Water pipe head device

Abstract

A head device for a water pipe is disclosed. The head device comprising a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, an on-board energy store for powering the device. The device is configured to be placed on the water pipe such that the receptacle is in fluid connection with a water receptacle of the water pipe.

Description

[0001] Water Pipe Head Device

[0002] The present invention relates to a water pipe head device, particularly to an electronically heated head device.

[0003] Background

[0004] Hookah water pipes have long been used in smoking using combusted materials such as tobacco. A typical hookah provides a water receptacle having an inlet conduit and at least one outlet conduit. Smoke enters the receptacle through the inlet conduit, passes through the water, and then exits the receptacle to the users through the outlet conduit. Smoke is generated in a bowl in which a combustible substance such as tobacco is placed. A heat source is placed over the tobacco to cause pyrolysis. In traditional practice, ignited charcoal may be used as the heat source.

[0005] In traditional water pipes where charcoal is used, it is difficult to regulate the output of combustion due to lack of control over the heat source. In addition, other products of the pyrolysis may be objectionable within a closed room or building.

[0006] Water pipes with an electric heating source have become more common. Electrically- heated hookahs are particularly well suited to heating applications where it is not intended to burn the consumable product, but instead heat it to a controlled elevated temperature for emitting vapour to a user. As such devices of this kind can be used to deliver a variety of less harmful or therapeutic substances to the user than conventional hookahs.

[0007] However, electrically-heated hookahs often fall short of providing the user with the familiar experience of a traditional hookah due to size, design, and controllability.

[0008] It is an aim of the invention to provide invention that mitigates one or more of the above- mentioned problems.

[0009] Statements of invention

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a head device for a water pipe comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, an on-board energy store for powering the device, wherein the device is configured to be placed on the water pipe such that the receptacle is in fluid connection with a water receptacle of the water pipe.

[0011] The device may further comprise a comprises a hollow for receiving an inlet conduit of the water pipe when the device is placed on a water pipe. The device may be mounted onto the water pipe via an interference or friction fit.

[0012] The receptacle may comprise a bowl.

[0013] The device may further comprise a conduit passing from the bowl and into the hollow.

[0014] The hollow may be located substantially centrally throughout the on-board energy store.

[0015] The bowl may be located above the energy store such that the conduit partially passes through the energy store.

[0016] The hollow may comprise a conical seal. The conical seal located at the lower end of the hollow. This feature provides an airtight seal when the device is placed on the water pipe.

[0017] The conduit only passes partially through the hollow. The conduit being within proximity to an inlet conduit of the water pipe.

[0018] The on-board energy store may be removably attached such that it can be charged separately to the other components of the device.

[0019] The heater may be an induction heater. The induction heater may heat a heating disk which in turn heats the air passing thereover. The consumable material within the bowl may be heated by convection, i.e. by a heated airflow.

[0020] The bowl may comprise metal. The consumable material may be heated by conduction, e.g. in addition to by convection. The bowl may comprise a ceramic.

[0021] The device further may comprise an elongate inlet passage or chimney. The chimney may be internalised, e.g. within or passing through the device housing. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a head device for a water pipe comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, wherein the device is configured to be placed on the water pipe such that the receptacle is in fluid connection with a water receptacle / tank of the water pipe.

[0022] The head device may be powered by mains. The head device may have an on-board energy store, e.g. one or more battery or a battery pack.

[0023] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a water pipe device comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, the heater comprising a heating plate having opposing major sides or faces, the device further comprising a flow inlet arranged such that air enters the device on one side of the heating plate and then travels across at least a portion of said side of the heating plate.

[0024] A majority of the / each side of the heating plate may be exposed to the airflow. The airflow along an induction heated plate allows the consumable material to be heated by convection.

[0025] The chimney may be internalised within the device.

[0026] The heating plate may comprise one or more heating disk, e.g. two heating disks. The heating disks may be stacked on top of each other and sealed around the sides to create and internal space between two of the heating disks.

[0027] The two heating disks may comprise a top / first heating disk (e.g. closest to a heater member, element, circuit or coil) and a bottom / second heating disk (e.g. further away from the heater member, element, circuit or coil). The heating disks may comprise a plurality of apertures. The plurality of apertures of the top heating disk may be offset from the plurality of apertures located on the bottom heating disk.

