Humidors, cigar containers, and vehicle humidor systems

Abstract

Humidors, cigar containers, and vehicle humidor systems. In one example a humidor includes a humidor cartridge (e.g. a cigar container) and a humidor console. The humidor cartridge has an interior configured to hold one or more cigars. The humidor console includes a cartridge bay adapted to receive the humidor cartridge in a retracted position and an extended position. The humidor console further includes a humidor humidifier adapted to humidify the interior of the humidor cartridge when the humidor cartridge is received in the cartridge bay in the retracted position.

Description

HUMIDORS, CIGAR CONTAINERS, AND VEHICLE HUMIDOR SYSTEMSCross-Reference To Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of United States provisional patent application serial number 63 / 668,013 filed July 5, 2024 for Humidors and also claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of United States provisional patent application serial number 63 / 668,492 filed July 8 ,2024 for Humidors, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated by this reference.Related Fields and Background

[0002] Typical humidors are not suitable for installation in a vehicle and otherwise lack a design, construction, components, and / or other features that would make them suitable and desirable for use in a variety of environments.

[0003] Described herein are examples of humidors, cigar containers, and vehicle humidor systems. Some of the described examples are humidors that are suitable for installation in a vehicle and maintaining cigars, food, beverages and / or other items in a humidified and / or refrigerated condition for use or consumption.Summary

[0004] In one example a humidor includes a humidor cartridge and a humidor console. In this example the humidor cartridge has an interior configured to hold one or more cigars. The humidor console includes a cartridge bay and a humidor humidifier. The cartridge bay is adapted to receive the humidor cartridge in a retracted position and in an extended position. The humidor humidifier is adapted to humidify the interior of the humidor cartridge when the humidor cartridge is received in the cartridge bay in the retracted position.Brief Description of Drawings

[0005] Illustrative examples are provided in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0006] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an example of a humidor with a pair of humidor cartridges deployed in a retracted cartridge position in a humidor console;

[0007] FIG. 2 is a front view of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIG. 3 is a left side view of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0009] FIG. 4 is a right-side view of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0011] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view, taken along section lines 6-6 in FIG. 2, of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram illustrating functional components of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 with one humidor cartridge deployed in an extended cartridge position from the humidor console and another humidor cartridge remaining in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console of the humidor;

[0014] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the illustrative humidor with a humidor cartridge (not shown) completely removed from the humidor console and the other humidor cartridge remaining in the humidor console;

[0015] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view, taken along section lines 10-10 in FIG. 9, of the illustrative humidor with one humidor cartridge removed from and the other humidor cartridge remaining in place in the humidor console;

[0016] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of one of the humidor cartridges of the humidor of FIG. 1;

[0017] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0018] FIG. 13 is a top view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0019] FIG. 14 is a right-side view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0020] FIG. 15 is a left-side view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0021] FIG. 16 is a front view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0022] FIG. 17 is a rear view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0023] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11 with a cartridge door in an open door position;

[0024] FIG. 19 is a longitudinal sectional view, taken along section lines 19-19 in FIG. 16, of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0025] FIG. 20 is a block diagram schematically illustrating functional components of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11;

[0026] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11 with the cartridge door opened and an empty cigar holder deployed in place in the humidor cartridge;

[0027] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the cigar holder of FIG. 21 shown removed from the humidor cartridge;

[0028] FIG. 23 is a longitudinal sectional view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 21 with the cigar holder (not shown) removed therefrom;

[0029] FIG. 24 is a longitudinal sectional view, taken along section lines 24-24 in FIG. 22, of the cigar holder;

[0030] FIG. 25 is a front exploded perspective view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 21 with a cartridge cap removed from the humidor cartridge;

[0031] FIG. 26 is a rear or inverted perspective view of the removed cartridge cap of FIG. 25, more particularly illustrating an ash tray on the cartridge cap;

[0032] FIG. 27 is a rear or inverted exploded perspective view of the cartridge cap of FIG. 25;

[0033] FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 with the humidor console installed in a vertical console surface of a vehicle console in a vehicle and one humidor cartridge deployed in the extended cartridge position from the humidor console and another humidor deployed in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console;

[0034] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 installed in a horizontal console surface of a vehicle console of a vehicle;

[0035] FIG. 30 is a front perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 with a cartridge door of the extended humidor cartridge in the open door position on the humidor cartridge, the cigar holder deployed in place in the humidor cartridge and multiple cigars disposed in the cigar holder in typical application of the humidor;

[0036] FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 30 with the cigar holder partially removed from the humidor cartridge;

[0037] FIG. 32 is a front exploded perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 with the humidor cartridge extended from the humidor console and the cartridge cap removed from the humidor cartridge;

[0038] FIG. 33 is a rear or inverted perspective view of the removed cartridge cap of FIG. 32, with the ash tray exposed on the cartridge cap and a lighted cigar placed in an ashtray slot in the ash tray in typical application of the ash tray;

[0039] FIG. 34 is a side view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11 removed from the humidor console, more particularly an example of connection of a power cord to the humidor cartridge for powering of the humidor cartridge using a household electrical outlet (not shown) in external usage of the humidor cartridge in a home, business or other location remote from the vehicle;

[0040] FIG. 35 is a side view of the humidor cartridge of FIG. 34, with the power cord attached to the humidor cartridge and to a household electrical outlet via a USB adaptor;

[0041] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of an example of a food tray for holding one or more food items (not illustrated) in the humidor cartridge of FIG. 11; and

[0042] FIG. 37 is a front exploded perspective view of the humidor of FIG. 1 with a humidor cartridge extended from the humidor console, a cartridge door in the open door position on the humidor cartridge and the food tray of FIG. 34 deployed in place in the humidor cartridge.Detailed Description

[0043] The following is a detailed description of example humidors, cigar containers, and vehicle humidor systems, is merely exemplary in nature, and does not limit the scope of the claimed inventions in any way.

[0044] FIGS. 1-37 show an example of a humidor, generally indicated by reference number 1. The humidor 1 in this example includes a humidor console 2 and humidor cartridges 40 (in this example, two humidor cartridges 40, although other implementations may include more or less humidor cartridges 40). The humidor cartridges 40 each include an interior configured to hold one or more cigars. Thehumidor console 2 includes cartridge bays, each adapted to receive the humidor cartridges 40 in retracted and extended positions. The humidor console 2 is adapted to humidify the interiors of the humidor cartridges 40 when they are received in the cartridge bays in retracted positions. In some implementations the humidor cartridges may function as and may be used as stand alone cigar containers. In some implementations the humidor may be mounted in a vehicle as a vehicle humidor system.

