Mouthpiece Assembly and Vaporizer Apparatus Equipped with Mouthpiece Assembly

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/643,854, filed May 7, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/684,563, filed on Aug. 19, 2024.

The present invention relates to vaporizer apparatuses, including vaporizer or vaporization devices and vaporizer systems, for delivering vapor to a user. The present invention also relates to a mouthpiece assembly for the vaporizer apparatus.

Vaporizer apparatuses, such as vape pens, are well known in the art. Vape pens are portable, handheld devices used for vaping, which is the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or similar device. Vape pens provide an alternative to burning, allowing for vaporizing of inhalation ingredients often from plant material such as tobacco, various herbs, herbal blends, and cannabis. Vaporizers provide for a healthier experience than burning with exciting and diverse user experiences.

Vape pens typically consist of a few main components, including a tank or cartridge that holds an e-liquid, also known as vape juice or e-juice, a power source (e.g., battery), and an atomizer containing a heating element, usually a coil or atomizer head, which heats up when the battery is activated, to vaporize the e-liquid. The vape pen also includes a mouthpiece which is the part of the vape pen that the user inhales from. The mouthpiece is connected to the atomizer and allows the vapor to be drawn into the user's mouth and lungs.

During use, the user fills the tank or cartridge with e-liquid, which typically contains a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine (optional). When the user presses a button or inhales from the mouthpiece (depending on the type of vape pen), the battery activates and sends power to the atomizer. The atomizer heats up the coil, which then vaporizes the e-liquid. This process creates vapor, which is then inhaled by the user. The user inhales the vapor through the mouthpiece, experiencing the flavor and, if present, the nicotine content of the e-liquid. After inhalation, the user exhales the vapor, which dissipates into the air.

Different vape pens may have variations in design and functionality, but they all operate on the basic principle of heating e-liquid to produce vapor for inhalation. All vape pens also share the common feature of having a mouthpiece. Vape pens can easily collect dust, dirt, and other debris, particularly on the mouthpiece and exposed areas. This can compromise hygiene and affect the vaping experience. Some vape pens may also experience e-liquid leakage, especially when stored or transported without protection. This can lead to messy situations and potential waste of e-liquid. Vape pens are directly exposed to environmental elements such as moisture, heat, or extreme cold, which can affect their performance and lifespan. In addition to failing to provide effective means for e-liquid leak prevention and the preservation of e-liquid quality, existing vape pens also fail to provide effective controls for avoiding odors and ensuring safety and hygiene.

Moreover, child safety is a critical consideration in the design and functionality of vaporizer apparatuses. The design of many vaporizers, particularly those with an always-open mouthpiece, presents significant risks. These devices are often readily accessible once removed from their packaging, making them vulnerable to unintended use by children or others who should not have access to them. This issue is especially concerning for parents who use vaporizers for nicotine or marijuana, as these substances pose serious health risks to children.

One of the primary issues with many vaporizers is that their mouthpieces remain open and accessible at all times. This design flaw means that once the vaporizer is outside its packaging, anyone, including children, can potentially pick up the device and inhale from it. Vaporizers are often small, portable, and can be left in easily accessible places within the home, such as on countertops, tables, or in bags, and are thereby readily accessible to anyone, including children. Without any form of restriction or locking mechanism, there is little to prevent unauthorized or accidental use.

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of nicotine and marijuana. Ingesting or inhaling even small amounts of these substances can lead to serious health consequences, including nicotine poisoning or intoxication. The open design of the mouthpiece significantly increases the risk of accidental exposure, which could result in medical emergencies. In this regard, the ease with which a child could accidentally inhale from an open-mouthpiece vaporizer is a significant concern. Children, driven by curiosity, might mimic adult behavior and attempt to use the vaporizer, not understanding the potential dangers. This could lead to unintended inhalation of harmful substances, posing immediate health risks.

In summary, ensuring child safety should be a top priority in the design and distribution of vaporizer apparatuses. The current design of open-mouthpiece vaporizers poses significant risks, particularly to children who may accidentally or unknowingly use these devices.

Accordingly, described herein are vaporizer apparatuses, including vape pens, and a mouthpiece assembly for the vaporizer apparatus which address the foregoing drawbacks with existing vaping devices in the art.

The present invention is directed to improvements in vaporizer or vape apparatuses for delivering vapor to be inhaled by a user, and to a mouthpiece assembly for the vaporizer apparatuses.

