CN117462803A - Smart evaporator and system for concentrate products - Google Patents

Abstract

Intelligent evaporators and systems for concentrate products, and improved evaporators, systems, and methods for managing concentrate use are disclosed. The evaporator may include a housing to receive a cartridge configured to store a concentrate. The cartridge includes a nozzle at one end with a smart chip for storing an identification code associated with the concentrate. The vaporizer, cartridge, system and method provide means for ensuring accurate dosing and management of concentrate usage and usage data collection.

Description

Smart evaporators and systems for concentrate products

This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application 201980038378.1 titled "Improved evaporator, system and method for managing concentrate usage", which was filed on April 22, 2019.

Cross-references to related applications

This application discloses numerous improvements and enhancements to the concentrate evaporator and system disclosed in the present inventor's U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 15/391,829 and 62/721,699, which patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical field

The present invention relates to an evaporator, system and method for managing and optimizing concentrate vapor quality, evaporator efficiency and improved user experience.

Background technique

It should not be considered that the subject matter discussed in the Background section is prior art merely because it is mentioned in the Background section. Similarly, problems mentioned in the Background section or associated with the subject matter of the Background section should not be considered to be previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the Background section merely represents different approaches, which themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.

Evaporation devices are readily available and used for medical and recreational reasons. Existing evaporation devices allow the user to operate by loading a desired amount of concentrate product (optionally pre-packaged in a cartridge unit) into the evaporation chamber of the device. Typically, the mechanism for loading concentrate is complex to operate, and as a result, the user may end up consuming variable amounts of concentrate in some vaping sessions. Furthermore, due to the lack of availability of information about concentrates, users are often unaware of the concentrates being used. Vaporization devices such as the Pax 3 ^™ and Firefly 2 ^™ do not have a cartridge based system and therefore rely on the primary packaging markings of the concentrate product as a means of recommending the dose of concentrate delivered to the user.

There are various methods of loading cartridges into vaporizers. However, these methods can be cumbersome and suffer from usability issues such as ineffective cartridge sealing and cleaning capabilities. Many existing vaporizers do not clean and accurately dose concentrates or concentrated essential oils for inhalation. Vaporizers such as the Pax 3 ^™ require manual filling, so the user must use precision tools (such as metering syringes) to achieve accurately controlled dosing. These tools are difficult to obtain and add additional cost to the evaporator. In the case of medical vaporizers, such limitations do not allow users and physicians to confidently and consistently give and/or prescribe concentrate dosing regimens that best suit their needs. Some concentrate evaporation devices have addressed the dosing problem by utilizing the suction flow rate as a means of controlling dosing. However, such devices do not adequately provide uniform evaporation of the concentrate, resulting in a mismatch between the prescribed/expected dose and the actual amount received by the user.

Furthermore, there is a lack of technology that allows dosing of different types of materials (ie products) intended for evaporation devices. These materials may be, for example, granular, powdered, leafy, floral, aromatic, medicinal, waxy, pasty, oily, or capable of being dispensed and delivered through a vaporizer device (such as through the use of an auger mechanism) Other physical materials. Likewise, most raw materials intended for vaporization vary in consistency and have not been standardized in a manner that can be divided into uniform doses. Dosing of such products is also compromised because they are often loaded by hand. What is needed is an "all-in-one" vaporizer that allows controlled uniform dosing and tracking of the chemical compounds of the product contained within the cartridge, regardless of the product's physical form and/or composition.

US Patent Application No. 15/924172 discloses a method and apparatus for cloud-integrated control of drug delivery parameters in an electronic vaporizer. Furthermore, US Patent Application No. 12/780876 discloses a data recording personal vaporizing inhaler. Furthermore, US Patent Application No. 13/840588 discloses an inhaler controlled by a mobile device.

Considering existing vaporizers, there is a need to maintain operational certainty of the vaporizer as it relates, at a minimum, to vapor sealing, dose integrity, and corresponding direct user feedback. Additionally, existing vaporizers do not provide a feedback system to alert the user that the concentrate product has completely evaporated or that the concentrate dosing session has been completed correctly. Accordingly, there is a need for a concentrate product vaporizer that enables a user to administer concentrate at a desired dose and also manages, records, tracks and/or monitors the user's concentrate usage and provides improved operational efficiency.

Contents of the invention

In one aspect, a system for managing concentrate usage is disclosed. The system may include vaporizers, user devices and a central server. The vaporizer may include a housing, wherein the housing may include a cartridge configured to store the concentrate. The cartridge may include a nozzle with a smart chip at one end, and a dosing mechanism at the other end, the smart chip housing an identification code associated with the concentrate. The housing of the evaporator may also include a control unit configured to read the identification code from the smart chip on the nozzle and control the operation of the oven. The oven can be adjacent to the nozzle of the cartridge. The communication unit may be coupled to the control unit, wherein the communication unit may transmit the identification code to the user device. The system may also include a central server having a database for storing multiple identification codes for multiple concentrate information. The central server may be configured to receive the identification code from the user device. The central server may retrieve the concentrate information corresponding to the received identification code from the database. The central server can transmit the retrieved concentrate information to the user device.

In one embodiment, the dosing mechanism may be adjacent to the mouthpiece of the evaporator. The metering mechanism may include a plunger driver, pawl and plunger. As the user rotates the dosing wheel, a plunger driver can drive a plunger within the cartridge to release a predetermined amount of concentrate through the nozzle. The oven may include a coil placed within a refractory tube, an air flow channel in communication with ambient air and a suction negative pressure air flow, and a dose diffuser containing a porous material matrix or mesh, such as a gold-coated metal mesh. The control unit may be configured to heat the coil of the oven based on at least one of a fire button, an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor, and an identification code associated with the concentrate. The control unit may heat the coil to vaporize a predetermined amount of concentrate released through the nozzle on the porous material matrix or screen of the dose diffuser. The user device may be configured to receive at least one user input related to the user's vaporization session. The user device may transmit at least one instruction to the vaporizer for triggering a vaporization session based on the received user input. Similarly, the user device may be configured to receive at least one user input related to the user's vaporization session via the central server. The central server may transmit at least one instruction to the vaporizer for triggering and/or managing the vaporization session based on the received central server input. The user device may also be configured to generate session data associated with the vaporization session, and the session data may be transmitted to the central server. The central server may be configured to receive session data from user devices. The central server may be configured to modify the user's vaporization session based at least in part on the vaporization session data. The central server can update user profiles based on session data. The user profile may include data associated with one or more vaporization sessions of the user. The user device may also be configured to display surveys related to the user's vaporization session. The user device can receive user feedback on the survey and transmit the user feedback to the central server. The communication unit of the vaporization device may include a Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) module, a WiFi module, or other electronic communication devices. The user device may display dosage information based on at least one of the retrieved concentrate information, the user profile, the user's medical history, and the vaporization session.

In another aspect, a method for managing a user's concentrate usage is disclosed. The method may include reading, by a control unit of the evaporator, an identification code associated with the concentrate. The identification code can be transmitted to the user device via the communication unit of the vaporizer. The central server may receive the identification code from the user device. The central server may include a database that stores multiple identification codes for multiple concentrate information. The central server may retrieve the concentrate information corresponding to the received identification code from the database. The retrieved concentrate information may be transmitted to the user device for display to the user.

In another aspect, an evaporator including a housing is disclosed. The housing may include a cartridge configured to store a concentrate. The cartridge may include a nozzle at one end with a smart chip having an identification code associated with the concentrate, and a dosing mechanism at the other end. The dosing mechanism may be adjacent the suction nozzle and may include a plunger driver, pawl and plunger. A metering wheel may actuate the metering mechanism, wherein the metering wheel may be rotatably coupled to the plunger driver. The oven may be adjacent the nozzle of the cartridge and may include a coil positioned within a heat-resistant tube, an air flow channel in communication with ambient air and a suction negative pressure air flow, and a dose diffuser containing a porous material matrix. The control unit may be configured to heat the coil of the oven based on at least one of a fire button, an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor, and an identification code associated with the concentrate. In an embodiment, the control unit may heat the coil when the user creates negative pressure by inhaling at the mouthpiece. The coil may be configured to evaporate the squeezed concentrate. After the user rotates the dosing wheel, the squeezed concentrate can be dispensed through a nozzle onto the porous material matrix or screen of the dosing diffuser. As the metering wheel rotates, a plunger driver drives a plunger within the cartridge to release a predetermined amount of concentrate.

In embodiments, the mouthpiece may be removable to slidably receive the cartridge within the housing. The identification code associated with the concentrate may be stored in a memory module consisting of at least one of a near field communication (NFC) device, a QR code, a barcode, a smart chip (eg, EEPROM), and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. consisting of, and wherein the memory module is communicatively coupled to the control unit. In an alternative embodiment, the metering mechanism may be an auger delivery mechanism. The metering wheel may be a hollow cylinder that surrounds the plunger drive such that rotation of the metering wheel causes rotation of the plunger drive. The plunger driver may mechanically engage the plunger and pawl. Because the user causes rotation of the metering wheel, the plunger can be driven laterally downward as the plunger driver rotates. The pawl can only allow the metering wheel to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The metering wheel can provide audible feedback to the user by making a clicking sound when rotated to a predetermined degree. A single click of the dosing wheel releases a predetermined amount of concentrate through the nozzle. The vaporizer may further include a communication unit configured to transmit the identification code to the user device, wherein the user device is configured to display information associated with the concentrate based on the identification code.

In another embodiment, the control unit may be configured to receive instructions from the user device via the communication unit to activate heating of the coil. The user device may display dosage information based on at least one of identification code, user identity, user medical history, vaporization session history, and previous dosages. The evaporator may also include a power source in communication with the control unit. The power supply can be configured to supply electrical energy to the coil. The evaporator may also include a power button located on the housing and in communication with the control unit. When pressed by the user, the power button allows power to be supplied to the coil from the power source. The vaporizer may also include a conduit proximal to the dose diffuser. A conduit may extend adjacent the cartridge toward the mouthpiece to allow the passage of vaporized concentrate as the user inhales. The conduit may include a downstream filter for filtering the evaporated concentrate.