[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, the humidor 1 may include a humidor console 2. In this example a pair of humidor cartridges 40 may be selectively and individually deployable in a retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4; in an extended cartridge position from the humidor console 2, as illustrated in FIG. 8; and in a removed cartridge position from the humidor console 2, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11. As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31 , in some applications of the humidor 1, at least one of the humidor cartridges 40 may contain one or multiple cigars 94. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the humidor cartridges 40 may contain one or more food and / or beverage items (not illustrated). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 37, in some applications, the food and / or beverage items may be placed in a tray 130 which may be placed in the humidor cartridge 40. Each humidor cartridge 40 may be selectively deployable in the extended or removed cartridge position with respect to the humidor console 2 to facilitate selective placement of the cigars 94 or the food and / or beverage items, with or without the tray 130, into the humidor cartridge 40 and / or removal of the cigars 94 or food items from the humidor cartridge 40. Each humidor cartridge 40 may be selectively deployed in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2 to maintain the cigars 94, the food items and / or the beverageitems in an optimally hydrated and / or refrigerated condition for use or consumption. In some applications, the humidor console 2 of the humidor 1 may be installed in a wall of an interior of a vehicle (e.g. vertical console surface 122 (FIG. 28), a horizontal console surface 124 (FIG. 29) or a sloped, angled or other surface on a vehicle console 121 or on any other structure or surface inside a vehicle such as an automobile, boat, airplane or the like). The humidor may render the cigars, food items, and / or beverage items easily accessible for use to one or more occupants inside the vehicle.

[0046] As further illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, in some embodiments, the humidor console 2 of the humidor 1 may have a generally rectangular, box-shaped configuration. The humidor console 2 of this example includes a pair of spaced-apart side console walls3. A pair of spaced-apart connecting wall portions 4 connect the side console walls 3 to each other. The side console walls 3 and the connecting wall portions 4 of the humidor console 2 have a front wall edge 5 and a rear wall edge 6.

[0047] In this particular example, and as illustrated in FIG. 6, the side console walls 3 and the connecting wall portions 4 form a console interior 14. A front console wall 10 and a rear console wall 11 close the console interior 14 at the front wall edge 5 and the rear wall edge 6, respectively. In other embodiments, the humidor console may have alternative shapes with any number of sides, or may be cylindrical, oval or elliptical. In some embodiments, the side console walls 3, the connecting wall portions4, the front console wall I 0, the rear console wall 11 and / or other structural components of the humidor console 2 may be fabricated of plastic, wood, metal, fiberglass, composite materials, other hard material or materials, or combinations thereof.

[0048] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10, the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2 includes a pair of cartridge bays 17. In other implementations the humidor console may include a single cartridge bay, three cartridge bays, or other numbers of cartridge bays. In the example shown in the Figures, each cartridge bay 17 is suitably sized and configured to contain or accommodate the corresponding humidor cartridge 40 in the retracted cartridge position of the humidor cartridge 40 in the humidor console 2. In the example shown in the Figures the humidor console 2 includes openings in the front console wall 10 that each have a shape and a size corresponding to an outer shape and size of the humidor consoles 40. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, a pair of cartridge sleeves 15 (one of which is shown in FIG. 9) extending inwardly from the openings and are adapted to support the humidor cartridges 40 the extended positions. Each cartridge sleeve 15 extends through the front console wall 10 of the humidor console 2 into the console interior 14. Each cartridge sleeve 15 may be suitably sized and configured to receive and support a corresponding humidor cartridge 40 for selective deployment of the humidor cartridge 40 in the retracted and extended cartridge positions with respect to the cartridge bay 17. In the illustrated example, the cartridge sleeve 15 is suitably sized and configured to support the humidor cartridge 40 in the extended cartridge position illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31. The cigars 94, food items and / or beverage items may be placed in or removed from the extended humidor cartridge 40 and the humidor cartridge 40 returned to the retracted cartridge position. Additionally, the extended humidor cartridge 40 may be grasped and removed from the cartridge sleeve 15 for external usage in a home, office or other location away from the vehicle 120.

[0049] The humidor 1 may include seals adapted to seal a gap between the humidor cartridges 40 and the humidor console 2 in a fluid tight fashion when the humidor cartridges 40 are in retracted positions. In some implementations, at least one O-ring, gasket and / or other sleeve seal (not illustrated) may be provided on the interior surface of the cartridge sleeve 15 and / or on an exterior surface of the humidor cartridge 40. Accordingly, in deployment of the humidor cartridge 40 in and between the retracted and extended cartridge positions, the sleeve seal may impart a fluid-tight seal between the humidor cartridge 40 and the cartridge sleeve 15 to prevent escape of moisture from and / or influx of water into the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2 through the cartridge sleeve 15.

[0050] In the illustrated example, and as shown in FIG. 7, the humidor console 2 includes a console CPU 16. The console CPU 16 may be disposed in the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2 and / or in or on any other suitable location or component of the humidor console 2. The console CPU 16 may be suitably programmed and configured to operate the various components of the humidor console 2, typically as will be hereinafter described.

[0051] In typical installation of the humidor 1 in the vehicle I 20 (FIGS. 28 and 29), the console CPU 16 may be disposed in electrical communication with at least one power source 108. In some applications, the power source 108 may include a standard or conventional 12-volt vehicle battery, for example and without limitation. The console CPU 16 may be disposed in electrical communication with the power source 108 via hardwiring, pinning, electrical contacts and / or using any other suitable technique known by those skilled in the art.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a humidor humidifier 28 is disposed in the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2. In some embodiments, the humidor humidifier 28 may be disposed between the cartridge bays 17 in the console interior 14, as illustrated. In other implementations, a humidor humidifier may be a cartridge inserted into one of the cartridge bays 17. The console CPU 16 may controllably interface with the humidor humidifier 28. The humidor humidifier 28 may be configured to receive or contain a supply of water (not illustrated). The humidor humidifier 28 may be configured to humidify the console interior 14 by vaporizing the water, typically in the conventional manner and via operation of the console CPU 16. The humidor humidifier 28 may have various operating capacities, and the console CPU 16 may be configured and programmed to operate the humidifier 28 accordingly, to provide selected levels of humidity in the console interior 14.

[0053] A hygrometer 30 may be disposed in the console interior 14. The hygrometer30 may be operable to measure the humidity level of the console interior 14. The hygrometer 30 may have a hygrometer gauge or display 31. The hygrometer display 31 may be configured to display or indicate the humidity level of the console interior 14, typically as a humidity level percentage, as measured by the hygrometer 30. The hygrometer display 31 of the hygrometer 30 may be provided in any suitable location or position on the exterior of the humidor console 2 to render the hygrometer display31 easily visible. For example and without limitation, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the hygrometer display 31 may be provided on the front console wall I 0 between the humidor cartridges 40.