In first aspect, the present invention is directed to a mouthpiece assembly provided for a vaporizer apparatus having an atomizer and a flow passage through which vapor travels from the atomizer to the mouthpiece assembly for inhalation of the vapor by a user. The mouthpiece assembly has a first tubular member with a first vape hole and a second tubular member with a second vape hole. The second tubular member has an internal cavity configured to receive therein the first tubular member for undergoing rotation relative to the first tubular member between a first position, in which the second vape hole is in fluid communication with the first vape hole and the flow passage, and a second position, in which the second vape hole is not in fluid communication with the first vape hole and the flow passage.

According to a feature of the mouthpiece assembly, the first vape hole is formed in a closed end of the first tubular member at a position offset from a center of the closed end of the first tubular member, and the second vape hole is formed in a closed end of the second tubular member at a position offset from a center of the closed end of the second tubular member.

As another feature of the invention, the first position corresponds to an open state in which the vaporizer apparatus is available for use by a user to inhale vapor from the first and second vape holes. The second position corresponds to a closed state in which the vaporizer apparatus is not available for use by a user to inhale vapor from the first and second vape holes.

In another feature of the present invention, the mouthpiece assembly is provided with means for limiting rotation of the second tubular member relative to the first tubular member to a preselected degree of rotation. In one exemplary implementation of this feature, rotation of the second tubular member relative to the first tubular member is limited to the preselected degree of rotation in both a clockwise direction to place the second tubular member in the first position and in a counterclockwise direction to place the second tubular member in the second position. In another exemplary implementation, the preselected degree of rotation is 90 degrees.

In an exemplary embodiment, the means for limiting rotation comprises a cam element formed on and extending from an inner surface portion of the second tubular member and a cam follower formed on an outer surface portion of first tubular member for engagement with the cam element during rotation of the second tubular member. The cam follower has a pair of mechanical stops configured to contact the cam element for limiting the range of rotation of the second tubular member. In one embodiment, the mechanical stops are configured to limit the range of rotation of the second tubular member to 90 degrees in both a clockwise direction to place the second tubular member in the first position and in a counterclockwise direction to place the second tubular member in the second position.

According to another feature of the mouthpiece assembly of the present invention, each of the first tubular member and the second tubular member has a unitary construction formed from a single piece of material.

In another aspect of the present invention, the mouthpiece assembly is configured for use as a retrofittable or interchangeable mouthpiece for existing vape apparatuses.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a vape apparatus having the mouthpiece assembly according to the present invention.

In one embodiment, the vape apparatus comprises a vape pen.

According to the foregoing aspects and embodiments of the present invention, in the closed state of the vape apparatus, the mouthpiece assembly functions as a cover offering multiple benefits that enhance the user experience, protect the vape apparatus, and ensure that the vape apparatus remains an effective and enjoyable tool for its intended purpose.

The cover function of the mouthpiece assembly according to the present invention also enhances child safety by providing a secure barrier that prevents accidental or unintended use of the vaporizer. This feature helps protect children from the risks associated with inhaling harmful substances, making it an essential component of a child-safe vaping device.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered limiting in any respect. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a vaporizer apparatus. In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a mouthpiece assembly for the vaporizer apparatus. Details of the features and advantages of these and other aspects and embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

show assembled full views of a vaporizer apparatus, generally designated at, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment shown in the drawings, vaporizer apparatus(hereinafter also “vape device” or “device”) is in the form of a vape pen which is slender and cylindrical, resembling a pen or marker in shape. Vape deviceis designed to be portable and discreet, making it easy to carry in a pocket or purse. Vape deviceincludes a mouthpiece assembly, a cartridge or tank, a heating element, and a power supply.

show various exploded views of vape deviceshown in. Mouthpiece assemblyis connected to tankvia an adapter, which in the present embodiment is in the form of a tubular fitting. Tankis also in the form of a tubular member configured to hold an e-liquid, also known as vape juice or e-juice, for device. Tankis also configured to receive and hold therein an atomizercontaining heating element(e.g., a coil or atomizer head) which heats up when the battery is activated, to vaporize the e-liquid.are transparent views of tankillustrating the placement therein of atomizerwith heating element. Tubular fittingis configured to interconnect mouthpiece assemblyto tankas shown in the drawings and further describe below.

