USER-CONFIGURABLE SMOKING DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE OPERATIONAL MODES

BACKGROUND

[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/739,944, filed on Dec. 30, 2024, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/319,453, filed Sep. 4, 2025, the entireties of which are each incorporated herein by reference.

[0002]In the field of personal smoking and vaporization devices, the ability to manage both inhalation and exhalation processes has become increasingly important. Personal smoking and vaporization devices can include device for intaking nicotine, cannabis, extracts, or oils, including devices that contain no substances other than those necessary to create a flavored vapor. The management of secondhand smoke or vapor and associated odors may be critical for users in various social and professional settings. Inadequate solutions to these challenges can lead to social discomfort, environmental concerns, and potential regulatory or legal issues.

[0003]In a typical usage scenario, such as in a shared living space or public area, users of personal smoking or vaporization devices may need to consider the impact of their exhaled smoke or vapor on others. For example, a user may inhale vapor from their device but then need to exhale in a way that minimizes visible emissions and odors. These steps present challenges in terms of discretion and consideration for others. For example, exhaling smoke or vapor without any filtration may result in complaints from nearby individuals or violation of local regulations.

[0004]When using personal smoking or vaporization devices in various environments, it can be difficult to manage both the inhalation and exhalation processes effectively. For example, a user in a shared office space may need to switch between inhaling smoke or vapor and filtering their exhaled breath quickly and discreetly. This process may be cumbersome if it requires separate devices or complex operations, such as devices that rely on valves that can be costly and prone to failure. Meanwhile, the need for frequent filter replacements or maintenance may add further complications to the user experience.

[0005]As a result, a need exists for a personal vaporization or smoking device that integrates both inhalation and exhalation functionalities. In addition, a need exists for a user-friendly mechanism to switch between these modes of operation without requiring complex actions or additional accessories.

SUMMARY

[0006]Examples described herein include systems and methods for a user-configurable smoking device with multiple operational modes.

[0007]An example user-configurable smoking device with multiple operational modes can include a body portion shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter. The device can include a mouthpiece coupled to the body portion. The device can include a control mechanism for selectively allowing airflow through either the cartridge or filter, thereby providing a cartridge-operation mode or a filter-operation mode for the device. The cartridge-operation mode can allow air flow into the body portion and through the cartridge and mouthpiece. The filter-operation mode can allow air flow into the mouthpiece and through the filter and body portion. The control mechanism can be configured to enable a user to select between the cartridge mode or filter mode without inhaling or exhaling through the mouthpiece. The filter-operation mode can be configured to flow exhaled smoke or vapor through the filter to reduce smell and visibility of the exhaled smoke or vapor.

[0008]In an example, operation of the control mechanism between the cartridge-operation mode or filter-operation mode can cause a cover plate to be positioned in a first position or a second position, respectively. The first position of the cover plate can block an inlet that allows air to flow to the filter. The second position of the cover plate can block an outlet that allows air to flow into the mouthpiece from the cartridge.

[0009]The example device can include at least a portion of the control mechanism positioned externally on the body portion of the device, such that the user can operate the control mechanism independent of any airflow through the device. The body portion can include a cartridge airflow inlet that allows air to enter the cartridge. The body portion can also include a filter airflow outlet that allows air to exit the filter and body portion. The body portion can further include an access hatch that, when opened, provides access to locations in the device configured to receive the cartridge and the filter.

[0010]The example device can additionally include, as part of the control mechanism, a cover plate that can be positioned in a first or second position corresponding to the cartridge and filter modes. In an example, the first position of the cover plate blocks an inlet that allows air to flow to the filter. The second position of the cover plate blocks an outlet that allows air to flow into a mouthpiece from the cartridge. In an example, the filter-operation mode of the device is configured to flow exhaled smoke or vapor through the filter to reduce smell and/or visibility of the exhaled smoke or vapor.

[0011]In some examples, a method for operating a user-configurable smoking device with multiple operational modes can be implemented. The method can include providing the user-configurable smoking device, wherein the device includes a body portion shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter; a mouthpiece coupled to the body portion; and a control mechanism for selectively allowing airflow through either the cartridge or filter, thereby providing a cartridge-operation mode or a filter-operation mode for the device. The method can include operating the control mechanism, by a user, to engage the cartridge-operation mode. The method can also include inhaling through the mouthpiece, by the user, such that smoke flows through the cartridge and out of the mouthpiece. The method can include operating the control mechanism, by the user, to engage the filter-operation mode. The method can also include exhaling into the mouthpiece, by the user, such that exhaled smoke flows through the filter and out of the body portion of the smoking device.

[0012]An example method can also include operating the control mechanism to engage the cartridge-operation mode or filter-operation mode, which can cause a cover plate to be positioned in a first position or a second position, respectively. The first position of the cover plate can block an inlet that allows air to flow to the filter. The second position of the cover plate can block an outlet that allows air to flow into the mouthpiece from the cartridge.

[0013]In another example, a method for providing a user-configurable smoking device with multiple operational modes can be implemented. The method can include providing a body portion shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter. The example method can include providing a mouthpiece coupled to the body portion. The method can also include providing a control mechanism for selectively allowing airflow through either the cartridge or filter, thereby providing a cartridge-operation mode or a filter-operation mode for the device. The cartridge-operation mode can allow air flow into the body portion and through the cartridge and mouthpiece. The filter-operation mode can allow air flow into the mouthpiece and through the filter and body portion. The control mechanism can be configured to enable a user to select between the cartridge mode or filter mode without inhaling or exhaling through the mouthpiece. The method can further include inserting the filter into the body portion of the device.