[0054] As further illustrated in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, at least one cartridge ejector 66 may be disposed in the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2 foreach humidor cartridge 40. The console CPU 16 may controllably interface with each cartridge ejector 66. Each cartridge ejector 66 may be selectively operable to eject or deploy the corresponding humidor cartridge 40 from the retracted cartridge position in its cartridge bay 17 through its corresponding cartridge sleeve 15 to the extended cartridge position with respect to the humidor console 2. Each cartridge ejector 66 may include any mechanism, device or combination of mechanisms and devices which are suitable for the purpose. For example and without limitation, mechanisms and devices which are suitable for the cartridge ejector 66 may include but are not limited to electrically actuated rollers, pistons and / or lead screws; pneumatically actuated pistons; magnetically actuated devices; or combinations thereof.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least one refrigeration compressor 36 may be disposed in the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2. The refrigeration compressor 36 may be operable to receive or contain a supply of coolant (not illustrated) and refrigerate the console interior 14 by compressing the coolant, typically in the conventional manner and via operation of the console CPU 16. A temperature gauge and display (not illustrated) which measures and indicates the temperature of the console interior 14 may be provided as part of the hygrometer display 31 or as a separate display on the exterior of the humidor console 2.

[0056] As further illustrated in FIG. 7, each humidor cartridge 40 may include at least one cartridge CPU 100. The cartridge CPU 100 may be programmed and configured to operate the various components of each corresponding humidor cartridge 40 typically as will be hereinafter described. When each humidor cartridge 40 is deployed in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2, the cartridge CPU 100may be disposed in communication with the console CPU 16 such as via electrical contacts (not illustrated.

[0057] In some embodiments, at least one transceiver 26 may communicably interface with the console CPU 16. The transceiver 26 may be configured to wirelessly communicate, typically via RF transmission signals 111, with a desktop, laptop ortablet computer, a smartphone and / or some other remote device 110 which is possessed by or accessible to a user of the humidor 1. Accordingly, the console CPU 16 and the remote device 110, via the transceiver 26, may be configured for bidirectional wireless communication with each other any and all signals, data and information which may relate to the various operational commands, parameters and characteristics of the humidor console 2. The remote device 110 may be loaded with an app (application software) which facilitates presentation of a display format for the data and information as well as a user interface including the operational command options for the humidor console 2 on the display of the remote device 110. The display format may present the information pictorially, verbally, numerically, graphically and / or in any other suitable format. Responsive to user input on the user interface component, the app may use the remote device 110 to engage the console CPU 16 for controlling the various operational functions of the humidor console 2 via the transmission signals 111 and the transceiver 26. The transmission signals 111 may be Bluetooth enabled. The app may have a separate user interface and display format for each humidor cartridge 40 in the humidor console 2. In some embodiments, the humidor console 2 may have a separate user interface (not illustrated) which may include the same display and command functions and options as the remote device 110.

[0058] In some implementations the humidor console may include a conduit fluidly connecting the humidor humidifier to the humidor cartridge(s) when the cartridge(s) are in a retracted position. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10, the conduit is a humidor manifold 18 disposed in the console interior 14 of the humidor console 2. The humidor manifold 18 may establish fluid communication between the humidor humidifier 28 and each cartridge bay 17. In some embodiments, the humidor manifold 18 may include a manifold housing 19. The manifold housing 19 may protrude beyond the rear console wall 11 of the humidor console 2 and may include manifold vents 20 and a pair of spaced-apart side manifold portions 21. A fill port 22 (FIG. 1) may be provided on an exterior surface of the humidor console 2. The fill port 22 may be disposed in fluid communication with the humidor humidifier 28. Accordingly, the fill port 22 may facilitate placement of water in the humidor humidifier 28 for humidification of the console interior 14, as needed.

[0059] In some applications, the humidor console 2 may be removably deployed in the vehicle console 121 (FIGS. 28 and 29). Accordingly, the humidor console 2 may be removed from the vehicle console 121 to provide access to the fill port 22 for refilling of the humidor humidifier 28 with water and then replaced in the vehicle console 121 for use. Alternatively, a separate fill opening (not illustrated) may be provided in the vehicle console 121 or in any other suitable location in the vehicle 120. The fill opening may be disposed in fluid communication with the fill port 22 through a suitable fill conduit (not illustrated) such that the humidor humidifier 28 may be refilled with water by pouring the water into the fill opening. The fill conduit may be fitted with one or more pumps, tanks and / or any other components (not illustrated) which may be necessary to distribute or transport the water to the humidor humidifier 28. Stillfurther in the alternative, the fill port 22 may be provided on the front console wall 22 or in any other suitable accessible location on the humidor console 2.

[0060] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10, the humidor manifold 18 may further include a central or main manifold conduit 24. The main manifold conduit 24 may be disposed in fluid communication with the humidor humidifier 28. A pair of distribution conduits 25 may branch or bifurcate from the main manifold conduit 24. Each distribution conduit 25 may terminate in fluid communication with the corresponding cartridge bay 17. Accordingly, in typical operation of the humidor 1, which will be hereinafter described, the main manifold conduit 24 and the distribution conduits 25 of the humidor manifold 18 may distribute moisture from the humidor humidifier 28 to each humidor cartridge 40 as each is deployed in the retracted cartridge position in its corresponding cartridge bay 17.

[0061] As illustrated in FIGS. 11-19, each humidor cartridge 40 of the humidor 1 may include a cartridge wall 41 defining an outer container of the humidor cartridge 40. The outer container may also define a door 47 adapted to allow access to the interior of the outer container through a door opening when the door is in an open state. As shown in FIG. 21, a subset of the cigar cavities 88 are aligned with the door opening depending on a rotational orientation of the cigar holder in the outer container. Rotation of the cigar holder in the outer container allows alignment of a different subset of the cigar cavities 88 with the door opening.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cartridge wall 41 may be elongated and cylindrical with a front cartridge end 42 and a rear cartridge end 43. As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 23, a cartridge interior 44 may be formed by the cartridge wall 41. The cartridge interior 44 may extend from the front cartridge end 42 to the rear cartridge end 43.

[0063] A cartridge base 50 may be disposed at the rear cartridge end 43 of the cartridge wall 41. The cartridge base 50 may have a base sidewall 51. A base end wall 52 may close the base sidewall 51. A base cavity 53 may be recessed into the base end wall 52.

[0064] The humidor console may be adapted to releasably secure the humidor cartridge in the cartridge bay when the humidor cartridge is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, a cartridge mount peg 54 may be disposed in the base cavity 53. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10, in some embodiments, the cartridge mount peg 54 may facilitate releasable securement of each humidor cartridge 40 in its corresponding cartridge bay 17. Accordingly, a peg engaging flange 23 may be provided at the rear end of each cartridge bay 17, such as on each side manifold portion 21 of the humidor manifold 18, as illustrated. The peg engaging flange 23 may be configured to releasably engage the cartridge mount peg 54 in the base cavity 53 of each humidor cartridge 40 to secure the humidor cartridge 40 in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2.