Power supplymay comprise a rechargeable battery, for example, charged via a USB portas shown in. The inclusion of a rechargeable battery charged via a USB port offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides convenience and versatility, allowing users to charge their vape devices from various power sources, such as laptop computers, car chargers, or portable battery packs. This flexibility makes it easy to keep the device powered up while on the go. Moreover, USB charging is widely accessible, eliminating the need for specialized charging adapters or cables. This simplifies the charging process and reduces the number of accessories users need to carry. Additionally, USB charging is environmentally friendly, as it reduces the consumption of disposable batteries and minimizes electronic waste. By utilizing rechargeable batteries, vape devices with USB charging contribute to sustainability efforts by promoting reuse and reducing resource consumption. Furthermore, the ability to recharge the battery extends the lifespan of the device, as users can easily replenish power without the need for replacement batteries. This promotes cost-effectiveness and long-term usability, enhancing the overall value proposition of the vape pen. Overall, the integration of a rechargeable battery charged via USB port enhances the user experience by offering convenience, versatility, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness.

Vape devicecan also be provided with a switch or button (not shown) for turning deviceon and off. When the switch or button is pressed by the user, power supplyactivates and sends power to atomizer. The switch or button is also pressed by the user to deactivate vape devicewhen it is not in use. This feature helps conserve battery life and prevent accidental activation while the vape pen is being carried or stored. In an alternative embodiment, vape devicecan be configured so that power supplyis activated when the user inhales from mouthpiece assemblywithout the need for pressing a button or switch.

As shown in the drawings, vape deviceis provided with a vape flow passage corresponding to a designated pathway for the flow of vapor from atomizerto mouthpiece assembly. More specifically, the flow passage begins within tank, where the e-liquid is stored. Tankfeatures a refillable reservoir or a disposable cartridge that holds the e-liquid. From tank, the e-liquid flows into atomizer, which is a component responsible for heating the e-liquid and converting it into vapor. Atomizercontains heating element(e.g., a heating coil or element) which, for example, is wrapped with a wick or surrounded by a porous material (not shown) that absorbs the e-liquid and facilitates its vaporization when heated. Within atomizer, heating elementserves as the primary heat source. When activated, heating elementheats up and vaporizes the e-liquid absorbed by the wick or surrounding material. This process creates the vapor that users inhale. The wick or surrounding material within the atomizer serves to absorb and deliver e-liquid to the heating element and ensures a consistent supply of e-liquid for vaporization and helps regulate the flow of vapor through vape device. As vapor is produced within atomizer, it travels through the vape flow passage, including designated pathways integrated into atomizer, as shown in, or separate channels designed to facilitate the passage of vapor from atomizerto mouthpiece assembly. The vapor then reaches mouthpiece assemblyfrom which users inhale, allowing users to draw the vapor produced in atomizerinto their mouths and lungs. Overall, the flow passage in vape deviceensures the efficient delivery of vapor from tank, through atomizerand tubular fitting, and to the user via mouthpiece assembly, providing a satisfying vaping experience.

Tank, including atomizercontaining heating element, power supply, and switch or button as described above generally mirror the standardized components found in currently available vape devices. Below are detailed descriptions of aspects and features of vape deviceaccording to the present invention, along with their corresponding advantages, over currently available vape devices.

A feature of vape deviceas another aspect of the present invention is directed to mouthpiece assembly, including the structural configuration and corresponding functions of mouthpiece assemblyas well as the structural and positional relationships between mouthpiece assembly, tank, atomizerwith heating element, and power supply, as further described below.

As shown in, mouthpiece assemblyis located at the top of vape deviceand features a comfortable generally cylindrical shape or design for ease of use. As can be further appreciated from, the entire vape device, including mouthpiece assembly, features a flush, uniform outer surface profile with benefits including sleek aesthetics, comfortable handling, and ease of storage and transportation. Additionally, such a structural configuration of vape deviceenhances the user experience by providing a more ergonomic and visually appealing device.

show various full, exploded and cross-sectional views of mouthpiece assembly.show bottom and top views, respectively, of mouthpiece assemblyin.are views of mouthpiece assemblyin the assembled state.show various views of the parts forming mouthpiece assembly. The construction of mouthpiece assemblyaccording to an embodiment of the present invention is further described below with reference to the figures.

According to a feature of the present invention, mouthpiece assemblyis formed of two separate parts including a mouthpiece(second tubular member) and an interlocking component(first tubular member). Each of mouthpieceand interlocking component(hereinafter also referred to as “component”) has a tubular shaped configuration. Mouthpiecehas a lower open end providing access into an inner space or internal cavityof mouthpiecethat is configured and dimensioned to receive therein component. In this configuration, mouthpieceis configured to be mounted over and surround an outer surface of component, as shown in. Componenthas a lower open end providing access to an inner space or internal cavityof component. Mouthpiecehas an upper closed end provided with a holeopening into corresponding inner space. Similarly, componenthas an upper closed end provided with a holeopening into corresponding inner space.