In various other aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure, a vaporizer is provided that enables a user to index (ie, rotate) a metering wheel to deliver a predetermined dose of concentrate product for vaporization. Exemplary vaporizers may record and transmit data related to a user's vaporization session, with enhanced assurance of the type and amount of concentrate product delivered.

The vaporizer is provided with a cartridge including a cartridge tank for secure storage of concentrate product. In this way, the stored concentrate is located away from the heating means of the evaporator to mitigate thermal degradation of the undesirably evaporated concentrate product. The evaporator is also provided with a dosing mechanism (eg dosing wheel, plunger, etc.) coupled to the plunger drive of the cartridge. The metering wheel is configured to be turned unidirectionally (ie in one direction only) by the user using a detent built into the device to prevent the user from releasing the cartridge and thus withdrawing the plunger from the cartridge canister.

In one aspect, to ensure proper dispensing of the concentrate product even when the cartridge is removed from the vaporizer, a detent configured on the cartridge lock rotatably communicates with a slot on the plunger to limit the plunger driver/ Bidirectional rotation of the plunger. Additionally, the detent is hidden by the driver when assembled, thus easing the user's ability to disassemble the cartridge for refilling, tampering, etc. In one example, a fixed detent protects the user from receiving a concentrate product that does not represent the finished product recorded on the smart chip.

To ensure accurate dispensing and recording of concentrate product dosing (i.e. dosing control/integrity), an exemplary evaporator includes an infrared emitter and a pair of detectors arranged on each side of the dosing wheel to detect via the dosing wheel Slots at predetermined intervals/sizes to record graduated doses of concentrate product.

In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the plunger and plunger driver are fixedly attached to ensure predetermined advancement of the plunger into the cartridge canister when the plunger driver is rotated by the metering wheel. Advancement of the plunger provides a means by which the concentrate product contained in the tank is pushed out of the nozzle at one end of the cartridge.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the nozzle is configured with a tip seal, wherein the tip seal provides static closure of the port end of the nozzle, thereby protecting the integrity of the concentrate product retained in the cartridge canister from oxidation, contamination , erosion and other (i.e. damage) effects. In one aspect, the tip seal prevents leakage of concentrate product from the cartridge canister during handling and/or use, such as during evaporation. It also provides a guarantee of the dose amount delivered and prevents confusion about the accuracy of the measurement of the dose of concentrate delivered. Tip seals, on the other hand, incorporate an elastomeric (TPE, silicone, etc.) diaphragm that seals against an insert in the nozzle. As the metering wheel rotates, the plunger driver assembly actuates the plunger into the cartridge canister and thereby the concentrate product forcing the elastomeric diaphragm away from the insert, thus allowing concentrate to be extruded through the tip seal and nozzle port onto the diffuser.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the vaporizer may include a vapor detection system to evaluate whether the extruded concentrate product has completely evaporated. The IR emitter and detector operate in communication to determine whether concentrate product vapor is present in the conduit (ie, air path) due to inhalation by the user. The vaporizer also notifies the user via an LED illuminated display whether the dose of vaporized concentrate product has been completed, while also providing data about the session to the system network via signaling. The exemplary vaporizer may also provide information (eg, graphics) generated from the data regarding the vaporization session to the user via a mobile device, computer, etc.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a predetermined amount of dose is recorded on the cartridge via a smart chip. The exemplary vaporizer writes/updates data regarding the dose remaining in the cartridge to the smart chip as the dose wheel is indexed (ie, rotated). After the original predetermined amount of concentrate product is emptied/used up, the vaporizer provides information to the network (i.e. mobile device, laptop, computer, etc.) and the user via an LED light or other device signal that the vaporizer cartridge is empty . Upon depletion, the exemplary evaporator may constrain further evaporation. On the one hand, the constraint on further evaporation mitigates the risk of the cartridge being refilled and reused.

This section is intended to be an introduction to the concepts disclosed in this specification and is not an exhaustive list of the many teachings and variations to those teachings that are presented in the extended discussion within this document. Therefore, the contents of this summary should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features and advantages are intended to be included within the scope of and protected by the appended claims.

Description of the drawings

Although the specification is accompanied by claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim certain embodiments of the invention, various aspects of the invention will be more readily understood and understood from the following description of the various embodiments of the invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Example, in the drawing:

Figure 1 illustrates a system for managing a user's concentrate usage in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

2 is a side perspective view of an evaporator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 is a partially exploded view of an evaporator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of an evaporation device from different angles according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary cartridge [210] in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary cartridge [700] for dispensing non-liquid concentrates (e.g., powders, leaves, etc.) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

8A is a side perspective view of a nozzle [218/800] of a vaporization device cartridge system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

8B is a front view of the nozzle [218/800] of the vaporization device cartridge system showing the diaphragm [804] in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a dose integrity mechanism [900] of a vaporization device cartridge system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 10 is a side view of an oven system [1000] of an evaporation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

11A and 11B are perspective views of a dose diffuser [1100] of an evaporation device oven system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

11C is a front view of the dose diffuser [1100] of the vaporization device oven system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

12 illustrates various components of a dose exhaustion and verification system for a vaporization device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

Figure 13 illustrates a method [1300] for managing a user's concentrate usage in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed ways

Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, corresponding or similar reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts. Furthermore, the various elements described herein may be referenced collectively or individually when there may be more than one element of the same type (eg, "pawl and detent" or "smart chip and EEPROM"). However, such references are merely exemplary in nature. It may be noted that any reference to an element in the singular may also be construed as relating to the plural and vice versa, without limiting the scope of the disclosure to the exact number of such elements unless expressly set forth in the appended claims. type.

The exemplary embodiments described herein are provided for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. Other exemplary embodiments are possible, and the exemplary embodiments may be modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the detailed description is not meant to limit the disclosure. Rather, the scope of the disclosure is limited only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Accordingly, a system for managing concentrate usage is disclosed. The system enables vaporizers to log and distribute information about vaporization sessions, users, product information (such as name), distillate fill batch information, lab results, product temperature limits, and other data. The system also provides a vaporizer and cartridge that communicatively cooperate to manage dose data integrity (eg, dose control, mix-free dosing, control of tampering of concentrate storage, etc.).

Figure 1 illustrates a system [100] for managing a user's concentrate usage in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. System [100] may include an evaporator [102] having a housing (not shown). The housing may include a cartridge [104] that may be configured to store a concentrate. The cartridge [104] may be a cylindrical container with a nozzle at one end and a dosing mechanism at the other end. The nozzle of the cartridge [104] may have a smart chip with an identification code associated with the concentrate. The housing of the evaporator [102] may also include a control unit [106] configured to read the identification code from the nozzle. The control unit [106] may also control the operation of the evaporator [102] oven. The oven may be adjacent to the nozzle of the cartridge [104]. The communication unit [108] may be coupled to the control unit [106], wherein the communication unit [108] may transmit the identification code to the user device [110]. In an embodiment, the user device [110] may be a mobile phone, computer, laptop, etc., and may be operated by the user [111]. The communication unit [108] of the vaporization device [102] may include a Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) module.

The system [100] may also include a central server [112] including a database [114]. The database [114] may store multiple identification codes for multiple concentrate information. The central server [112] may be configured to receive the identification code from the user device [110]. The central server [112] may retrieve the concentrate information corresponding to the received identification code from the database [114]. The retrieved concentrate information can be transmitted to the user device [110]. In embodiments, system [100] may be a public network environment that includes multiple personal computers, laptops, various servers such as blade servers, and other computing devices. In another embodiment, the system [100] may be a private network environment with a limited number of computing devices, such as personal computers, servers, laptops, and/or communication devices, such as mobile phones and smartphones. System [100] may be operated by one or more users [117] via a central server [112].

The system [100] facilitates an improved user experience by providing information on the user's device regarding concentrates, dosage requirements, etc. In an embodiment, the user device [110] may be configured to receive at least one user input related to the user's vaporization session and to transmit at least one instruction to the vaporizer based on the received user input for triggering the vaporization session. [102]. In another embodiment, the user device [110] may be configured to generate session data associated with the vaporization session and transmit the session data to the central server [112]. The central server [112] may also be configured to receive session data from user devices. A central server [112] can update user profiles [116] based on session data. The user profile [116] may include data associated with one or more vaporization sessions of the user.

In another embodiment, the user device [110] may be configured to display surveys related to the user's vaporization session. The user can provide his/her feedback on the survey, and the user device [110] can transmit the user feedback to the central server [112]. The user device [110] may display dosage information based on at least one of: retrieved concentrate information, user profile [116], user medical history, and vaporization session.

In yet another embodiment, the user device [110] may be configured to capture data from a health/biological data capture device (eg, AliveCor's Kardia | Omron), and the user device [110] may transmit the health/biological data to a central server[112].

Since the user device [110] provides information about the dosage, the user is enabled to choose his/her dosage intentionally (micro-dosing). Additionally, the system [100] may provide notification to the user that they have completed inhaling the administered dose or desired amount of the concentrate product.

In one aspect, a vaporizer is disclosed that has on-demand heating, usage tracking, improved user experience, modular components, and can be easily cleaned. The evaporator may have a housing housing various components. The housing may include a cartridge configured to store a concentrate. The cartridge may include a nozzle at one end and a dosing mechanism at the other end. The nozzle may have a smart chip with an identification code associated with the concentrate. The dosing mechanism may be adjacent the suction nozzle, and the dosing mechanism may include a plunger driver, a pawl, and a plunger. The metering wheel can actuate the metering mechanism. The metering wheel may be located partially external to the housing for user manipulation, wherein the metering wheel may be rotatably coupled to the plunger driver. The oven may be positioned adjacent the cartridge nozzle or elsewhere within the evaporator, and the oven may include a coil positioned within a heat-resistant tube, an air flow channel in communication with ambient air and a suction negative pressure air flow, and a matrix containing a porous material. Dose diffuser. The control unit may be configured to heat the coil of the oven based on at least one of an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor, and an identification code associated with the concentrate.

