0097] A second wireless interface may be configured to operatively connect with the capsule 50 and / or a data carrier thereon. For example, the second interface may extract data relating to the smoking product and / or a heating profile therefor. The second interface may comprise one or more of: NFC / RFID, Bluetooth (RTM); Wifi; or other short-range interface. An antenna may be provided on or adjacent the heating chamber 24. In some embodiments, the first and second wireless may be provided the same or a common interface. The capsule ejection mechanism 46 is described in detail in figures 5-7. The ejection mechanism 46 comprises a release mechanism 52. The release mechanism 52 is configured to release the lid 22 to allow the lid to rotate about its hinge for selective access to the heating chamber 24. The release mechanism 52 acts to lock the lid 22 in the closed position. This ensures the lid 22 remains closed during heating of the capsule 50.

[0098] The release mechanism comprises a manual actuator 54. The manual actuator 54 provides manual actuation of the release mechanism 52, thereby opening the lid 22. The manual actuator 54 comprise a push button or the like. The button 54 is received within an aperture 56 in the casing 40A and / or chassis 44. The aperture 56 may comprise side walls or rails to guide or otherwise constrain lateral movement of the button 54. The manual actuator 54 is therefore linearly movable between the depressed and undepressed state. Stop members 58 are provided to retain the actuator 54 within the casing 40A.

[0099] A latch mechanism is provided to engage the lid 22. The latch mechanism comprises a latch 62 configured to engage a corresponding formation 64 on the lid 22. The distal end of the latch 62 comprises a tapered / angled surface. This allows the lid formation 64 to pass thereover during lid closure. The opposing side of the latch 62 comprises a step / projection to retain the lid formation 64. The latch 62 thus comprises a barbed or arrowhead like arrangement. The lid formation 64 comprises a step or flange for abutment with the step when latched.

[0100] The latch mechanism 60 is mounted to the chassis 44 via pivot 66. The pivot 66 comprises an axle / pin or the like. The axle is received within an aperture in the chassis 44. However, it can be appreciated that any suitable may be provided, for example, the chassis latch mechanism 60 may comprise an aperture configured to receive an axle on the chassis 44. The pivot 66 allows the latch 62 to rotate toward / away from the lid formation 64. This allows the lid formation 64 to pass over the latch 62 during closing and to allow full disengagement thereof during opening. The latch mechanism comprises an arm 68 (best seen in figure 6) configured to engage the manual actuator 54. The manual actuator can therefore effect movement of latch 62 accordingly. The arm 68 comprises an engagement formation configured to be received within the manual actuator 54. The engagement formation comprises a plurality of outwardly extending arms 70 (see figure 7). The arms 70 extend in a lateral direction. The arm 68 is thus T-shaped. The manual actuator 54 comprises cut-outs 72 to receive the arms 70. The arms 70 / cut-outs 72 prevent undesired relative movement of the arm 68 relative to the actuator. The arms 70 are pivotably or loosely received within the cut-outs to allow relative rotation therebetween. This allows transmission of the linear movement of the actuator 54 to a rotational movement of the latch mechanism 60.

[0101] The actuator arm 68 is angled relative to the latch 62 arm 74. The angle is acute. The latch mechanism is therefore V-shaped. The pivot 66 is offset from the apex 76 of the V-shape. This provides greater leverage for the latch mechanism 60. A web 78 extends between the arms 68,74 and the pivot 66 to provide increased structural strength.

[0102] The manual actuator 54 is biased into the undepressed state. The latch mechanism 60 is biased into the locked position accordingly (i.e. the latch 62 is biased into engagement with the lid formation 64). A biasing mechanism 80 is configured to bias the actuator 54 / latch mechanism 60. The biasing mechanism 80 is operatively provided between the latch mechanism 60 and the chassis 44 (see figure 4). The biasing mechanism comprises a foot portion 82 configured to abut the chassis 44. The foot portion 82 is therefore shaped to confirm therewith. The foot portion 82 comprises angled tips 84. This provides a stop member and ensure the foot portion 82 is constrained within the chassis.

[0103] A spring member 86 extends between the foot portion 82 and the latch mechanism 60. The spring member 86 is mounted to the actuator arm 68. A portion of the spring 86 is acutely angled therefrom. The spring 86 is acutely angled relative to the foot portion 82. The biasing mechanism 80 thus comprise a Z-shape. The spring member 86 may be formed by a cut-out from the foot portion 82. The foot portion 82 and the spring member 86 are therefore integral.