Referring back to, tubular fittinghas a top end portionconfigured to be inserted into and integrally retained within interior spaceof component. Top end portionincludes a seal(e.g., a rubber washer) for preventing leaks during the flow of vapor, acting as a barrier to ensure that the e-liquid remains contained and does not leak out during use of vape device. Top end portionof tubular fittingmay also be provided with a threaded portion for removable threaded engagement with a corresponding threaded portion in the interior spaceof component. Alternatively, top end portionmay be integrally connected to a surface of interior spaceof componentusing a suitable adhesive or equivalent connecting means, for example. In this embodiment, a bottom end portionof tubular fittingis configured for removable connection to tankvia threaded engagement with a threaded portionof atomizer. A lower portion of tankbelow heating elementis provided with a threaded sectionfor threaded engagement with a corresponding threaded sectionof power source. The general positional relationship between mouthpieceand componentof mouthpiece assemblyrelative to tubular fittingis illustrated in the exploded views of.

As shown in, another feature of the present invention is directed to holebeing offset from a center of the upper closed end of mouthpiece, and holebeing offset from a center of the upper closed end of component. Openingscorrespond to vaping holes which are configured to become aligned with one another in an open state of vape device, as further described below. When aligned, vaping holesform an “airflow hole” that allows air to flow through vape device, which is essential for creating vapor when a user inhales during use of vape device. Referring to, reference numeraldenotes the portion of the vape flow passage for vape devicecorresponding to and provided in mouthpiece assembly. Flow passage portionis configured to be disposed in fluid communication with vaping holes(i.e., the “air flow hole”) when they are aligned in the open state (first position) of vape device.

According to another feature of the present invention, when mounted over component, mouthpieceis configured for interlocking connection to componentso as to allow mouthpieceto undergo rotational movement relative to componentbetween a first position, in which holesare aligned with one another and with the flow passage, and a second position, in which holesare not aligned with one another and with the flow passage. According to this feature of the present invention, the first position corresponds to a configuration of vape devicein which vape deviceis ready for use (i.e., an open state of vape device), and the second position corresponds to a configuration of vape devicein which vape deviceis not ready for use (i.e., a closed state of vape device).are full and cross-sectional views showing the positional relationship between mouthpieceand componentcorresponding to the closed state of vape device.are full and cross-sectional views showing the positional relationship between mouthpieceand componentcorresponding to the open state of vape device.

The closed and open states of deviceas described above are achieved by respective clockwise (designated by arrow “x” in) and counterclockwise (designated by arrow “y” in) rotation of mouthpiecerelative to componentin conjunction with the feature of holesbeing offset from respective centers of the upper closed ends of mouthpieceand componentas described above. By this construction and corresponding functions of mouthpiece deviceaccording to the present invention, the combination and corresponding configuration of mouthpieceand componentdefine a rotational mechanism for opening and closing vape device.

There are several benefits of configuring vape deviceso that the closed and open states are achieved by clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of mouthpiecerelative to component, including ease of use, enhanced portability, and aesthetic appeal. In terms of ease of use, this specific configuration simplifies the operation of vape device, as users can easily open or close it with a simple rotational movement of the mouthpiece. There are no complex mechanisms or buttons to navigate, making it intuitive for users of all experience levels. As to enhanced portability, with the rotational mechanism as described above there is no need for additional caps or covers to protect mouthpiece, reducing the risk of damage or loss. This makes vape devicemore convenient to carry in pockets, bags, or purses without worrying about accidental spills. Furthermore, the seamless integration of the rotational mechanism into the design of vape devicecontributes to its overall aesthetic appeal. It gives devicea sleek and streamlined appearance, enhancing its visual appeal to users.

As another feature of the present invention, the foregoing rotation of mouthpiecerelative to componentis preferably confined to a specific range of motion, ensuring that the rotation occurs within defined parameters rather than allowing for free movement. Such specific range of motion is selected so that vape deviceis placed in the open state (first position) when mouthpieceis rotated in the counterclockwise direction relative to component, and is placed in the closed state (second position) when mouthpieceis rotated in the clockwise direction relative to component.