In one embodiment, the control unit may heat the coil when the user creates negative pressure by inhaling at the mouthpiece. The coil may be configured to evaporate the squeezed concentrate. The extruded concentrate may be dispensed through a nozzle onto a porous material matrix (or similar screen) of the dose diffuser. When the user rotates the dosing wheel, the plunger driver drives the plunger within the cartridge to release a predetermined amount of concentrate.

Figures 2-5 show different views of the evaporator [200] according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, Figure 2 shows an assembly diagram of the evaporator [200], and Figure 3 shows a partially exploded view of the evaporator [200], which shows the internal components of the evaporator [200], and also shows that An exemplary manner in which each component can be coupled to adjacent components to assemble the evaporator [200]. Furthermore, Figures 4 and 5 show exploded perspective views of the evaporation device 200 from two different angles. For purposes of illustration, in the exploded views of Figures 4 and 5, some components are shown exploded in one figure and other components are shown exploded in the other figure. As shown, referring to Figures 2 to 5 in combination, the evaporator [200] includes a housing [202] enclosing its various components and parts. The housing [202] generally has a rectangular cross-section and extends in the longitudinal direction, thereby giving the housing [202] a cubic shape. However, it is contemplated that the housing [202] may have other shapes, such as cylindrical, spherical, etc. The housing [202] may be shaped so that the evaporator [200] can be ergonomically held by a user. The housing [202] may be made of metal or other materials with sufficient electrical conductivity and chemical resistance. In one example, the housing [202] is made of aluminum alloy or magnesium alloy.

In one aspect, the housing [202] may include two halves, a first half [204] and a second half [206]. The two halves [204], [206] may provide a plurality of grooves and apertures therein for receiving and mounting components of the evaporator [200] inside the housing [202]. The two halves [204], [206] may be coupled together using fasteners such as screws or the like. In particular, as can be seen from the associated figures, the housing [202] may provide a groove [208] at the junction of the first half [204] and the second half [206].

The evaporation device [200] utilizes a cartridge [210] to store the concentrate to be evaporated (not shown). The cartridge [210] typically includes a predetermined amount of concentrate stored therein. The cartridge [210] may be in the form of a hollow can with an appropriate internal volume to be filled with a predetermined amount of concentrate. In one example, the cartridge [210] is prefilled with 1000 mg of concentrate. The term "concentrate" as used herein may include substances in the form of chemicals, distillates, and isolates. Examples of concentrates include vaporizable drugs such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), terpenes, cannabidiol (CBD), and other components of cannabinoids. Other examples of concentrates include dried herbs, essential oils, waxes, and loose leaves. The cartridge [210] may typically be filled with a homogeneous concentrate or viscous liquid in liquid form, such as waxes and oils, which may be squeezed out of the cartridge [210] through a bottom opening (not shown) of the cartridge [210] . The cartridge [210] may include a cartridge shell, a concentrate storage tank [211], a plunger driver [212], and a plunger [214] slidably received within the cartridge shell. The plunger [214] may be arranged within the cartridge [210] housing in such a way that when the plunger driver [212] rotates, the plunger [214] is pushed laterally downward in the cartridge [210] to The concentrate is pushed towards the bottom opening of the cartridge [210] to be squeezed out.

In one embodiment, the cartridge [210] includes a memory module [216] that stores an identification code associated with the concentrate. The memory module [216] can be mounted on the exterior of the cartridge housing. In an example, the memory module [216] may be at least one of a near field communication (NFC) device, a QR code, a barcode, a smart chip, and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Smart chips allow their contents to be erased and reprogrammed using pulse voltages. In this example, the identification code stored in the memory module [216] of the cartridge [210] indicates the nature of the concentrate therein, such as the type of concentrate, the amount of concentrate, the expiry date of the concentrate, if any )wait. In other words, the identification code associated with the cartridge [210] is associated with the concentrate information. The identification code can be numeric or alphanumeric. It will be appreciated that identification codes are programmed into the memory module [216] based on testing of the concentrate substance at the testing facility; and that each identification code may be unique to a particular batch of concentrate. When the identification code is stored in the memory module [216] of the cartridge [210], the same identification code is simultaneously stored in the database of the central server [112] together with the corresponding concentrate information, as will be described in detail later.

In the evaporator [200], the cartridge [210] is detachably mounted in the housing [202]. In particular, the cartridge [210] is received and fixed in the groove [208] of the housing [202]. The cartridge [210] may have any suitable shape, including but not limited to rectangular, cylindrical, etc. The cartridge [210], or particularly the cartridge shell, may generally be shaped to complement the recess [208] in the housing [202] such that the cartridge [210] snaps into place within the recess [208]. Location. In some examples, the cartridge [210] may store digital rights management (DRM) code in the memory module [216] indicating whether the cartridge [210] is appropriately compatible for installation in the vaporizer [200]. As shown, the vaporizer [200] may include a nozzle [218] at one end of the cartridge [210]. The nozzle [218] may be configured as an outlet of concentrate from the cartridge [210].

In an embodiment, the evaporator [200] includes a control unit [220] to execute various instructions related to the operation of the evaporator [200], and also records various operations of the evaporator [200] and generates corresponding data . The control unit [220] may include a circuit board on which the various electronic components of the evaporator [200] are embedded or connected via wires. The control unit [220] may include a processor for executing various instructions to control the operation of the evaporator [200]. A processor may be a single processing unit or multiple processing units working together. The control unit [220] may also include, but is not limited to, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, or can be configured in a defined Any other circuit system that responds to and executes instructions. The control unit [220] may also include a memory to store instructions for performing the operation of the evaporator [200], and also temporarily store data generated from the operation of the evaporator [200].

In one embodiment, when installed in the housing [202], the control unit [220] may include encoding circuitry positioned proximal to the memory module [216] of the cartridge [210]. The coding circuitry of the control unit [220] reads the identification code from the cartridge [210]. In one example, the encoding circuitry may utilize a communication standard such as near field communication (NFC) or the like to read the identification code from the memory module [216]. In some examples, encoding circuitry may utilize a laser beam or some other form of light source to read an identification code in a visual form, such as a bar code, QR code, or the like. The control unit [220] can use the identification code read from the cartridge [210] for further processing, as will be explained in detail later.

In one embodiment, the evaporator [200] includes a communication unit [224] disposed within the housing [202]. The communication unit [224] is coupled to the control unit [220] to receive and send, inter alia, information regarding the operating settings of the evaporator. The communication unit [224] configures the control unit [220] of the evaporator [200] to communicate signals with the user device [110]. In particular, the communication unit [224] transmits the identification code read from the cartridge [210] to the user device [110]. In one example, the communication unit [224] is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) module, utilizing a relatively low power 2.4GHz antenna (not shown) provided for use between the vaporizer [200] and the user device [110] direct link for wireless communications.

The evaporation device 200 also includes a power supply [226] to provide power to its various components. The power source [226] may be in the form of one or more rechargeable batteries disposed within the housing [202]. The evaporator [200] may also include a charging port (not shown) disposed on the periphery of the housing [202] and electrically connected to a power source [226] located therein. In this case, the user can adopt an external power cord (not shown) to connect the charging port with an external power socket or the like. In one example, the charging port may use the USB standard to charge the power source [226]. In an exemplary embodiment, the same charging port may also be used for data transfer, such as for updating the source code in the memory of the control unit [220], for example to change some parameters associated with the operation of the evaporator [200] . In an alternative example, the vaporizer [200] may include a permanently fixed and retractable cord that contacts a power source [226] at one end and has a plug at the other end that can be inserted into an electrical outlet for charging.

The evaporator [200] also typically includes a metering wheel [232] at the top of the cartridge [210]. The metering wheel [232] can be rotatably arranged in the housing [202]. The metering wheel [232] may be partially located external to the housing [202] for user manipulation, wherein the metering wheel [232] may be rotatably coupled to the plunger driver [212]. As shown, the cartridge [210] may have a nozzle [218] and a dosing mechanism at the other end. The nozzle [218] may have a diaphragm [804] at the nozzle tip to control the flow of concentrates of different viscosities (explained later with respect to Figure 8B). The metering mechanism may include a plunger driver [212], a plunger [214] and a pawl [213]. When the user rotates the metering wheel [232], and the plunger driver [212] drives the plunger [214] within the cartridge [210] to release a predetermined amount of concentrate.

In one embodiment, the metering wheel [232] is a hollow cylinder, which is externally connected to the plunger driver [212], so that the rotation of the metering wheel [232] causes the rotation of the plunger driver [212]. The plunger driver [212] may mechanically engage the plunger [214] and pawl [213]. The pawl [213] can allow the metering wheel [232] to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The metering wheel [232] makes a clicking sound when rotated to a predetermined degree. A single click of the metering wheel [232] releases a predetermined amount of concentrate through the nozzle [218].

The plunger drive [212] may be configured to directly relate the rotational movement of the metering wheel [232] to the linear movement of the plunger [214]; i.e., for a definite degree of rotation of the metering wheel [232], the plunger [214] ] moves a certain distance depending on the pitch of the threads being engaged and other factors. In this way, the dosing mechanism enables the user to control the amount of concentrate squeezed out by controlling the rotation of the dosing wheel [232].

In an alternative embodiment, the metering mechanism may be an auger delivery mechanism.

