Hookah system having a hookah device with an improved user interface and associated software application

Abstract

Described is a hookah system having a hookah device with an improved user interface and an associated software application for control by a mobile device. The hookah device includes a heater head with a pivotally mounted controller housing that seals against a consumable pod to form a pair of airflow seals therebetween. An inductively heated heat plate is used, in conjunction with a pair of sensors, to precisely control the temperature of the heat plate and consumable pod. The software application allows the mobile device to interface with and wirelessly control one or more features of the hookah device.

Description

[0001] HOOKAH SYSTEM HAVING A HOOKAH DEVICE WITH AN IMPROVED USER INTERFACE AND ASSOCIATED SOFTWARE APPLICATION

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] (1) Field of Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a hookah device and, more particularly, to a hookah system having an improved hookah device with an improved user interface and an associated software application for control by a mobile device.

[0005] (2) Description of Related Art

[0006] Hookah devices have long been known in the art and are generally operable to bum and smoke shisha and other combustibles. However, while various designs of a hookah have been conceived, each design has its shortcomings. Notably, existing hookah devices use a flame that is applied to burn or otherwise heat the shisha. Such a flame is not precise nor easily controllable. Further, existing hookah devices use a combustible material that is loose and messy, while none heretofore conceived provide a hookah device that incorporates a perfectly sealed shisha pod therein.

[0007] Thus, a continuing need exists for an improved hookah with components that are designed to improve upon the various aspects and functions of a traditional hookah device.

[0008] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0009] The present disclosure provides a hookah system. The hookah system includes an improved hookah device with an improved user interface. In some aspects, the hookah system also includes an associated software application for control by a mobile device.

[0010] The hookah device includes a heating head, a vessel assembly, and a control panel. The heating head includes at least a pod tray and a heater mechanism, the pod tray being adapted to secure a consumable pod within the heating head such that the heating head provides an air pathway through the consumable pod and into a vessel assembly, with the heater mechanism being adapted to heat the consumable pod and generate smoke therefrom. The vessel assembly is connected with the heating head for receiving the smoke and directing the smoke to a smoke outlet. A control panel is attached with the hookah device, the control panel providing a user interface allowing for operation of one or more features of the hookah device.

[0011] In another aspect, the control panel includes wireless communication components to allow the hookah device to wirelessly communicate with an external device.

[0012] In another aspect, the hookah system includes a computer program product (i.e., software application). The computer program product includes a non- transitory computer-readable medium having executable instructions encoded thereon, such that upon execution of the instructions by one or more processors, the one or more processors perform one or more operations of causing the external device to interface with and control one or more features of the hookah device.

[0013] In yet another aspect, the one or more features of the hookah device include one or more features selected from a group consisting of parental controls that allow a parent to authorize usage, adjustments for temperature based on at least one of altitude and humidity conditions, and collection of user data.

[0014] The computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform one or more operations selected from a groupconsisting of automatic or elective reordering of consumable pods through the internet; receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device; notifying a user of detected faults on the hookah device; accessing diagnostics of the hookah device; and authorizing a firmware upgrade for the hookah device, such that upon authorization, the hookah device downloads and installs the firmware upgrade.

[0015] In another aspect, the control panel is housed in a controller housing pivotally connected to the heating head, with the heater mechanism being attached to the controller housing.

[0016] Further, the control panel includes an authenticator to authenticate a user and allow for user operation of the hookah device. Non-limiting examples of such an authenticator include a finger reader and or numerical input keypad for code input.

[0017] Finally, the present disclosure also comprises a method for forming and using the invention as described herein.

[0018] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed descriptions of the various aspects of the invention in conjunction with reference to the following drawings, where:

[0020] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a hookah device in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 2 is an illustration of the hookah device with a consumable pod therein in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 3 is an exploded-view illustration of the hookah device in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0023] FIG. 4A is a top-view illustration of a heating head in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the heating head, taken from line A-A of FIG. 4A;

[0025] FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the heating head, taken from line A-A of FIG. 4A;

[0026] FIG. 5 is an exploded-view illustration of a controller housing in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 6A is an elevated-view illustration of a heat plate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 6B is a top-view illustration of the heat plate;

[0029] FIG. 6C is a front-view illustration of the heat plate;

[0030] FIG. 6D is a side-view illustration of the heat plate;

[0031] FIG. 6E is a cross-sectional view illustration of the heat plate, taken from line A-A of FIG. 6B;

[0032] FIG. 7 is an exploded-view illustration of the controller housing, depicting a top-elevated view;

[0033] FIG. 8 is an exploded-view illustration of the controller housing, depicting a bottom-iso view;

[0034] FIG. 9 is an exploded-view illustration of a controller housing cap assembly, depicting a bottom-iso view;

[0035] FIG. 10A is an exploded-view illustration of a lower body assembly of the heating head;

[0036] FIG. 10B is a bottom-iso view of the lower body assembly;

[0037] FIG. 11 is a bottom-iso view of the heating head;

[0038] FIG. 12 is an exploded-view illustration of an upper body assembly of the heating head;

[0039] FIG. 13 is a bottom-iso view of a pod tray according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] FIG. 14 is an exploded-view illustration of a stem assembly according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] FIG. 15 is an exploded-view illustration of a vessel assembly according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] FIG. 16A is an exploded-view illustration of the vessel assembly;

[0043] FIG. 16B is a top-view illustration of the vessel assembly;

[0044] FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the vessel assembly, taken from line A-A of FIG. 16B;

[0045] FIG. 16D is a close-up, detail view illustration of the vessel assembly, depicting the detail as shown in FIG. 16C;

[0046] FIG. 16E is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the heating head and vessel assembly, depicting an interface band of the vessel assembly as sealing against the heating head;

[0047] FIG. 17A is a top-iso view illustration of a consumable pod in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0048] FIG. 17B is a top-view illustration of the consumable pod;

[0049] FIG. 17C is a front-view illustration of the consumable pod, the rear-view being a mirror image thereof;

[0050] FIG. 17D is a bottom -view illustration of the consumable pod;

[0051] FIG. 17E is a right, side-view illustration of the consumable pod, the left-side being a mirror image thereof;

[0052] FIG. 17F is a bottom, iso-view illustration of the consumable pod;

[0053] FIG. 18 is an iso-view illustration of another consumable pod design in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0054] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the heating head, taken from line A-A of FIG. 4A, depicting the heating head with a consumable pod therein and associated air flow;

[0055] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the heating head, taken from line A-A of FIG. 4A, depicting the heating head with a consumable pod therein and placement of a temperature sensor;

[0056] FIG. 21A is an iso-view illustration of a pod tray, a consumable pod, and a pod primary seal;

[0057] FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration of the hookah device, depicting an air flow pathway through the hookah device;

[0058] FIG. 22A is a top-view illustration of the pod tray, with the consumable pod therein and pod primary seal covering the consumable pod;

[0059] FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration taken from line B-B of FIG. 22A, depicting an air-pathway through the consumable pod;

[0060] FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional, side-view illustration taken from line A-A of FIG. 22A;

[0061] FIG. 23A is a bottom-view illustration of the controller housing, depicting a bottom view of the pod primary seal;

[0062] FIG. 23B is a bottom-view illustration of the controller housing, depicting concentric seal lines for illustrative purposes as applicable to the pod primary seal when engaged with a top of the consumable pod;

[0063] FIG. 23C is a top-view illustration of a pod tray with the consumable pod therein, depicting concentric seal lines for illustrative purposes as applicable to the consumable pod when engaged with the bottom of the pod primary seal;

[0064] FIG. 23D is a top, detailed-view illustration of the pod tray with the consumable pod therein, depicting concentric seal lines for illustrative purposes as applicable to the consumable pod when engaged with the bottom of the pod primary seal;

[0065] FIG. 24A is an iso-view illustration of the consumable pod, with a cap affixed thereto;

[0066] FIG. 24B is an iso-view illustration of the consumable pod, depicting the cap as being removed to allow for insertion of the consumable pod into the hookah device;

[0067] FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional, side view illustration of the consumable pod and cap, taken from line A-A of FIG. 24 A;

[0068] FIG. 25A is an iso-view illustration of the hookah head with a consumable pod therein, depicting the hookah head as being opened to allow for insertion or removal of a consumable pod;

[0069] FIG. 25B is an iso-view illustration of the hookah head with a consumable pod therein, depicting the hookah head in an open position to allow for insertion or removal of a consumable pod;

[0070] FIG. 25C is an iso-view illustration of the hookah head in an open position with a consumable pod therein, depicting the pod primary seal for sealing against the consumable pod;