Limiting the rotation of the mouthpiece in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions offer several benefits. By restricting the rotation, users have a clear indication of when vape deviceis in the open or closed state. This enhances user experience by reducing confusion and ensuring straightforward operation. Furthermore, limiting the rotation helps prevent excessive wear and tear on the rotational mechanism, prolonging the lifespan of the device. It ensures that the mechanism remains reliable and functional over time, reducing the need for maintenance or repairs.

In the present embodiment, vape deviceis configured so that rotation of mouthpiecerelative to componentis confined to 90 degrees in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. By this construction, consistent and controlled operation of vape deviceis ensured. While the present invention specifies a range of motion limited to 90 degrees, it will be appreciated that alternative ranges of motion may also be suitable without deviating from the scope of the invention.

According to another feature of the present invention, and as further described below, the rotational mechanism formed by mouthpieceand interlocking componentis provided with means for limiting rotation of mouthpiecerelative to componentin both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions as described above.

Referring to, the means for limiting rotation of mouthpiececomprises a cam elementformed on and extending from an inner surface portion of mouthpieceand a cam followerformed on an outer surface portion of component. Cam elementand cam followerare configured with respective profile surfaces which interact to limit rotational movement between mouthpieceand componentby controlling the transmission of motion and imposing restrictions on the range of movement as described above. As cam elementrotates (i.e., upon rotation of mouthpiecerelative to component), its surface comes into contact with the surface of cam followerwith cam followermaintaining contact with the surface of cam elementThe interaction between cam elementand cam followerallows for precise control over the rotational movement of mouthpiecewhile enabling restrictions on the range of rotational motion to be imposed between mouthpieceand component. This feature is particularly useful in mouthpiece assemblyof the present invention where precise positioning or limited movement is required to place mouthpiece assembly in the open state (first position) and closed state (second position) as noted above and further described below.

According to the present invention, the shapes, profiles and corresponding dimensions for cam elementand cam followerare selected to ensure that cam elementfollows the surface profile (e.g., contours) of cam followerwhile restricting the range of rotational movement between mouthpieceand interlocking componentas described above. To accomplish this, cam followerincorporates mechanical stopsas shown for example in, to limit the range of rotational motion of cam elementand thus the range of rotational motion of mouthpiece.

In the example of the present embodiment described above, the range of rotational motion of mouthpiecerelative to componentis limited to 90 degrees both in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions of movement of mouthpiece. In this embodiment, the shape, profile and corresponding dimensions of cam followerare selected so that mechanical stopsare positioned and configured to limit or restrict movement of mouthpiecerelative to componentwithin 90 degrees both in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions, as described above. Mechanical stopsare configured to physically block movement of cam elementwhen it reaches the corresponding 90-degree position, preventing further motion. The positions of mechanical stopsof cam followerand the corresponding 90-degree movement limitation for cam elementare configured so that vape holesof mouthpieceand component, respectively, are aligned with one another and with the flow passage in the open state (first position) of mouthpiece assemblywhen mouthpieceis fully rotated 90 degrees in the counterclockwise direction, and so that vape holesare not aligned with one another and with the flow passage in the closed state (second position) of mouthpiece assemblywhen mouthpieceis fully rotated 90 degrees in the clockwise direction. As described above, the 90-degree movement limitation can be varied as desired without departing from the objectives and scope of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, each of mouthpieceand componentof mouthpiece assemblyhas a unitary construction formed from a single piece of material. The choice of materials for mouthpieceand componentdepends on various factors, including safety, durability, comfort, and aesthetics. For example, each of mouthpieceand componentcan be made of suitable plastic or metal materials. Plastic materials such as acrylic and polycarbonate are suitable for mouthpiece assemblydue to their affordability, lightweight nature, and ease of molding into various shapes. As a metal material, stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that offers a sleek and modern aesthetic for mouthpiece assembly. Stainless steel also provides a solid feel and can be easily cleaned and sterilized.

According to another aspect of the present invention, mouthpiece assemblyis suitable for use as a retrofittable or interchangeable mouthpiece for existing vape devices. This can be achieved, for example, by adapting componentfor removable connection to tankeither directly or via adapteror atomizer. As a retrofit, mouthpiececan incorporate an adaptive attachment mechanism that enables it to be securely yet removably attached to existing vape devices. This mechanism may include features such as threaded connectors, snap-on clips, or magnetic attachments, for example, that allow mouthpiece assemblyto be easily installed and removed as needed. As a retrofit, mouthpiece assemblyis therefore configured for quick and secure installation to existing vape devices, requiring minimal tools or technical expertise.