In one or more examples, the metering circuitry may be configured to communicate with, and thus work in conjunction with, the control unit [220]. In some examples, the metering circuitry may form part of the control unit [220]. The control unit [220] may receive information from the dosing circuitry regarding the number of doses of concentrate extruded from the cartridge [210]. The control unit [220] registers a single dose of concentrate extruded from the cartridge [210] based on the generation of the dose signal. The control unit [220] also records the number of doses of concentrate extruded from the cartridge [210] and utilizes coding circuitry to write/program this information onto the memory module [216] of the cartridge [210] for tracking purposes The amount of concentrate remaining inside the cartridge [210]. It is therefore possible to find out the amount of concentrate remaining inside the cartridge [210] removed from the housing [202] of the evaporator [200], by the user or in the cartridge refilling facility using any suitable reader .

As can be seen from Figures 2 to 5, the housing [202] may have an arc-shaped cutout [249] at its bottom corner. In an embodiment, the evaporator [200] may include an oven [250] positioned in the cutout [249]. The oven [250] may be connected to the housing [202] through the use of suitable fastening arrangements including one or more of screws, pins, nuts, bolts, and the like. The oven [250] includes an oven shell [252] assembled as shown in Figure 4 and disassembled as shown in Figure 5. The oven [250] may also include a coil [258] disposed inside the oven shell [252].

As shown, the oven [250] may be located directly below the nozzle [218] and placed in fluid communication with the cartridge [210] via the nozzle [218]. The oven [250] may include a coil [258] placed within a refractory tube, an air flow channel in communication with ambient air and a suction negative pressure air flow, and a dose diffuser [260] containing a porous material matrix. The dose diffuser [260] may be positioned to collect concentrate extruded from the cartridge [210]. Additionally, the coil [258] may be positioned beneath the oven [250] and placed in thermal communication therewith. The coil [258] may be configured to generate thermal energy to vaporize the concentrate in the dose diffuser [260]. In one example, the coil [258] is enclosed in a heat-resistant tube and has two legs connected to a power source [226] via contacts and wires extending inside the housing [202].

Using these electrical connections, the coil [258] receives electrical energy from the power source [226], which in turn is converted into thermal energy. In one or more examples, the coil [258] may be connected to the power supply [226] via the control unit [220] such that electrical energy supplied to the coil [258] from the power supply [226] is controlled by the control unit [220]. This configuration enables the control unit [220] to regulate the thermal energy generated by the coil [258] according to the temperature setting of the evaporator [200]. In an embodiment, the control unit [220] may be configured to heat the coil [258] of the oven [250] based on at least one of an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor, and an identification code associated with the concentrate. ].

In one example, the oven shell [252] may be made from a ceramic material, such as, but not limited to, zirconium. Such ceramic material for the oven shell [252] can capture the heat generated by the coil [258] for efficient evaporation of the concentrate in the dose diffuser [260] and also provide the oven shell [252] with external of heat insulation. In one example, the porous material matrix may be a mesh (eg, a gold-plated metal mesh) or made of a metal alloy material such as stainless steel, also commonly referred to as metal foam. The porous material matrix contains the concentrate which is collected within the dose diffuser [260] using its absorptive properties. The porous material matrix can also be configured to allow air to pass therethrough.

In one example, the evaporator [200] provides a dual filtration system. To this end, the oven [250] may comprise a filter device downstream of the oven [250]. Typically, the filter device may be made of the same material as the porous material matrix. It will be appreciated that the vaporized concentrate is passed through a filtering device before being supplied for inhalation by the user to remove any toxic substances from the smoke and thereby provide the user with a relatively cleaner vaporized concentrate for inhalation.

In one embodiment, the oven [250] may also include an oven lid [266] connected to the housing [202] using one or more magnets. In one example, the housing [202] may include magnets, and the oven lid [266] may be constructed using magnetic plates (eg, stainless steel plates) such that the magnets in the housing [202] and the oven lid [266] are magnetic The plates are attracted to each other to lock the oven lid [266] with the housing [202]. In another example, the oven lid [266] may include a first set of magnets, and the housing [202] may include a second set of magnets, with one magnet each in the two halves [204, 206] such that the first set The magnet and the second set of magnets attract each other to lock the oven lid [266] with the housing [202]. Furthermore, the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets may be separated by some external pulling force, for example provided by the user. In this manner, the oven lid [266] is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the oven lid [266] may at least partially enclose the oven [250], including the dose diffuser [260] and coil [258]. In the open position, the oven lid [266] can be set at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the housing [202] and allows access to the dose diffuser [260]. The oven [250] may also include an interlock switch configured to communicate with the control unit [220]. If the oven lid [266] is displaced from the closed position, the interlock switch generates a safety signal. Furthermore, the control unit [220] receives the safety signal and can switch off the coil [258] based on the safety signal. In an alternative example, the oven lid [266] may be connected to the housing [202] via a latch and compression spring (not shown). The latch and compression spring arrangement not only provides a hinged connection between the oven lid [266] and the housing [202], but also allows the oven lid [266] to remain in the open position, such as when the user has pulled the oven lid [266] open Position for proximity to the dose diffuser [260].

Also, as shown, the oven lid [266] may include a plurality of vents [62] on its sides and bottom (not shown). Additionally, in the oven [250], the oven shell [252] may include a plurality of vents therein. The vents may allow fresh air from the atmosphere to enter the oven [250] to circulate in a defined path inside the evaporator [200]. The air received in the oven [250] is exposed to the coil [258], which in turn heats the received air. In one example, a coil [258] heats air. In particular, the air may become overheated. This superheated air is received in the evaporation chamber [256] through holes in the dose diffuser [260]. The heated air in the evaporation chamber [256] passes through the porous material matrix, thereby evaporating the concentrate absorbed in the dose diffuser [260] by convection effects.

The vaporization device 200 may include a mouthpiece for administering vaporized concentrate to a user [276]. The mouthpiece [276] can generally be made from any medical grade material, such as silicone, soft rubber, and plastic. In one example, the nozzle [276] may be removably mounted to the housing [202] of the evaporator [200]. The suction nozzle [276] may generally be located at the top of the housing [202]. The vaporizer [200] may also include a conduit [278] that fluidly communicates the mouthpiece [276] with the vaporization chamber [256] or dose diffuser [260]. As can be appreciated, the duct [278] provides a path within the vaporizer [200] for air to flow from the vaporization chamber [256] or dose diffuser [260] to the mouthpiece [276]. Therefore, when the user pulls on the nozzle [276] for vapor to pass, fresh air is drawn into the oven [250] via the vent [272], which removes the evaporated concentrate from the evaporation chamber [256] via the duct [278] ] carried to the mouthpiece [276] for consumption by the user. It is envisioned that this configuration of the vents relative to the duct [278] allows for cross-flow through the oven [250] to facilitate drawing air from outside the evaporator [200]. The conduit [278] may also help to substantially isolate the path for the flow of evaporated concentrate from the electronic components of the evaporator [200] so as to avoid any possibility of short circuiting.

In another configuration, the evaporator [200] also allows manual loading of concentrate directly into the evaporation chamber [256]. To do this, the user can place the oven lid [266] in the open position so that the evaporation chamber [256] is accessible. In the case of liquid concentrates, the user can pour or inject the concentrate directly onto a porous material matrix to be absorbed thereby; in the case of non-liquid concentrates, such as wax, powder, dried cannabis, etc., the user can first The porous material matrix is removed from the evaporation chamber [256] and the concentrate is then placed directly. In some other cases, users can obtain dosing diffusers prefilled with dry herb pods, etc., and place such dosing diffusers directly within the evaporation chamber without a porous material matrix; thus providing the convenience of non-liquid concentrates. In any case, the heated air from the coil vaporizes the concentrate for consumption purposes. In other examples, the cartridge may be designed to store and express non-liquid concentrate into the evaporation chamber.

It is conceivable that due to repeated use, the evaporator [200] will accumulate vapor residue on certain internal components, especially the conduit [278], even when used correctly. To clean the duct [278], the user can: first remove the suction nozzle [276] and then pull the oven lid [266] to overcome the attraction of the magnet, causing the oven lid [266] to move to its open position. At this point, the user can dip the pipe cleaner (not shown) in the cleaning solution. It is envisioned that the pipe cleaner could have a Q-shaped tip or the like. The user can use the pipe cleaner with a cleaning solution and slide the pipe cleaner down through the top of the conduit [278] until it emerges from its bottom. The user may repeat the above steps until the catheter [278] is completely clean. Furthermore, to clean the evaporation chamber [256], the user can: first remove any loose particles or residual material present therein, and then remove the porous material matrix or screen and dose diffuser [260] from the bottom of the evaporation chamber [256] ]. The user can then use a Q-shaped tip dipped in the cleaning solution and gently wipe away the accumulated residue in the evaporation chamber [256]. It is conceivable to use dose diffusers [260] to reduce the need for frequent cleaning of the evaporation chamber [256], since residues from concentrate and excess accumulation from evaporation build up on the dose diffuser [260] and not the evaporation chamber [256] on the wall and also allows easier cleaning since the dose diffuser [260] can be removed from the evaporation chamber [256] for cleaning the evaporation chamber [256] by moving the oven [266] in the open position. In order to clean the porous material matrix, the user can: first ensure that the dose diffuser [260] including the porous material matrix is removed from the evaporation chamber [256], then soak the porous material matrix in the cleaning solution for approximately 15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with water, The porous material matrix is then allowed to dry and reinstalled. Similarly, to clean the nozzle [276], the user can: first ensure that the nozzle [276] is removed from the housing [202] by gently pulling the nozzle [276] from the top of the conduit [278], and then Soak the nozzle [276] in the cleaning solution for approximately 15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with water, then allow the nozzle [276] to dry and then reinstall the nozzle [276] into the evaporator [200].