[0071] FIG. 25D is an iso-view illustration of the hookah head in an open position, depicting the pod tray and associated consumable pod being withdrawn from the hookah head;

[0072] FIG. 25E is a cross-sectional view illustration of the hookah head in an open position, taken from line A-A of FIG. 25D;

[0073] FIG. 25F is an iso-view illustration of the hookah head in an open position, depicting the consumable pod as being removed from the pod tray to allow for placement of a new consumable pod;

[0074] FIG. 26A is a left, side view illustration of the hookah device, depicting a handle as attached with the hookah device;

[0075] FIG. 26B is a right, side view illustration of the hookah device, depicting a handle as attached with the hookah device;

[0076] FIG. 26C is a front view illustration of the hookah device, depicting a handle as attached with the hookah device;

[0077] FIG. 26D is a front view illustration of the hookah device, depicting a handle as attached with the hookah device;

[0078] FIG. 27A is an iso-view illustration of the hookah device, depicting the handle as detached from hanger hooks on the vessel assembly;

[0079] FIG. 27B is an iso-view illustration of the hookah device, depicting the handle as being positioned for attachment with the hanger hooks;

[0080] FIG. 27C is an iso-view illustration of the hookah device and attached handle;

[0081] FIG. 28 is an illustration of the hookah device, depicting that a secure mating arrangement between the handle and hanger hooks allows for precise positional control of the hookah device;

[0082] FIG. 29 is an illustration of the hookah device with a control panel as an improved user interface;

[0083] FIG. 30 is a top-view illustration of the hookah device with the control panel as the improved user interface;

[0084] FIG. 31 A is an illustration of the control panel in a power on cycle;

[0085] FIG. 3 IB is an illustration of the control panel in a power off cycle;

[0086] FIG. 31C is an illustration of the control panel in a pause mode;

[0087] FIG. 3 ID is an illustration of the control panel, depicting a heat boost;

[0088] FIG. 3 IE is an illustration of the control panel, depicting preset heat mode indicia;

[0089] FIG. 3 IF is an illustration of the control panel, depicting preset activation;

[0090] FIG. 32A is an illustration of the control panel, depicting session finish indicia;

[0091] FIG. 32B is an illustration of the control panel, depicting coil temp indicia;

[0092] FIG. 32C is an illustration of the control panel, depicting warning indicia;

[0093] FIG. 32D is an illustration of the control panel, depicting battery indicia;

[0094] FIG. 32E is an illustration of the control panel, depicting shisha pod indicia;

[0095] FIG. 32F is an illustration of the control panel, depicting timer indicia;

[0096] FIG. 33 is an illustration of the control panel, depicting a finger reader for authentication;

[0097] FIG. 34 is an illustration of the control panel, depicting an example authenticator for authentication;