[0028] The heater member an induction heater and / or the heating disk(s) are heated by induction. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a water pipe device comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, the heater comprising a heating plate, wherein the receptacle comprises a metal.

[0029] The receptacle may be in thermal contact with the heating plate. The receptacle may be in conductive contact with the heating plate, e.g. via one or more conductor or contact member / formation.

[0030] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a water pipe device comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, the heater comprising a heating plate or disk, the device further comprising at least one variable air inlets such that the air flow into the device can be adjusted.

[0031] The at least one variable air inlet may be located on a side of the device.

[0032] The at least one variable air inlet may be located on a top or upper surface of the device. The at least one variable air inlet may comprise a chimney.

[0033] A plurality of spaced air inlets may be provided, either or both of which may be fixed / adjustable.

[0034] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a water pipe device comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, the heater comprising a heating plate or disk, the device further comprising a temperature sensor located on the heating plate or disk.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a water pipe device comprising; a receptacle for receiving a consumable product, a heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product in use, the device further comprising a temperature sensor located on the receptable.

[0036] The temperature sensor may be embedded within a wall of the receptacle. Any of the optional features defined in relation to any one aspect of the invention may be applied to any further aspect of the invention, wherever practicable.

[0037] Detailed description

[0038] Practicable embodiments of the invention are described in further detail below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0039] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a prior art water pipe 100.

[0040] Figure 2 shows perspective view of a head device 200 in accordance with the present invention.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the head device 200.

[0042] Figure 4a shows a schematic view of the head device 200 mounted on a water pipe 100.

[0043] Figure 4b shows a cutaway schematic view of the head device 200 mounted on a water pipe 100.

[0044] Figure 4c shows a cutaway schematic view of the connection between the head device 200 and the water pipe 100.

[0045] Figure 5 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200.

[0046] Figure 6a shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example.

[0047] Figure 6b shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example.

[0048] Figure 7 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example.

[0049] Figure 8 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example.

[0050] Figure 9a shows a plan view of the heating disk 503.

[0051] Figure 9b shows cross-sectional view of the heating disk 503.

[0052] Figure 10 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example.

[0053] Figure 11 shows a partial cutaway view of the bowl 302 in accordance with another example.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a prior art water pipe 100. The water pipe 100 comprises a bowl 101 , an inlet conduit 102, a water receptacle, reservoir or tank 103, and an outlet conduit 104. The bowl 101 is where the consumable material is heated and the vapour / smoke created. The bowl 101 is provided at the upper end of the water pipe 100 and is in fluid connection with the water / coolant tank 103 by way of the intermediate conduit 102.

[0055] The conduit 102 passes from the bowl 101 into the water tank 103. The conduit 102 sits below the water line within the tank 103. The outlet conduit 104 comprises a hose 104 and a mouthpiece 105. The hose connects to the receptacle 103 above the water line.

[0056] The user of the water pipe 100 inhales through outlet conduit mouthpiece 106 and draws air into the head 101. The drawn is entrained over a consumable product a smoking product, which passes through the conduit 102 into water receptacle 103. The smoking products passes through the water in the receptacle, and then out through the outlet conduit 104 to the user.

[0057] Figure 2 shows perspective view of the head device 200 in accordance with the present invention. The head device 200 configured to be placed onto a water pipe and heat a consumable, smoking and / or vapour-producing product to allow inhalation thereof by a user. The vapour onset temperature of the consumable product will typically be at least 100°C, 150°C or 200°C. A wide variety of suitable consumable products are disclosed in the prior art. The mass of consumable product to fill the device could vary e.g. from 2g to 20g but may be in the region of 5g to 15g. The suitable consumable product portion size could vary according to the size of the device, the size of receptacle, the power of the device and user preferences for session length, number of users, etc.

[0058] The consumable product is received within the head device 200. The consumable product may comprise any suitable form as described in the art. The consumable product may comprise a tobacco-based product, for example, shisha. However, a wide variety of consumable products are possible, including alternatives to tobacco, nicotine-free products and / or therapeutic products for delivery of vapour to the user.

[0059] The head device 200 comprises a battery pack such that it is portable.

[0060] The head device 200 is battery powered and configured to be mounted on any shisha / water pipe. When in use, no cables or wires are necessary to power the head device 200. The head device 200 is configured to be mounted at the upper end of a water Pipe. The head device 200 comprises an even weight distribution such that it is evenly balanced. The head device 200 is weighted such that it is stable when either placed on a surface, or mounted on any shisha / water pipe.