In some embodiments, the vaporizer [200] may include one or more buttons to control one or more user-controlled operations thereof. The evaporator [200] may also include one or more indicator lights for communicating information regarding various operations and current settings/parameters of the evaporator [200]. In one example, the indicator light may be an RGB-based LED. In the example shown, the evaporator [200] is shown to include two buttons; a power button [280] and a ignition button [282]; and four indicator lights, namely, a first indicator light, a second indicator light, and a third indicator light. Three indicator lights and a fourth indicator light. In the evaporator [200], each of the buttons can generate a specific signal when pressed and is arranged to signal communication with the control unit [220]; such that the control unit [220] acting as an intermediary can generate in response to such signals Specific instructions used to signal corresponding components to perform certain functions. In addition, the control unit [220] can be programmed to control the flashing of the indicator light to convey specific information to the user. As shown in the figure, some of the buttons and indicator lights, particularly the power button [280] and the second indicator light and the third indicator light, are directly embedded on the circuit board of the control unit [220].

In one exemplary configuration, the user may press and hold the power button [280] for 2 seconds to turn the vaporizer [200] on/off. In one example, once the vaporizer [200] is turned on, the communication unit [224] of the vaporizer [200] begins pairing with the user device [110]. Additionally, the second indicator light may flash while pairing is taking place between the communication unit [224] and the user device [110], and then show solid blue when the pairing process is complete. The power button [280] can also be used to check various current settings of the evaporator [200]. For example, clicking the power button [280] once operates a second indicator light to show the charge level of the power supply [226]; two clicks operate a third indicator light to indicate the temperature setting, and three clicks restart the communications unit [224] to re-establish the connection to the user device [110] and also cause all lights to flash once. The ignition button [282] can be used to operate the coil [258] in the evaporator [200]. The user can press and hold the ignition button [282] to heat the coil [258] to a defined temperature setting and continue to press and hold the ignition button [282] while inhaling the concentrate to keep the vaporizer [200] at limited temperature settings.

Furthermore, in an exemplary configuration, the first indicator light may indicate the power status of the evaporator [200], ie, the first indicator light being on indicates that the evaporator [200] is on, and vice versa. Similarly, a second indicator light may indicate the current charge level of the power supply [226] of the evaporator [200]; such as green indicating a power level greater than 50%, yellow indicating a power level equal to or less than 50%, and red indicating a power level equal to or less than 50%. 15%, and a flashing red indication that the power level is less than 5% and the evaporator [200] requires immediate charging to continue operation. A third indicator light may indicate the temperature setting of the evaporator [200] such that green may indicate a high temperature setting of the evaporator [200], blue may indicate a medium temperature setting of the evaporator [200], and purple may indicate a high temperature setting of the evaporator [200] ] low temperature setting. The fourth indicator light uses different color schemes to indicate various states of the vaporizer [200]; such as heating, reaching a defined temperature setting, concentrate level in the cartridge [210], warning the user whether to pull hard, etc. It is contemplated that the control scheme for the buttons [280, 282] and the color scheme for the indicator lights as described herein are not limited to this disclosure.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the evaporator [200] includes an anemometer to measure the flow rate of a volume of air passing therethrough. In an embodiment, the coil [258] as already present in the evaporator [200] is used as an anemometer for air flow measurement purposes; and as such, the terms "anemometer" and "heating element" have been used interchangeably in description. The anemometer can usually be placed somewhere inside the duct [278] where it will be directly exposed to the air flow therein. In one example, the anemometer operates based on the principle of a hot-wire anemometer. In the current implementation of the anemometer in the evaporator [200], current and voltage measurements are taken directly from the heating element [258] during operation. Additionally, several other parameters of the coil [258] are determined, including operating temperature, material composition and dimensions. These measurements are first used to calculate the resistance of the coil [258] before any flow to establish a calibration offset or "baseline". As the air begins to flow through the coil [258], some of the heat is dissipated into the air and therefore cools the coil [258] slightly. Since a material's resistance is proportional to its temperature, this temperature change results in a measurable deviation from the baseline resistance. And according to Joule's law of heating, the cooling rate is proportional to the amount of air being heated, so it can be inferred that the deviation may be proportional to the flow rate. Therefore, the flow rate of this amount of air through the evaporator [200] can be determined simply by algorithmically correlating the current and voltage with the resistance deviation when the coil [258] is operating. The air flow as calculated can be used to estimate the amount of concentrate consumed by the user compared to the amount of concentrate squeezed out of the cartridge [210].

In one aspect, the mouthpiece [276] is removable to slidably receive the cartridge [210] within the housing [202]. The communication unit [224] may be configured to transmit the identification code to the user device [110], wherein the user device [110] is configured to display information associated with the concentrate based on the identification code. The control unit [220] may be configured to receive instructions from the user device [110] via the communication unit [224] to activate heating of the coil [258]. In an exemplary scenario, the user device [110] may display dose information based on at least one of an identification code, the user's identity, the user's medical history, and previous doses. On the other hand, downstream of the conduit [278] there may be a filter for filtering the evaporated concentrate.

The evaporator [200] is configured to provide an airtight seal when loaded to increase efficiency, while also providing greater user accessibility to facilitate cleaning of the unit before/after use to ensure optimal performance.

Existing evaporators use combustion or convection technology to evaporate concentrated oil. The active compounds of the concentrated oil are transported more efficiently via convection without producing unhealthy levels of by-products such as tar (PAH) and carbon monoxide, and as such, this is the evaporation method of choice. However, it is also more difficult to achieve and maintain a constant temperature at/on the oil for efficient evaporation using traditional convection techniques. Additionally, oil has a tendency to flash and wick when exposed to heat, producing a decrease in the efficiency of current evaporators. These systems also exhibit overheating after a few uses, requiring safety circuitry to protect users from burns. Available evaporators use a variety of methods to attempt to provide controlled convective heating of concentrated oil, including flowing hot air into an oil-containing chamber with limited surface area for flash evaporation, distributing the oil to areas where excess heat is required for evaporation Large dosing pads, and batch heating require more oil than is required resulting in inefficient delivery of vapor. The evaporator [200] utilizes a concentrate product oven that mitigates wicking, provides integrated components for increased evaporation efficiency, and provides simple precision components for micro-dosing control of evaporated product that avoids the frustrations noted above.

Existing vaporizers have a time lag between when the user activates the "ignition" button (i.e., power to the vaporizer unit) and when the vaporizer unit is ready for the user to inhale vapor of heated concentrated oil. The time lapse of currently available vaporizers can range from 5 seconds to 90 seconds, depending on the device and its heating method. User convenience is compromised because time lapse requires the user to continue holding the "fire" button until the device signals that it is ready to inhale. Additionally, the user must continue to hold the "fire" button over time until the desired inhalation/dose is completed. Such unit operation results in considerable wastage of electrical power and unnecessary evaporator heating.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a block diagram of a system 100 for managing a user's concentrate usage according to defined operating parameters is shown, as described in the description below, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Continuing with the description of FIG. 1 , in one example, the user device [300] may be a laptop computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or the like. User devices [110] are communicatively coupled to a central server [112] over a network. The network can be a wireless network, a wired network, or a combination thereof. A network may also be a single network, or a collection of many such separate networks that are interconnected with each other and act as a single large network (such as the Internet or an Intranet). A network may be implemented as one of different types of networks, such as an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, etc.

In one example, the central server [112] may be a server, desktop computer, notebook computer, portable computer, workstation, mainframe computer, and laptop computer. In one implementation, the central server [112] may be a distributed or centralized network system, where different computing devices may host one or more of the hardware or software components of the central server [112]. Additionally, in one example, the central server [112] may be configured with an open application programming interface (API) to facilitate communication with other computer systems, such as a hospital electronic health record (EHR) system. The central server [112] includes a database [114] and user profile data [116]. The database [114] includes multiple identification codes and corresponding concentrate information. As previously mentioned, each identification code from the plurality of identification codes corresponds to a concentrate and is therefore linked to the concentrate information corresponding to that concentrate. In one example, the vendor implementing the central server [112] maintains the database [114]. For example, the supplier may use a computing device such as the user device [110] to generate an identification code for the concentrate. The supplier can then use a computing device to upload the identification code and concentrate information corresponding to that concentrate to a central server [116]. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, for each cartridge [210] filled with concentrate, an identification code corresponding to the concentrate is stored on the memory module [216] of the cartridge [210]. As explained in the description below, assigning an identification code to the cartridge [210] facilitates monitoring and managing the user's concentrate usage.

In one example, a user may perform one or more vaporization sessions using the vaporizer [200]. Prior to conducting a vaporization session using the vaporizer [200], the user may initially register him/herself with the provider of the vaporizer [200]. In order to register, the user may install an application associated with the vaporization device 200 on the user device [110]. The application provides users with a graphical user interface for accessing services and operations associated with the evaporator [200]. For example, a user may use the application to operate or change one or more functions of the evaporator [200]. In another example, a user can use the application to obtain information about a concentrate stored in a cartridge [210]. Once the application is installed, the user device [110] is configured to record user information associated with the user. User information may include, but is not limited to, the user's name, age, height, weight, gender, and medical history.