[0098] FIG. 35 is a block diagram depicting the components of a computer system according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0099] FIG. 36 is an illustration of a computer program product embodying an aspect of the present invention; and[000100] FIG. 37 is a block diagram depicting control of a hookah device according to various embodiments of the present invention.[000101] DETAILED DESCRIPTION[000102] The present invention relates to a hookah system having a hookah device with an improved user interface and an associated software application for control by a mobile device. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and to incorporate it in the context of particular applications. Various modifications, as well as a variety of uses in different applications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to a wide range of embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments presented, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.[000103] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without necessarily being limited to these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.[000104] The reader’s attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with this specification and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference. All the features disclosed in this specification, (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unlessexpressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is only one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.[000105] Furthermore, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. In particular, the use of “step of’ or “act of’ in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, Paragraph 6.[000106] Please note, if used, the labels left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise and counter-clockwise have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and / or directions between various portions of an object.[000107] (1) Description[000108] The present disclosure is directed to a hookah system. The hookah system includes a hookah device with an improved user interface. Although not required, in some aspects, the hookah system also includes an associated software application (for a mobile device) to control the hookah device. The hookah device and associated software application are described in further detail below.[000109] The hookah device is designed for heating a consumable pod (e.g., shisha pod). The hookah device is formed to include an improved user interface and an associated software application for control by a mobile device. For clarity, the hookah device and its various features and heating functions are described first, with the improved user interface and associated software described further below.[000110] As noted above, the hookah device is designed to heat a consumable pod and allow a user to smoke combustible items, such as shisha, tobacco, herbs, etc. positioned within the pod. It should be noted that the various components and / or techniques (or any combination thereof) as described and illustrated herein can be used to improve any electronic hookah device that employs a removable pod for containing the smokable material.[0001 11] The drawings as submitted herewith depict an example electronic hookah device along with an example consumable pod (e.g., shisha pod) that can be heated via a heating mechanism, such as a heat plate and associated induction heating coil assembly, etc. Although a specific example is provided, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited thereto as the components as described and illustrated can be used with other hookah devices and shisha pods or items to be heated. Notably, through the use of the improved hookah device, the temperature as applied to the pod can be precisely controlled as desired while improving the smoking experience.[000112] One example embodiment is depicted in the figure as submitted herewith. As shown in FIG. 1, the hookah device 100 includes two main components, a heating head 102 and a vessel assembly 104. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, both the heating head 102 and vessel assembly 104 include all of the necessary parts as may be necessary to allow a user to electronically heat a consumable pod and direct smoke into and through the vessel assembly 104 for inhalation by a user.[0001 13] In one aspect, the heating head 102 comprises an upper body and a lower body. The upper body includes a controller housing 106 to house the necessary electronic components and controls as required to selectively turn on and heat the consumable pod. For example, the controller housing 106 includes circuitry, a control panel 108 (e.g., interface buttons, such as power control buttons,temperature controls, etc.), a heater, and any other necessary components as may be necessary to allow for selective and precise temperature control of the heater to heat the consumable pod as housed therein. Also as depicted, the hookah device 100 includes a hose port 110 projecting from the vessel assembly 104 to allow for attachment of a hose 112 for use by a user. Upon heating the consumable pod 200 by the heater, the consumable material therein is caused to smoke or emit a vapor, etc., which is directed to the vessel assembly 104 for further use. The vessel assembly 104 houses water through which the smoke passes before being directed out to the user via the hose 112 or other attachment that can be attached with the vessel assembly 104. Further, a handle 114 is desirably attachable with the hookah device 100 through use of hanger hooks 116 or other suitable means.[000114] As noted above and as depicted in FIG. 2, a consumable pod 200 can be selectively positioned within the heating head 102 for heating and consumption by the user. As will be evident given the present disclosure and description below, both the hookah device 100 and consumable pod 102 provide a marked improvement over the state of the art.[000115] As shown in the exploded-view illustration of FIG. 3, the hookah device 100 includes both the heating head 102 and vessel assembly 104. A pod tray 300 is used to hold and secure the consumable pod 200 within the heating head 102. The pod tray 300 acts as a recess or receptacle to securely hold the consumable pod 200 in place for heating and consumption. Powering the controller housing 106 is a battery (e.g., housed within a battery assembly 302) or extension cord, or any other suitable means for providing electrical power to the heating head 102 and relevant components. In one aspect, the heating head 102 nests within (or otherwise attaches to) the vessel assembly 104 and includes all of the necessary components to allow for heating and use of the consumable pod 200. However, desirably, a stem assembly 304 is also included that supports a stem in the required position for operation and provides a watertight barrier between liquid inthe vessel assembly 104 and the heating head 102 housing electronics and electrical components. Further details regarding each of these components are provided below.[000116] FIG. 4A provides a top-view illustration of the heating head 102, while FIGs. 4B and 4C provide cross-sectional side-view illustrations of the heating head 102 with varying levels of details depicted. The heating head 102 includes an upper body 400 and lower body 402. As shown, the consumable pod 200 is encased within the upper body 400, with the controller housing 106 resting upon a top surface of the consumable pod 200.[000117] As shown in FIGs. 25 A through 25F, the upper body 400 houses the pod tray 300 (or tray for short) that can be accessed by rotating up the controller housing 106. Thus, lifting up the controller housing 106 provides access to the tray 300, in which the consumable pod 200 can be placed. Upon positioning the consumable pod 200 within the tray 300 and closing the controller housing 106, a user can selectively heat the consumable pod 200 for use by the user.[000118] The consumable pod 200 is heated using any suitable heating mechanism, technique or device. As a non-limiting example, instead of a heater being applied directly to the pod 200, an improved heat plate is used, in conjunction with a induction heating coil assembly (collectively a heating mechanism or heater) and other components as desired, to heat the consumable pod 200 and material therein. The consumable pod 200 houses any combustible material that is desirably heated and inhaled (e.g., shisha, tobacco, herbs, etc.). The heat plate 600, an example of which is depicted in FIGs. 6A through 6E, can be heated using any suitable mechanism, technique or device. As a non-limiting example, the heat plate 600 can be heated through conductive or inductive heating. For example, the heat plate 600 can be pressed against a heater, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via an intermediate heat barrier). Desirably, the heat plate 600 iscaused to be heated by an induction heating coil assembly (depicted as element 508 in FIG. 5). In this aspect, the induction heating coil assembly 508 and heat plate 600 collectively form a heater or heater mechanism. While the heater is any mechanism or device that can be used to generate heat and heat the heat consumable pod 200 (an electric heating coil, an inductive heater, or any other heater mechanism), desirably, the heater mechanism is formed by a combination of the heat plate 600 and the induction heating coil assembly 508 (e.g., copper coil). As a non-limiting example, the heat plate 600 is a ferrous material that is excited and heated by being placed in close proximity to the coil assembly 508 through the properties of induction heating. For example, an electric current is passed through the coil assembly 508, which creates a magnetic current throughout the heat plate 600 to cause the heat plate 600 to heat up. An important feature of this induction heating process is that the heat is generated inside the heat plate 600 itself. In this way, the heating or heat plate 600 acts as a ‘coal’, and effectively heats up the material (e.g., shisha) inside the consumable pod 200. Importantly, the heat plate 600 is positioned such that it is in contact with the consumable pod 200 when the pod 200 is placed within the hookah device 100.[000119] In one aspect, the hookah device 100 is designed such that the heat plate 600 is placed on top of the consumable pod 200, not below. The heat plate 600 is placed on top of the pod 200 to provide a smoking experience as close to a conventional experience, in terms of taste and volume of smoke, as possible. Thus, in this aspect, the device moves away from the more even baking to a gradient heating approach, with a system that is closer to an electric version of conventionally used coal.[000120] As shown in FIG. 5, the controller housing 106 is designed to precisely control both the position and temperature of the heat plate 600. As a non-limiting example, the controller housing 106 also includes the following components.[000121] As shown in FIG. 5, the controller housing 106 includes pivot spring spacers, pins 5028 and associated torsion springs 527 that allow for the controller housing 106 to be pivotally connected with the upper body 400 of the heating head. Notably and as shown in FIGs. 5, 7, and 8, the heat plate 600 is positioned and accessible at the bottom side of the controller housing 106 while the coil assembly 508 is encased within the controller housing shell 501. Desirably, positioned below the coil assembly 508 is a heat barrier 505 (e.g., mica-based heat barrier) to prevent heat from the heat plate 600 from damaging the coil assembly 508. An intermediate primary seal 506 (e.g., silicon seal) provides both a seal against the consumable pad 200 as well as means for securing the heat barrier 505 between the coil assembly 508 and heat plate 600. An airflow plate 507 is used to affix the primary seal 506 against the bottom of the housing shell 501 . In this aspect the heat plate 600 is slidably positioned between the primary seal 506 and airflow plate 507. Posts protruding upwards from the heat plate 600 pass through primary seal 506, heat barrier 505, compression springs 532 and housing shell 501, and are then held in place with retaining clips 533. Thus, with the compression springs 532, the heat plate 600 is biased downwards and against a top surface of the consumable pod 200 when positioned within the hookah device 100. Also shown in a pod presence actuator 515. The pod presence actuator 515 is any mechanism or device that can be used to indicate the presence of a pod 200 within the hookah device 100. As a non-limiting example, the pod presence actuator 515 is a pin slidably affixed with the housing shell 501 such that it produces downward below the shell 501. When the controller housing 106 is closed onto a pod 200 withinthe pod tray 300, the pod presence actuator 515 is pressed upwards to activate a pod presence switch 524, letting the hookah device know that there is a pod 200 in the pod tray 300; thus, allowing the hookah device to activate the heater mechanism when initiated to do so by the user.[000122] In one aspect and as shown in FIG. 5, fans 510 can be included that are used to draw clean are through the air filters 517 and into the controller housing 106 to cool the electronics and components therein. In another aspect, the fans 510 can be configured such that one fan 510 blows air into the unit for cooling, while the other blows air out to create cooling circulation. In yet another embodiment, both fans 510 can be configured to blow air outward to draw hot air from the unit for cooling.