US20140041655A1

US20140041655A1 - Portable Vaporizer

Info

Publication number: US20140041655A1
Application number: US13/961,947
Authority: US
Inventors: Anthony Barron; Chris Folkerts
Original assignee: Grenco Science Inc
Current assignee: Grenco Science Inc
Priority date: 2012-08-11
Filing date: 2013-08-08
Publication date: 2014-02-13
Also published as: WO2014028337A1

Abstract

A portable vaporizer is provided. The portable vaporizer includes a power module, a vaporization chamber, and a mouthpiece. The vaporization chamber includes a vaporization tank, which includes a tube, a tank base, a heating element contained within the tube, a vaporization basket for holding vaporization materials, and a cylindrical space between the herb basket and the tube. When the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube is heated and causes the materials in the basket to vaporize.

Description

This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/682,199, filed Aug. 11, 2012, entitled “Portable Vaporizer.”

BACKGROUND

1. Field
The present design relates to an electronic vaporizer for personal use that emits vapor for treatment of a variety of medical conditions.
2. Description of the Related Art
In the medical community, the extraction of the active ingredients of plant materials such as herbs, oils, waxes and other beneficial materials can be used to treat a variety of conditions. Individuals and herbalist also use extraction of active ingredients for personal aromatherapy and treatment of conditions. The extracted ingredients are then delivered via inhalation to a user.
Combustion of combustibles such as plant materials has been used to extract the active ingredients. In addition to medical uses and personal aromatherapy, the burning of tobacco has been used for centuries to release nicotine in cigarettes. Combustion of all these materials does extract active ingredients, but also creates carcinogenic compounds that are inhaled into the system along with the active ingredients. Therefore, there has been a need for an improved system of releasing the active ingredients. Vaporization has been one method increasingly used.
There are two main types of heat transfer currently understood for vaporization. These are conduction and convection. Conduction heat transfer is heating of matter through direct contact. The heating element transfers heat directly to whatever it is touching. Convection heats an element through a fluid, such as air. In convection heating, air passes through a heating element and is heated to the desired temperature and then passed through the material to be vaporized.
Personal vaporizers have been used to extract for inhalation the active ingredients of plant materials, such as herbs, oils, waxes and other beneficial materials. Vaporization is an alternative to burning that avoids the production of irritating toxic and carcinogenic by-products by heating the material so its active compounds boil off into a vapor. Vaporizers generally heat the tobacco or other material, possibly in a partial vacuum, such that the active compounds boil off into a vapor containing almost no particulate matter. Because no combustion occurs, no smoke or taste of smoke occurs, also maximizing the intended effects of ingredients through a smooth, cool vapor. Unlike smoke, the vapor from a vaporizer is pure and does not dirty the air. It also allows for less wasting of material, making it more efficient.
Electronic cigarettes, or other portable, personal vaporizers, generally turn a liquid solution into an aerosol mist, simulating the act of tobacco smoking Liquid nicotine, aka “electronic cigarette juice” or “e-juice,” is absorbed into cotton pads inside a cylinder. E-juice is often a solution of vegetable glycerin and/or polyethylene glycol mixed with concentrated flavors and optionally a percentage of a liquid nicotine concentrate. Electronic cigarettes are used either as smoking cessation devices or as healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes or other tobacco smoking devices.
Electronic cigarettes generally contain three components: a cartridge that serves as a mouthpiece and a reservoir for liquid, an “atomizer” that vaporizes the liquid, and a battery. The cartridge allows the passage of liquid into the atomizer and vapor from the atomizer to the user's mouth. An atomizer generally contains a small heating element such as a coil to vaporize the liquid and a wicking metal mesh or other wick to draw the liquid in.
Other vaporizers are traditionally large, non-portable devices that are difficult to be transported around. These large vaporizers usually contain various forms of extraction chambers to reduce the harmful effects of smoking Someone who is using a vaporizer for a holistic or other medical reason must stay in the house or go back to the home to use the device.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present design, a portable vaporizer is provided comprising: a power module including a battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a control housing, connected to the battery tube; and a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery; a vaporization chamber connectable to the power module, including: a vaporization tank, including: a tube; a tank base connected to the tube; a vaporization basket inside the tube and adapted to hold vaporization materials a heating element inside the tube; and a cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; an a mouthpiece connectable to the vaporization chamber, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway leading from the vaporization chamber to the exterior of the portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the basket and the tube is heated and causes the vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.
In further embodiments, the vaporization materials are concentrates selected from oil and wax and wherein the vaporization tank further includes a wick connected to the vaporization basket, wherein the wick occupies part of the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube. In still further embodiments, wherein the heating element is at least partially contained inside the vaporization basket.
In further embodiments, the vaporizer further comprises a heating base in contact with the tank base, wherein the heating element is at least partially contained inside the heating base. In further embodiments, the vaporization chamber further includes a tank holder connectable to tank base, wherein the tank holder covers the vaporization tank when the tank holder is connected to the tank base.
In embodiments of the present design, a portable vaporizer is provided, the portable vaporizer comprising: a power module including: a battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a control housing, connectable to the battery tube, wherein the control housing includes a tank connector adapted to be interchangeably connected to interchangeable vaporization chambers, wherein the interchangeable vaporization chambers include a concentrate vaporization chamber and an herb vaporization chamber, wherein each of the interchangeable vaporization chambers individually includes: a tank base; a tube connected to the tank base; a vaporization basket inside the tube adapted to contain vaporization materials and connected to the tank base; a heating element between the vaporization basket and the tank base; and a cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery; a tank holder adapted to connect to the power module and to cover the interchangeable vaporization chamber connected to the control housing when the tank holder is connected to the power module, a mouthpiece, connectable to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway from the tank holder to the exterior of the portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube is heated and causes vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.
According to a further aspect of the present design, the herb vaporization chamber includes: a heating base inside the tube, wherein the heating base is at least partially contained within the tank base, wherein the heating element is contained within the heating base, wherein the vaporization basket is an herb basket for holding herbal materials and wherein the herb basket is at least partially contained within the heating base such that the bottom of the herb basket is above the heating element.
According to one aspect of the present design, a portable vaporizer is provided, the portable vaporizer comprising a power module including: a battery tube; a cylindrical battery within the battery tube; a control housing, connectable to the battery tube; and a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery; a vaporization chamber connectable to the power module, including: an herb tank including: a tube; a tank base connected to the tube; a heating base inside the tube, wherein the heating base is at least partially contained within the tank base; a heating element contained within the heating base; an herb basket for holding herbal materials, wherein the herb basket is at least partially contained within the heating base such that the bottom of the herb basket is above the heating element; and a cylindrical space between the herb basket and the tube; and a tank holder connectable to tank base, wherein the tank holder covers the herb tank when the tank holder is connected to the tank base; and a mouthpiece, connectable to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway from the vaporization chamber to the exterior of the portable vaporizer, whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the herb basket and the tube is heated and causes the herbal materials in the herb basket to vaporize.
According to further aspects of the present design, the tube is a glass tube. In further embodiments, the glass tube is quartz or borosilicate glass. In other embodiments, the vaporization basket is a brass herb basket. In other embodiments, the vaporizer includes a coconut carbon filter inside the mouthpiece, whereby the coconut carbon filter has an iodine absorption of at least about 1000 mg/g. In other embodiments, a spring is attached to the mouthpiece, wherein when the mouthpiece is attached to the tank holder and the tank holder is attached to the power module, the spring pushes the herbal material into the herb basket. In further embodiments, the heating element comprises nichrome.
According to an aspect of the present design, the portable vaporizer further includes an LED light connected to the battery. In further embodiments, the LED light is operable to indicate that the cylindrical battery is discharged. In still further embodiments, the LED light is adapted to indicate that the battery is automatically turning off. In still further embodiments, the LED light is operable to indicate that the cylindrical battery is fully charged. In further embodiments, the LED light is operable to indicate that the heat coil is activated.
According to an aspect of the present design, the battery is a lithium polymer battery. In further embodiments, the battery has a capacity of at least about 800 mAh. In further embodiments, the battery is about 56 mm in length.
According to an aspect of the present design, the portable vaporizer further includes at least one O-ring fitted around the tank base, wherein the O-ring comprises FDA approved silicone. In further embodiments, the tank base includes at least one thread of size M12*0.75 inches.
According to an aspect of the present design, the control chip is configured to maintain an electrical current from the battery at a level of between about 3.7 v and about 4.2 v.
According to an aspect of the present design, the mouthpiece is about 1⅛ inches in length.
According to another aspect of the present design, the portable vaporizer further includes a filter screen inside the mouthpiece, wherein the filter screen includes a filter housing and a filter mesh inside the filter housing. Filter material is also included in further embodiments, such as an activated carbon filter. In further embodiments, the activated carbon filter is a coconut carbon filter.
According to an aspect of the present design, a method for vaporizing vaporization materials is provided comprising inserting herbal materials into a portable vaporizer according to embodiments herein and activating the heating element to heat the air in the cylindrical space between the herb basket and tube until an amount of vapor is produced from the herbal materials in the herb basket.
According to an aspect of the present design, a kit for portable vaporizing is provided comprising a vaporizer according to the embodiments herein and a charging unit, wherein the charging unit is a solar charging unit. In further embodiments, the solar charging unit may contain a housing, a solar panel on the housing, a form inside the housing with one or more voids to hold the components of the vaporizer.
According to an aspect of the present design, a kit for portable vaporizing is provided comprising a portable vaporizer according to embodiments herein, a charging unit, wherein the charging unit is a USB charging unit adapted to charge the battery in the portable vaporizer, a cleaning tool for cleaning the portable vaporizer, and a vaporization tank for holding vaporization materials to be vaporized. In further embodiments, interchangeable tanks are provided wherein one tank is a concentrate (oil or wax) tank and another tank is an herb tank.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the figures:

FIG. 1 illustrates a portable vaporizer according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates an expanded configuration of a portable vaporizer according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a power module in closed and expanded configurations according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates an expanded configuration of a tank according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates an expanded configuration of a mouthpiece and tank holder according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6A illustrates the exterior of a solar charging case according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6B illustrates the interior of a solar charging case according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates an expanded configuration of an oil vaporizer according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an expanded configuration of a vaporizer according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a control housing and dimensions of the control housing according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates a tank base and dimensions of the tank base according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates control board layers according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a circuit diagram of a control board according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates a wax vaporization chamber according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates an oil vaporization chamber according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates an adaptor according to one embodiment for use of a portable vaporizer with a water pipe.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description and the drawings illustrate specific embodiments sufficiently to enable those skilled in the art to practice the system and method described. Other embodiments may incorporate structural, logical, process and other changes. Examples merely typify possible variations. Individual elements and functions are generally optional unless explicitly required, and the sequence of operations may vary. Portions and features of some embodiments may be included in, or substituted for, those of others.
The present design combines inventive, advanced convection and conduction vaporization technology with feedback from herbalists and customers, to engineer exactly what is missing from the aromatherapy community. It makes personal aromatherapy practice more convenient and discreet. In preferred embodiments, there are no small pieces that can get lost or broken, and it is extremely easy to fill.
The vaporizer according to the present design, and as shown in the figures, is a portable handheld battery operated vaporizer for vaporizing concentrates, such as combustible oils and waxes, and other substances such as herbal materials. Concentrates are oils and waxes that have concentrated amounts of the desired substances/active ingredients to be vaporized, allowing an increased vaporization in a particular vaporization chamber. The portable vaporizer is preferably sized such that it can fit in a user's purse or pocket. The portable vaporizer may look similar to a pen or marker. It is unobtrusive and easy to carry because of its size and light weight. In embodiments, the vaporizer comprises a power source, such as a detachable battery module, vaporization chamber for desired vaporizing desired materials (with black or other colored shell, as desired), and mouthpiece for a user to inhale vapor. The vaporizer may be connectable to a charging unit in further embodiments.
In certain embodiments, the main vaporization chamber consists of a tank base that the male portion of the power module attaches to by screwing or other method. Above the tank base is a cartridge or tank surrounded by a tube of high density plastic or glass with a heating element sitting directly in the center of the tank and a heating coil at the top of the heating element. This tank/cartridge is between about 1 and about 3 inches. In further embodiments, this tank/cartridge is about 1.6 inches, which is an optimal size for heating the concentrate, herbal material, or other substance. However, it is envisioned that different sizes could be used as desired.
In some embodiments, such as concentrate vaporization embodiments, the heating coil is housed inside a partially closed circle or a cylinder with openings on each side of the circle and a wick attached to the end of the heating coil. There are two wicks attached—one on each side. The wicks are set on either side of the heating coil and closed circle and hang from the top of the coil toward the end of the combustible vaporization chamber that attaches to the battery. The wicks allow for the oil or other substance to remain for a longer period, as the oil or other substance can be contained in the wicks as it is heated. The vaporization chamber is protected by a shell or tank holder that affixes to the mouthpiece.
In other embodiments, the heating coil is housed inside a heating tank, which can be a circle or a cylindrically shaped tank. A vaporization tank may be on top of or at least partially within the heating tank, such that the heating coil does not directly contact the vaporization materials, allowing for convection vaporization to be the majority or entire vaporization process taking place in the vaporizer.
In certain embodiments, the tank mouthpiece is a piece of flexible rubber or other material that allows for comfortable use of the vaporizer by a user. The mouthpiece may be sized such that it can be held in the mouth and can deliver vapor in an optimal manner. In embodiments, the mouthpiece is sized about 1 to about 1.25 inches in length, or, in further embodiments, 1⅛ inches in length. In further embodiments, approximately 0.25 inches of the mouthpiece slips inside the shell/tank holder. Again, while these dimensions are preferred for the optimal amount of vapor intake by a user, it is possible that they could be altered without greatly changing the efficacy of the design.
In embodiments of the design, the battery is charged using a charging unit such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) charging unit. A cylindrical battery may screw into the USB charging unit, which plugs into a USB outlet. The male end of the battery is affixed to the USB charger to deliver the current from the power source (such as an electrical outlet, e.g. AC outlet, or computer USB port) to the rechargeable battery element. A light at the flat end of the battery, such as an LED light, may indicate when the battery is charged. Once the cylindrical battery is charged, it is ready for use with the vaporizer tank.
The cylindrical battery may be about 2 inches to 2.9 inches in length and about 9/16 of an inch in circumference with one flat silver end and one protruding silver end, which attaches to the combustible chamber. In further embodiments, the cylindrical battery is about 2.2 inches in length. The battery is sized appropriately for the chamber, and while the aforementioned size is preferred, it is possible to use different sizes. The protruding end of the cylindrical battery may have a circular button for turning on the battery/activating the battery one half of an inch from the edge of the device. The protruding end may further have screw like threading for the battery to screw into the combustible chamber.
To use the vaporizer, the user attaches the power module to the chamber with mouthpiece. The vaporizer is activated by button or other means. For example, a button electrically connected to the battery may be depressed once or a certain number of times, such as five times in rapid succession, to activate/turn on the battery. Once the battery is on, a user may press a button or other activation mechanism to cause a current to pass from the cylindrical battery to the chamber. A heating element in the combustible chamber directs the charge to a heating coil, which begins to heat up in response to the depressed circular button. The user may activate the heating element until a desired amount of vapor is produced from the vaporization materials in the vaporization basket.