[0065] The humidor console may include an actuator that is actuable between an engaged state in which the humidor console resists removing the humidor cartridge from the retracted position and a disengaged state in which the humidor cartridge can be removed from the retracted position. In some embodiments, the console CPU 16 (FIG. 7) may operably interface with the peg engaging flange 23 to facilitate selective engagement and disengagement of the peg engaging flange 23 with the cartridge mount peg 54 typically according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art. For example, and without limitation, in some embodiments, a flange actuator (not illustrated) may operably engage the peg engaging flange 23 to facilitate engagementand disengagement of the peg engaging flange 23 with respect to the cartridge mount peg 54. The console CPU 16 may controllably interface with the flange actuator for the purpose. In some embodiments, the cartridge ejector 66 (FIG. 7) may be configured to facilitate actuation of the flange actuator in disengagement of the peg engaging flange 23 from the cartridge mount peg 54 and deployment of the humidor cartridge 40 from the retracted cartridge position in the cartridge bay 17 to the extended or removed cartridge position from the cartridge bay 17. It will be recognized and understood by those skilled in the art that alternative mechanisms, devices and components may be used to releasably secure each humidor cartridge 40 in its corresponding cartridge bay 17 typically according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 17, at least one base opening 60 may extend through the base end sidewall 52 of the cartridge base 50. Each base opening 60 may establish fluid communication between the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 40 and the corresponding distribution conduit 25 of the humidor manifold 18 such that moisture from the humidor humidifier 28 can enter the cartridge interior 44 through the humidor manifold 18. In some embodiments, each base opening 60 may be fitted with a closure adapted to close the opening 60 when the humidor cartridge 40 is not in the retracted position in the humidor console 2 (e.g. during external usage of the humidor cartridge 40). In one example implementation the closure may be a spring biased flap that closes when the humidor cartridge 40 is not in the retracted position.

[0067] As illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 21, at least one cartridge opening 46 may extend through the cartridge wall 41 of the humidor cartridge 40. In some embodiments, each cartridge opening 46 may be generally elongated and rectangular and may extend generally from the front cartridge wall end 42 to the rear cartridge wall end 43 of thecartridge wall 41. At least one cartridge door 47 may be supported by the cartridge wall 41. Each cartridge door 47 may be selectively deployable in a closed door position (FIG. 11) in which the cartridge door 47 closes each corresponding cartridge opening 46 and an open door position (FIGS. 18 and 21) in which the cartridge door 47 opens and exposes the cartridge opening 46. As illustrated in FIG. 12, in some embodiments, at least one door hinge 55 may pivotally attach each cartridge door 47 to the cartridge wall 41 to facilitate selective opening and closing of the cartridge door 47. Each cartridge door 47 may include a door closure 48. The door closure 48 may releasably secure the cartridge door 47 in the closed door position typically according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art. The door closure 48 may utilize mechanical, magnetic and / or other mechanism for the purpose.

[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 25, a cap mount portion 61 may extend forwardly from the front cartridge wall end 42 of the cartridge wall 41. A cartridge cap 56 may close the cartridge interior 44 at the cap mount portion 61. In some embodiments, the cartridge cap 56 may releasably engage the cap mount portion 61 via a threaded, pinned, friction fit and / or other suitable closure or attachment method or technique. In some embodiments, at least one O-ring, gasket and / or other cap seal (not illustrated) may be provided on the exterior surface of the cartridge cap 56 and / or on the interior surface of the cap mount portion 6 1. Accordingly, in attachment of the cartridge cap 56 to the cap mount portion 61, the cap seal may impart a fluidtight seal between the cartridge cap 56 and the cap mount portion 61 to prevent escape of moisture from and / or influx of water into the cartridge interior 44 through the cap mount portion 61.

[0069] As illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27, in some embodiments, an ash tray 74 may be attached in a removable fashion to an end of the outer container of the cartridge. Theash tray 74 may be built into the cartridge cap 56. As illustrated in FIG. 33, in typical application of the humidor 1, which will be hereinafter described, the cartridge cap 56 may be removed from the humidor cartridge 40, inverted and placed on a table or other support surface (not illustrated). The upwardly facing ash tray 74 may be used to hold and collect ashes 96 from the cigar tip 95 of a lit cigar 94 for subsequent disposal of the ashes 96.

[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 27, in some embodiments, the cartridge cap 56 may include an outer cap member 57. The outer cap member 57 may have an outer cap member end wall 58. An outer cap member side wall 59 may extend from the outer cap member end wall 58. As illustrated in FIG. 11, in deployment of the cartridge cap 56 on the cartridge wall 41 of the humidor cartridge 40, the outer cap member 57 may be disposed at the exterior end of the cartridge cap 56.

[0071] As further illustrated in FIG. 27, the cartridge cap 56 may include an inner cap member 62. In the assembled cartridge cap 56, the inner cap member 62 may be disposed inside or behind the outer cap member 57. The inner cap member 62 may be cup or dish shaped and may include an inner cap member main wall 63. An inner cap member side wall 64 may extend from the inner cap member main wall 63. The inner cap member side wall 64 of the inner cap member 62 may be suitably sized and configured to fit inside the outer cap member side wall 59 of the outer cap member 57. At least one inner cap member slot 65 may extend through the inner cap member main wall 63 of the inner cap member 62 typically for purposes which will be hereinafter described.

[0072] The cartridge cap 56 may include a middle cap member 68. In the assembled cartridge cap 56, the middle cap member 68 may be disposed adjacent to and behindthe inner cap member 62. The middle cap member 68 may include a middle cap member main wall 69. A middle cap member side wall 70 may extend from the middle cap member main wall 69. The middle cap member side wall 70 of the middle cap member 68 may be configured to engage the inner cap member side wall 64 of the inner cap member 62 via a threaded, friction fit and / or other suitable connection. At least one middle cap member slot 71 may extend through the middle cap member main wall 69 of the middle cap member 68 typically for purposes which will be hereinafter described.

[0073] The ash tray 74 of the cartridge cap 56 may include an ash tray main wall 75. An ash tray side wall 76 may extend from the ash tray main wall 75. The ash tray side wall 76 of the ash tray 74 may be configured to engage the middle cap member side wall 70 of the middle cap member 68 via a threaded, friction fit and / or other suitable connection. At least one ash tray slot 77 may extend through the ash tray main wall 75 of the ash tray 74. The ash tray main wall 75 may be concave or dish shaped as it extends from the ash tray side wall 76 toward its center. At least one ash tray notch 78 may be provided in the typically raised outer rim portion of the ash tray main wall 75 of the ash tray 74. Each ash tray notch 78 may be suitably sized and configured to receive and hold the lit cigar 94 as the ashes 96 fall from the cigar tip 95 of the cigar 94, as illustrated in FIG. 33. Accordingly, the ash tray slot 77 of the ash tray 74, the middle cap member slot 71 of the middle cap member 68 and the inner cap member slot 65 of the inner cap member 62 may be sized and configured to convey the cigar ashes 96 (FIG. 33) which drop from the cigar tip 95 of the lit cigar 94 into the outer cap member 57 of the cartridge cap 56. The collected cigar ashes 96 may be removed fromthe outer cap member 57 typically by unthreading or otherwise detaching the outer cap member 57 from the inner cap member 62.