[000123] Referring to FIGs. 6A through 6E, in one aspect, the heat plate 600 provides an improvement over existing heat plates in that it includes a plurality of pointed blind holes 602; blind meaning that they do not pass all the way through the heat plate 600. The pointed blind holes 602 allow the heat plate 600 to possess increased heating efficiency through the increased surface area as provided by the pointed blind holes 602. Further, the process of induction heating concentrates heat at edges. In one aspect, the edges are actual edges, defined by an edge where two distinct surfaces meet. In this aspect, magnetic flux tends to accumulate at the edges, surface cuts or indentations of the heating object (i.e., the heat plate 600), thus causing higher heating rate in these areas. In this case, the blind holes 602 introduce more edges that are able to gain enhanced heating efficiency through the included edges. Further, the holes 602 can be formed in any desired shape. As a non-limiting example, the holes 602 can be conically shaped with conical end termination that terminates in a cone point (as opposed to a flat termination). The cone point termination 604 of the holes 602 also helps to increase heat at the desired area (i.e., the cone point 604) through its shaping andfeatures (such as through magnetic flux, etc ). Thus, as can be appreciated by those skilled in the art given the drawings and description herein, the heat plate 600 as used with the hookah device 100 provides a marked improvement over the prior art.[000124] For further understanding of the hookah device 100, FIG. 9 provides a bottom-iso view of the controller housing cap assembly 502. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the hookah device 100 and associated controller (i.e., the controller housing 106) include any components as may be required to control the various electronic features of the hookah device 100. As a non-limiting example, the controller housing cap assembly 502 includes a control panel 108 that is adhered (e.g., glued, press fit, screwed, etc.) to a controller housing cap 900, while an associated printed circuit board (PCB) 902 or other processor component is screwed 904 to the controller housing cap 900.[000125] FIG. 10A provides an exploded-view illustration of the lower body 402 of the heating head. In this example, the lower body 402 includes an affixed (e g., via screws 1005, etc.) lower main body 1001 that houses a lighting printed circuit board (PCB) 1003. Lighting PCB 1003 controls attached and downward facing light emitting diodes (LEDs) 1008 or other lights that can be used to project light downward 1006 and through holes 1007 formed in the lower main body 1001. The LEDs 1008 or other lights are used to illuminate the smoke passing through the vessel assembly. A lens 1002 is affixed to the lower main body 1001 with screws 1004 or other suitable adhesion technique. The lens 1002 seals the bottom portion of the main body 1001 yet allows light 1006 from the LEDs 1008 to pass therethrough into and / or onto the stem assembly (as described in further detail below).[000126] For further illustration, FIG. 10B provides a bottom-iso view of the lower body 402 of the heating head. As shown in FIG. 11, the lower body 402 isformed to securely affix with the upper body 400 of the heating head 102. As a non-limiting example and as depicted in the bottom-iso view of FIG. 11, the upper body 400 can be formed to nest within the lower body 402 and be secured in place via screws 1100 or any other suitable adhesion technique.[000127] As noted earlier, in one aspect, the upper body 400 includes any relevant component as required to operate the hookah device and provide the functions as described herein. A non-limiting example of such an upper body 400 is provided in the exploded-view illustration of FIG. 12 (without the controller housing for illustrative purposes). Thus, in this non-limiting example, the upper body 400 also includes the following components:[000128] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the upper body 400 includes a tray receiving assembly chassis 1202 that is formed to selectively receive the tray 300. As noted above and as described in further detail below. The tray 300 allows a user to easily change the consumable pods for use and subsequent disposal. The tray 300 is formed in any suitable manner such that it can accommodate a replaceable consumable pod. A non-limiting example of such a tray 300 is depicted in the exploded, bottom-iso view illustration of FIG. 13. The tray 300 includes a tray shell 1301 with a tray front 1302 affixed thereto with screws 1305 and lock washer 1306. A tray handle 1303 is similarly affixed with appropriate screws 1304 or other adhesion technique.[000129] As noted above and as depicted in FIG. 14, a stem assembly 304 is included to align the stem 1402 between the vessel assembly and the heating head. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the stem assembly 304 includes any components as required to direct the stem 1402 and provide a watertight barrier between liquid in the vessel assembly and the heating head. For example, the stem assembly 304 includes a stem housing 1401 with a stem 1402 affixed therein. An O-ring 1404 is used to seal the stem 1402 against the stem housing 1401, while a stem retaining nut 1403 secures the stem 1402 in place against the stem housing 1401. A waterfall cover 1405 can be optionally included that clips or otherwise adheres to the stem housing 1401. In use, the waterfall cover 1405 routes 1406 the smoke from the enclosed submerged stem 1402 to flow over the waterfall cover 1405 upper edge to illuminate the smoke within the vesselassembly by a ring of downward firing LEDs (depicted as element 1008 in FIG. 10A).[000130] As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the vessel assembly 104 is formed in any suitable manner to contain a fluid while directing smoke from the stem toward a hose port (smoke outlet), a non-limiting example of which is depicted in FIGs. 15 and 16 A. As shown, the vessel assembly 104 has a water vase 1501 for holding water or any other suitable fluid. The vase 1501 could be formed of glass, or any other suitable material. While glass is desirable due to sterility and stability, glass can crack or otherwise break when stressed. Thus, it is desirable to form the hookah such that the heating head can seal against the vase 1501 without stressing or breaking the vase 1501. In this aspect, an elastic interface band 1504 is formed to slide over a vessel connector portion 1511 of the vase 1501. The interface band 1504 is made out of rubber or any other suitable material that can be used to disperse a load. Further, the interface band 1504 is desirably formed to include a plurality of spaced pockets (e.g., on its outer face), such as waffle shaped pockets 1516 that allow for compression while further absorbing and dispersing the load before pressure is applied to the vase 1501.[000131] In operation, a user places a fluid, such as water, within the vase 1501. The interface band 1504 is placed over a top portion of the vase (e.g., vessel connector portion 1511). Desirably, the vessel connector portion 1511 is shaped to securely hold the interface band 1504 thereon, such as having a ridge shape circumventing the vase 1501 that is securely affixed within an interior channel 1512 within an inner face of the interface band 1504. With fluid within the vase 1501, a user can place the heating head or main body onto the vase 1501. Importantly, the interface band 1504 acts as an air seal between the vase 1501 and the heating head or main body. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, an air seal is required since the action of sucking on the hose needs to create negative pressure in the vase 1501 in order to draw air and smoke through and out of theconsumable pod, down the stem, and through the water. To assist in making the seal and referring to FIG. 16D, an interface top portion 1604 remains open and capable of accepting the heating head when nested therein. Notably, the interface top portion 1604 is formed to flex yet bias against the heating head and form a tight seal. For example and as shown, the interface top portion 1604 is formed in the shape of a compression hook that can be compressed inward to receive the heating head yet form a tight air seal. This aspect is also illustrated in the cross- sectional view in FIG. 16E, which depicts the interface band 1504 as forming a seal against the heating heat 102.[000132] To secure the heating head against the vase 1501, the hookah device also includes a unique collar mechanism. As a non-limiting example, the collar includes two rigid clamping collar parts (first and second collar parts 1502A and 1502A) that clamp around the vase 1501, with the compliant rubber interface band 1504 positioned between the collar parts 1502A and 1502B to spread the clamping force on the vase 1501 and prevent stresses that may break it. Collar screws 1507 or any other suitable device can be used to secure the collar in place.[000133] To allow for air flow and venting, the vessel assembly 104 includes a vent mechanism that can be selectively opened / closed. As a non-limiting example, the second collar part 1502B has a collar hole 1512 therethrough that aligns with a vessel hole 1513 formed in the vase 1501 to effectively provide a vent. A vent seal 1506 is included that seals the second collar part 1502B and its hole 1510 against the vessel hole 1513. A vent retainer 1508 and vent ball 1509 (with a spring in some aspects) can be included within the vent seal 1506 to operate as a valve to prevent air from being drawn into the vase 1501. Further, a vent cap 1514 is desirably included to allow a user to selectively cap the vent. On an opposing side of the vessel assembly 104 is a hose interface seal 1503 that seals against an aperture within the vase 1501 and operates as a hose port to allow forselective connection or insertion of a hose (depicted as element 112 in FIG. 1). For further understanding, the hose interface seal 1503 is also depicted in FIG. 16E.[000134] Referring again to FIG. 15, the collar is also shaped to collectively include a pair of hanger hooks 116. While both hanger hooks 116 can be formed on a single collar part, desirably, each collar part (i.e., collar part 1502A and 1502B) has a single hanger hook 116. Thus, when the collar parts 1502A and 1502B are affixed in place with respect to one another, the collar collectively has a pair of hanger hooks 116 to allow for connection of a hanger or handle. In one aspect and as shown in FIGs. 15 through 16D, each of the hanger hooks 116 are formed of a hanger base 1600 projecting from the associated collar part that terminates in a broader hanger head 1602. Thus, the hanger base 1600 and head 1602 collectively form a hanger hook 116.[000135] In this aspect, the hookah device 100 is also devised to include an improved handle mechanism that is designed to increase handling control and reduce spillage. As shown in the FIGs. 27A through 28, the handle mechanism includes a handle 114 for carrying the hookah device 100. Notably, the handle 114 includes a pair of coupling portions 2700 that are formed to matingly engage with a pair of corresponding hanger hooks 116 that are affixed with the hookah device 100. The hanger hooks 116 are securely affixed against the vase 1501 through any suitable mechanism, technique, or device. As a non-limiting example, the pair of hanger hooks 116 are integrally formed with the collar that can be selectively affixed with the vase 1501. For example and as noted above, the collar includes a collar part A 1502A and a collar part B 1502B, each of which have portions of the hanger hooks 116. When the collar parts 1502A and 1502B are positioned together and secured against the vase 1501 (such as through use of screws), the hanger hooks 116 are secured in place on opposing sides of the vase 1501.[000136] In one aspect and as depicted, the coupling portions 2700 are shape to lock against the hanger hooks 116. For example and referring again to FIGs. 15 through 16D, the hanger hooks 116 each include a hanger base 1600 projecting from the coupling portion with a hanger head 1602 having a width that circumferentially exceeds the width of the hanger base 1600. Notably, the hanger base 1600 is formed to selectively and matingly engage (i.e., securely affix) with the coupling portions (depicted as element 2700 in FIGs. 27A through 28). A non-limiting example of such a mating engagement is when the coupling portions 2700 are square-shaped, while the hanger bases 1600 are similarly square shaped to prevent rotation therebetween. When the coupling portions 2700 are positioned around the hanger bases 1600, the coupling portions are prevented from simply sliding off due to the expanded width of the hanger heads 1602. Thus, in one aspect, the handle 114 locks onto the hookah device 100 through mating square pegs (i.e., the hanger bases 1600) on the device and square-shaped three-sided holes (i.e., coupling portions 2700) on the handle 114, both left and right, so that a person carrying the hookah device 100 can control and minimize swinging and spilling effects while delivering the hookah device to the users. As shown in FIG. 28, the secure mating arrangement between the handle 114 and hanger hooks 116 allows for precise positional control of the hookah device 100 through the handle 114. For further understanding, FIGs. 26A through 26D provide left, right, front, and rear-views, respectively, of the hookah device 100 and associated handle 114.