[0061] The head device 200 comprises a circular cross section. The circular cross section may comprise a diameter between 30mm and 150mm. The circular cross section may comprise a diameter between 60mm to 100mm.

[0062] The head device 200 comprises a substantially cylindrical shape. The head device 200 comprises a height such that the device can be stable when mounted in-situ on a shisha / water pipe. The head device 200 can measure in height between 50mm to 500mm. The head device 200 can measure in height between 100mm to 200mm.

[0063] The head device comprises a weight such that it can be adequately supported by the shisha / water pipe when mounted in-situ. The head device 200 may comprise a weight between 100g to 2000g. The head device 200 may comprise a weight between 250g to 1250g.

[0064] The head device 200 comprises a thermally and / or electrically insulating material on its exterior, i.e. defining a housing for the internal components / structures. Typically the head device 200 housings comprise a polymeric material.

[0065] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the head device 200 in accordance with the present invention.

[0066] The head device 200 comprises a heater 301 , a bowl 302, a bowl housing or holder 303, an electronics compartment 304, and a battery pack 305.

[0067] All the aforementioned components of the head device 200 may comprise external housings which are removably attached to one another. The external housings may be removably attached to one another by a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, or similar connection means. Alternatively, some of the components of the head device 200 may be contained within the same external housing. The head device 200 is shown in its use orientation in figures 2 and 3, with the heater 301 located at the upper end of the device 200 and the battery pack 305 located at the lower end of the device 200.

[0068] The heater 301 is located above the bowl 302 and bowl holder 303, such that a consumable with the bowl 302 is heated from above by the heater 301. The heater 301 is releasably attached to the bowl housing 303 such that the bowl 302 is accessible to the user. In this example, the heater 301 comprises a housing 306 which releasably attaches the heater to the bowl holder 303. The heater housing 306 may comprise a bayonet attachment to the bowl housing 303. Alternatively, the heater housing 306 may comprise a screw fitting to the bowl housing 303, or may be attached by as a lid which is arranged to provide an opening via which the bowl 302 can be accessed.

[0069] A user can access the bowl 302 by moving the heater housing 306. The device 200 can then be loaded with a consumable product. In this example, the consumable / smoking material is placed directly within the bowl 302. Alternatively, the head device 200 may utilise a capsule based system, wherein capsules of smoking material are loaded into the head device 200.

[0070] When the device 200 is in use, the bowl 302 in use sits within the bowl housing 303. The bowl 302 may be removable from the bowl housing 303. The bowl 302 may be removed from the bowl housing 303 by a user for the purpose of cleaning the bowl 302. The bowl housing 303 is releasable attached to the electronics compartment 304, this allows the bowl housing 303 to be used to handle the bowl 302 when hot. The bowl housing 303 comprises a nonconductive material such as silicone.

[0071] The battery pack 305 is located at the lower end of the head device 200. The battery back 305 is removably attached to the other components of the head device 200. This allows for the battery pack 305 to be interchanged with another battery pack such that the head device 200 can remain in prolonged use. In addition, the rest of the device does not need to be near the mains connection whilst the battery is being recharged.

[0072] The head device 200 is generally circular in cross-section (i.e. in a top-down direction). However, it can be appreciated, the device may comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape, e.g. polygonal, elliptical or complex shape. The cross-sectional shape may vary along the axial length of the head device 200. In this example, the head device 200 tapers slightly from the heater housing 306 to the battery pack 305.

[0073] The heater 301 may be controlled by electronics in the electronics compartment 304 (e.g. via a heater controller). The electronics may comprise a microcontroller / microprocessor; memory (volatile and / or non-volatile); and / or electrical regulation circuitry (e.g. power limiter and / or controller). The electronics compartment 304 comprises any suitable components to provide heating of the heater 301.

[0074] The device 200 may comprise a communication interface. The communication interface may be wired and / or wireless. The wire interface may comprise a USB or Ethernet interface (e.g. USB port). The wireless interface may comprise an interface for communication via one or more of: Wifi; Bluetooth; NFC; Infrared; cellular (e.g. GSM, 3G, 4G, 5G etc.). The device 200 may comprise any suitable antenna for wireless communication.