[0074] In some embodiments, the cartridge wall 41, cartridge base 50, cap mount portion 61, cartridge cap 56, and other components of the humidor cartridge 40 may be fabricated of plastic, wood, metal, fiberglass, composite materials, other hard material or materials, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, one or more of these components may be fabricated of rubber, plastic or other inflatable material or materials to render the humidor cartridge 40 waterproof, water-resistant or buoyant in water. In some embodiments, the humidor cartridge 40 may be enclosable in an inflatable jacket or cover (not illustrated) which renders the humidor cartridge 40 buoyant.

[0075] In the example shown in the figures the humidor cartridges 40 each include a cigar holder 80 mountable in the interior of the humidor cartridge 40 in a rotating fashion. FIGS. 19-24 show an example of a cigar holder 80 that is selectively disposable in the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridges 40.

[0076] The outer container of the humidor cartridge 40 and the cigar holder 80 shown in the figures both have cylindrical shapes. The cigar holder 80 may be suitably sized and configured to hold at least one cigar 94. In the example shown the cigar holder 80 includes several cigar cavities 88 arranged about the cigar holder 80. In the example shown the cigar cavities 88 are grooves extending along a length of the cigar holder 80.

[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 22, in some embodiments, the cigar holder 80 may include an elongated central cigar holder core 81. The cigar holder core 81 may have a front holder core end 82 and a rear holder core end 83. As illustrated in FIG. 24, an elongatedholder mount member 84 may extend through a mount member opening (not numbered) which extends longitudinally through the cigar holder core 81 from the front core holder end 82 to the rear core holder end 83. The holder mount member 84 may facilitate mounting of the cigar holder 80 in the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 40. Accordingly, a front holder mount peg 85 and a rear holder mount peg 86 may extend from the holder mount member 84 and protrude beyond the respective front holder core end 82 and the rear holder core end 83 of the cigar holder core 81.

[0078] As illustrated in FIG. 23, a front holder mount 150 and a rear holder mount 152 may be disposed at the front and rear ends, respectively, of the cartridge interior 44 in the humidor cartridge 40. The front holder mount peg 85 and the rear holder mount peg 86 may be suitably configured to engage the respective front holder mount 150 and rear holder mount 152 in such a manner as to deploy the cigar holder 80 in the cartridge interior 44. For example and without limitation, the front holder peg 85 and the rear holder peg 86 may engage a slot or groove (not illustrated) in the corresponding front holder mount 150 and rear holder mount 52 for the purpose.

[0079] In the example shown, the cigar holder 80 is rotatable about a longitudinal holder axis 93 (FIG. 24) of the cigar holder 80 in the cartridge interior44 of the humidor cartridge 40. As further illustrated in FIG. 24, roller bearings 87 may mount the holder mount member 84 in the cigar holder core 81. The cigar holder core 81 may thus rotate on the roller bearings 87 with respect to the holder mount member 84 about the longitudinal holder axis 93 of the cigar holder 80.

[0080] As further illustrated in FIG. 22, multiple, elongated cigar cavities 88 may be provided in the cigar holder core 81 of the cigar holder 80. The cigar cavities 88 maybe concentrically arranged in the cigar holder core 81 around the holder mount member 84 (FIG. 19). As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 24, each cigar cavity 88 may be suitably sized and configured to contain a cigar 94. In the example shown, the cigar holder 80 includes cigar retainers 92 adapted to extend at least partially over and retain cigars located in the cigar cavities 88. In the particular example the retainers are cigar retainer flanges 92 that are provided on the cigar the holder core 81. Each cigar retainer flange 92 may be configured to releasably retain or secure each cigar 94 in its corresponding cigar cavity 88.

[0081] In some embodiments, the cigar holder core 81 may be configured for indexed rotation with respect to the holder mount member 84 of the cigar holder 80. Accordingly, at least one holder detent mechanism (not illustrated) may operably engage the cigar holder core 81. The holder detent mechanism may cause the rotating cigar holder core 81 to click or snap into place as each cigar cavity 88 arrives at a particular rotational position typically with respect to the cartridge opening 46 in the cartridge wall 41 of the humidor cartridge 40. For example and without limitation, in embodiments in which the cigar holder 80 has eight cigar cavities 88, the detent mechanism may otherwise facilitate free rotation of the cigar holder core 81 but cause the cigar holder core 81 to click into place at eight different positions, or each 45- degree position, as the cigar cavities 88 sequentially align or register with the cartridge opening 46 or with a particular location which lies along the rotational width of the cartridge opening 46. The detent mechanism may utilize mechanical, magnetic and / or other suitable arrangement to facilitate the indexed rotation of the of the cigar holder core 81.

[0082] In some embodiments, the cigar core 81, the holder mount member 84, the cavity flanges 89 and / or other structural components of the humidor console 2 may be fabricated of plastic, wood, metal, fiberglass, composite materials, other hard material or materials, or combinations thereof. Each cigar cavity 88 may be lined with a humidor wood which is suitable for or commonly used in fabrication of humidors. Non-limiting examples of humidor woods which may be suitable for the purpose include Spanish Cedar, American Cedar, Mahogany, walnut, cherry, maple, oak, combinations thereof, and / or other woods. In some embodiments, the cigar core 81 may be entirely fabricated of the humidor wood typically using sawing, cuting, milling, lathing and / or other fabrication techniques known by those skilled in the art.

[0083] As illustrated in FIGS. 19, 22 and 24, in some embodiments, a cavity flange 89 may be slidably disposed in each cigar cavity 88 of the cigar holder 80. The cavity flange 89 may be selectively positional along the length of the cigar cavity 88 to vary the length of the cigar cavity 88 and accommodate cigars 94 having various lengths accordingly. Each cavity flange 89 may adjustably engage the cigar cavity 88 according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art. For example and without limitation, as illustrated in FIG. 22, in some embodiments, an elongated cavity flange slot 90 may extend in the cigar holder core 81 and traverse the length of the cigar cavity 88. The cavity flange 89 may slidably engage the cavity flange slot 90 for selective placement of the cavity flange 89 along the length of the cigar cavity 88.

[0084] In some embodiments, a cigar ejector (not illustrated) may be provided in each cigar cavity 88 of the cigar holder 80. Each cigar ejector may be configured to eject the cigar 94 subsequent to application of manual or digital pressure against the cigar 94 inthe cigar cavity 88. Accordingly, the cigar ejector may include any type of spring loaded and / or other mechanism which is suitable for the purpose.

[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 20, in some embodiments, cartridge lighting 45 may be disposed in the humidor cartridge 40. The cartridge lighting 45 may include at least one LED strip, for example and without limitation. The cartridge lighting 45 may be configured to illuminate the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 40 and any cigar 94 which may be held therein.