In one example, the user device [300] transmits user information to the central server [112] for registering the user. As can be appreciated, user information may be transmitted through communication links that implement predetermined security protocols and standards for ensuring the security of user information. Upon receiving the user information, the central server [112] may be configured to generate a user profile for the user based on the user information. As can be appreciated, once a user profile is generated, the user may not need to register for subsequent vaporization sessions. In one example, the user profile may be updated to include additional information in addition to user information. Additional information may include session logs associated with the user's vaporization sessions, information about one or more concentrates used by the user, information about the efficacy of the concentrates related to the user's reasons for using the concentrate in the vaporization session, and One or more recommendations for the user. In one example, additional information is included in the user profile based on session data related to the current vaporization session and subsequent vaporization sessions, as explained in the description below. In one example, the central server [112] stores user profiles in user profile data [116]. In one example, user profile data [116] may be stored in a single database (not shown). In another example, user profile data [116] may be stored in a distributed or unlinked database (not shown) communicatively coupled to a central server [112]. In the above example, a single database or a distributed database stores user information in compliance with predefined security protocols, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

As mentioned above, in one example, the user may be informed of the concentrate being used in the cartridge [210]. In such cases, the control unit [220] is configured to read the identification code stored in the memory module [216]. When reading the identification code, the control unit [220] may trigger the communication unit [224] to transmit the identification code to the user device [110]. The communication unit [224] transmits the identification code to the user device [110] via the antenna therein. In one embodiment, in the case of manual loading of concentrate, the user device [110] may obtain an identification code from the user. For example, the user may provide an identification code corresponding to the concentrate through user input. In another example, the user may scan the identification code using the user device [110]. For example, if the identification code is a barcode, the user may turn on the camera (not shown) of the user device [110] for capturing the barcode.

In one example, the user device [110] is configured to transmit the identification code to the central server [112] for obtaining concentrate information corresponding to the concentrate. Upon receiving the identification code, the central server [112] is configured to retrieve concentrate information corresponding to the identification code from the database [114]. The retrieved concentrate information is then transmitted by the central server [112] to the user device [110] for display of the concentrate information to the user. In an alternative example, the communication unit [224] in the evaporator [200] is able to transmit the identification code directly to the central server [112], eg using a Wi-Fi module, cellular module or the like. Additionally, the vaporizer [200] includes a screen (not shown) such as an electronic ink display to display concentrate information directly onto the vaporizer [200].

In one example, the user device [110] may receive and store the concentrate information in an internal memory module (not shown) of the user device [110]. In one example, upon receiving user input for displaying the concentrate information, the user device [110] is configured to display the concentrate information to the user through a display screen (not shown) of the user device [110]. In one example, the displayed concentrate information may include the name of the concentrate, the amount of concentrate remaining in the cartridge [210], and the chemical composition of the concentrate. Displaying concentrate information to the user enhances the user's awareness of the concentrate the user is using for the vaporization session. For example, make the user aware of the chemical composition of the concentrate. Therefore, the user may choose to continue using the concentrate, or may prefer to change the concentrate based on chemical composition.

In one example, when a user of vaporizer [200] attempts to perform a vaporization session, the user may provide at least one user input to user device [110]. For example, the user may provide user input for selecting a reason to perform a vaporization session. In this case, the user device [110] is configured to display to the user a list of reasons for performing a vaporization session. The user can then select a reason from a list of reasons. In another example, the user may provide user input that defines the reason for performing the vaporization session. Additionally, the user device [110] logs the reason and may update the reason list to include the user-defined reasons. Additionally, the user may provide user input for determining the amount of concentrate to be administered during the vaporization session. In addition to determining the amount of concentrate to be applied, the user may operate the vaporizer [200] for extruding the determined amount into the vaporization chamber [256]. Additionally, the user may provide user input for configuring the temperature settings of the evaporator [200]. Thereafter, the user may provide user input for triggering the vaporization session. Upon receiving user input, the user device [110] is configured to transmit to the vaporizer [200] at least one instruction for triggering a vaporization session.

Upon receiving at least one instruction, the evaporator [200] may configure the coil [258] to a configured temperature for evaporating the concentrate at that temperature. In one example, the concentrate information may also include predetermined temperature settings depending on the concentrate type. Furthermore, the control unit [220] may be configured to control the coil [258] based on the temperature setting in the concentrate information. It will be appreciated that by providing user input via the user device [110], the user may elect to override the predetermined temperature setting to a desired temperature setting for a particular vaporization session. The control unit [220] may control the thermal energy generated by the coil [258] based on instructions input according to the user. Once the concentrate has evaporated, the user may receive a notification indicating that the evaporator [200] is ready for use. In one example, the notification is displayed via a first indicator light on the evaporator [200]. In another example, notifications are provided via messages on the user device [110]. In yet another example, notification is provided through both a first indicator light and a message.

In one example, when the vaporization session ends, ie, when the user no longer vaporizes using the vaporizer [200] for a predetermined time, the user device [110] is configured to generate session data corresponding to the vaporization session. In one example, the session data may include the reason for performing the vaporization session, the amount of concentrate administered to the user, and the temperature setting at which the vaporization session was performed. The user device [110] then transmits the session data to the central server [112]. In one example, the central server [112] receives session data from the user device [110]. Upon receiving session data, the central server [112] is configured to update the user profile [116].

In an embodiment, the user device [110] is configured to generate a user questionnaire related to the user's vaporization session. In one example, the user questionnaire may include one or more questions related to the vaporization session. For example, the user questionnaire may include questions regarding concentrate efficacy, temperature settings of the evaporator [200], and other such questions. The user device [110] can then display the user questionnaire to the user. In another embodiment, the central server [112] may be configured to generate a user questionnaire upon receipt of session data and may transmit the user questionnaire to the user device [110] for display to the user. In one example, the user questionnaire is displayed to the user after a predetermined time interval (eg, thirty minutes after a vaporization session).

In another embodiment, the user device [110] may be configured to capture data from a health/biological data capture device (eg, AliveCor's Kardia | Omron), and the user device [110] may communicate with a central server [112] or The vaporizer [102] transmits and/or exchanges health/biological data.

Subsequently, the user device [110] is configured to receive user feedback from the user based on the user questionnaire. In one example, the user questionnaire may include one or more answers to questions included in the user questionnaire. Once user feedback is received, the user device [110] transmits the user feedback to the central server [112]. In one example, the central server [112] may store user feedback in user profile data [116] and may associate the user feedback with the user's user profile. In one example, the central server [112] can update user profiles based on user feedback. For example, the central server [112] can update additional information based on user feedback.

In one embodiment, the central server [112] is configured to generate recommendations for users. To this end, the central server [112] identifies multiple users based on one or more user parameters associated with the users. User parameters may include, but are not limited to, the user's age, height, and weight. Upon identifying multiple users, the central server [112] is configured to retrieve user feedback associated with the multiple users. Once the user feedback is retrieved, the central server [112] is configured to analyze the user feedback to generate recommendations for the user. For example, the central server [112] may identify other concentrates used by multiple users for vaporization sessions similar to the user's vaporization session. Among other concentrates identified, the central server [112] can identify concentrates in demand by other users based on user feedback. The central server [112] can then generate recommendations related to concentrates. Once the central server [112] generates the recommendations, the central server [112] transmits the recommendations to the user device [110]. The user device [110] can then display the suggestions to the user. In one example, the central server [112] may additionally transmit the generated recommendations to the user device of the user's registered physician.

Figure 6 depicts an exemplary cartridge [210] configured to store concentrate. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the cartridge [210] may include a nozzle [218] at one end with a smart chip [216] configured thereon. The smart chip [216] may have an identification code associated with the concentrate. In another embodiment, the exemplary cartridge [210] has a tip seal [602] assembled thereon to prevent concentrate product from evaporating from the cartridge canister [604], such as during handling and/or use. leakage.

In one aspect, the tip seal [602] includes a diaphragm [606/804] that seals against the nozzle insert [603]. The diaphragm [606] can be elastomer (TPE, silicone rubber, etc.) or other flexible elastic materials. On the other hand, upon turning the metering wheel [232], the plunger driver assembly [212] actuates the plunger [214] into the cartridge tank [604] and thereby causes concentrate product to be dispensed by a downward actuation force. The diaphragm [804] is forced to deform away from the nozzle insert [603], past the diaphragm [804], and thus allows the concentrate to be extruded through the tip seal [602] onto the diffuser.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a dosing mechanism [900] is provided at the other end of the cartridge [210]. The dosing mechanism [900] may be adjacent the mouthpiece and includes a plunger [214], a plunger driver [212], and a cartridge lock [608]. The metering wheel may actuate the metering mechanism [212], wherein the metering wheel is rotatably coupled to the plunger driver [212]. As the metering wheel rotates, the plunger driver [212] can drive the plunger [214] within the cartridge tank [604] to release a predetermined amount of concentrate. The metering wheel is configured to be turned unidirectionally (ie, in one direction only) by the user through the use of a pawl. The detent prevents the user from releasing the cartridge [210] and thereby preventing [214] withdrawing the plunger [214] from the cartridge canister [604].

In one aspect, to ensure proper dispensing of concentrate product, an exemplary detent may be configured on the cartridge lock [608] to rotatably communicate with a slot on the plunger [214]. The engagement of the pawl on the cartridge lock [608] with the slot on the plunger [214] constrains bidirectional rotation of the plunger/plunger driver [214/212] even when the cartridge [210] is removed from the evaporator This is also the case. Additionally, when assembled, the pawl is hidden by the plunger driver [212], thus alleviating the user's ability to disassemble the cartridge [600]. The nozzle [218/800] squeezes the concentrate product stored in the cartridge tank [604] onto the oven.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the plunger [214] and plunger driver [212] are fixedly attached to ensure that when the plunger driver [212] is rotated by the metering wheel, the plunger [214] is Scheduled advance in tank [604].

Figure 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of a cartridge [700] configured for dispensing a generally non-liquid concentrate (eg, powder, leaf, flower, wax, etc.). The exemplary cartridge [700] provides similar operation to the cartridge [210]. The cartridge [700] typically dispenses non-liquid concentrate (eg, powder) by utilizing an auger [702]. A cartridge [700] including a driver [704], a nozzle [706], a smart chip [216], etc. are communicatively operable within the system [100] to provide dose control and dose integrity data within the network. The auger [702] can move laterally downward into the cartridge canister [710] when rotated by a driver [704] which can be rotated by a user via a nut [712].