[0104] The spring member 86 may be formed by stamping the foot member 82 to partially separate the spring 86, and then deforming the spring member 86 to be angled away therefrom. The spring member 86 is provide between two portions of the foot portion 83 (e.g. to provide a ski like arrangement). The angled spring member 86 bias the latch 62 in a lateral direction toward the lid 22 (i.e. toward the right hand side of figure 5). This ensure a tight connection therebetween. The spring member 86 simultaneously provides a biasing force in the upward direction (i.e perpendicular to the lateral direction) to bias the actuator 54 toward the undepressed state.

[0105] It can be appreciated that the biasing mechanism 80 may be provided by any suitable biasing arrangement. For example, the biasing mechanism may comprise one or more of: a helical spring; leaf spring; resiliently deformable material; or gas spring. In some embodiments, the manual actuator 54 and the latch mechanism 60 are biased by independent biasing means.

[0106] The release mechanism 52 may comprise any suitable arrangement to provide selective release / retention of the lid 22. For example, the release mechanism 52 may comprise one or more of: indent / detent arrangement; sliding shaft or rod; or rotating arm or plate. The manual actuator 54 may comprise any suitable form to effect the release mechanism 52 accordingly. The manual actuator 54 may comprise one or more: handle; linear switch; push rod; rocker switch; rotatable switch. In some embodiments, the actuator 54 is provided on the lid 22, and the latch 62 engages a formation mounted to the chassis 44.

[0107] The ejection mechanism 46 comprises a lifting mechanism 88 configured to lift the capsule out of the heating chamber 24 in response to opening of the lid 22, e.g. either when the capsule is hot or cold. Referring to figure 7, the lid 22 comprises a pivot 90. The pivot 90 is mounted to the chassis 44 or other portion of the head 4. The pivot 90 comprise an axle configured to receive within an aperture or like in the chassis 44 / head 4. It can be appreciated that any suitable rotational mechanism may be provided, for example, a bearing or like. In some embodiments, the pivot 90 provides an aperture to receive an axle on the chassis 44 / head 4.

[0108] The pivot 90 is provided on an arm 92. The arm 92 is curved or U-shaped. The pivot 90 is provided on one end of the arm 92. The opposing end of the arm is connected to the lid 22. The arm 44 comprise an integral part of the lid. The apex of the arm 92 points downward (i.e. toward the tank 6 in use).

[0109] The ejection mechanism 46 comprises a lifting member 94. The lifting member 94 is configured to be received beneath the capsule 50 and / or a rim 96 thereof. Thus, when the lifting member 94 is raised, the capsule 50 is raised therewith. The lifting member 94 comprises an aperture 98 to receive the capsule 50. The lifting member 94 is therefore annular or ring shaped. The lifting member 94 comprises a flat upper surface 100 to support the capsule rim 96. The rim 96 may be clamped between the lid 22 and the lifting member 94 in use. A tight connection may be provided therebetween to help prevent air losses.

[0110] The heating chamber 24 comprise a rim / flange 102. The lifting member 94 is thus interposed the capsule rim 96 and the heating chamber rim 102 in use. The lifting member 94 may abut the heating chamber rim 102. A seal may be formed therebetween. This helps to reduce air losses.

[0111] The rim 96 of the capsule 50 is generally wider than the upper surface 100 of the lifting member 94. This allows the user to reach beneath the rim 96 to lift the capsule, using their fingers or a tool. The surface 101 adjacent the upper surface ramper to tapers away from the upper surface 100 to allow greater access beneath the rim 96. In the present embodiment, the lifting member 94 fully surrounds the capsule 50. This provides optimal support. In other embodiments, the lifting member 94 only partially surrounds the capsule 50 (e.g. in a crescent shape). In some embodiment, the lifting member may only engage the capsule 50 at discrete places. For example, the lifting member 94 may comprise tabs or flange to engage the capsule 50.

[0112] In some embodiments, the lifting member 94 may engage the side 104 walls of the capsule 50. This may leave a gap between the upper surface 100 of the lifting member 96 and the capsule rim 96, allowing easy gripping by the user. In some embodiments, the lifting member 96 may engage the bottom surface 106 of the capsule 50. For example, a portion of the lifting member 94 is received within the heating chamber 24. Additionally or alternatively, the lifting member 94 is connected to or integral with the heating chamber 24. The heating chamber 24 may therefore be movable to eject the capsule 50.