[0086] As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 24, in some embodiments, the cartridge lighting 45 may be disposed on the cigar holder 80. For example and without limitation, the cartridge lighting 45 may include at least one LED strip which extends along at least a portion of the interior of each corresponding cigar cavity 88 in the cigar holder 80. As further illustrated in FIG. 20, the cartridge CPU 100 may controllably interface with the cartridge lighting 45.

[0087] As further illustrated in FIG. 20, in some embodiments, a door motor 49 may operably engage each cartridge door 47 of each humidor cartridge 40. The door motor 49 may be operable to facilitate selective deployment of the cartridge door 47 in the closed and open door positions typically according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art. The cartridge CPU 100 may controllably interface with the door motor 49.

[0088] In some implementations the humidor may include a motor adapted to rotate the cigar holder in the humidor cartridge. In the particular example shown, a holder motor 91 may operably engage the cigar holder 80 for rotation of the cigar holder 80 about the longitudinal holder axis 93 (FIG. 24) in the cartridge interior 44. In some embodiments, the holder motor 91 may be configured to rotate the cigar holder 80 in the indexed manner to sequentially align or register the cigar cavities 88 in the cigarholder 80 with the cartridge sleeve or openings 46 in the cartridge wall 41 of the humidor cartridge 40, typically as was heretofore described. Accordingly, the holder motor 91 may facilitate placement of a selected cigar 94 which lies in its corresponding cigar cavity 88 into proximity to the cartridge opening 46 for ease in retrieval of the cigar 94 from the cigar cavity 88 upon opening of the cartridge door 47.

[0089] The cartridge CPU 100 may controllably interface with the holder motor 91. In some applications, the cigar cavities 88 in the cigar holder 80 may be sequentially numbered and may contain different types of cigars 94. Accordingly, the cartridge CPU 100 may be programmed and configured to facilitate user selection of the numbered cigar cavity 88 which holds a desired cigar 94 to be retrieved from the humidor cartridge 40 for use. The cartridge CPU 100 may therefore operate the holder motor 91 to rotate the cigar holder 80 to the desired indexed position for alignment or registration of the selected numbered cigar cavity 88 with the cartridge opening 46 and subsequent opening of the cartridge door 47, typically by operation of the holder motor 91, for retrieval of the cigar 94 from the cigar cavity 88.

[0090] At least one cigar sensor 98 may interface with each cigar cavity 88 of the cigar holder 80. The cartridge CPU 100 may operably interface with each cigar sensor 98. Each cigar sensor 98 may be configured to sense the presence or absence of a cigar 94 in each cigar cavity 88, generate a cigar occupancy signal that indicates which cigar cavities 88 are occupied by a cigar 94 and transmit the cigar occupancy signal to the cartridge CPU 100.

[0091] As further illustrated in FIG. 20, at least one power port 102 may electrically interface with the cartridge CPU 100 of the humidor cartridge 40. The power port 102 may be configured to electrically interface with the power source I 08. As washeretofore described with respect to FIG. 7, in the retracted cartridge position of the humidor cartridge 40 in the humidor console 2, the power port 102 of the humidor cartridge 40 may interface with the power source 108 through the console CPU 16 of the humidor console 2. In removal of the humidor cartridge 40 from the humidor console 2 for external usage in a home, office or other location away from the vehicle 120, as illustrated in FIGS. 34 and 35, a standard 120-volt household electrical outlet 145 (FIG. 35) may be used as the power source 108. Accordingly, the power port 102 (FIG. 20) may be electrically connected to the household electrical outlet 145 via a power cord 140. As illustrated in FIG. 34, the power cord 140 may have a standard or conventional power cord design, typically with a device plug 141 on one end and an adaptor plug 142 on the other end. The power port 102 may be configured to accept the device plug 141. The adaptor plug 142 may be inserted into a standard or conventional USB adaptor 144 which plugs into the household electrical outlet 145. Accordingly, electrical power may be provided to the cartridge CPU 100 and / or the other functional components of the humidor cartridge 40 from the household electrical outlet 145 typically via the USB adaptor 144, power cord 140 and power port 102, respectively. Alternatively, the adaptor plug 142 on the power cord 140 may be inserted into a USB port (not illustrated) in a laptop computer, tablet computer or other personal electrical device for powering of the humidor cartridge 40 from the device.

[0092] As further illustrated in FIG. 20, in some embodiments, at least one battery 106 may electrically interface with the power port 102 typically through the cartridge CPU 100, as illustrated, or directly. The battery 106 may include at least one rechargeable battery and / or at least one disposable battery. Electrical power stored in the battery106 may facilitate external usage of the humidor cartridge 40 for a limited time without the need for an external power supply. Connection of the power port 102 to the power source 108 may facilitate automatic recharging of the battery 106.

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 20, in some embodiments, at least one display 101, such as an LED screen, for example and without limitation, may communicably interface with the cartridge CPU 100 of the humidor cartridge 40. The display 101 may be provided on the exterior surface of the cartridge wall 41 or in any other suitable visible position or location.

[0094] The cartridge CPU 100 may be configured and programmed to indicate data and information which relates to the various operational parameters and characteristics of the humidor cartridge 40. This data and information may include the cigar occupancy information from the cigar sensor 98 as well as the indexed rotational position of the cigar holder 80 in the humidor cartridge 40 and the locations or positions of the cigar cavities 88 of the cigar holder 80 with respect to each cartridge opening 46 in the cartridge wall 41 of the humidor cartridge 40. The data and information may be presented on the display 101 pictorially, verbally, numerically, graphically and / or in any other suitable format.

[0095] In some embodiments, at least one transceiver 103 may communicably interface with the cartridge CPU 100. The transceiver 103 may be configured to wirelessly communicate, typically via RF transmission signals 111, with the desktop, laptop or tablet computer, a smartphone and / or some other remote device 110. Accordingly, the cartridge CPU 100 and the remote device 110, via the transceiver 103, may be configured for bidirectional wireless communication with each other any andall signals, data and information which may relate to the various operational commands, parameters and characteristics of the humidor cartridge 40.

[0096] The app loaded on the remote device 110 may facilitate presentation of the data and information in a suitable display format as well as the operational command options for the humidor cartridge 40 as a user interface on the display of the remote device 110. The data and information may be presented on the display format on the remote device 110 pictorially, verbally, numerically, graphically and / or in any other suitable format. Responsive to user input via the user interface, the app may use the remote device 110 to engage the cartridge CPU 110 for controlling the various operational functions of the humidor cartridge 40 via the transmission signals 111 and the transceiver 103. In some embodiments, the humidor cartridge 40 may have a separate display and user interface (not illustrated) which may include the display and command functions and options as the remote device 110.

[0097] In typical application of the humidor 1, the humidor console 2 may be installed in the vehicle 120. Accordingly, as illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, in some applications, the humidor console 2 may be installed in a vehicle console 121 inside the vehicle 120. For example and without limitation, as illustrated in FIG. 28, the humidor console 2 may be installed in a vertical console surface 122 on the vehicle console 121. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 29, the humidor console 2 may be installed in a horizontal console surface 124 on the vehicle console 121. In other applications, the humidor console 2 may be installed in an angled or sloped console surface (not illustrated) or any other non-horizontal or non-vertical surface on any suitable structure in the vehicle 120. The vehicle console 121 or other structure may include avehicle dashboard or any other structure in the operator's compartment, passenger compartment, bedroom, kitchen or any other part of the vehicle 120.

