The disclosure herein relates to the field of induction heaters. The disclosure more specifically relates to the field of induction heater modules, accessories and attachments for induction heaters.
Induction heaters are known. Induction heaters are designed to heat in response to the presence of a metal material within an induction coil.
An induction heater is a heating device for an administration device that uses induction to generate heat within the administration device. Such products are often used with thermal extraction, smoking, and vaping devices. Generally, the induction heater is comprised of a power source connected to the appropriate circuitry for creating an oscillating electromagnetic field. This field is concentrated with an induction coil situated in a position to allow for easy heating of the administration device. Induction heating in the induction heater is caused by a rapidly oscillating electric field in one or more coils of wire that generate(s) current in certain metals placed within the coil. Because the metal of the administration device has electrical resistance, the current induced will generate heat. The heat is generated from within the metal being heated.
Portable induction heaters, while portable, are generally larger than a smartphone and can be cumbersome. These devices typically consist of a power source, circuitry, an induction coil, and other features, such as switches, lights, displays, and controls. A need exists for a small induction heating device that is easy to manufacture, has fewer components which could fail, and is user customizable.
In addition, it has been learned that insertion depth is an important feature for accurate heating of the administration device with an induction heater. Currently, a user inserts the administration device into an aperture of standard depth surrounded by an induction coil. When heating an administration device, the location of the focal point of the applied heat may have an impact on the quality of the heating. If heat is applied too close to the tip or base of the administration device, the material to be extracted may be over or under heated. Consequently, finding the ideal focal point impacts the effectiveness of the extraction and may significantly improve the user experience. Therefore, a need also exists for a means to control the insertion depth or ingress of the administration device into the induction coil.
Accordingly, an induction heater module is disclosed. The induction heater module comprises an induction heating circuit in electrical communication with a 510 electrical coupling and in electrical communication with an induction coil which receives an incremental ingression insert adjustment device.
An induction heater module is also disclosed comprising a 510 threaded connector couplable to a power source, an induction circuit electrically connected to the 510 threaded connector, and an induction coil electrically connected to the induction circuit.
A base for an induction heater module housing is also disclosed, the base comprises a conductive material, a 510 threaded connection which allows for connection to a power supply, and a base geometry enabling simplistic, manufacturing of a couplable housing.
A base of an induction heater module is also disclosed which comprises a 510 threaded connector couplable to a power source and electrically couplable to an induction heating circuit and induction coil. The base comprises a geometry which enables press fit attachment of a housing body.
An induction heater module housing is disclosed. The induction heater module housing comprises a base couplable to a housing body on a first end, and a cover or lid couplable to the housing body on a second end, wherein the housing receives an induction heating circuit and coil and a receptacle for receipt of a thermal extraction device or administration device.
An induction heater module housing is also disclosed. The housing includes a base with an electrical coupling. The base is couplable to a housing body on a first end of the housing body. A cover is couplable to the housing body on a second end of the housing body.
An induction heater depth control device is further disclosed. More specifically, an incremental ingression insert adjustment device for an induction heater is disclosed. The device comprises a receptacle having an inner recess for receipt of an administration device to be heated, and an exterior surface comprising a thread having a pitch aligned with the pitch of an induction coil of an induction heater.
An incremental ingression insert adjustment device is also disclosed comprising, a receptacle having an inner recess for receipt of an administration device, and an exterior surface comprising a thread having a pitch aligned with the pitch of an induction coil of an induction heater, wherein the receptacle is rotatably or insertably engaged with the induction coil.
These and other features and advantages of devices, systems, and methods are described in, or are apparent from, the following detailed descriptions and drawings of various examples of embodiments.
Various examples of embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein:
It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary to the understanding of the invention or render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. For ease of understanding and simplicity, common numbering of elements within the numerous illustrations is utilized when the element is the same in different Figures. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
Referring to the Figures, an induction heater module 100 and an adjustment device 102 for induction heating are provided. The induction heater module 100 generally comprises an assembly of an induction heating circuit 104 in electrical communication with a 510 electrical coupling or connector 106 and in electrical communication with an induction coil 108. The induction heater module 100 may receive an incremental ingression insert adjustment device 102 (see generally
The induction heater module 100 described herein is suitable for use with a thermal extraction device or administration device 120, such as shown in
Referring to
In more detail, the base 110 is composed of a durable material and includes a conductive material or component which is conductive. Referring to
The base 110 geometry enables simplistic manufacturing of a couplable housing body 112. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the base 110 includes three lobes 136. The base 110 geometry, e.g., lobes 136, provide areas which couple to mating housing body 112 geometry (discussed in further detail hereinbelow) at its base or lower end 114 via a press fit configuration, and in one or more examples of embodiments, may have a snap lock interface. Additionally, or alternatively, fasteners 154, or other fastening mechanisms may be used such as tongue and groove, pin, threaded devices, and the like. The cover 116 may be constructed and attached to the housing body 112 in a similar manner.