[0113] The lifting member 94 is operatively connected to the lid 22 via a pivot 108. The pivot 108 comprise an axle configured to be received within an aperture 110 in the arm 92. It can be appreciated that connection between the lid 22 and the lifting member 94 can be provided by any suitable rotatable connector. For example, the axle may be provided on the arm 92. The pivot 108 may be snap fit into the aperture 110.

[0114] The pivot point 110 on the arm is offset from the pivot point 90 between the lid 22 and the chassis 44. Thus, upon rotation of the lid the pivot point 110 experiences a linear motion in upward direction, raising the lift member 96 accordingly. The pivot point 110 is spaced from both ends of the U-shaped arm 92. The pivot point 110 may be provided between an apex of the arm 92 and end thereof connected to the lid 22.

[0115] The lifting member pivot 108 is provided on an arm or linkage 112. The pivot is provided at the end of the arm 112. The arm projects away from the lifting member 94. The arm 112 is curved. The arm 112 is pivotably mounted to the lifting member 94. The arm 122 is pivotably mounted by an axle / aperture arrangement 114 (see figure 5). This ensures that the lifting member 94 may remain in the same orientation during lifting. The lifting member 94 is connected the closure 22 via two independent pivots.

[0116] The lifting member arm 112 is received within the lid arm 92. The lid arm 92 therefore comprises a cavity to receive the lifting member arm 112. This allows free pivoting of the arms 92,112 relative to one another.

[0117] The lifting member 94 comprises guide 116 to ensures the lifting member remains in the same orientation during lifting. The guide 116 comprises a rod or shaft. The guide projects downward in use (i.e. toward the neck portion 12). The guide 116 may extend into the neck portion 12 (see figure 4). The guide 116 is received within a second guide 118. This constrains the guide 116 in a lateral direction. The guide 116 can therefore only move in its axial direction (i.e. in an up and down direction in use). This prevents rotation of the lifting member 94. The second guide 118 is fixed to any suitable portion of the device 2, for example, the chassis 44, head casing 40 or neck casing 42.

[0118] The lifting member 94 is biased into the raised or extended position. The bias is provided by a biasing means provided on the guide 116. The biasing means comprises a spring 120. The spring 120 is interposed the second guide 118 and stop member 122 on the guide 116. The stop 122 member comprise a flange or rim. The flange / rim is provided at the end of the guide 116. This biases the guide 116 toward the raised position (i.e. upwards), thus biasing the lifting member 96 accordingly. This, in turn, biases the lid 22 toward the open position. The spring 120 passes through the lifting member 64 (i.e. via an aperture therein). The spring 120 is concentrically mounted to the guide 116 (i.e. the guide 116 is received therein). In some embodiments, the spring 120 may abut against the lower side of the lifting member 94.

[0119] In alternate embodiments, a biasing member may be configured to bias the lid 22 toward the open position. The lifting member 94 is therefore biased toward the opening accordingly. The biasing member may comprise a torsion spring or the like.

[0120] When the lid 22 is fully open and the lifting member 94 is provided in the fully raised position. The capsule 50 (e.g. the rim 96) is provided in a position where it is easily accessible by the user. For example, the capsule may protrude above the upper most point of the upper casing 40A. Typically the lifting member at partially protrudes through the opening, such that the upper surface 100 thereof and the rim 96 are accessible.

[0121] It can be appreciated that the raised height of the lifting member 94 can be optimised by adjusting the offset between the pivot points 90,110 on the lid arm 92. Movement of the lifting member 94 is smooth / continuous with movement of the lid 22 (i.e. incremental movement of the lid 22 results in corresponding incremental movement of the lifting member 94). Movement of the lid 22 and the lifting member 94 / capsule 50 is therefore synchronous.

[0122] In some embodiments, movement of the lid 22 and the lifting member 94 / capsule 50 may be asynchronous. For example, the lifting member 94 may move to fully raised position when the lid 22 is only fully opened. Alternatively, movement of the lifting member 94 may be limited until the lid 22 is rotated to predetermined position. This may cause the lifting member 94 / capsule to “spring up”. However, it can be appreciated that smooth movement of the capsule 50 is desirable to prevent complete ejection of the capsule 50 from the device 2.