[0075] The electronics housing 304 comprises a human interface 307 and an LED light 307. The LED light 307 indicates power and battery level. The LED 307 encircles the housing. Different colours of light indicate different power levels.

[0076] The battery pack 305 may provide electrical power to the heater 301 and / or the heater controller. A power switch 308 is provided on the front / side of the device. The device 200 and / or the heater 301 may therefore be manually controlled (e.g. activated / deactivated). The switch comprises a push switch. The interface further comprises buttons 309 to allow the user to adapt the temperature of the heater 301. Alternatively, there may be a touch interface.

[0077] An antenna or other wireless receiver may be provided in the head portion. The antenna / receiver is operatively connected to a wireless communication interface. The interface may comprise one or more of: NFC / RFID, Bluetooth (RTM); Wifi (RTM); or other short-range interface. The wireless interface may allow communication with a remote device, for example, a mobile (cellular) phone.

[0078] Water pipe connection

[0079] Figure 4a shows a schematic view of the head device 200 mounted on a water pipe 100. The head device 200 is configured to be placed on a prior art water pipe 100 in the same way that a bowl would be. The device 200 may be mounted onto the water pipe via an interference or friction fit.

[0080] In this example, the head device 200 is not attached to the water pipe 100, the head device 200 is mounted on the upper end of the water pipe 100. In other examples, there may be attachment means to attach the head device 200 to the water pipe 100 to steady the device 200 on the upper end of the water pipe.

[0081] Figure 4b shows a cutaway schematic view of the head device 200 mounted on a water pipe 100.

[0082] The head device 200 comprises a conduit 401 located within the head device 200. The conduit passes from the top end of the head device 200 through towards the bottom end of the head device 200. The conduit 401 passes from the bowl 302, through the bowl housing 303, through the electronics housing 304 and partially through the battery housing 305.

[0083] The conduit 401 is located substantially centrally within the head device 200. The conduit 401 may comprise multiple parts sealed against each other such that the components of the head device 200 may be separated. Alternatively, the conduit 401 may comprise one part.

[0084] The conduit 401 is generally sealed to / against the bowl 301 to prevent air leakage therefrom.

[0085] The conduit 401 passes through the bowl housing 303 and through the electronics housing 304. The conduit 401 therefore seals or segregates the bowl 302 and / or vapourised product created within the bowl 302 from the components held within the electronics housing 304 and battery housing 305 to prevent contamination thereof. The electronics and battery housings each comprise a cavity or hollow to accommodate the conduit 401. The internal compartments of the electronics and battery housings are fluidly isolated from the bowl 302. The conduit does not pass through the entire length of the battery housing 305. The conduit 401 ends within the battery housing 305. The conduit 401 may end at the lower end of the battery housing 305.

[0086] The cavity or hollow of the battery housing 305 extends the length of the battery housing 305. The lower end of the battery housing 305 comprises an opening to the cavity or hollow. An inlet conduit 102 extending from the water receptacle 103 of a water pipe 100 is configured to be received within the cavity or hollow of the battery housing 305. The device 200 is mounted on the water pipe 100 by the inlet conduit 102 being placed within the hollow or cavity of the battery housing 305 such that the water receptacle 103 of the water pipe 100 and bowl 301 of the head device 200 are in fluid connection.

[0087] The heater housing 301 is located at the upper end such that it is further away from the water pipe 100 and the battery back 305 is located at the lower end such that it is closes to the water pipe 100.

[0088] Alternatively, the components of the head device 200 may be configured in any suitable arrangement such that the battery housing 305 is not at the lower end of the device 200. In this configuration, the lower component of the head device 200 will comprise a hollow or cavity with an opening for receiving the inlet conduit 102 of the water pipe 100 such that the wate receptacle 103 of the water pipe 100 and bowl 302 of the head device 200 are in fluid connection.

[0089] Figure 4c shows a cutaway schematic view of the connection between the head device 200 and the water pipe 100.

[0090] The lower end of the head device 200, in this case the battery housing 305 is shown with the hollow or cavity 402 for accommodating the conduit 401. There is an opening at the lower end of the hollow or cavity 402 located at the base of the head device 200.