[000137] With the hookah device assembled as illustrated, a user can effectively insert and consume a consumable pod. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present disclosure also provides a new and improved consumable pod. As a non-limiting example and as shown in FIGs. 24A through 24C, the consumable pod 200 is a shell that is designed to contain a consumable item, such as shisha, tobacco, herbs, etc. therein. The pod 200 includes a cap 2400 that can be used toseal the pod 200 and maintain freshness of the consumable items during storage and between use. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 24C, the pod 200 has a pod base 2402 that is designed to rest within the heating head of the hookah device. Also shown is a ribbed top layer 2404 that is in contact with the heat plate when inserted into the heating head. As shown in FIG. 24B, the pod 200 has an air inlet 2406 and an air outlet 2408. Referring again to FIG. 24C, during storage, the cap 2400 securely affixes with the pod 200 such that it not only seals and snaps 2410 against a rim of the pod, but it also has a pair of downward facing, ring-shaped flanges 2412 that seal against the inlet 2406 (and outlet (not shown as it is a mirror image)) to prevent 2414 leakage from the interior shell of the pod 200. For additional understanding, the pod 200 is depicted in further detail in FIGs. 17A through 17F. In some aspects and as shown in FIG. 17A, the pod 200 can be designed to include a series of ribs or ridges 1700 that provide stability to the thin material forming the shell of the pod 200, as well as providing additional surface that penetrates the consumable material to assist in dispersing heat throughout the consumable material. As noted above, a variety of pod configurations can be implemented to work with the hookah device. For example, FIG. 18 depicts yet another example of a consumable pod 200B with an air inlet 2406 and outlet 2408. Thus and as can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific pod configurations as depicted and can be employed with a variety of pods that are shaped to fit within the heating head and provide the requisite airflow.[000138] As shown in FIGs. 19 and 20, the pod 200 can be positioned within the heating head 102 to engage with and be heated by the heat plate 600, while aligning the pod 200 to allow for airflow 1900 therethrough and into the stem 1402. As shown in FIG. 19, the induction coil assembly 508 is used to heat the heat plate 600 pressed against the top surface 2404 of the pod 200 while air 1900 is drawn through the pod and into the vessel assembly via the stem 1402.[000139] Controlling the temperature of the pod 200 and its contents is important to obtain the correct heating temperature while preventing waste and bum of the consumable items. Thus, the hookah device includes any suitable mechanism or device that can sense and precisely control the heating temperature. As a nonlimiting example, the heating head 102 includes a pair of sensors that are used by the controller housing 106 to precisely control the temperature of the shisha pod 200. The pair of sensors desirably include both a heat plate sensor (depicted as element 518 in FIG. 5) (e.g., thermistor or any other suitable temperature sensor) and a pod sensor 1902 (e.g., temperature sensor such as a thermistor, etc.). The heat plate sensor 518 can be positioned on top of the heat plate 600 or any other suitable location where it can sense the heat plate 600 temperature. In another aspect, the heat plate sensor 518 is built into the coil assembly 508 or, in another aspect, is embedded within the heat plate 600. Thus and as noted above, the heat plate sensor 518 is located to accurately sense the temperature of the heat plate 600.[000140] The heat plate sensor 518 is used to limit the highest temperature (i.e., upper threshold) of the heat plate 600 (and surrounding components). If this upper threshold temperature (e.g., 287 degrees Celsius or any other preset temp.) is reached, the heating is halted and when it lowers below an offset (e.g., more than 30 degrees Celsius less than the upper threshold, or any other preset offset) from this upper threshold, heating resumes. In use, the session of using the hookah by an operator is not halted as the heating head cools to below the offset.[000141] The pod sensor 1902 (thermistor or any other suitable sensor) monitors the temperature of the pod 200 and by proximity, the substance within. This is the target temperature for the heating algorithm. In one aspect, the pod sensor 1902 can be spring-loaded and biased toward the consumable pod 200 so that it remains in contact with the consumable pod 200 when the pod 200 is within thetray. Once the target temperature (e.g., 150 degrees Celsius) is reached (while also not overheating the coil / plate), the heating is regulated (e.g., turned off / on etc.) to maintain this temperature. In one aspect, the energizing of the heat plate 600 (e.g., via the heating coil assembly) is controlled within predetermined minimum and maximum duty cycles. In other words, once the target temperature of the pod 200 (and pod sensor 1902) are reached, the coil assembly 508 is turned off and then maintained to maintain the target temperature. In this aspect, the heat plate sensor 518 has a single high limit. The pod sensor 1902 has a much lower upper limit (the target temperature) and is therefore useful in monitoring the temperatures below the target temperature. Once the target temperature is reached, the hookah device goes into maintenance mode and will attempt to keep the temperature at or just below the target temperature. To this end, when the temperature has dropped to a set value (e.g., ten degrees Celsius below the target temperature or any other preset value), the coil assembly 508 and affected heat plate 600 will be reenergized again to bring the temperature up to the target temperature.[000142] Thus, the consumable pod 200 is to be positioned within the heating head 102 of the hookah device 100, where it is heated by a heat plate 600 or other suitable heating device. Within the heating head 102 is a controller housing 106, which houses the heater control components, circuitry, etc., that are connected to the sensor(s) 518 and 1902 listed above. Through use of the dual sensors 518 and 1902, a user is able to maintain the temperature of the consumable pod 200 within a desired temperature range for optimal control.[000143] In addition to precise temperature control, the hookah device is designed to allow for easy replacement of the pod 200 while providing a unique air seal. As shown in FIGs. 25A through 25F, the tray 300 is formed to allow a user to easily insert and replace a pod 200 within the heating head 102. For example, FIGs.25 A and 25B depict depression of the controller latch actuator 1203 to cause the controller housing 106 to be released and pivot upwards 2500 from the upper body 400 into an open position to provide access to the tray 300 and pod 200. The open configuration is also depicted in FIG. 25C, which shows the bottom side of the controller housing 106 and associated primary seal 506. In one nonlimiting example, the controller latch actuator 1203, when depressed, engages with the and forces in the linked latches 520 and 522 (as shown in FIG. 5) to release the controller housing 106 from the body cap 1201 of the upper body 400, thereby allow the controller housing 106 to pivot upwards into the open position. In this example, linked latch left 520 is operably connected with linked latch right 522 via the latch pivot linkage 523 such that pressing in linked latch left 520 causes linked latch right 522 to simultaneously withdraw from the body cap 1201.[000144] FIG. 25D depicts the tray 300 and pod 200 being withdrawn from the upper body 400 while the controller housing 106 is in the open configuration or state. As shown in FIG. 25F, after being withdrawn, a user can lift the pod 200 from the tray 300 for replacement and replenishment. Notably, also depicted in FIG. 25F is a tray hole 2502 that is formed to align with the spring-loaded pod sensor 1902. In other words and as shown in FIG. 25E, the tray hole 2502 allows the pod 200 to engage with the pod sensor 1902 when the tray 300 and pod 200 are positioned within the upper body 400 of the heating head 102. Doing so allows for the sensor capabilities as referenced above. Also shown in FIG. 25E is the stem 1402 that receives smoke and airflow from the pod 102 toward the vessel assembly.[000145] Referring again to FIG. 25C, the primary seal 506 is important as it is designed to provide a unique concentric seal between the controller housing 106 and both the tray 300 and pod 200 to ensure air-tight air pathways and fluid (e.g., smoke, air, etc.) control. Thus, the upper body 400 houses a tray 300 that can be accessed by rotating up the controller housing 106. Thus, lifting up the controller housing 106 provides access to a tray 300, in which the consumable pod 200 canbe placed. Upon positioning the consumable pod 200 within the tray 300 and closing the controller housing 106, the primary seal 506 is forced against the pod 200 to create the concentric seals.[000146] In one aspect, the primary seal component 506 can include a rubber gasket, flange, or any other suitable mechanism or device that can be affixed appropriately to form a seal when the pod 200 is positioned within the tray 300. As will be evident given this disclosure and the accompanying drawings, the use of the seals allows the air to be drawn into the pod air inlet 2406 without interference from other areas of the hookah device. Further, the airflow 1900 pathway remains sealed as the air is drawn through the pod 200, out the pod outlet 2408, and back down through the tray 300.[000147] For example and as shown in FIG. 21A, the primary seal 506 has a seal inlet hole 2108 that is aligned with the pod air inlet 2406. Of particular importance, the primary seal 506 is formed to create an air inlet seal 2100 against the shisha pod 200 around the pod air inlet 2406. Further, the primary seal 506 forms a pod seal 2102 against the tray trim 2104 that circumvents the pod 200 when the pod 200 is nested within the tray 300. In other words, the primary seal 506 component forms two concentric seals, one seal (i.e., the air inlet seal 2100) against the pod air inlet 2406, and another seal (i.e., the pod seal 2102 against the tray trim 2104 to completely seal the pod 200 within the tray 300. Also depicted in FIG. 21A are the tray outlet holes 2106. Notably, the tray outlet holes 2106 are positioned outside of the confines of the air inlet seal 2100, yet within the confines of the pod seal 2102. Thus, airflow 1900 enters through the seal inlet hole 2108 and into pod 200 through the pod air inlet 2406, where it traverses through the pod 200 and exists from the pod outlet 2408. The airflow 1900 then passes around the top of the pod 200 until exiting through the tray outlet holes 2106 and towards the stem.[000148] The airflow 1900 is further depicted in FIG. 21B. As shown, air is drawn into an air tube 513 that is affixed within the controller housing 106. The air tube 513 directs air directly into the pod 200. Smoke or other inhalable items join the airflow 1900 and exit the pod 200, where it passes around the pod 200 and into the stem 1402. In one aspect and as noted above, a waterfall cover 1405 can be included. Thus, in this aspect, upon exiting the stem 1402, the airflow 1900 continues out of the waterfall cover 1405 and into the vase 1501, where it exits through the hose interface seal 1503 (i.e., hose port that operates as a smoke outlet).[000149] For further understanding, FIG. 23 A depicts a bottom view of the controller housing 106 and associated primary seal 506. Also shown is the seal inlet hole 2108. For illustrative purposes, FIG. 24B depicts locations of the seals against the primary seal 506, including the air inlet seal 2100 and surrounding pod seal 2102. Alternatively, FIGs. 23C and 23D provide top-view illustrations of a pod 200 within the tray 300 and related locations of the seals. Pod 200 details have been obscured from FIG. 23D to further illustrate locations of the seals. As shown, the air inlet seal 2100 surrounds the pod air inlet 2406, while the pod seal 2102 is formed against the raised edge of the tray trim 2104 such that it surrounds all of the pod seal 2102, the pod outlet 2408 and tray outlet holes 2106, thereby forming the concentric seals.[000150] The cross-sectional views as provided in FIGs. 22A through 22C further illustrate the seals. As shown, the primary seal 506 seals against both the consumable pod 200 and tray 300 to provide the concentric seals 2100 and 2102. It should be noted that although the term concentric is used, the seals are not required to share the exact same center as the term concentric may imply; instead,the term is intended to mean that one seal surrounds the other seal as illustrated and described.[000151] As noted above, the hookah device as described herein can be modified to include an improved control panel (i.e., user interface) and, in some aspects, an associated software application for control by an external mobile device. FIGs. 29 through 34 depict several examples of the control panel (i.e., user interface) and its various functions. The control panel or “user interface” includes an integrated circuit (microprocessor), buttons, touchpad, an authenticator (e.g,, fingerprint reader or numerical keypad), wireless and / or blue transceiver, and / or any other components as may be necessary to implement any of the features / operations as described herein.