[0123] In some embodiments, lid 22 opening and / or lifting member 94 raising may be provided by an actuator. For example, a motor could be configured to drive rotation of the lid 22 and / or linear movement of the lifting member 94. For example, a motor could provide axial movement of the guide 116. The motor could be electronically controlled. This may allow automatically opening / closing of the lid In some embodiments, the release mechanism 52 could be effected via an actuator / motor. For example, a powered actuator may move the latch 62 in / out of engagement of the engagement formation 64. The release mechanism 52 may be electronically controlled. For example, once the smoking process has completed, the release mechanism 52 is actuated to automatically open the lid 22.

[0124] In some embodiments, the release mechanism 52 may not be provided. The user may user engage the lid 22 directly. The lid 22 may comprise a handle or like. The lid 22 could be biased to a closed / seated condition without the use of a latch. It can be appreciated the lifting mechanism 88 may remain as previously described.

[0125] A sensor may be provided to detect operation of the release mechanism 52 and / or opening of the lid 22. For example, a sensor may detect the position of the lid 22 and / or lifting member 94. A sensor may be provided to detect actuator of the manual actuator 52. The sensor may comprise a pressure, contact or light sensor. Upon detection of opening of the lid 22 or operation of the release mechanism 52 the heating controller may reduce or cease heating of the heating chamber 24.

[0126] In the present embodiment, the capsule 50 comprises a lid (not shown). The capsule is thus substantially enclosed. The lid comprises air inlets or apertures (e.g. perforations). In other embodiments, the capsule 50 may comprise an open container (i.e. no lid). The container may be cup or tray like.

[0127] Although the present embodiment has been described in the context of an electronically heated shisha, it can be appreciated that such features may be used in conventionally heated shisha (e.g. those heated with charcoal or the like). In some embodiments, a capsule may not be provided and the smoking product may be place directly into the heating chamber. In some embodiments, multiple hoses 14 and / or mouthpieces 20 may be provided. Multiple users may therefore use the device simultaneously. The smoking product may comprise a tobacco-based product. The smoking product may comprise non-tobacco product. The smoking product may comprise cannabis.

[0128] Operation of the Invention

[0129] Initially, the lid 22 is open and the heating chamber 24 is empty. The user places a capsule onto the lifting member 96 and the body of capsule passes into the aperture 98 therein. The capsule 50 is partially received within the heating chamber 24.

[0130] The user closes the lid 22 by manually pushing down thereon. The lid 22 rotates about pivot 90, thus moving the lifting member 94 downward. The lifting member 94 maintains the correct orientation via the guide 116, and moves against the bias of the spring 120. The user thus closes the lid 22 against the bias of the spring 120.

[0131] The closing of the lid, lowers a capsule in correct alignment into the heating chamber.

[0132] The engagement formation 64 on the lid 22 engages the tapered edge of the latch 62. This pushes the latch 62 out of the path of the engagement formation 64. Once the engagement formation passes the latch 62, the latch 62 snaps over the engagement formation 64, thus providing retention thereof. The latch 62 is biased into engagement with the engagement formation 64, retaining the lid 22 in the closed position.

[0133] In the closed position, the capsule 50 is received within the heating chamber 24, and the typically provides contact therewith. The user then heats the capsule and inhales the smoking product.

[0134] Once the user has finished, the heating chamber 24 is unpowered. The user presses the button 54 against the bias of the latch spring 86. The latch 62 rotates away from the engagement formation, and the lid 22 is free to rotate. The bias of the guide spring 120 moves the guide upwards, raising the lifting member 94, and the lid 22. The capsule 50 is raised out from the heating chamber 24 and the user can easily remove the capsule.

[0135] The arrangement of the hinge and / or ejection mechanism disclosed herein may be adapted to accommodate ‘forcing’ of the mechanism by a user. For example, a user may attempt to forcibly close the lid, even when the capsule is not correctly inserted or when a further object / member is inadvertently trapped beneath the closure. In such circumstances, the forcing of the closure could damage the closure mechanism. Therefore, it is proposed to allow a selective release point within the mechanism described above so that excess force on the mechanism can be released. For example, one of the joints or members, e.g. at axle 114 or between other pivoting members, may translate, slide, dislodge or ‘pop’ out of its engaged position upon excessive loading. The dislodged member may return to its operational position upon movement of the closure in the opposing direction. Thus a hinge or axle in the pivoting mechanism may provide a release point for excess loading and may help avoid breaking of the mechanism unintentionally by a user.