[0091] The water pipe 100 is situated below the head device 200 in use, with the inlet conduit 102 typically comprises a bowl connector located at the upper end of the water pipe 100 closest to the head device 200. The head deice 200 is mounted on the water pipe 100 and the inlet conduit 102 is placed within the opening to the hollow 402 located at the base of the head device 200. The opening at the lower end of the head device 200 which receives the inlet conduit 102 may comprise a high-friction material (e.g. rubber). One or more seal may be provided at the interface between the head device 200 and the inlet conduit 102. A conical seal may be provided at the interface between the head device 200 and the inlet conduit 102 such that an airtight connection provided therebetween.

[0092] The conduit 401 of the head device 200 may not be in contact with the inlet conduit 102 of the water pipe 100. The lower end of the conduit 401 may comprise a connector 403. The conduit 401 of the device 200 may comprise a one-way valve to prevent back flow to the bowl 301.

[0093] The entire weight of the device 200 may be placed on the inlet pipe 102. Alternatively, there may be provided a platform located around the inlet pipe 102 such that the weight of the device 200 is distributed across the platform to reduce the strain on the inlet pipe 102.

[0094] Heating and airflow

[0095] Figure 5 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with an example or the invention.

[0096] The upper end of the head device comprises the heater 301 , the heater housing 306, the bowl 302, and the bowl holder 303.

[0097] The heater 301 is mounted within the head device 200. Specifically, the heater 301 is mounted within the heater housing 306 directly above the bowl 302.

[0098] The heater 301 comprises an induction heater. The heater 301 comprises an induction coil 502 and at least one heating plate 503 (herein referred to as a disk). The disk 503 is heated due proximity to the induction coil 502. The induction coil 502 is housed within the upper end of the heater housing 305 and the heating disk 503 is situated directly above the bowl 302 where the consumable material is loaded. As will be understood, the induction coil(s) in use are connected to

[0099] The heating disk 503 spans the majority of the width of the heater housing 306. The heater 301 heats the consumable material within the bowl 302 to vaporise or otherwise disperse one or more ingredient of consumable product in use. The heater 301 may project or direct a beam or airflow into the bowl 302.

[0100] In this example, the smoking material is heated by convective heating (e.g. the heating element is displaced away from the bowl 302).

[0101] Alternatively, or in addition, to the above-described arrangement, any suitable means may be used to heat the consumable material within the bowl 302. For example, one or more of: resistive heating; microwave heating; infrared heating; electronically controlled combustion heating (e.g. using gas or other fuel).

[0102] The bowl 302 may comprise a heat conducting material such that the bowl 302 is heated by the heating disk 503 and in turn the smoking material is heated by the bowl 302. The bowl 302 may comprise a metal for example aluminium or stainless steel. The metal bowl creates a supplementary heat source whilst not requiring additional energy from the on board energy store.

[0103] The bowl 302 may comprise a thermal conductivity range between 5Wm-1K'1to 500Wnr1K’1. The bowl 302 may comprise a thermal conductivity range between 10Wm-1K'1to 400Wm’1K’1.

[0104] The bowl 302 may comprise stainless steel and have a thermal conductivity between 10 Wm’1K’1and 40 Wm’1K’1. The bowl 302 may comprise aluminium and have a thermal conductivity between 100Wm-1K'1and 300Wnr1K’1. The bowl 302 may comprise copper and have a thermal conductivity between 300Wm-1K'1and 500Wm’1K’1.

[0105] The heating disk 503 may be mounted within the heater housing 306 such that when the heater housing 306 is connected to the bowl housing 303 the heating disk 503 is in physical contact with the upper end of the bowl 302 to increase the heating effect on the bowl 302.

[0106] The upper end of the head device 200 comprises at least one air inlet. When the device 200 is in use, air passes into the air inlet or air inlets and into the heater 301. The heated air then passes into the bowl 302 and entrains vaporised smoking product from the bowl 301 into the conduit 401. The air travels down the conduit 401 , through the cavity 402 and into the inlet conduit 102. The inlet conduit 102 takes the air down to the water receptacle 103 and through the water / coolant in the receptacle 103. The air and / or vapour is cooled and / or filtered in the coolant. The air then bubbles up through the coolant and into the outlet conduit 104. Typically, air flow is provided by a negative pressure from the user (i.e. applied at the mouthpiece 106).

[0107] There may be at least one air inlet 501 located at the side of the device. The side air inlet 501 is located between the heater housing 306 and the bowl holder 303 such that air flows into the device 200 between the heater 301 and the bowl 302. There may be numerous side air inlets located along the heater housing 306 and bowl holder 303 interface.