[000152] For further understanding, FIG. 29 is an illustration of the hookah device 100 with the control panel 108 as the improved user interface. The control panel 108 can be affixed anywhere on the hookah device 100, including on the side of the hookah device 100 or even completely detached and connected via Bluetooth or other connection means; however, in one aspect and as shown, the control panel 108 is affixed with the controller housing 106 to allow for ease of access and use.[000153] As shown in FIG. 30, the control panel 108 can be a digital display with several features and functions, including displays of mode indicia 301, shisha pod temperature 303, session time 305, and heater temperature 307. The control panel 108 also includes a power / mode button 309 (e.g., an LED illuminable button). The power button / mode 309 can be touch screen or depressible, or any other suitable form as desired to allow for operation of the hookah device 100.[000154] For further understanding, FIGs. 31A through 34 depict the control panel 108 and various modes or interaction states. For example, FIG. 31 A depicts a power on cycle in which a user can press the power button 309 to activate the hookahdevice. Any suitable power up indicia can be used. For example, an LED light on the power button 309 can be caused to radially cycle clockwise for 3 seconds while turning on. Similarly, when powering off, as shown in FIG. 3 IB, an LED light on the power button 309 can be caused to radially cycle counter-clockwise for 3 seconds while turning off.[000155] As noted above, the power button 309 can also operate as a mode button. For example and as shown in FIG. 31C, pressing the power button 309 once pauses the session into a pause mode, causing the LED on the power button 309 to pulse on / off. If, for example, the power button 309 is not pressed while in the pause mode (e.g., within 10 minutes or any other preprogrammed time), then the hookah device will shut down.[000156] Other example functions include a heat boost (shown in FIG. 3 ID) where the power button 309 is, for example, amber for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 minutes, etc.) while the coil is heating. As shown in FIG. 3 IF, the power button 309 can be depressed to select through various preset settings and activate the preset activation menu. For example, pressing the power button 309 three times causes a white LED on the power button 309 to pulse indicating that the preset mode is activated and allow for preset selection.[000157] For example, as shown in FIG. 3 IE, pressing the power button 309 can be used to change the temperature preset mode, such as pressing once results in a low temperature preset mode (e.g., depicting a white LED around the button 309 after the heat period and amber light referenced above), pressing twice results in a medium temperature preset mode (e.g., depicting a green LED around the button 309 after the heat period), and pressing three times results in a high temperature preset mode (e.g., depicting a purple LED around the button 309 after the heat period). After releasing the button 309 (e.g., after three seconds), the preset temperature is set and the hookah device begins to heat the coil assembly to thepreset temperature. Note that the temperature presets are predefined and programmed into the hookah device based on the appropriate temperatures as understood by those skilled in the art for heating and using shisha.[000158] It should also be noted that in some aspects, the preset is a time or session preset that is selectable as low, medium and high, while the temperature is predetermined and preset as a fixed working temperature. Thus, the examples above regarding FIG. 3 IE can instead be applied to time or session presets in which user selects through session times for use after the heat period and amber light referenced above (instead of temperature presets). As a non-limiting example, a low-session present can be 1 hour, a medium-session preset can be 1 hour and 30 minutes, while a high-session preset can be 2 hours.[000159] Instead of or in addition to presets, it should also be noted that in some aspects the control panel 108 can be configured to include and / or receive time and temperature inputs via up down arrows, dials, button entries, or any other means for inputting a desired temperature and / or time (including via the external device as described below).[000160] Further, the control panel 108 can be designed to include a variety of additional indicia to indicate the operations of the hookah device. For example, and as shown in FIG. 32A, at a predetermined time (e.g., 1 minute) before the current time session is finished, an LED on the power button 309 will pulse amber slowly then flash red (indicating “session finish”)before switching off the hookah device. Further and as shown in FIG. 32B, a changing color coil temp indicia light 311 can be included to indicate a current coil temperature, such as solid blue indicating that the coil is heating, while a solid amber can be used to indicate that the coil is at the maximum preset temperature. Additionally and as shown in FIG. 32C, a color warning indicia light 313 can be used to indicate various warnings, such as solid red to indicate that there is a fault hazard or malfunction, such as thecontroller housing being open and not fully closed. In some aspects and as shown in FIG. 32D, the control panel 108 includes a changing color battery indicia light 315 that is used to indicate the remaining charge on the battery. For example, green can be used to indicate 30 minutes of battery left, amber can be used to indicate 10 minutes of battery left, while red can be used to indicate critical use or 5 minutes of battery left. As shown in FIG. 32E, a changing color shish pod indicia light 317 can be used to indicate the status of the shisha pod. For example, green can be used to indicate that the shisha pod is inserted and ready to use, while red can be used to indicate that the controller housing (lid) is open or to identify a fault hazard / malfunction, such as a pod not being inserted or session has ended and the pod has not been replaced with a new one (i.e., when the unit is not turned of in back-to-back sessions). In another aspect, the pod indicia light 317 will turn off when the session has started.[000161] As shown in FIG. 32F, a changing color timer indicia light 319 can be used to depict various time issues. For example, if green, it indicates that the user is 20 minutes into the preset session, while amber is indicative of being 20-40 minutes into the preset session, and red is indicative of being more than 40 minutes into the session. In other aspects, the timer can be set to indicate time left of the session, such as if green, there is at least 40 minutes left, if amber, there is at least 5 minutes left, while red it means that there is less than 5 minutes remaining before hookah device powers off.[000162] As noted above, the hookah device can also be formed in include an authentication mechanism or device to authenticate and allow for use by an authenticated user. For example and as depicted in FIG. 33, the control panel 108 can be formed to include an authenticator 321 that can be used to authenticate a user and allow for use of the hookah device upon authentication. The authenticator 321 is any suitable mechanism or device that can be used for userauthentication, non-limiting examples of which include a finger reader and or numerical input keypad for code input.[000163] For example, if a finger reader, the finger reader can read or otherwise detect the presence of an authorized fingerprint. A user can place and hold their finger (e.g., thumb) on the authenticator 321 (e.g., finger reader) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 3 seconds) to authorize usage.[000164] As shown in FIG. 34, after authentication, the authenticator 321 illuminates 323 (e.g., turns green or any other color) to indicate that the hookah device is unlocked and available for use. Thus, the hookah device is programmable on the device itself and / or via an associated app housed on an external device to allow for authentication and / or access only to authorized individuals.[000165] In some aspects the hookah system includes only the hookah device as a stand-alone unit that is configured to operate per the functions as described herein. However, in other aspects and as noted above, the hookah system also includes a software application that is configured to allow an external device to interface with and control one or more features of the hookah device. In order to communicate with the external device (e.g., a computer system such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, etc ), the hookah device includes any wireless communication components as may be required to allow for such communication, non-limiting examples of which include an integrated circuit, a WiFi transceiver, Bluetooth components, etc. The external device includes a software application (computer program product that is downloaded, etc.) that can allow for external control of a variety of features of the hookah device. By way of example, the software application or app can be loaded onto a computer system (e.g., mobile phone or other computing system) and used to allow for user authentication before use of the hookah device. Upon user authentication, an authorized signal is sent to the hookah device to allow the hookah device to be powered up, heated,or otherwise usable to smoke shisha. The software application or app also allows for other features and / or controls, such as: (1) parental controls (that allow a parent to authorize usage, etc.), (2) adjustments for temperature, altitude and humidity conditions based on weather and location of the user (as gathered from their external device), (3) collection of user data, (4) automatic or elective reordering of consumable shisha pods through the internet, and (5) providing for push ads that can be pushed through and directed to the user’s of the hookah device and / or app. Other features include causing the external device to perform operations of notifying a user of detected fault or hazards s on the hookah device; accessing diagnostics of the hookah device; and authorizing a firmware upgrade for the hookah device, such that upon authorization, the hookah device downloads and installs the firmware upgrade. It should be noted that all modes, indicia, hazard faults, and all operation of the hookah device can be transmitted to the external device for viewing and / or control.[000166] Regarding adjustments for temperature, altitude and humidity conditions based on weather and location of the user (as gathered from their external device), the temperature can be adjusted with any increase or decrease based on any predefined parameters as desired, some non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, at high altitudes the lower air pressure can affect the intensity of the heat generated by the heat coil; thus, in some embodiments, it is desired to increase the heat temperature or time based on increased altitudes. As a non-limiting example, each predetermined interval of elevation (e.g., 1000 feet of increased altitude from sea level) will result in a predetermined increase of temperature (e.g., 2 degrees Fahrenheit) to the preset heat temperature. Humidity can also affect the burn rate of the shisha. Hookah tobacco or shisha is often made from glycerin, molasses, and tobacco leaves, so it preferably needs to be consumed at an appropriate humidity level (e.g., 50-70% as a preferred humidity, or any other predetermined preferred humidity). If the humidity in the room istoo low, the shisha will start to dry out, and if it is too high, the shisha may burn too slowly. Thus, in some aspects, it is desired to increase or decrease the heat temperature or time based on the humidity of location of the user. As a nonlimiting example, for each predetermined drop (e.g., 10% ) in humidity below the preferred humidity, the preset temperature of the heating coil is decreased by a predetermined temperature (e.g., 5 degrees Fahrenheit), while for each predetermined increase (e.g., 10% increase) in humidity above the preferred humidity, the preset temperature of the heating coil is increased by a predetermined temperature (e.g., 5 degrees Fahrenheit).[000167] It should be noted that the examples herein regarding color, temperatures, modes, session time, battery time, humidity, etc., are provided as non-limiting examples of one implementation or embodiment and that the invention is not intended to be limited thereto. In other words and as can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the colors, temperatures, heat times, session times, mode operation, button operation, humidity, etc., can all be changed or modified as desired in production to allow for control of the hookah device per the control panel 108 and / or external device to heat and consume the shisha or other consumable within the hookah device.