[0136] The present arrangement allows easy removal of capsule from the device. This helps to reduce the chance of injury to a user. The capsule is raised from the device automatically in response to opening of the lid. This provides a simple and effective way of ejecting the capsule. The lid can be securely closed, and the present arrangement provides a robust and easy to operate method of opening the closure.

Claims

Claims1. A hookah device comprising: a heating chamber configured to heat a smoking product, the heating chamber having an opening; a receptacle to contain the smoking product within the heating chamber in use; a closure movable between a closed position in which the opening is at least partially obscured, and an open position in which the opening is unobscured to allow access to the receptacle; and a displacement mechanism configured to move the receptacle relative to the opening towards and / or away from the heating chamber.

2. A hookah device according to claim 1 , wherein the displacement mechanism is operatively connected to the closure and configured to move the receptacle relative to the opening in response to movement of the closure between the open and closed positions.

3. A hookah device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the displacement mechanism is arranged to: displace or lower the receptacle into the heating chamber in response to movement of the closure toward the closed position; and / or displace or lift the receptacle away from the heating chamber in response to movement of the closure toward the open position.

4. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, wherein the displacement mechanism comprises a displacement member configured to engage or abut against the receptacle in use to provide movement thereof.

5. A hookah device according to claim 4, wherein the receptacle is received within the displacement member and / or the displacement member at least partially surrounds the receptacle.

6. A hookah device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the displacement member is annular in form and / or engages a side of the receptacle.

7. A hookah device according to any of claims 4 to 6, where the displacement member is mounted to the device via guide such that the displacement member is constrained to a predetermined movement path.

8. A hookah device according to claim 7, where the movement path is a linear movement path.

9. A hookah device according to claim 7 or 8, where the guide comprises a shaft or rod provided on one of the displacement member or a device chassis, the shaft / rod configured to be received by a sleeve on the other of the displacement member or device chassis.

10. A hookah device according to any of claims 4-9, where the displacement member is biased toward the opening or in an ejection direction.

11. A hookah device according to claim 10, where the bias is provided by a biasing member, and the biasing member is provided in parallel with the guide and / or concentrically mounted with the guide.

12. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, wherein the closure is pivotably mounted to the device and the displacement mechanism comprises a pivotable linkage in the force path between the closure and the receptacle.

13. A hookah device according to claim 12, wherein the displacement member is operatively connected to the closure via the pivotable linkage.

14. A hookah device according to claim 13, wherein the closure is mounted to the device via a pivot and the pivotable linkage is offset from the pivot such that linear movement of the displacement member is induced in response to rotational movement of the closure.

15. A hookah device according to claim 13 or 14, where a displacement member linkage is pivotably connected to the displacement member, such that the displacement member is operatively connected to the closure via two different pivots.

16. A hookah device according to any of claims 2-15, where the displacement member comprises a surface configured to abut a flange / rim of the heating chamber or receptacle in use.

17. A hookah device according to claim 16, where the displacement member and the closure are configured to clamp on the flange / rim to form an airtight seal therebetween.

18. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, where movement of the closure and the displacement member is synchronous.

19. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, where the receptacle is configured to protrude beyond the opening when the closure is provided in the open position.

20. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, where the receptacle comprises a capsule or container removably received within the heating chamber in use.21 . A hookah device according to any preceding claim, comprising a release mechanism to selectively provide retention and / or release of the closure.

22. A hookah device according to claim 21 , where the release mechanism comprises a latch provided on one of a device chassis and the closure, and an engagement formation configured to be selectively engaged by the latch on the other of the chassis and the closure.

23. A hookah device according to claim 22, where the latch is biased into engagement with the engagement formation.

24. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, wherein the closure comprises an air inlet therein to allow airflow into the heating chamber.

25. A hookah device according to any preceding claim, comprising a sensor to detect an open or closed position of the closure and / or actuation of the release mechanism.

26. A hookah device according to claim 25, where heating of the heating chamber is controlled by a controller, the controller in operative communication with the sensor, and the controller is configured limit or prevent heating when opening of the closure and / or actuation of the release mechanism is detected.

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