Materials placed on or around the heating element (or coil) and wick vaporize after limited exposure to the heat from the heating element. The vapors are contained within the combustible chamber until they are (1) inhaled by the end user through the mouthpiece, (2) escape through the mouthpiece if not inhaled, or returned to solid form within the combustible chamber.
The heating of the concentrates (oils, waxes, etc.), herbs or other substance is accomplished by convection vaporization. Unlike conduction vaporization, where the substance to be vaporized touches the heating element to volatilize and release the active constituents, in convection vaporization, the substance never touches the heating element. Instead, hot, user-generated air passes through the substance, heating it rapidly, allowing the release of a greater amount of the active constituents. Convection vaporization, also known as volatilizing, occurs in the tank area, which is in the spatial voids between the glass tube and basket and between the bottom of the tank up to exactly where the base meets the basket (components are discussed further in detail herein). The precise physical dimensions and components discussed herein compose the engineering features that allow convection vaporization to occur in the tank area. Some embodiments of portable vaporizers disclosed also employ conduction vaporization, for example those in which the heating element directly contacts the vaporization materials. The portable vaporizers that use conduction vaporization generally also use convection vaporization by heating the air around the vaporization materials as well as directly heating the vaporization materials themselves.
In preferred embodiments, the vaporizer comprises the following components: (1) a detachable power module, preferably including a cylindrical battery; (2) a tank or chamber containing a heating element and vessel for the insertion of combustibles; and (3) a mouthpiece.
Shown in FIG. 1 and expanded in FIG. 2 is a vaporizer 100 including a power module 110, vaporization chamber 120, and mouthpiece 130. The chamber 120 in FIG. 1 includes a tank 103 and a tank holder 104. The tank holder 104 is adapted to connect to and surround a portion of the tank 103. The mouthpiece may include a spring internally that pushes any herbal constituents (or concentrates of sufficiently solid form) as close to the heating element as possible. A suitable spring could be made out of piano wire.
The power module may be adapted to house one or more batteries or to connect directly to a larger power source, such as through an electrical outlet. In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the power module 110 includes a battery tube 310. The battery tube 310 is adapted to hold a cylindrical battery 330. The battery tube may be formed in a single unit or in one or more pieces. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the battery tube is formed of a battery tube cylinder 311 and battery tube end 312 that may be temporarily or permanently connected to each other. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the battery tube 310 is connectable to a control unit 320, which includes a control housing 321, power electronics 323 and a button 322. The button 322 may be used to activate the power module 110, such as to turn on the battery and/or to activate the vaporization process. The button 322 may be configured with the electronics 323 such that it turns the power on when pressed and off when pressed again. It may further be configured to only turn on the power while being depressed. Further configurations are possible, such as using a number of quick succession pushes of the button to turn the power on or off.
The control housing 321 includes a connector 324 for connecting the power module to various vaporization chambers, such as concentrate vaporization chambers and herb vaporization chambers. The connector 324 may include threads adapted to screw on the vaporization chambers. In that case, the vaporization chamber has matching screw threads. In the embodiment shown, the connector is the male portion of the screw connection, and the vaporization chamber contains the female portion. Other means of connection, such as snap on or push/slide configurations are also possible.
In embodiments, the battery tube cylinder formed of a material that is of sufficient structural integrity that it may house a battery and be carried around in a user's pocket without a high likelihood of fracture, such as a strong plastic or a metal. In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is formed from a metal, such as stainless steel. The metal may be covered in a non-conducting layer on its exterior, which may be painted on (such as soft-feel rubber paint) or otherwise adhered to the metal. In embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is sized about 2 inches in length. In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is between about 1 and about 4 inches. In still further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 2.126 inches in length (54 mm) or 2.2 inches in length (56 mm). In further embodiments, the power module 110 (battery tube when connected to the control housing) has a length of about 79.20 mm. In embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 0.5 inches in internal cross-sectional diameter. In further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is between about 0.25 and about 0.75 inches in internal cross-sectional diameter. In still further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 0.531 inches in internal cross sectional diameter. In other embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 0.57 inches in internal cross section diameter (about 14.5 mm). In still further embodiments, the battery tube cylinder is about 14.80 mm in external diameter. In embodiments, the wall of the battery tube cylinder is about 0.020 inches in thickness.
The battery tube end 312 may be configured to attach to the battery tube cylinder, for example with a cylindrical lip that fits within the battery tube cylinder. The battery tube end is preferably sized to be the same diameter as the battery tube cylinder. The battery tube end may be made of plastic or metal. The plastic would preferably have metal or metal coating to contact the end of a battery when a battery is placed inside the battery tube. If metal, the metal could be coated with the same type of coating discussed above with respect to the battery tube cylinder.
FIG. 3C shows a fully expanded power subassembly 340 of power module 110 in accordance with an embodiment. The particular embodiment shown is but one embodiment, and it is possible to modify the power subassembly to achieve the desired results. In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 3C, there is a battery 330 with two wires 341 and 342 to carry electrical current from battery ends to the battery electronics. The first wire 341 is glued to an LED indicator 344 with glue 343. The other end of the first wire 341 contacts the positive side of the battery and loops around a foam disc 346 such that it also contacts the control board 348. The second wire 342 contacts the negative side of the battery and contacts the control board 348. A control board retainer 347 is adapted to house the control board 348. A negative wire 352 contacts the control board 348 to lead to the tank 120. A positive contact 352 leads to the tank 120 and contacts a positive wire 353, which contacts the control board 348. A rubber grommet 349 holds part of the positive contact 354, so that it stays in place. A connecting wire 351 contacts the first wire 341 and the control board 348. Tape 345, such as Kapton (polyimide with a registered trademark to DuPont) tape may wrap around the battery and the wires 341, 342.