Regardless of the number of lobes 136, the base 110 configuration involves geometry where the complexity of the manufacturing primarily lives in the metallic conductive base 110 that connects to the power source 122. In other words, the shape of the metallic base 110 is configured to mate with a housing body 112 in a positive locking fashion with a machinable geometry that can be more or less easily created and manufactured utilizing simple tools; for example, a two-axis machine, a lathe with a live tool, a CO2 laser, a tool with a rotary axis, or the like. In this regard, the induction heater module housing 112 and cover 116 described herein is a two-axis manufacturing-enabled design because the geometry of the base 110 allows the housing body 112, once cut on a two-axis machine, to snap together and/or fasten together with the base 110 for easy assembly. In this manner, the manufacture of housing components is flexible, allowing users to create their own housing body 112 and cover 116 without the need for complex manufacturing equipment.
In one example, the base 110 geometry may be manufactured by use of, for example, a three-axis milling machine; although any form of manufacture which accomplishes the intended purposes would be acceptable.
As indicated, the area provided on the upper surface 138 of the base 110 may receive, electrically couple, and/or carry an induction circuit 104 which may include a circuit board or multiple circuit boards, which in some examples of embodiments may be electrically coupled to an induction coil 108, which may also be carried on the upper surface 138 (see
In one example, a ZVS induction heater circuit 104 with an induction work coil 108 is mounted and electrically coupled to the 510 threaded connector 106 (see
As indicated, the base 110 which carries the 510 threaded connector 106 is coupled to a housing body 112. Referring to
The cover 116 in the illustrated example covers one end 118 of the housing body 112. In this regard, the cover 116 is provided with a mating geometry to the housing body 112 shape and sidewalls 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 116 is attached by one or more fasteners. One or more covers 116 may also be stacked on top of one another and attached by the one or more fasteners to the housing body 112. In this regard, the housing body 112 may have a flange 113 or the like to which the fasteners may be secured or which otherwise may support the cover 116. In alternative examples of embodiments, the cover 116 may have one or more lobes which mate with recesses in the housing body 112. Referring to
As shown in the Figures, the 510 threaded connector 106 is positioned on a lower surface 140 of the base 110 and may be integral therewith or a separate component attached thereto. The 510 threaded connector 106 allows the induction heater module 100 to be connected to and powered by any 510 threaded device. The 510 thread is a universal thread design. The reason that this power coupling has been given the name 510 is owing to its length which is 5 mm and the 10 screw threads that form part of it. Attachments compatible with 510 can be switched with one another. Therefore, an induction heater module 100 with a 510 threaded connector 106 can be used and interchanged without the need to purchase a new battery or power source 122.
Examples of 510 power source devices 122 may include, but are not limited to, box mods, 510 battery regulators or other power supplies and controllers such as the base station 142 shown in
In use, an administration device 120 can be inserted into the induction work coil 108 within the induction heater module 100, and if present inserted into the adjustment device 102 which is within the induction work coil 108 (discussed below). The attached power source 122 will then activate the ZVS induction circuit 104 and begin heating the administration device 120 via induction. In one or more examples of embodiments, the induction heater module 100 may operate in a range of between 2-15V and have a heat time of less than 10 seconds, although variations thereon are also acceptable.
In one more or more examples of embodiments, an adjustment device or induction heater depth control device 102 is further disclosed. More specifically, an incremental ingression insert adjustment device 102 for an induction heater is disclosed. Referring to
In one or more examples of embodiments, the receptacle 102 may be a cup comprising a generally smooth inside wall surrounding the inner recess 162 (see
While specific examples are described, alternative geometries accomplishing the same or similar purposes would also be acceptable.
As indicated the exterior surface 164 of the receptacle 102 or adjustment device has a thread 166. The thread 166 may be helical. The thread 166 has a depth or height generally corresponding to the height of the receptacle 102 although variations thereon may be acceptable. The thread 166 is configured to engage the induction coil 108. More specifically, the thread 166 rotatably engages the induction coil 108. Alternatively, the thread 166 may be pressed into the coil 108. In this manner, the induction coil 108 acts like a mating thread. The thread 166 on the exterior surface 164 of the receptacle 102 provides a mechanism to specifically space the coil 108. In this regard, the thread 166 on the exterior surface 164 may generally match the pitch of the induction coil 108. Further, the elasticity of the coil 108 retains/holds the receptacle 102 in place by this interaction or engagement with the thread 166. Moreover, the thread 166 which mates with the coil 108 provides a specific means to control and adjust the depth of the receptacle 102 in the induction coil 108 and consequently the position of the administration device 120 inserted therein relative to the induction coil 108, thereby providing an adjustment device for incremental adjustment of ingress or insertion depth.