[0108] The side air inlet 501 spans a portion of the circumference below the heater housing 306. The side air inlet 501 may be relatively narrow in comparison to the circumference of the heater housing 306. The side air inlet 501 may be relatively small in comparison the heater housing 306.

[0109] In some embodiments, airflow through the side air inlet 501 may be adjustable. An adjustment mechanism may be provided as described in relation to the side air inlet 501.

[0110] For example, one or more side air inlets may be provided on the upper end of the device 200. A collar or sleeve may overlie the side air inlet 501. The collar / sleeve may be rotatable to vary the effective cross-sectional area of the side air inlet 501. Alternatively, a slider may be movable to obscure and / or vary the effective cross-sectional area of the side air inlet 501.

[0111] Figure 6a shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0112] The device 200 may further comprise a chimney 601. The at least one air inlet may be located on the chimney 601. The chimney 601 may comprise a hollow tube such that air passes from the opening 602 at the top of the chimney 601 through the chimney and into the upper end of the head device 200 between the heater housing 306 and the bowl holder 303. The chimney 601 may be any suitable width and length depending on the air intake required.

[0113] Figure 6b shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the chimney 601 may comprise a hollow tube with a sealed top. The chimney 601 may comprise a plurality of openings 603 on the side of the hollow tube. The air passes into the opening 603 and down the chimney 601 into the heater 301. The chimney 601 may only comprise one opening 603.

[0115] Then openings 603 may be substantially circular. The openings 603 may be located substantially centrally on the visible chimney 601 , alternatively, they may be located towards the upper end of the chimney 601 furthest away from the heater housing 306, or they may be located towards the lower end of the chimney 601 closest to the heater housing 306. There may be openings 603 located at varying heights across the side of the chimney 601.

[0116] The openings 603 may be variable. An adjustment mechanism is provided to alter the size of the openings 603 such that the air flow into the chimney 601 can be altered.

[0117] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism may comprise the chimney 601 comprising an inner hollow tube 604 and an outer hollow tube 605. The inner hollow tube 604 and the outer hollow tube 605 both comprise corresponding openings which when aligned created the openings 603 within the sides of the chimney 601. The outer hollow tube 605 is rotatable in relation to the inner hollow tube 604 such that the corresponding openings in the inner hollow tube 604 and outer hollow tube 605 become misaligned.

[0118] When the openings in the inner and outer tubes become misaligned, this results in the openings 603 in the chimney narrowing or closing completely depending on the rotation of the outer tube 605 in relation to the inner tube 604. Narrowing or closing the openings 603 allows the user to control the air flow into the heater 301.

[0119] Any suitable adjustment mechanism may be used to vary the size of the openings 603 and control the air flow into the heater 301. Figure 7 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0120] In this embodiment the chimney 601 is internalised and does not protrude substantially out of the device 200. Air travels in through the opening 602 wherein the opening is located at substantially the same height as the heater housing 306. In this example, the internalised chimney 601 does not comprise a variable air inlet.

[0121] Alternatively, the internalised chimney 601 may comprise a variable air inlet. Any suitable adjustment mechanism may be used to vary the size of the opening 602 and control the air flow into the heater 301. The adjustment mechanism may comprise a flat adjustment mechanism.

[0122] Figure 8 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0123] The heating disk 503 is located at the lower end of the heater housing 306. The heating disk 503 may be in contact with the upper end of the bowl 302 or it may be located slightly above the bowl 302.

[0124] In this example, the heating disk 503 comprises two heating disks 801 , 802. The two heating disks 801, 802, are stacked one on top of the other to create a double-decker arrangement.

[0125] The first heat disk 801 is located closest to the induction coil 502 housed within the heater housing 306 and a second disk 802 is added to the first disk 801 to create a chamber between the two disks 801 and 802, in which the air which enters the heater 301 can be heated through convection. The first disk 801 is hotter than the second disk 801 due to its proximity to the induction coil 502, this helps avoid the risk of overheating the smoking material within the bowl 302.

[0126] The internalised chimney 601 is shown within the heater housing 306, the opening 602 located near the upper end of the heater housing 306. The chimney 601 passes through induction coil 501 and ends just above the first heating disk 801. Air enters the opening 602 at the upper end of the chimney 601 and travels downwards towards the heating disk 503 mounted at the lower end of the heater housing 306. The air passed over the first and second disks 801, 802, such that the air is heated. The heated air then passes into the bowl 302 where the smoking material is located. The smoking material is heated by the air warmed by the heating disk 503.