[0098] The humidor console 2 may be installed in a console mount opening (not illustrated) which may be cut or otherwise provided or formed in the vertical console surface 122 or the horizontal console surface 124 of the vehicle console 121 and is sized and shaped to receive the humidor console 2. The depth of the console opening may be selected such that the front console wall 10 of the humidor console 2 is flush with the vertical console surface 122 or horizontal console surface 124. In installation of the humidor console 2, the console CPU 16 may be placed into electrical contact with the power source 108, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The humidor humidifier 28 (FIG. 7) may be filled with water, as needed, typically through the fill port 22 (FIG. 1) as was heretofore described.

[0099] As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, at least one of the humidor cartridges 40 may be deployed from the retracted cartridge position in its corresponding cartridge bay 17 (FIGS. 6 and 10) in the console interior 14 to the extended or removed cartridge position. Accordingly, in some applications, the portion of the cartridge cap 56 which is exposed on the front console wall 10 of the humidor console 2 may be manually grasped and pulled to deploy the humidor cartridge 40 to the extended cartridge position. Alternatively, the app on the remote device 110 (FIG. 7) may be used to facilitate operation of the cartridge ejector 66 typically via the transceiver 26 and the console CPU 16 of the humidor console 2. The cartridge ejector 66 may responsively deploy the humidor cartridge 40 from the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2 to the extended cartridge position. The user may then grasp and remove the extended humidor cartridge 40 from the humidor console 2, as illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0100] Alternatively, the humidor cartridge 40 may remain deployed in the extended cartridge position illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29 as the cartridge base 50 is supported by the cartridge sleeve 15 in the console interior 14. The cartridge door 4 7 of the humidor cartridge 40 may be opened manually or by operating the door motor 49 (FIG. 20), typically by using the app on the remote device 110, to open and expose the cartridge opening 46, as illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31.

[0101] In applications in which one or more cigars 94 are to be maintained in an optimally hydrated condition prior to use, the cigar holder 80 may be rotatably deployed in place in the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 40, typically as was heretofore described and as further illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31. The cartridge door 47 may then be returned from the open door position to the closed door position and the humidor cartridge 40 deployed back in the retracted cartridge position in its corresponding cartridge bay 17 in the console interior 14.

[0102] The cigar sensor 98 (FIG. 20) may detect which cigar cavities 88 in the cigar holder 80 are occupied by a cigar 94 and which cigar cavities 88 are empty. The cigar sensor 98 may responsively generate and transmit the cigar occupancy sensor signal to the cartridge CPU 100. The cartridge CPU 100 may present the cigar occupancy information on the display 101. Additionally or alternatively, the cartridge CPU 100 may transmit the cigar occupancy information to the remote device 110 via the transceiver 103. The app on the remote device 110 may present the cigar occupancy information on the display (not illustrated) of the remote device 110.

[0103] As the cigar cartridge 40 remains in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2, the console CPU 16 may operate the humidor humidifier 28 to generate and emit water vapor typically through the main manifold conduit 24 (FIG.6) and the respective distribution conduits 25 of the humidor manifold 18. The water vapor may flow from each distribution conduit 25 typically through the base openings 60 (FIG. 17) in the cartridge base 50 of the humidor cartridge 40 and into the cartridge interior 44. The water vapor may fill the cartridge interior 44 to maintain the cigars 94 in the optimally moist condition. The hygrometer 30 may continually measure and indicate the humidity level in the console interior 14 and the cartridge interior 44 on the hygrometer display 31.

[0104] In some embodiments, the console CPU 16 (FIG. 7) may interface with the hygrometer 30. The hygrometer 30 may transmit the measured humidity level to the console CPU 16. The console CPU 16 may in turn wirelessly transmit the humidity level to the remote device 110 via the transceiver 26. The app on the remote device 110 may display the humidity level on the display of the remote device 110. The app on the remote device 110 may be used to remotely control the humidity level of the cartridge interior 44 in each cigar cartridge 40 by wirelessly transmiting user commands to the humidor humidifier 28 via the transceiver 26 and the console CPU 16.

[0105] In some applications, the refrigerator compressor 36 (FIG. 7) may be operated to refrigerate the console interior 14 and the cartridge interior 44 of each humidor cartridge 40. The temperature gauge and display (not illustrated) may measure and indicate the temperature of the console interior 14 and the cartridge interior 44. The temperature of the console interior 14 and the cartridge interior 44 may be wirelessly controlled the app on the remote device 110 via the transceiver 26 and the consoleCPU 16 and displayed on the remote device 110.

[0106] A selected one or more of the cigars 94 in the cigar holder 80 in a selected one of the humidor cartridges 40 in the humidor console 2 may be selected for use by deploying the humidor cartridge 40 which contains the desired cigar or cigars 94 from the retracted cartridge position to the extended cartridge position. Accordingly, the app on the remote device 110 may be used to select the humidor cartridge 40 and the cigar or cigars 94 to deploy the selected humidor cartridge 40 to the extended cartridge position typically by actuation of the cartridge ejector 66 (FIG. 7). The humidor cartridge 40 may remain in the extended cartridge position, as illustrated in FIG. 8, or may alternatively be removed from the humidor console 2, as illustrated in FIG. 11, preparatory to subsequent removal of the cigar or cigars 94 from the cigar holder 80. The cartridge CPU 100 (FIG. 20) may operate the cartridge lighting 45 to illuminate each cigar cavity 88 in the cigar holder 80.

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 30, the cartridge door 47 may next be opened either manually (typically by releasing the door closure 48) or by actuation of the door motor 49 (FIG. 20) via the remote device 110 to expose the cartridge opening 46. The cartridge CPU 100 may operate the holder motor 91 to rotate the cigar holder 80 to the indexed rotation position in which the cigar cavity 88 that contains the selected cigar 94 aligns or registers with the cartridge opening 46. The cigar 94 may then be manually retrieved from the cigar cavity 88. Alternatively, the cigar ejector (not illustrated) in the cigar cavity 88 may be actuated to eject the cigar 94 from the cigar cavity 88. The cartridge door 47 may then be returned to the closed door posit ion and the cartridge 40 returned to the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 2. The preceding method may be continued until all of the cigars 94 have ultimately been removed from the cigar cartridge 40. In some applications, the cartridge cap 56 maybe removed from the cap mount portion 61 of the humidor cartridge 40 for use of the ash tray 74, typically as was heretofore described with respect to FIGS. 32 and 33. In some applications, the humidor cartridge 40 may be removed from the humidor console 2 for external usage in a home, office or other location away from the vehicle 120, typically as was heretofore described with respect to FIGS. 34 and 35.