The adjustment device or receptacle 102 may be formed of any number or variety of materials. In one or more examples of embodiments, the receptacle 102 may be formed of materials which are heat resistive (and in some instances with a very high melting point). In other examples of embodiments, the materials are easily cleaned. The material also includes a degree of durability. In another example of embodiments, the device or receptacle 102 may be formed of a material(s) which is non-conductive; although it is contemplated that conductive material may be suitable in certain embodiments. In the example provided, the device or receptacle 102 is a threaded cup made of quartz, borosilicate, or similar material suitable for high temperature use. However, as indicated any material suitable for the purposes provided may be acceptable.
As indicated, in one or more examples of embodiments, the induction coil 108 may be a center wound coil, that is a coil 108 with ends terminating on the same side, such as a multi-start thread (e.g., a two-start or double start thread). The pitch of the thread 166 on the receptacle 102 or cup may then be constructed to correspond with this coil 108, or in the case of a single-start thread design, the pitch of the single-wound thread 166.
In addition, the receptacle or cup 102 may have one or more spaces, detents, extensions, visual indicators or other devices 175 configured to provide a tactile and/or audible signal as the cup is rotated or inserted, communicating a location of the insertion or withdrawal or position of the receptacle 102.
When the thermal extraction device or administration device 120 is inserted into the cup 102 and the cup 102 is inserted into the coil 108, the administration device 120 can be raised or lowered by threading the cup 102 into or further out of the coil 108. Thus, in use, rotation or insertion of the receptacle 102 relative to the coil 108 causes the movement of the receptacle 102 relative to the coil 108 thereby inserting the receptacle 102 further into the coil 108 (until it reaches the stop 172 on the top 168 of the receptacle 102 caused by, for example, the upper lip, and consequently a majority or the entirety of the receptacle 102 and inserted administration device 120 portion are within the coil 108); or withdrawing the receptacle 102 from the coil 108 (i.e., moving the bottom 170 of receptacle 102 within the coil 108 such that a smaller portion of the receptacle 102, and consequently the administration device 120, is within the coil 108). This rotation or insertion/withdrawal allows for an extensive amount of adjustment and tunability, as the user can precisely control the depth at which the receptacle 102 is provided within the coil 108 (and consequently the depth of the administration device 120 within the coil 108).
Changing the height of the administration device 120 relative to the height of the heating coil 108 moves the focal point of the applied heat on the administration device 120. In doing so, a user can find the ideal height of the administration device 120 to their own heating preference. The user can also change the height as needed to further optimize the heating experience.
Accordingly, the adjustment device or receptacle 102 disclosed herein provides a means to control the insertion depth of the administration device 120 or provide an incremental ingression insert adjustment into and out of the induction coil 108; thereby allowing careful and tunable control of the heating of the administration device 120.
As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.
It should be noted that references to relative positions (e.g., “top” and “bottom”) in this description are merely used to identify various elements as are oriented in the Figures. It should be recognized that the orientation of particular components may vary greatly depending on the application in which they are used.
For the purpose of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature.
It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the system, methods, and devices as shown in the various examples of embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements show as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied (e.g. by variations in the number of engagement slots or size of the engagement slots or type of engagement). The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various examples of embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present inventions.
While this invention has been described in conjunction with the examples of embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and/or substantial equivalents, whether known or that are or may be presently foreseen, may become apparent to those having at least ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the examples of embodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is intended to embrace all known or earlier developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and/or substantial equivalents.
The technical effects and technical problems in the specification are exemplary and are not limiting. It should be noted that the embodiments described in the specification may have other technical effects and can solve other technical problems.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application, Ser. No. 63/166,601, filed Mar. 26, 2021, entitled “Induction Heater with 510 Connector,” to U.S. Provisional Patent Application, Ser. No. 63/230,887, filed Aug. 9, 2021, entitled “Induction Heater Depth Control Device,” to U.S. Provisional Patent Application, Ser. No. 63/250,679, filed Sep. 30, 2021, entitled “Induction Heater Module Housing,” and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application, Ser. No. 63/292,311, filed Dec. 21, 2021, entitled “Incremental Ingression Insert Adjustment Device for an Induction Heater,” the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2022/020927 | 3/18/2022 | WO |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
63166601 | Mar 2021 | US | |
63230887 | Aug 2021 | US | |
63250679 | Sep 2021 | US | |
63292311 | Dec 2021 | US |