FIG. 4 shows an expanded tank 103 according to one embodiment. In this particular embodiment, a tank tube 401 is adapted to be connected to a tank base. The tube 401 may be may be made of a plastic with a high melting point sufficient to avoid degradation at temperatures necessary for the vaporization of materials, such as polypropylene. In other embodiments, the tube 401 is made from glass, such as quartz or borosilicate glass. Glass generally preferred over plastic, because it removes the inherent risk in plastic containers. Borosilicate has a higher durability index than quartz or many other glasses, so it is less likely to be damaged. The tank base 408 may be made of metal, such as silver or brass and may be coated in chrome. It may be threaded to allow placement of O-rings 407 or other rings, which may be made out of rubber, plastic, or another material that assists in the sturdy connection of the tube 401 to the base 408 but allows for removal of the tube 401 from the base 408 when desired. The tank base preferably is adapted to connect to the tank connector in the control housing, with internal threads or other connection mechanism matched to that of the tank connector. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, an electrode 406 is housed inside the tank base 408. The electrode 406 contacts the power module such that it can transfer electricity from the power module. A bushing 405 surrounds part of the electrode 406 and contacts a base insert 404, which allows for placement of a heating base 409. The heating base is at least partially contained inside the tank base and may be seated inside the tank base. The heating coil/element 403 is connected to the heating base 409, and contained within the heating base, such that it can receive current from the electrode 406. A vaporization basket 402 is configured to house materials to be vaporized and to contact the heating coil 403.
In the particular configuration shown in FIG. 4, the vaporization basket is adapted to hold vaporization materials, preferably herbal materials, and is at least partially contained within the heating base such that the bottom of the vaporization basket is above the heating element. The heating element 403 may be attached to the base 409 using solder, such as an approved RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) silver solder. The base 409 may be affixed to the base insert 404, such as with an epoxy, such as a high-temperature epoxy like Loctite 1324007 FixMaster PolyPak by Henkel. The base insert 404 may also be affixed to the bushing 405, such as with an epoxy, such as Loctite 262 Threadlocker by Henkel. The electrode may be made out of a suitable metal, such as brass, which may be plated with chrome. The 405 bushing may be made out of a non-conductive material, such as rubber. The base insert 404 may be made out of a conductive material, such as a metal like brass, which may be plated with chrome. The basket 402 may be made of a material suitable to provide heat to the materials to be vaporized, such as a ceramic. Other potential materials for the basket include stainless steel, such as grade 304. Stainless steel has a higher conductivity rate than ceramic, providing for faster achievement of vaporization. In other embodiments, the tank can be made of stainless steel, for example in oil or concentrate embodiments. In further embodiments, the basket can be made out of titanium, such as titanium diboride, or brass, such as grade 260, which both have an even higher conductivity rate than stainless steel, making achievement of vaporization even faster. Brass 260 is particularly suited for herbal remedies.
In further embodiments, an herb tank may be used without the herb vaporization basket. In such an embodiment, the herbal materials may be placed directly into the tank within the tube and in direct contact with the heating element. When the herbs are placed into the tank without the herb vaporization basket and in direct contact with the heating element, conduction vaporization is employed to vaporize the herbal materials. If the herb vaporization basket is used and the herbs are placed into the tank and not in direct contact with the heating element, convection vaporization is employed to vaporize the herbal materials. It is also possible to include a portion of the heating element in the vaporization basket or to set up a portable vaporizer without a vaporization basket to have airflow around the herbal materials. In either of these configurations, a combination of convection and conduction vaporization is employed.
The heating element may be a coil and may be made in with a number of revolutions sufficient to provide the optimal heat to the materials to be vaporized, such as 4 or 5 full revolutions. For example, an optimum temperature target range is between about 275 and about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In preferred embodiments, the radius is about 0.10 inches or about 2.5 mm in radius. The heating coil is made out of a material that can provide heat to the basket 402, such as an 80/20 nickel/chrome mix (nichrome). The heating coil may have an oxidized coating as well. In embodiments, the basket is approximately 0.68 inches high (about 17.22 mm). In further embodiments, the basket is composed of two sections, the first, smaller section at the bottom. The first, smaller section may have a height of about 0.26 inches, a lower diameter of about 0.22 inches, and walls having about a 10 degree angle of widening towards the top. The second, larger section may have a height of about 0.42 inches, a lower diameter of about 0.34 inches, and walls having about a 6 degree angle of widening towards the top.
The heating base and vaporization basket preferably substantially form a cylinder within the tube. A cylindrical space is formed between the heating base/herb basket combination and the tube. When the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space is heated, causing the vaporization materials in the herb basket to vaporize. A space above the vaporization basket below the top of the tube (where the tube is connected to the mouthpiece) is also heated, imparting heat to the herbal materials and causing the herbal materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize. This type of vaporization is convection vaporization.
In embodiments, the portable vaporizer is adapted such that a number of vaporization chambers may be used interchangeably with the rest of the components. Preferably, the portable vaporizer is adapted to use both a concentrate vaporization chamber and an herb vaporization chamber. The vaporization chambers may attach interchangeably with the tank connector on the control housing of the power module. The tank holder will fit over either chamber, and the mouthpiece will work with either chamber. Example embodiments of concentrate chambers that may work interchangeably with portable vaporizers disclosed herein are shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.
FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of a concentrate tank 103A. In this embodiment, wax or oil is preferably used as the concentrate, although other concentrates could potentially be used. A tank base 408A is adapted to connect to the tank connector in the control housing, through threading or other matching connection means. At the top of the tank base 408A, there may be threads as described above with O-rings 407A to assist with connection to a tube 401A, which is preferably made of glass (preferably quartz, or more preferably borosilicate) but may also be made of sturdy plastic such as polypropylene. The heating element, such as a heating coil, (not shown) is internal to a concentrate basket 402A, which is adapted to hold the concentrate. The concentrate basket 402A is connected to heating base 409A, which may be seated on top of an electrode 406A. In alternate embodiments, the heating element may be within the heating basket only and not in the concentrate vaporization basket 402A. Such a configuration would allow for more complete convection vaporization. Although the vaporization basket is shown having its top level with the top of the tube, the tube may extend up further, leaving space above the basket for additional air flow, which increases the rate of vaporization. One or more wicks 410A are set on either side of the heating element and hang from the top of the heating element toward the bottom of the chamber 103A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, there are 2 wicks, but there may be more or fewer as desire. The wicks allow for the oil, wax or other substance to remain for a longer period of time, because the oil, wax or other substance can be contained in the wicks as well as in the basket. For concentrates with thicker viscosities, applying the concentrate directly to the heating element will increase vaporization. For concentrates with thinner viscosities, applying the concentrate directly to the wicks will allow for saturation of the wicks and longer periods of vaporization using the wicks. Convection vaporization is effected using the space between the basket and the tube and around the wicks, as the air is heated from the heating element. In embodiments, this space is a cylindrical void.
FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a concentrate tank 103B. Like the tank shown in FIG. 13, wax or oil may be used. The embodiment shown in FIG. 14 has two concentrate vaporization baskets 402B and 4022B, which allows for optimized vaporization. The upper heating basket 402B reaches peak, ungoverned temperatures via conduction vaporization, while the second chamber 4022B carefully diffuses essential oils with stable, proportionate convection vaporization. This embodiment is ideal for essential oils ranging from thin to thick in viscosity. The tank base 408B is adapted to connect to the tank connector in the control housing, through threading or other matching connection means. At the top of the tank base 408B, there may be threads as described above with one or more O-rings 407B to assist with connection to a tube 401B which is preferably made of glass (preferably quartz, or more preferably borosilicate) but may also be made of sturdy plastic such as polypropylene. Although the top of the heating basket 402B is shown at the same height as the tube, the tube may extend further, creating a space above the heating basket. This additional space allows for additional airflow and convection vaporization. The heating element (not shown) is internal to a heating base 409A, which is beneath the concentrate baskets. A cylindrical space exists between the baskets and the tube to allow for convection vaporization.
In further embodiments, the tank and tank holder may be of smaller size, to create a more compact portable vaporizer. For example, the components of the tank may be condensed such that the tank essentially contains a vaporization basket and a heating element, such as a heating coil, which may be disposed at least partially inside the basket. A small tank base connects the tank to the tank connector on the power module. Although this embodiment relies more on direct contact between the heating coil and vaporization materials than other embodiment, it is a convenient and effective way to shrink the size of the portable vaporizer.
FIG. 5 shows an expanded view of a tank holder 104 and mouthpiece 130 according to embodiments. The holder 104 may include a threaded insert 505. A mouthpiece holder 502 is adapted to fit into the holder 104, with a holder O-ring 501 in between. The mouthpiece 130 is shown as being able to receive a filter 504. A filter screen 503 is adapted to be placed over the opening of the mouthpiece 130 that is in the mouthpiece holder 502, such that the filter 503 is within the mouthpiece 130. In embodiments the filter
The tank holder 104 may be sized such that the device is of a portable size. For example, the size may be between about 1 and about 3 inches in length, or more particularly about 1.5 or about 1.6 inches in length. The tank holder 104 may be made of a material with high structural integrity, such as a metal like stainless steel. The threaded insert 505 may also be made of metal, such as brass, optionally with chrome plating. The mouthpiece holder 502 may also be made of metal, like brass, which is optionally plated with chrome. The O-ring 501 may be made of a suitable material to create a seal, such as an elastomer like silicone rubber.
The mouthpiece 130 may be made of a material that is suitable for placing in the human mouth and transmitting vapor through a conduit in its center. Example materials are rubber and plastics such as polycarbonate/ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) blend. The mouthpiece is of a size that is comfortable for a user and that can deliver vapor to the user in an optimum manner. For example, the mouthpiece may be about 1 or about 1⅛ inches.
The filter 504 is made of a material that helps filter out undesirable components in the vapor before it is inhaled by a user. Example materials include polyurethane foam or polyester. In preferred embodiments, an activated carbon filter is used. In even more preferred embodiments a coconut carbon filter is used (where the filter includes coconut material and activated carbon). For example, an activated carbon filter made from material including coconut shells is a preferred filter. The use of a coconut carbon filter allows only convection vapors to enter the user's lungs, with little or no carcinogens or irritants to their upper respiratory system. In embodiments, the coconut carbon filter has an iodine absorption of at least about 1000 mg/g. The coconut carbon filter has a moisture absorption of less than about 5%, a methylene blue absorption of greater than about 10 ml, a loading density of about 500 to about 550 g/l, and a hardness of greater than about 95%. The specific surface area of the coconut carbon filter is greater than about 1000 m²/g, a phenol adsorption of greater than about 45%, a CCl₄activity of about 45-60%, an ash content of less then about 5%, a pH between about 6 and about 8, and a pore volume of greater than about 0.8.
In embodiments, the filter screen 503 includes a filter housing 5031 and filter mesh 5032 contained in the filter housing 5031. The filter housing may include a number of holes, such as holes that are about 0.05 inches in diameter. The holes are preferably small enough to contain the bulk of any vaporizable material from going through the filter housing. The filter housing may contain any number of such holes, for example between 5 and 50 or about 25. The filter housing may be made of any suitable material, such as a metal like aluminum. The filter mesh 5032 may be a metal mesh, such as a stainless wire cloth. The mesh is preferably of a size to filter out large particles that might be in the vapor. For example, a mesh with a mesh number of between about 10 and about 200 could be used. In further embodiments a mesh with a mesh number of about 60 may be used. The mesh further keeps any oils that may be vaporized from leaking through it.
In embodiments, the vaporizer includes an LED light, such as at the end of the battery, as shown for example in FIGS. 1 and 2. The LED light may be colorless or one or more various colors, such as blue. The LED light may be covered in one or more transparent pieces of plastic or other material. These pieces may be housed in a chrome cover that allows attachment to the remainder of the vaporizer while allowing the LED light to be viewed.
The LED light may add functional ventilation to the battery housing. The additional airflow to the battery allows for cooler operating temperatures and thus results in a longer durability index. In embodiments, the battery is about 13 mm in diameter and about 54 mm in length. The preferred maximum continuous discharge of the battery is 2C. The use of a battery with preferred maximum discharge of 2C allows for twice as fast a charge as a 1C discharge battery and has twice the output of the 1C discharge battery. The battery may be a lithium polymer battery or a lithium ion battery with a capacity of between about 600-650 mAh. Lithium polymer batteries have a higher durability index and a higher consumer safety rating and are more environmentally friendly. In experiments, a battery according to these embodiments has a nominal voltage of 3.7V, maximum voltage out of 4.2V, and maximum continuous discharge of 2C. The self discharge rate was measured as less than 2.5%/month, and the cycle-life was greater than 500 charge cycles (>80% capacity @ 1C).
In further embodiments, the battery has a capacity of about 800 mAh, and as high as about 850 mAh, which gives a longer life cycle than the 650 mAh battery. The diameter of the battery may be about 14 mm or about 14.5 mm, and the length may be about 54 mm or 56 mm. Specifically, a battery with a capacity of at least about 800 mAh may be about 14.8 mm in diameter and between about 68.8 mm and 79.2 mm in length. The battery according to the these specifications allows for a longer battery single-use life, longer cycle life, better regulated battery heat, and better regulated heat chamber in the tank attachment.