Figure 8A depicts an exemplary nozzle [800] in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the nozzle [800] is made from a high temperature polymer material such as stainless steel, polysulfone, high temperature liquid crystal polymer (such as Vectra ^™ or PEEK) or is designed to operate under continuous exposure to evaporation temperatures (typically <550F) other materials operated under conditions. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the evaporation temperature is controlled so as to avoid combustion temperature and/or denaturation of the concentrate product. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the nozzle has a circumferential groove [802] to mate with exemplary features constructed on the oven seal seat [1116], as shown in Figure 11B, to provide an airtight seal and, in this way, the user The negative pressure suction period eliminates the inflow of air into the oven. In one aspect, the nozzle [218/800] is configured to have stepped and flared features [802] (i.e., circumferential grooves [802]) at the nozzle outlet to mitigate wicking of oil-based concentrate product toward the nozzle .

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the nozzle [218/800] is configured with a diaphragm [804] or other similar configuration to control the flow of concentrate product from the cartridge. The exemplary nozzle [218/800] is configured on and cooperates with the cartridge [210/700] to provide dose control and dose integrity, respectively. As shown in Figure 8B, the example nozzle [218/800] includes a tip seal that includes a nozzle insert [806] and a diaphragm [804]. In the closed position, the exemplary diaphragm [804] seals against the insert in the nozzle. On turning the metering wheel [232], the plunger driver [212] actuates the plunger [214] into the cartridge tank [604] and thereby allows the concentrate product to deform the elastomeric diaphragm away from the insert, thus allowing The concentrate is squeezed through the top seal [804] onto the diffuser.

Reference will be made again to FIGS. 4 and 6 for explaining FIG. 9 . As shown in Figure 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the dose integrity mechanism [900] includes an anti-release feature using a detent [902] located in the dosing mechanism [900]. A pawl [902] located in the cartridge lock [608] mates with a longitudinal slot [904] located in the plunger [214] and restrains rotational movement of the plunger driver [212] in the opposite direction, thereby preventing the user from inadvertently Release the plunger drive [212]. The exemplary detent [902] provides additional assurance against mix-up of several doses delivered via the cartridge [210]. In one embodiment, the user cannot disassemble the pawl [902] without deactivating the cartridge [210] because the pawl [902] is recessed within the plunger driver [212]. Additionally, the pawl [902] provides anti-wraparound of the metering wheel to alleviate confusion regarding dose tracking and management of the vaporizer [200].

In one example, the plunger driver [212] advances the plunger [214] downwardly along the threaded body of the cartridge lock [608]. The downward movement of the plunger [214] causes the concentrate product to be extruded from the nozzle [218]. By turning the metering wheel [232], the pawl [902] is spring-tensioned against the plunger [214] and clicks when the pawl [902] comes to rest in the longitudinal groove [906] of the plunger [214] "Click" sound. The "click" sound provides auditory feedback to the user that the desired amount/dose of concentrate product (eg 2.5 mg) has been delivered for vaporization.

Figure 10 illustrates an oven system [1000] according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The oven system [1000] includes a coil [258] (not shown) located inside a heat-resistant tube [1002] that concentrates air flow [1004] on the heating coil [258] for heating. Heat is efficiently transferred from the coil [258] to the negative pressure air flow [1006]. The tube [1002] may be constructed from ceramic or other materials that provide thermal resistance. In one embodiment, ambient air intake is directed into a negative pressure air flow [1006] around the exterior of the tube [1002] to promote enhanced heat transfer from the heating coil [258].

To improve heating efficiency, the ambient air intake is aligned around the outside of the oven tube to facilitate further heat transfer from the heating coil [258] and redirected back into the negative pressure air flow [1006].

The oven system [1000] includes a dose diffuser [1100], as shown in Figures 11A-11C. The exemplary diffuser [1100] is a two-piece component designed to efficiently evaporate concentrate product. The outer part of the diffuser [1100] is made of heat-resistant ceramic material, but other heat-resistant materials can also be used. The interior portion of the diffuser [1100] is filled with a low density porous stainless steel matrix or screen [1120]. For example, the porous stainless steel matrix [1120] may be configured to have approximately 60 pores per inch; however, other mesh sizes may be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

Compared to wire mesh, porous materials [1120] provide a much higher surface/density ratio to greatly improve evaporation efficiency (i.e., more surface area for concentrate spread, and less substrate to heat). Porous materials [1120] also minimize air resistance compared to wire mesh.

In one aspect of the disclosure, an exemplary dose diffuser [1100] is configured with three ports. The first port [1112] is directly aligned with the outlet port of the heater chamber to allow heat to be absorbed into the porous matrix during inhalation by the user. The second port [1114] is positioned proximally on the top of the diffuser [1100] opposite the first port [1112]. The second port [1110] provides a means for the nozzle [218/800] to extend into the interior of the diffuser [1100].

In one embodiment, the oven seal [1116] provides an airtight seal between the nozzle [218/800] and the second port [1114]. The oven seal [1116] cooperates with the nozzle [218/800] to eliminate the flow of air into the oven [1000] during negative pressure inhalation by the user. The third port (exit port) [1114] is directly aligned with the conduit [278] (i.e., the air path for the vaporized concentrate) and provides an airtight seal between the third port [1114] and the conduit [278] .

By referring to Figure 11C, during operation of the evaporator [200] of the present disclosure, when the oven lid [266] is closed, the user squeezes out the concentrate product by indexing the metering wheel [232]. The concentrate is then deposited into a porous matrix [1120]. When the user fires the evaporator [200] and subsequently draws air through the duct [278], the heated air "H" is drawn through the oven [1100], through the internal porous matrix [1120] to the duct [278] and It is discharged into the body of the user [111] via the suction nozzle [276].

In an exemplary aspect, heated air "H" is drawn through the interior porous matrix, thereby heating the porous matrix and deposited concentrate "C". The concentrate is then flashed through the porous matrix [1120] in the direction of air flow "V". For example, when the vapor transition temperature of the concentrated oil is exceeded, the concentrated oil in the porous matrix [1120] continues to dilute and transform into vapor. The thermally resistive properties of the shell [202] efficiently contain heat within the porous matrix [1120]. In this manner, the exemplary device [200] provides the ability to micro-dosage concentrated oil.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the vaporizer [200] and, for example, the cartridge [210/700] may provide heated air to vaporize the concentrate only when the user applies negative pressure at the mouthpiece (i.e., inhales) . The heating coil [258] is activated when negative air pressure is sensed in the evaporator [200] by using, for example, an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor or by monitoring changes in power draw to maintain the set temperature at the coil.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figure 12, a vaporizer device allows a user to intentionally select a desired dose (eg, micro-dosing) via iterative indexing of the dose wheel [232]. Each graduation is captured via pairing an IR emitter [1202]/detector [1204] arrangement with a slot in the dose wheel [232] (ie, encoder wheel configuration). In one aspect, the vaporizer [200] notifies the user that they have completed inhalation of the desired/administered dose. According to this aspect, the device provides a hardware/software feedback loop whereby 1) the user presses and holds the "ignition" button where the evaporator [200] draws current from the battery through the heating coil [258] in order to heat the coil to the set temperature, 2) once the set temperature is established and maintained by the PID control system (note: changes in current draw are small and predictable), the user draws air through the evaporator; 3) the incoming air flow cools the heating coil [258], the device is required to respond quickly to ramps in current in order to maintain the set temperature, and 4) the change in amperage can be detected and therefore used to accurately identify when the user is drawing from the device.

IR emitter [1202] and detector [1204] sets are paired on opposite sides of the conduit [278] to detect the presence of vapor in the conduit [278]. In an exemplary embodiment, conduit [278] may be a clear borosilicate glass air path. When vapor is present in the conduit [278], it scatters the IR light and causes the detector to collect less IR light. Therefore, when the user presses and holds the Fire button and draws air through the system, the vaporizer [200] monitors the presence of vapor traveling upward in the air path, and the device notifies the mobile application that vapor is being drawn in. When no vapor is detected after a set period of time when the user inhales, the device notifies the mobile app via BLE communication that the dose has been fully inhaled. This completes a feedback loop that knows how much concentrate product to prepare for delivery (via dosing wheel indexing) and when all of the concentrate product has been inhaled.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the vaporizer device [200] provides a retention identification code that may be implemented by installing a smart chip [216/708] onto the cartridge that is programmed when the cartridge is filled. Applications can then use this code to access unique information corresponding to the identification code, such as product name, fraction fill batch information, lab results, product temperature limits, etc. Therefore, a smart chip [216/708] such as an EEPROM is programmable, and the chip can also be programmed by the device during use with information, such as the dose remaining in the cartridge tank [604/710]. Not only is this helpful to the user, but it also prevents misuse by allowing the device to deactivate the cartridge band when attempting to use beyond the programmed volume life of the cartridge.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a vaporizer [200], a removable mouthpiece with an integrated diffuser tool is provided, wherein the mouthpiece [276]:

a) Provide cartridge loading access,

b) is removable and replaceable,

c) provide an airtight seal at the top of the conduit,

d) Cooperates with a push-button latch on the case body to provide intuitive locking and unlocking of the nozzle to the case body,

e) Provide pre-loading of concentrate products,

f) Used as a tool for removing dose diffusers.

Figure 13 illustrates a method [1300] for administering a concentrate to a user using a vaporizer [200]. The vaporizer [200] may be configured to monitor and control various aspects of the user's concentrate usage. The order in which the method [1300] is described is not intended to be a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the method or alternative methods. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

At step [1302], the control unit of the evaporator reads the identification code associated with the concentrate. At step [1304], the communication unit of the vaporizer may transmit the identification code to the user device. At step [1306], the central server may receive the identification code from the user device, wherein the central server includes a database storing a plurality of identification codes for a plurality of concentrate information. At step [1308], the concentrate information corresponding to the received identification code is retrieved from the database. At step [1310], the retrieved concentrate information is transmitted to the user device for display to the user.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a vaporizer, system and method for preventing concentrate abuse, maintaining dose integrity, and improved oven systems are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, information such as user profile, dosage information, concentrate consumed, concentrate remaining, etc. is stored in at least a smart chip and/or control unit in the vaporizer, user device and server.