[0127] Figure 9a shows a plan view of the heating disk 503.

[0128] The heating disk 503 comprises a first heating disk 801 and a second heating disk 802. The first and second heating disks are substantially the same size and are stacked on top of each other to create a double-decker arrangement. As such, only the first heating disk 801 is visible from the view shown in figure 9a.

[0129] The first and second heating disks 801, 802, have a substantially circular cross-section. Alternatively, the heating disks may be any suitable shape. The heating disks may be a complementary shape to the heater housing such that they can span the majority of the width of the heater housing.

[0130] The first heating disk 801 comprises a plurality of apertures 901. The apertures 901 are dispersed over the central region of first heating disk 801. There are no apertures located towards the periphery of the first heating disk 801.

[0131] Figure 9b shows cross-sectional view of the heating disk 503.

[0132] The first and second heating disks 801, 802 are connected at the periphery such that a chamber 902 is created between the two disks.

[0133] The second heating disk 802 comprises at plurality of apertures 903. The apertures are similar in size and shape to those on the first heating disk 801. The apertures on the second heating disk 802 are located toward the periphery of the disk. There are no apertures located at the centre of the second heating disk 802.

[0134] The plurality apertures 901 on the first heating disk 801 are misaligned from the plurality of openings 903 on the second heating disk 802. Air enters the device 200 through the at least one air inlet and is directed towards the heating disk 503 by the suction created by the user. The air then hits the first heating disk 801 and travels towards the plurality of apertures 901 where it passes through into the chamber between the first and second heating disks.

[0135] The air remains in the chamber until it reaches one of the apertures on the second heating disk 801. As the apertures of the first heating disk are displaced from the apertures on the second heating desk this creates a longer air path keeping the air within the chamber for longer to heat the air to the desired temperature. The double-decker arrangement also greatest a better guide for the air flow and increases the surface area of the heat disks which are in contact with the air to increase convection heating.

[0136] There are more openings on the first disk than the second disk, such that the flowrate into the chamber is higher than the flowrate out of the chamber, increasing the time spent in the chamber heating the air. This creates an efficient use of energy from the on-board energy store.

[0137] Air enters the bowl through the plurality of apertures on the periphery of the second heat disk. No apertures are located at the centre as this would direct air straight down into the inlet conduit bypassing the smoking material within the bowl.

[0138] The heat disks comprise a ferromagnetic steel such that they are compatible with induction heating. The heat disks may comprise a stainless steel alloy. The heat disks may comprise AISI 400 series. The heat disks may comprise AISI 430.

[0139] Temperature regulation

[0140] On an electrical shisha, each time a user is inhaling, the air cools down the electrical heater. Detecting the temperature in real time to adjust the power settings to control the temperature therefore provides an optimised experience.

[0141] Figure 10 shows a cutaway view of the upper end of the head device 200 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0142] In this example of the invention the head device 200 further comprises a temperature sensor 1001. The temperature sensor 1001 is located on the heating disk 503. The sensor 1001 may be directly embedded in the heating disk 503. The temperature may be in the form of a thin-film RTD. The temperature sensor 1001 may be substantially rectangular.

[0143] The temperature sensor may be deposited on the heating disk 503. The temperature sensor 1001 may be located on the uppermost part of the heating disk 503.

[0144] The temperature sensor 1001 may comprise a metal film. The metal film may be laser cut or etched into an electrical circuit pattern for providing a specified resistance.

[0145] Lead wires are attached to the metal file. There may be a glass coating applied over the entire element for the purpose of protecting the sensor 1001.

[0146] The device 200 may further comprise a plurality of pins 1002. The plurality of pins 1002 may extend from the heater housing above the heating disk 503 such that they are in contact with the temperature sensor 1001 when the device is in use.

[0147] The plurality of pins 1002 may comprise two pins, a first pins located at one end of the temperature sensor 1001 and the second pin located at another end of the temperature sensor 1001. The pins may be any suitable shape and size such that they extend from the heater housing and make suitable contact with the temperature sensor 1001. The pins 1002 are connected to the electronics of the device 200.