FIG. 11 shows an example of the layers of a control board according to one embodiment. The layers shown are as follows: 1101—bottom silicon board; 1102—bottom solder; 1103—bottom track; 1104—second bottom track; 1105—top silicon; 1106—top solder; 1107—top track; 1108—second top track; 1109—diagram of chip holes. In addition, FIG. 12 shows a corresponding circuit diagram.
The on/off button may be equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent users from engaging the push button unintentionally. For example, the user may turn the battery off by pressing the button a predetermined number of times, such as 5 times. By turning off the battery, the portable vaporizer is prevented from turning on in a pocket or purse by accident.
The LED light may be adapted to be turned on when the power button to activate the vaporization is pressed. It may have a separate on/off mechanism, such as by turning the LED light housing or by pressing on its end. The LED light may have an automatic turn off feature, such as after a certain amount of time, for example 8 seconds. An 8 second turn-off time was selected as the result of an extensive research and design process to obtain an ideal balance between electrical specifications and requirements of the battery and each of its tank attachments.
The electrical ratings of the battery are paired to the length and resistance (collective resistance, measured in Ohms) of heat coils in each tank attachments, paired to intended single-use life of the battery for each tank attachment, and paired to the intended cycle life of the battery. Battery performance was measured at different temperatures, as well as the performance of each tank attachment the battery was intended to be used with. The battery size and capacity has an optimized performance rating that actually delivers the metrics noted herein, because the cumulative impact of stress on the battery is regulated and the tank operates within a desired temperature range. By pairing the battery with the proper tank, a higher concentration of vapor than smoke may be delivered. Moreover, the commercially acceptable method of vaporization requires that the presence of volatilized (vaporized) molecules be more abundant than combusted molecules (destroyed by direct heat). Each variation of battery-to-tank pair according to the present disclosure meets these criteria, making it the only device in its “portable” electronics class that can be considered a real vaporizer according to recognized scientific definitions and standards.
The chip of the present disclosure is configured to discharge at a continuous output as opposed to a maximum output. The batteries control temperature in the portable vaporizer in two ways. First, there is a continuous output, of about 4 volts, never lower, never higher. Second, there is a resistance, measured in ohms, in each tank. Each tank varies between 1.5 ohms and 2.5 ohms. The tanks may be custom tailored to match the temperature requirements of herbal or oil formulas, which means there may be tanks available with every resistance pair ranging from about 1.5 ohms to about 2.5 ohms.
In further embodiments, the LED light may be used for additional features. For example, the LED light may communicate an auto shut-off feature. In one embodiment, a number of consecutive blinks from power on to off may be standard to indicate the time the vaporizer will be on. This number of blinks could be anything, such as 5 blinks. The LED light could be therefore be set up to be on, flash 5 times to indicate the automatic shut off is about to occur, and then turn off. The LED light further allows for the implementation and communication of an interactive locking mechanism so that users can avoid engaging the push button unintentionally. Blinking of the LED light may be used to indicate that locking is engaged or disengaged, such as 5 blinks (for example, LED light is off, 5 blinks, then LED light is on). The LED light may be used to indicate that the battery needs to be recharged, such as by a set of blinks, like 8 blinks. In one embodiment, if the power is already on, the light may go from ON, to 8 consecutive blinks, to off. The light may be used to indicate that the battery is charging correctly and/or to indicate that the battery is fully charged. In one embodiment, to indicate that the battery is charging correctly, the light may go from off, to a series of blinks (such as 3), to on. The same number of blinks could be used to indicate that the battery is fully charged. For example, the light could go from on, to the series of blinks, to off. The numbers of blinks used herein are merely examples and could be changed as desired by one of skill in the art. Alternatively, color change of the LED light could be used to indicate any of the above.
All rubber parts in the vaporizer are preferably made out of FDA approved rubber, for example, FDA approved silicone for repeated use in contact with aqueous and fatty foods as stated in US FDA 21 CFR 177.2600. The use of FDA approved silicon is more expensive than toxic alternatives, but those alternatives have lower degradation points and potentially leach chemicals into the user's lungs as a result.
There are several threading sections in the vaporizer according to certain embodiments. For example, the control housing 321 is shown in FIG. 9. In this embodiment, the control housing includes tank seating element 904 and male thread system 901, which includes a thread 902 of M12*0.75 and a thread relief 903 of 0.2 inches. The control housing further includes button holder 905 and battery tube connector 906, which may have a straight knurl formed on it to connect it to the battery tube. The matching threading section is in the tank base 408 as shown in FIG. 10. The female thread 1010 is also of M12*0.75 dimension. By using this consistent matching threading, various tanks may be attached to the battery tube. Thus, in embodiments it is possible to have a set of tanks, some for oil and some for herbs along with a battery tube and mouthpiece, creating a full vaporizing kit.
In embodiments, the vaporizer employs a temperature control system, which includes two main components. The first component is a temperature control chip that regulates the electrical current from the power module to the tank system, preferably between 3.8 volts and 4.0 volts, directly affecting the temperature at which the constituents vaporize inside the tank system. In alternate embodiments, the maximum output can be changed to somewhere between about 3.7 volts and about 4.2 volts. The second component is a heating coil. In embodiments, the heating coil is comprised mainly of nickel-aluminum alloy. Through experimentation, it was discovered that this material is the most efficient, effective, and controllable source of heat. By controlling the electrical current passed through this type of metal (3.8 v to 4.0 v or 3.7 v to 4.2 v) and the resistance (measured in ohms) of the heating coil, it was discovered that the temperature at which the materials vaporize inside the tank system could be controlled. In alternative embodiments, the heating coil can be replaced by a different material, such as nichrome (80% nickel, 20% chromium) and still function, although not in as efficient or effective manner as the nickel-aluminum alloy. The nickel-aluminum alloy has a higher durability than nichrome, because it has more electrical insulation while maintaining a high thermal conductivity. Increased electrical insulation helps prevent user negligence.
Also provided is a solar charging case for charging rechargeable batteries according to embodiments. The solar charging case allows for a convenient and cheap method of charging vaporizers while being stored. FIG. 6A illustrates the outside of a solar charging case in accordance with one embodiment. The case 600 includes a housing 620, which is adapted to be opened for containing a vaporizer. One or more solar cells 610 are placed on the exterior of the housing 620 for obtaining solar energy. The solar cells may comprise a solar panel, such as a 1 watt solar panel, that is adapted to be placed on the housing. A battery (not shown) may be included in the charging case to be electrically connected to the solar cells and hold the charge from the solar cells to be imparted to the rechargeable battery in the vaporizer. FIG. 6B shows an embodiment of a solar charging case in an opened position. The housing 620 forms the case. In this embodiment, a hinge 630 allows for opening and closing the case. In alternate embodiments, the housing could form one or more potions, like a top and a bottom, that may be fully disconnected from each other. A latch 635 may be used to hold the case closed when the top and bottom are connected.