[000168] A block diagram depicting an example of a computer system 3500 that can be utilized for control of the hookah device is provided in FIG. 35. The computer system 3500 is configured to perform calculations, processes, operations, and / or functions associated with a program or algorithm and communicate with the hookah device using any suitable communication technique (e.g., via the internet, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.). In one aspect, certain processes and steps discussed herein are realized as a series of instructions (e.g., software program) that reside within computer readable memory units and are executed by one or more processors of the computer system 3500. When executed, the instructions cause the computersystem 3500 to perform specific actions and exhibit specific behavior, such as described herein. In various aspects, the computer system 3500 can be embodied in any device(s) that operates to perform the functions as described herein as applicable to interfacing with and / or controlling the hookah device, such as a desktop computer, a mobile or smart phone, a tablet computer, a computer embodied in a mobile platform, or any other device or devices that can individually and / or collectively execute the instructions to perform the related operations / processes. Thus, it should be understood that the example as depicted in FIG. 35 is a non-limiting example of one embodiment and that the invention is not intended to be limited thereto. For example, the computer system 3500 in one aspect is desirably incorporated into a wireless external device, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer, or a remote server (networked to the internet), or any combination thereof as designed and / or desired.[000169] The computer system 3500 may include an address / data bus 3502 (or any other components as necessary) that is configured to communicate information. Additionally, one or more data processing units, such as a processor 3504 (or processors), are coupled with the address / data bus 3502. The processor 3504 is configured to process information and instructions. In an aspect, the processor 3504 is a microprocessor. Alternatively, the processor 3504 may be a different type of processor such as a parallel processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), programmable logic array (PLA), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or any other processing component operable for performing the relevant operations.[000170] The computer system 3500 is configured to utilize one or more data storage units. The computer system 3500 may include a volatile memory unit 3506 (e.g., random access memory ("RAM"), static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.) coupled with the address / data bus 3502, wherein a volatile memory unit 3506 is configured tostore information and instructions for the processor 3504. The computer system 3500 further may include a non-volatile memory unit 3508 (e.g., read-only memory ("ROM"), programmable ROM ("PROM"), erasable programmable ROM ("EPROM"), electrically erasable programmable ROM "EEPROM"), flash memory, etc.) coupled with the address / data bus 3502, wherein the non-volatile memory unit 3508 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 3504. Alternatively, the computer system 3500 may execute instructions retrieved from an online data storage unit such as in “Cloud” computing. In an aspect, the computer system 3500 also may include one or more interfaces, such as an interface 3510, coupled with the address / data bus 3502. The one or more interfaces are configured to enable the computer system 3500 to interface with other electronic devices and computer systems. The communication interfaces implemented by the one or more interfaces may include wireline (e.g., serial cables, modems, network adaptors, etc.) and / or wireless (e.g., wireless modems, Bluetooth, WiFi, wireless network adaptors, etc.) communication technology. Further, one or more processors 3504 (or devices) can be associated with one or more associated memories, where each associated memory is a non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructions encoded thereon. Each associated memory can be associated with a single processor 3504 (or device), or a network of interacting processors 104 (or devices).[000171] In one aspect, the computer system 3500 may include an input device 3512 (e.g., coupled with the address / data bus 3502 and / or a user interface), wherein the input device 3512 is configured to communicate information and command selections to the processor 3504. In accordance with one aspect, the input device 3512 is an alphanumeric input device, such as a keyboard, that may include alphanumeric and / or function keys. Alternatively, the input device 3512 may be an input device other than an alphanumeric input device. In an aspect, the computer system 3500 may include a cursor control device 3514 coupled with theaddress / data bus 3502, wherein the cursor control device 114 is configured to communicate user input information and / or command selections to the processor 3504. In an aspect, the cursor control device 3514 is implemented using a device such as a mouse, a track-ball, a track-pad, an optical tracking device, or a touch screen. The foregoing notwithstanding, in an aspect, the cursor control device 3514 is directed and / or activated via input from the input device 3512, such as in response to the use of special keys and key sequence commands associated with the input device 3512. In an alternative aspect, the cursor control device 3514 is configured to be directed or guided by voice commands.[000172] In an aspect, the computer system 3500 further may include one or more optional computer usable data storage devices, such as a storage device 3516, coupled with the address / data bus 3502. The storage device 3516 is configured to store information and / or computer executable instructions. In one aspect, the storage device 3516 is a storage device such as a magnetic or optical disk drive (e.g., hard disk drive ("HDD"), floppy diskette, compact disk read only memory ("CD-ROM"), digital versatile disk ("DVD")). Pursuant to one aspect, a display device 3518 is coupled with the address / data bus 3502, wherein the display device 3518 is configured to display video and / or graphics. In an aspect, the display device 3518 may include a liquid crystal display ("LCD"), field emission display ("FED"), plasma display, or any other display device suitable for displaying video and / or graphic images and alphanumeric characters recognizable to a user.[000173] In an aspect and as noted above, the computer system 3500 may be implemented as an external wireless device, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer, where the input device 3502 is integrated into the display device 3518. Thus, in this aspect, the input device 3502 is the screen on the wireless device, allowing user to visually see the user interface and input selections, information, and commands. Further, if the hookah device is designed to use a remote serverfor any of the functions described herein, the remote server is yet another networked computer system 3500 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure and considered to be an integral part of computer system for storage and other functions as desired.[000174] The computer system 3500 presented herein is an example computing environment in accordance with an aspect. However, the non-limiting example of the computer system 3500 is not strictly limited to being a computer system. For example, an aspect provides that the computer system 3500 represents a type of data processing analysis that may be used in accordance with various aspects described herein. Indeed, the spirit and scope of the present technology is not limited to any single data processing environment. Thus, in an aspect, one or more operations of various aspects of the present technology are controlled or implemented using computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer. In one implementation, such program modules include routines, programs, objects, components and / or data structures that are configured to perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In addition, an aspect provides that one or more aspects of the present technology are implemented by utilizing one or more distributed computing environments, such as where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network, or such as where various program modules are located in both local and remote computer- storage media including memorystorage devices.[000175] An illustrative diagram of a computer program product (i.e., storage device) embodying the software application of present invention is depicted in FIG. 36. The computer program product is any computer readable medium having executable (computer-readable) instructions stored thereon. As a non-limiting example, the computer program product is depicted as floppy disk 3600, anoptical disk 3602 such as a CD or DVD, a hard drive 3604, or a digital nonvolatile flash memory 3606 (e.g., flash chips as used on phones and tablets and as soldered into the board). However, as mentioned previously, the computer program product generally represents computer-readable instructions stored on any compatible non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term “instructions” as used with respect to this invention generally indicates a set of operations to be performed on a computer, and may represent pieces of a whole program or individual, separable, software modules. Non-limiting examples of “instruction” include computer program code (source or object code) and “hard- coded” electronics (i.e. computer operations coded into a computer chip). The “instruction” is stored on any non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as in the memory of a computer or on a floppy disk, a CD-ROM, a flash drive, or flash chip. In either event, the instructions are encoded on a non-transitory computer-readable medium and are configured to cause the associated processor and computer system to perform the encoded operations.[000176] In one aspect and as shown in FIG. 37, the present disclosure provides a hookah device 100 that can be operated by a user in-person or, in another aspect, via a hookah system that includes the hookah device 100 and / or additional remote computer systems (e.g., mobile phone 3700, remote server 3704, desktop computer 3706, etc.) to allow a user to provide a variety of operations / data, etc., that be used to control the hookah device 100. Thus, in one aspect, hookah device 100 operates as a computer system that can operate as a stand-alone computer device or, in other aspects, be networked to include other computer systems (e.g., the remove server 3704, etc.) that house coded instructions and memory as needed to provide the functions as described herein. For example, in some aspects, the user’s mobile phone (i.e., an external computing device) has a software app which operates as an interface for the hookah device 100 with a database (e.g., via the server 3704) regarding features and operations stored on the remote server 3704;thus, in one aspect, the hookah system includes the hookah device 100, the user’s external computing device (e.g., 3700 mobile phone and / or 3706 desktop computer, etc.) as well as the remote server 3704.[000177] Although a specific example is provided, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited thereto as the components as described and illustrated can be used with other hookah devices and shisha pods or items to be heated. It should also be noted that the present disclosure is directed to not only a comprehensive hookah device as described and illustrated, but also to the individual components or any combination thereof. Thus, the present invention is directed to each of the innovative aspects as described and illustrated in in the figures, both individually, collectively, or any combination thereof. Further, in another aspect, it should be noted that components can be incorporated into a traditional hookah to swap out the appropriate component individually, as multiple components, or any combination thereof.[000178] Finally, while this invention has been described in terms of several embodiments, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the invention may have other applications in other environments. It should be noted that many embodiments and implementations are possible. Further, the following claims are in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the specific embodiments described above. In addition, any recitation of “means for” is intended to evoke a means-plus-function reading of an element and a claim, whereas, any elements that do not specifically use the recitation “means for”, are not intended to be read as means-plus-function elements, even if the claim otherwise includes the word “means”. Further, while particular method steps have been recited in a particular order, the method steps may occur in any desired order and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A hookah system, comprising: a hookah device, the hookah device including: a heating head, the heating head having at least a pod tray and a heater mechanism, the pod tray being adapted to secure a consumable pod within the heating head such that the heating head provides an air pathway through the consumable pod and into a vessel assembly, with the heater mechanism being adapted to heat the consumable pod and generate smoke therefrom; a vessel assembly connected with the heating head for receiving the smoke and directing the smoke to a smoke outlet; and a control panel attached with the hookah device, the control panel providing a user interface allowing for operation of one or more features of the hookah device.

2. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 1, wherein the control panel includes wireless communication components to allow the hookah device to wirelessly communicate with an external device.

3. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 2, further comprising a computer program product, the computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium having executable instructions encoded thereon, such that upon execution of the instructions by one or more processors, the one or more processors perform one or more operations of: causing the external device to interface with and control one or more features of the hookah device.

4. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 3, wherein the control panel is housed in a controller housing pivotally connected to the heating head, with the heater mechanism being attached to the controller housing.

5. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 4, wherein the control panel includes an authenticator to authenticate a user and allow for user operation of the hookah device.

6. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 5, wherein the one or more features of the hookah device include one or more features selected from a group consisting of parental controls that allow a parent to authorize usage, adjustments for temperature based on at least one of altitude and humidity conditions, and collection of user data.

7. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 6, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform one or more operations selected from a group consisting of automatic or elective reordering of consumable pods through the internet, and receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device.

8. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 7, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform at least one operation selected from a group consisting of: notifying a user of detected faults on the hookah device; accessing diagnostics of the hookah device; and authorizing a firmware upgrade for the hookah device, such that upon authorization, the hookah device downloads and installs the firmware upgrade.

9. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 1, further comprising a computer program product, the computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium having executable instructions encoded thereon, such that upon execution of the instructions by one or more processors, the one or more processors perform one or more operations of: causing the external device to interface with and control one or more features of the hookah device.

10. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 9, wherein the one or more features of the hookah device include one or more features selected from a group consisting of parental controls that allow a parent to authorize usage, adjustments for temperature based on at least one of altitude and humidity conditions, and collection of user data.

11. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 9, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform one or more operations selected from a group consisting of automatic or elective reordering of consumable pods through the internet, and receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device.

12. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 9, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform at least one operation selected from a group consisting of: notifying a user of detected faults on the hookah device; accessing diagnostics of the hookah device; and authorizing a firmware upgrade for the hookah device, such that upon authorization, the hookah device downloads and installs the firmware upgrade.

13. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 1, wherein the control panel is housed in a controller housing pivotally connected to the heating head, with the heater mechanism being attached to the controller housing.

14. The hookah system as set forth in Claim 1, wherein the control panel includes a authenticator to authenticate a user and allow for user operation of the hookah device.

15. A hookah device, comprising: a heating head, the heating head having at least a pod tray and a heater mechanism, the pod tray being adapted to secure a consumable pod within the heating head such that the heating head provides an air pathway through the consumable pod and into a vessel assembly, with the heater mechanism being adapted to heat the consumable pod and generate smoke therefrom; a vessel assembly connected with the heating head for receiving the smoke and directing the smoke to a smoke outlet; and a control panel attached with the hookah device, the control panel providing a user interface allowing for operation of one or more features of the hookah device.

16. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 15, wherein the control panel is housed in a controller housing pivotally connected to the heating head, with the heater mechanism being attached to the controller housing.

17. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 16, wherein the control panel includes a authenticator to authenticate a user and allow for user operation of the hookah device.

18. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 17, wherein the control panel includes wireless communication components to allow the hookah device to wirelessly communicate with an external device.

19. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 18, wherein in communicating with the external device, the external device includes a software application allowing for interfacing with and controlling one or more features of the hookah device such that the hookah device is configured to be controlled by the external device.

20. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 19, wherein the one or more features of the hookah device include one or more features selected from a group consisting of parental controls that allow a parent to authorize usage, adjustments for temperature based on at least one of altitude and humidity conditions, and collection of user data.

21. The hookah device as set forth in Claim 20, wherein the software application is operable for causing the external device to perform one or more operations selected from a group consisting of automatic or elective reordering of consumable pods through the internet, and receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device.

22. A computer program product for causing an external device to interface with and control a hookah device, the computer program product comprising: a non-transitory computer-readable medium having executable instructions encoded thereon, such that upon execution of the instructions by one or more processors, the one or more processors perform one or more operations of authorizing a user to allow for activation and use of the hookah device;adjusting temperature based on at least one of altitude and humidity conditions; re-ording a consumable pod through the internet; and receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device.

23. The computer program product as set forth in Claim 22, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform one or more operations selected from a group consisting of automatic or elective reordering of consumable pods through the internet, and receiving and displaying advertisements to the user of the external device.

24. The computer program product as set forth in Claim 22, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions for causing the external device to perform at least one operation selected from a group consisting of: notifying a user of detected faults on the hookah device; accessing diagnostics of the hookah device; and authorizing a firmware upgrade for the hookah device, such that upon authorization, the hookah device downloads and installs the firmware upgrade.

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