[0148] The heating disk may comprise a ceramic material and the temperature sensor 1001 may comprise a metal. The temperature sensor may comprise a non-magnetic metal. The temperature sensor 1001 may comprise platinum.

[0149] When the pins 1002 make contact with the temperature sensor 1001 they are able to measure the disk temperature. The pins 1002 are able to provide a Quasi-Direct temperature reading.

[0150] The electrical resistance of the metal film is linearly proportional to the temperature of the heating disk. By measuring the resistance of the metal film, the temperature of the heating disk 503 can be determined. The pins 1002 make contact with either side of the metal film such that they are able to take a reading of the voltage / resistance of the metal film. There is good thermal conductivity between the disk 503 and the metal film of the sensor 1001 such that the temperature of the disk 503 can be determined from the voltage / resistance measure from the metal film.

[0151] The resistance of the metal film is calculated as follows:

[0152] R : Resistance;

[0153] L: Length of the trace;

[0154] T : Thickness of the trace;

[0155] W: Width of the trace;

[0156] Tamb: Ambient temperature; p: resistivity; a: resistivity temperature coefficient.

[0157] Based on the temperature of the disk 503 determined above one of the power, frequency, or duty cycle of the alternating current provided to the inductance coil, can then adjust be adjusted such that the heat disk 503 can be kept at a target temperature.

[0158] The temperature measurement may be used to detect inhalation. If inhalation is detected based on temperature measurements, the power, frequency, or duty cycle of the alternating current provided to the inductance coil, can then adjust be adjusted such that the heat disk 503 can be kept at a target temperature.

[0159] Figure 11 shows a partial cutaway view of the bowl 302 in accordance with another example or the invention.

[0160] In this embodiment, a temperature sensor 1101 is located on the bowl 302. The temperature sensor 1101 may be contained within the bowl 302. The temperature sensor may be embedded within the wall of the bowl 302. The temperature sensor may be embedded within the inside wall of the bowl 302 as close to the consumable in use as possible. The device further comprises a plurality of pins 1102. The plurality of pins 1102 may extend upwards and make contact with the temperature sensor 1101. The pins 1002 make contact with either side of the metal film such that they are able to take a reading of the voltage / resistance of the metal film. There is good thermal conductivity between the disk 503 and the metal film of the sensor 1001 such that the temperature of the disk 503 can be determined from the voltage / resistance measure from the metal film.

Claims

Claims1. A head device for a water pipe comprising: a receptacle for receiving a consumable product; an electrically-powered heater for heating and vaporising the consumable product; an on-board electrical energy store for powering the device; wherein the device is configured to be placed on a water pipe in use such that the receptacle is in fluid connection with a water tank of the water pipe.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a hollow configured to receive an inlet conduit of a water pipe in use.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the hollow is configured to receive the inlet conduit of the water pipe via an interference or friction fit.

4. The device of claims 2 and 3, further comprising a conduit passing from the receptacle into the hollow.

5. The device of claim 2 to 4, wherein the hollow is located substantially centrally through the on-board energy store.

6. The device of claim 4, wherein the receptacle is located above the energy store such that the conduit at least partially passes through the energy store.

7. The device of claims 2 to 6, wherein the hollow comprises a conical seal.

8. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the on-board energy store is removably attached to the head device and / or heater.

9. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the heater is an induction heater.

10. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the heater comprises a heater plate, e.g. having one or more airflow opening therein.

11. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the heater comprises a heating plate, the device further comprising a chimney or inlet arranged such that air entersthe device from one side of the heating plate travels to and then across the heating disk.

12. The device of claim 11 , wherein the chimney is internalised within the device.

13. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the heater comprises a plurality of heater plates.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the plurality of plates are stacked one on above of the other with a spacing therebetween such that an internal flow space between adjacent plates is created.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein each heating plate comprises a plurality of apertures.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the plurality of apertures in one plate is offset from the plurality of apertures in an adjacent plate.

17. The device of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the plurality of plates are closed or sealed around their periphery.

18. The device of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature sensor located on the heater.

19. The device of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature sensor located on the receptacle.

20. The device of any preceding claim further comprising a variable air inlet.

21. The device of claim 20, comprising a rotatable member arranged relative an inlet aperture to selectively / variably occlude the inlet aperture and thereby vary the effective flow area of the inlet aperture.

22. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the receptacle comprises a bowl.

23. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the receptacle comprises metal.

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