In an exemplary embodiment, this information is used to control the operation of the evaporator. For example, if the information stored in the smart chip allows the user to consume xmg/ml per day. And based on the usage stored in the smart chip, it is clear that the user has consumed said xmg/ml. In this case, even if the user rotates the evaporator's dosing wheel, the oven system will not heat to prevent the user from abusing the concentrate.

In an embodiment, the oven system is controlled by at least one of a smart chip, a control unit, a server, a user device, and a user's physician.

In another aspect, the remaining concentrate information is utilized by at least one of the smart chip, the control unit, the user device and the server to control the oven system. For example, based on the remaining concentrate information, zero dose remaining is determined. The vaporizer will not evaporate using the (empty) cartridge in the device. Additionally, the cartridge can never be used again. This mitigates the risk of someone refilling and reusing the cartridge with a different concentrate than the one originally programmed at the time of manufacture/filling.

In this specification and the appended claims, reference will be made to a number of terms having the following meanings. The terms "a" (or "an") and "the" refer to one or more of the entity and thereby include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, the terms "a" (or "piece"), "one or more" and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "an embodiment," etc. are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximation language may apply to any quantitative representation in which modification may permit variation without resulting in a change in the essential function to which it is associated. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as "about" is not limited to the precise value specified. In some cases, the approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Terms such as "first," "second," "upper," "lower" and the like are used to identify one element from another element and are not intended to refer to a specific order or number of elements unless stated otherwise. .

As used herein, the terms "could" and "could be" indicate the possibility of occurring within a set of circumstances: possessing a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or by expressing the ability associated with the qualified verb ( To qualify another verb with one or more of ability, capability, or possibility. Thus, the use of "may" and "could be" indicates that the modified term is clearly suitable, capable, or suitable for the indicated ability, function, or use, taking into account that there may be circumstances in which the modified term may not sometimes be suitable, capable, or suitable. For example, there are circumstances in which an event or ability can be expected to occur, whereas in other circumstances the event or ability cannot be expected to occur—a distinction captured by the terms "can" and "could be."

As used in the claims, the word "comprises" and its grammatical variations are also logically encompassed and include variations and varying degrees of phrases such as, for example, but not limited to, "consisting essentially of" and "Consists of". Ranges are supplied where necessary, and those ranges include all subranges between them. It is expected that variations in these ranges will reveal themselves to one of ordinary skill in the art and it is intended that the appended claims cover those variations therein not being specifically disclosed to the public.

As used herein, the terms "determine," "calculate," and "compute" and variations thereof are used interchangeably and include any type of method, process, mathematical operation, or technique.

The foregoing discussion of the present disclosure has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. Features of embodiments, configurations or aspects of the present disclosure may be combined in alternative embodiments, configurations or aspects in addition to those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, what is claimed lies in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this disclosure.

Advances in science and technology may make possible equivalents and alternatives not now conceivable due to imprecision in language; these changes are intended to be covered by the appended claims. This written description uses examples to disclose the methods, machines and computer-readable media, including the best mode, and also to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the same, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Component list

Title: Improved evaporators, systems and methods for managing concentrate usage

100 systems

102 evaporator

104 cartridge

106 control unit

108 communication unit

110 user devices

111 users

112 central server

114 database

116 User Profile Data

117 (one or more) users

200 evaporator

202 shell

204 Part 1

206 Second half

208 groove

210, 700 cartridge

211 storage tank

212 plunger driver

213, 902 pawl

214 plunger

216 Memory module, smart chip

218, 800 nozzle

220 control unit

224 communication unit

226 power supply

232 Metering wheel

249 incision

250 oven

252 oven shell

256 evaporation chamber

258 coil

260 dose diffuser

266 Oven lid

272 vents

276 nozzle

278 catheter

280 power button

282 Ignition button

602 tip seal

603 Nozzle Insert

604, 710 cartridge tank

606, 804 Diaphragm

608 cartridge lock

610 nozzle cap

700 cartridge

702 Auger

704 drive

706 nozzle

708 smart chip

712 Nut

802 circumferential groove

804 Diaphragm

806 Nozzle Insert

900 Dose Integrity Agency

904 Longitudinal groove

1000 oven system

1002 tube

1004 air flow

1006 Negative pressure air flow

1100 Diffuser

1110 Second port

1112 first port

1114 Exit/Third Port

1116 Oven seal

1120 porous matrix

1202 IR transmitter

1204 IR detector

1300 methods

1302 steps

1304 steps

1306 steps

1308 steps

1310 steps

Claims (24)

1. An evaporator, comprising: Housing, which includes: A cartridge configured to store a concentrate, wherein the cartridge includes a concentrate storage tank, a nozzle at one end, a smart chip having an identification code associated with the concentrate, and a dosing mechanism at the other end , and wherein the metering mechanism includes a plunger driver, a pawl, and a plunger; actuating a metering wheel of the dosing mechanism, wherein the metering wheel is rotatably coupled to the plunger driver; an oven including a coil placed within a heat-resistant tube, an air flow channel in communication with ambient air and a suction negative pressure air flow, and a dose diffuser containing a porous material matrix; and a control unit configured to heat the coil of the oven based on at least one of an ignition button, an in-line pressure sensor, a fan/IR reflector sensor, and the identification code associated with the concentrate; a vapor detection system including an IR emitter and a detector configured to detect concentrate vapor in the conduit when a user inhales the vaporized concentrate; A smart chip configured to track and record the dosage of concentrate in the concentrate storage tank; and wherein when negative pressure is generated by the user by inhaling through the mouthpiece, the control unit heats the coil, the coil is configured to heat an air flow generated by the negative pressure, and wherein the heated air flow causes the squeeze The squeezed out concentrate evaporates, and wherein after the dosing wheel is rotated by the user, the squeezed out concentrate is dispensed through the nozzle onto the porous material matrix of the dose diffuser, and the The plunger driver drives the plunger within the cartridge to release a predetermined amount of the concentrate. 2. The vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece is removable to slidably receive the cartridge within the housing. 3. The vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the identification code associated with the concentrate is stored in a memory module consisting of a near field communication (NFC) device, a QR code, a barcode, The memory module is communicatively coupled to the control unit. 4. The evaporator of claim 1, wherein the metering mechanism is an auger delivery mechanism. 5. The evaporator of claim 1, wherein the metering wheel is a hollow cylinder surrounding the plunger driver such that the rotation of the metering wheel causes rotation of the plunger driver. 6. The evaporator of claims 1 and 5, wherein the plunger driver is mechanically engaged with the plunger and the pawl, whereby the metering wheel is rotated by the user. As the plunger driver rotates, the plunger is driven laterally downward. 7. The evaporator of claims 1, 5 and 6, wherein the pawl allows unidirectional rotation of the metering wheel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. 8. The evaporator according to claims 1 and 5, wherein the metering wheel emits a clicking sound when rotated to a predetermined degree, and wherein one click of the metering wheel releases the said metering wheel through the nozzle. A predetermined amount of said concentrate. 9. The vaporizer of claim 1, further comprising a communication unit configured to transmit the identification code to a user device, wherein the user device is configured to display information related to the concentrate based on the identification code. associated information. 10. Evaporator according to claims 1 and 9, wherein the control unit is configured to receive instructions from the user device via the communication unit to activate heating of the coil. 11. The vaporizer of claim 9, wherein the user device displays dosage information based on at least one of the identification code, the user's identity, the user's medical history, and previous dosages. 12. The evaporator of claim 1, further comprising a power supply in communication with the control unit, wherein the power supply is configured to supply electrical energy to the coil. 13. The evaporator of claims 1 and 12, further comprising a power button located on the housing and in communication with the control unit, wherein the power button when pressed by the user allows access from the A power supply supplies electrical energy to the coil. 14. The vaporizer of claim 1, further comprising a conduit proximal to the dose diffuser, wherein the conduit is connected to the mouthpiece to allow the vaporized concentrate to travel as the user inhales . 15. The evaporator of claims 1 and 14, further comprising a filter downstream of the conduit for filtering the evaporated concentrate. 16. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the metering wheel, plunger driver and plunger rotate in one direction. 17. The evaporator of claim 1, further comprising an infrared emitter and detector pair, wherein the infrared emitter and detector pair registers graduations of the metering wheel. 18. The nozzle of claim 1, further comprising a tip seal configured to prevent damage to the cartridge storage tank. 19. A cartridge configured to store a concentrate, comprising: Concentrate storage tanks; a nozzle at one end; A smart chip configured on the cartridge to track and record the dose of concentrate in the concentrate storage tank, the smart chip including an identification code associated with the concentrate, wherein the smart chip is in conjunction with a control unit communicatively coupled, the control unit configured to read the identification code from the smart chip, the control unit configured to control operation of the evaporator; and A metering mechanism at the other end, wherein the metering mechanism includes a plunger driver, a pawl and a plunger. 20. The cartridge of claim 19, wherein the metering mechanism is communicatively coupled to a metering wheel to actuate the metering mechanism, wherein the metering wheel is rotatably coupled to the plunger driver. 21. The nozzle of claim 19, further comprising a tip seal, wherein the tip seal includes a diaphragm. 22. The cartridge of claim 19, wherein the metering wheel, plunger driver and plunger cooperatively rotate in one direction. 23. The cartridge of claim 19, wherein the detent is concealed by the assembly of the plunger, plunger driver, and cartridge lock to prevent removal, concentrate refill, or access to the concentrate storage tank of other damage. 24. The cartridge of claim 19, wherein the smart chip includes means for tracking doses of concentrate from an initial manufacture of the cartridge, and The smart chip further includes means for preventing refilling of the concentrate storage tank and/or reprogramming the smart chip.