The solar charging case 600 may contain a form inside the housing to hold the components of the vaporizer. The form may be made of a hard or soft material that can retain a shape, for example voids 650 shaped to hold the vaporizer components. A switch 660 may be included to turn charging on or off. A light 690 or other indicator may be included to show that the charging is on. A port 670, such as a USB (universal serial bus) may be included to attach the rechargeable battery of the vaporizer using a cable or other method. In alternative embodiments, the case includes a cord that may be connected to the portable vaporizer. A light 680 or other indicator may be included to show whether the battery is partially or fully charged. The light could turn off when the battery is fully charged. In alternate embodiments, the light could turn on when fully charged or change colors when fully charged. Flashing versus solid light could also be used to indicate whether the battery is charging or fully charged.
In embodiments, the solar charging case housing may be made of a hard plastic or a leather or fabric material. Instead of a clasp, a zipper may be used to allow attachment of a top part to a bottom part. There may be additional padding or hard materials inside the housing to strengthen the case and/or protect the vaporizer when inside the case. The case may be set up so that the vaporizer automatically charges when inserted into the case. Alternatively, the user may connect a wire or other adapter to the case and/or the vaporizer to allow charging. A switch may be included to turn on the charging, or it may begin automatically when connected. The solar charging case may also include a keychain or other holder.
FIGS. 7-8 show additional embodiments of vaporizers that achieve the desired results discussed herein. FIG. 7 shows an embodiment adapted for vaporizing oil. A mouthpiece holder 703 is adapted to be attached to a metal mesh 702 and mesh holder 701. An O-ring, made out of silicon, is adapted to be attached to the mouthpiece holder 703 such that the mouthpiece holder 703 may be attached to the tank holder 705. From the other end, an electrode 720 which is adapted to be partially surrounded by an insulating part 719 and is adapted to contact insert 718, preferably made of metal like copper, all of which can fit into a base 717, which may have threads to be surrounded by O-rings 176 (which may be made of rubber or silicon). A ceramic base 712 is adapted to be connected to the base 717 using clips 713. A heating coil 711 surrounds a glass fiber rope 714 and is placed into the base 712 so that the heating coil may be heated by the electrode. A metal tube 710 is adapted to hold the heating coil and glass fiber rope. Another ceramic base 708 is adapted to be connected to the tube 710 using clips 709. A heating coil 707 attaches to the base 708 and is adapted to heat metal part 706. A glass tube 715 surrounds the previously discussed parts and fits within the tank holder 705.
FIG. 8 shows an embodiment adapted to vaporize various combustible materials, such as oil or herbs. The electrode 813 is adapted to be partially surrounded and housed by insulating part 812 and to interact with a power source such as a power module discussed above. The tank base 811 that houses the electrode 813 and insulating part 812 may include threads that hold O-rings 810. A ceramic or other heat holding base 808 may be attached to the tank base 811 using clip 809. A heating coil 807 is adapted to contact the heat holding base 808 and to be heated by the electrode 813. A glass tube 806 connects with the tank base 811 at the threads. A tank holder 805 surrounds the previously discussed materials and attaches to the tank base 811. An O-ring 804, which may be made out of silicon, and which may be about 0.8 mm in diameter, surrounds a mouthpiece holder 703, which may attach to the other end of the tank base 811. A metal mesh 802 is housed by a mesh holder 801, which is connected to the mouthpiece holder 803, preferably on the side of the mouthpiece holder where the mouthpiece will attach.
In embodiments, the portable vaporizer in the present disclosure may be used in connection with commercially available water pipes. The water in water pipes may give additional filtration through the water and may also be something that a user may prefer to use on occasion. FIG. 15 shows an adaptor, preferably made out of glass (although it may also be made out of a durable plastic such as polypropylene), which allows a portable vaporizer of the present disclosure to be connected to a water pipe. The particular water pipe shown has a main chamber 1501 and a vapor entrance tube 1505, which allows vapors to enter the water pipe and preferably continues to a depth that would be beneath a water level such that the water can filter vapors. The water pipe adaptor 1510 sits tightly on the vapor entrance tube 1505 to prevent vapors from exiting until they have been filtered through the water. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the mouthpiece and tank holder have been removed. The tank 103 remains connected to the power module 110, and the tank 103 fits into the water pipe adaptor 1510. Again, the fit is secure and tight to prevent vapor from exiting the water pipe until filtered through water. Once the vapor is filtered through the water, it can exit through the top exit 1502.
Variations of the above-disclosed vaporizer embodiments are also possible. For example, all stainless steel parts in the power module can be replaced with copper and remain functional, while all copper parts can be replaced with stainless steel and remain functional. Although the particularly described embodiments of threading is preferred to retain the various pieces of the vaporizer in a closed position, other threading can be used without affecting the actual vaporization process. The battery can be of any mAh rating and remain functional for at least one use. The electrical current can be changed, but would need to be accommodated by a relative change in resistance in ohms on the tank system attached to the battery. Conversely, the resistance of each heating coil in the tank could change but would require a relative change in electrical input (battery output) for it to maintain the intended temperature. While the maximum continuous discharge of the battery is preferably set at 2 C, it can be lowered to 1 C and maintain function for at least one use.
In further embodiments, a kit is provided, wherein the kit includes a portable vaporizer and a solar charging unit, both as described herein. Other kits include kits with a portable vaporizer according to embodiments herein, a charging unit, wherein the charging unit is a USB charging unit adapted to charge the battery in the portable vaporizer, a cleaning tool for cleaning the portable vaporizer, and a glass tank for holding herbal materials to be vaporized. In further embodiments, an oil tank is also provided, which is interchangeable with the herb tank.
While primarily described herein with respect to an exemplary vaporizer, the design and disclosure herein are not intended to be so limited. While certain examples are provided herein, these examples are merely illustrative and not limiting as to the functionality of the present system and method. Other examples/implementations are possible and this document should not be limited by the examples presented.
The foregoing description of specific embodiments reveals the general nature of the disclosure sufficiently that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt the system and method for various applications without departing from the general concept. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. The phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A portable vaporizer comprising:

a power module including:

a battery tube;

a cylindrical battery within the battery tube;

a control housing, connected to the battery tube; and

a control board inside the control housing, wherein when the control housing is connected to the battery tube, the control board is electrically coupled to the cylindrical battery;

a vaporization chamber connectable to the power module, including:

a vaporization tank, including:

a tube;

a tank base connected to the tube;

a vaporization basket inside the tube and adapted to hold vaporization materials

a heating element inside the tube; and

a cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and

a mouthpiece connectable to the vaporization chamber, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway leading from the vaporization chamber to the exterior of the portable vaporizer,

whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the basket and the tube is heated and causes the vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.

2. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization materials are concentrates selected from oil and wax and wherein the vaporization tank further includes a wick connected to the vaporization basket, wherein the wick occupies part of the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube.

3. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the heating element is at least partially contained inside the vaporization basket.

4. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further comprising a heating base in contact with the tank base, wherein the heating element is at least partially contained inside the heating base.

5. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the tube is a glass tube.

6. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a coconut carbon filter inside the mouthpiece, whereby the coconut carbon filter has an iodine absorption of at least about 1000 mg/g.

7. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a spring attached to the mouthpiece, wherein when the mouthpiece is attached to the vaporization chamber, the spring pushes vaporization materials into the vaporization basket.

8. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including an LED light connected to the battery.

9. The portable vaporizer of claim 6, wherein the LED light is operable to indicate that the cylindrical battery is discharged.

10. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the battery battery has a capacity of at least about 800 mAh.

11. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises nichrome.

12. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the portable vaporizer further includes at least one O-ring fitted on the tank base, wherein the O-ring comprises FDA approved silicone.

13. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the tank base includes a thread of size M12*0.75 inches.

14. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the control chip is configured to maintain an electrical current from the battery at a level of between about 3.7 v and about 4.2 v.

15. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber further includes a tank holder connectable to tank base, wherein the tank holder covers the vaporization tank when the tank holder is connected to the tank base.

16. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the vaporization materials are herb materials.

17. The portable vaporizer of claim 1, further including a button electrically coupled to the control board and operable to activate the heating element when pressed.

18. A portable vaporizer comprising:

a power module including:

a battery tube;

a cylindrical battery within the battery tube;

a control housing, connectable to the battery tube;

wherein each of the interchangeable vaporization chambers individually includes:

a tank base;

a tube connected to the tank base;

a vaporization basket inside the tube adapted to contain vaporization materials and connected to the tank base;

a heating element between the vaporization basket and the tank base;

and a cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and

a tank holder adapted to connect to the power module and to cover the interchangeable vaporization chamber connected to the control housing when the tank holder is connected to the power module,

a mouthpiece, connectable to the tank holder, wherein the mouthpiece includes a passageway from the tank holder to the exterior of the portable vaporizer,

whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube is heated and causes vaporization materials in the vaporization basket to vaporize.

19. A kit for vaporizing herbal materials, the kit comprising:

a portable vaporizer including:

a power module including:

a battery tube;

a cylindrical battery within the battery tube;

a control housing, connected to the battery tube; and

a vaporization chamber connectable to the power module, including:

a vaporization tank, including:

a tube;

a tank base connected to the tube;

a heating element inside the tube; and

a cylindrical space between the vaporization basket and the tube; and

whereby when the heating element is activated, the air in the cylindrical space between the herb basket and the tube is heated and causes the herbal materials in the herb basket to vaporize; and

a solar charging unit operable to charge the battery, wherein the solar charging unit is connectable to the portable vaporizing unit.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the solar charging unit includes a housing, a solar panel on the housing, a form inside the housing, wherein the form includes at least one void to hold the portable vaporizer.