[0108] In some applications, the console CPU 16 (FIG. 7), via the cartridge CPU 100, may operate the holder motor 91 (FIG. 20) to rotate the cigar holder 80 to the desired indexed position in the humidor cartridge 40 as the humidor cartridge 40 remains in the retracted cartridge position in the humidor console 40. Actuation of the holder motor 91 for the purpose may be implemented wirelessly using the remote device 110 via the transceiver 26. The selected humidor cartridge 40 may subsequently be extended or removed from the humidor console 2, the cartridge door 47 opened and the selected cigar 94 removed from its cigar cavity 88 in the cigar holder 80 for use, typically as was heretofore described.

[0109] As illustrated in FIGS. 36 and 37, in some applications, at least one of the humidor cartridges 40 may be used to maintain one or more food and / or beverage items (not illustrated) in an optimally hydrated and / or refrigerated condition for consumption. Accordingly, the food and / or beverage items may be placed in the tray 130 which may be placed in the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 40. As illustrated in FIG. 36, the tray 130 may include an elongated tray body 131 having a first tray end 132, a second tray end 133 and a tray interior 134. Tray mount pegs 136 may extend from the respective first tray end 132 and second tray end 133. The tray mount pegs 136 may facilitate mounting of the tray 130 in the cartridge interior 44 of the humidor cartridge 44 typically by engagement of the tray mount pegs 136 with theslots (not illustrated) in the front holder mount 150 and the rear holder mount 152(FIG. 23) of the humidor cartridge 40, typically as was heretofore described with respect to the cigar holder 80. In some applications, the food and / or beverage items may be placed in the cartridge interior 44 without using the tray 130.

[0110] Application of the humidor 1 using the humidor cartridge 40 containing the tray 130 holding food and / or beverage items may be as was heretofore described with respect to application of the humidor 1 using the humidor cartridge 40 containing the cigar holder 80 holding the cigars 94. Accordingly, the humidor humidifier 28 and / or the refrigeration compressor 36 may be operated to maintain the food and / or beverage items in an optimally hydrated and / or refrigerated condition for consumption. In some applications, a first one of the humidor cartridges 40 may contain the cigar holder 80 with the cigars 94, whereas a second one of the humidor cartridges 40 may contain the food and / or beverage items with or without the tray 130. Accordingly, the cigars 94 may be selectively retrieved from the first humidor cartridge 40 for use, whereas the food and / or beverage items may be selectively retrieved from the second humidor cartridge 40 for consumption.

[0111] While certain illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described above, it will be recognized and understood that various modifications can be made to the embodiments and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications which may fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

Claims:

1. A humidor comprising:(a) a humidor cartridge, the humidor cartridge comprising an interior configured to hold one or more cigars; and(b) a humidor console, the humidor console comprising:(i) a cartridge bay adapted to receive the humidor cartridge in a retracted position and an extended position; and(ii) a humidor humidifier adapted to humidify the interior of the humidor cartridge when the humidor cartridge is received in the cartridge bay in the retracted position.

2. The humidor of claim 1 wherein the humidor console includes an opening, the opening comprising an opening shape and an opening size corresponding to an outer shape and an outer size of the humidor cartridge.

3. The humidor of claim 1 wherein the humidor console further comprises a cartridge sleeve extending inwardly from the opening, the cartridge sleeve adapted to support the humidor cartridge in the extended position.

4. The humidor of claim 1 further comprising a seal adapted to seal a gap between the humidor cartridge and the humidor console in a fluid tight fashion when the humidor cartridge is in the retracted position.

5. The humidor of claim 1 wherein the humidor console further comprises a conduit fluidly connecting the humidor humidifier to the humidor cartridge when the humidor cartridge is in the retracted position.

6. The humidor of claim 5 wherein the humidor cartridge further comprises an opening configured to establish fluid communication between the humidor cartridge interior and the conduit when the humidor cartridge is in the retracted position.

7. The humidor of claim 6 wherein the humidor cartridge further comprises a closure adapted to close the opening when the humidor cartridge is not in the retracted position.

8. The humidor of claim 1 wherein the humidor console is adapted to releasably secure the humidor cartridge in the cartridge bay when the humidor cartridge is in the retracted position.

9. The humidor of claim 8 wherein the humidor console further comprises an actuator that is actuatable between an engaged state in which the humidor console resists removing the humidor cartridge from the retracted position and a disengaged state in which the humidor cartridge can be removed from the retracted position.

10. The humidor of claim 1 wherein the humidor cartridge further comprises a cigar holder mountable in the interior of the humidor cartridge in a rotating fashion.

11. The humidor of claim 10 wherein the cigar holder comprises a plurality of cigar cavities arranged about the cigar holder.

12. The humidor of claim 10 wherein the cigar holder further comprises a plurality of cigar retainers adapted to extend at least partially over and retain cigars located in the cigar cavities.

13. The humidor of claim 10 further comprising a motor adapted to rotate the cigar holder in the humidor cartridge.

14. A cigar container comprising:(a) an outer container comprising an interior;(b) a cigar holder located in the interior and comprising a plurality of cigar cavities arranged about a perimeter of the cigar holder, the cigar holder further comprising a plurality of cigar retainers adapted to extend at least partially over and retain cigars located in the cigar cavities; wherein the cigar holder is mounted in the outer container in a rotating fashion.

15. The cigar container of claim 14 wherein the cigar cavities comprise grooves extending along a length of the cigar holder.

16. The cigar container of claim 14 wherein the outer container and the cigar holder have cylindrical shapes.

17. The cigar container of claim 14 wherein the outer container comprises a door adapted to allow access to the interior of the outer container through a door opening when the door is in an open state; and wherein a subset of the cigar cavities are aligned with the door opening depending on a rotational orientation of the cigar holder in the outer container.

18. The cigar container of claim 17 wherein rotation of the cigar holder in the outer container allows alignment of a different subset of the cigar cavities with the door opening.

19. The cigar container of claim 14 further comprising an ash tray attached in a removable fashion to an end of the outer container.

20. A vehicle humidor system comprising:(a) a vehicle;(b) a humidor mounted in the vehicle, the humidor comprising:(i) a humidor cartridge, the humidor cartridge comprising an interior configured to hold one or more cigars; and(ii) a humidor console, the humidor console comprising: a cartridge bay adapted to receive the humidor cartridge in a retracted position and an extended position; and a humidor humidifier adapted to humidify the interior of the humidor cartridge when the humidor cartridge is received in the cartridge bay in the retracted position.

21. The vehicle humidor system of claim 20 wherein the vehicle comprises an interior, the interior comprising a wall, and wherein the humidor console is mounted in a wall.

22. The vehicle humidor system of claim 21 wherein the vehicle comprises a boat, an airplane, or a car.

23. The vehicle humidor system of claim 20 wherein the humidor console comprises a second bay, wherein the humidor humidifier is located in the second bay.

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