[0014]Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the examples, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015]FIG. 1 is a front view of an example user-configurable smoking device according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0016]FIG. 2 is a rear view of the user-configurable smoking device of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0017]FIG. 3A is a close-up view of a portion of the user-configurable smoking device in a first configuration according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0018]FIG. 3B is a close-up view of a portion of the user-configurable smoking device in a second configuration according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0019]FIG. 4A is a close-up view of a cover plate associated with a control mechanism of the user-configurable smoking device in a first position according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0020]FIG. 4B is a close-up view of a cover plate associated with a control mechanism of the user-configurable smoking device in a second position according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0021]FIG. 5A is a close-up view of an end portion of the user-configurable smoking device showing openings in a first configuration according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0022]FIG. 5B is a close-up view of the end portion of the user-configurable smoking device showing openings in a second configuration according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0023]FIG. 6 is an exploded view of components of the user-configurable smoking device according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0024]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the user-configurable smoking device showing internal components in a cartridge-operation mode according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0025]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional diagram of the user-configurable smoking device showing internal components in a filter-operation mode according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0026]FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating the user-configurable smoking device according to one or more embodiments herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027]Reference will now be made in detail to the present examples, including examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0028]The present disclosure relates to a user-configurable smoking device with multiple operational modes. In some examples, the smoking device includes a body portion shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter, a mouthpiece coupled to the body portion, and a control mechanism for selectively allowing airflow through either the cartridge or filter. This configuration provides a cartridge-operation mode and a filter-operation mode for the device. The cartridge-operation mode allows air flow into the body portion and through the cartridge and mouthpiece, while the filter-operation mode allows air flow into the mouthpiece and through the filter and body portion. The control mechanism can be configured to enable a user to select between the cartridge mode or filter mode without inhaling or exhaling through the mouthpiece.

[0029]In some examples, the smoking device can provide improved functionality and user experience by allowing seamless switching between inhalation and exhalation modes. The filter-operation mode can be particularly useful for reducing the smell and visibility of exhaled smoke or vapor, enhancing discretion and reducing environmental impact. The device's dual-mode capability can make it versatile for various smoking or vaping situations, potentially increasing its appeal to a wide range of users.

[0030]Reference will now be made in detail to the present examples, including examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows a three-dimensional view of an example smoking device 100. The smoking device 100 can include a body portion 110, which can be elongated and have a hexagonal cross-section. A mouthpiece 120 can be located at the top section of the device. An access hatch 130 can be positioned at the bottom section of the device, potentially providing access to internal components. A control mechanism 140 can be visible near the top section, which may allow the user to switch between operational modes.

[0031]The smoking device 100 can include a body portion 110 shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter. The body portion 110 may be elongated with a generally hexagonal cross-section, as shown in FIG. 1. A mouthpiece 120 can be coupled to an upper end of the body portion 110. The mouthpiece 120 may have an oval-shaped opening to allow a user to inhale or exhale through the device.

[0032]An access hatch 130 can be provided on the body portion 110 to allow access to locations configured to receive the cartridge 620 and filter 610. The access hatch 130 may be hinged or removable to permit insertion and removal of the cartridge 620 and filter 610.

[0033]A control mechanism 140 can be positioned on an exterior surface of the body portion 110. The control mechanism 140 may be configured to selectively allow airflow through either the cartridge 620 or filter 610, thereby providing a cartridge-operation mode or a filter-operation mode for the device 100. In some examples, the control mechanism 140 can include a sliding switch, rotating knob, push button, or pull knob to allow the user to select between modes.

[0034]An exhaust port 210 may be provided on the body portion 110, as shown in FIG. 2. The exhaust port 210 can allow filtered air to exit the device 100 during the filter-operation mode. The exhaust port 210 can be located in various positions on the body portion 110 to accommodate different design configurations or user preferences. For example, the exhaust port 210 may be positioned on a side surface of the body portion 110 rather than on the bottom. In some examples, multiple exhaust ports may be provided at different locations on the body portion 110. The specific placement of the exhaust port 210 can be selected based on factors such as ergonomics, aesthetics, or airflow optimization.

[0035]FIG. 3A shows a close-up view of the top portion of the smoking device 100. The mouthpiece 120 can be seen at the top of the device, having a dark color contrasting with the lighter body portion 110. The control mechanism 140 can be visible on the side of the body portion 110, appearing as a textured area that may allow user manipulation.

[0036]FIG. 3B presents a similar close-up view of the top portion of the smoking device 100, but from a slightly different angle. The mouthpiece 120 remains visible at the top. The control mechanism 140 can be seen in a different position compared to FIG. 3A, potentially indicating its ability to move or be adjusted. An arrow symbol may be visible near the control mechanism 140, possibly indicating the direction of movement or airflow.

[0037]In both figures, the hexagonal cross-section of the body portion 110 can be observed, consistent with the overall design of the smoking device 100 as described earlier. The contrasting colors and textures between the mouthpiece 120 and the body portion 110 may serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, potentially aiding in user interaction with the device.

[0038]The control mechanism 140 may take the form of a sliding switch, rotating knob, push button, or pull knob as previously described. Its placement on the exterior of the body portion 110 can allow for easy access and manipulation by the user, enabling them to switch between the cartridge-operation mode and filter-operation mode without needing to inhale or exhale through the mouthpiece 120.

[0039]These close-up views can provide additional detail on the user interface elements of the smoking device 100, highlighting how the device may be operated in practice. The clear visibility of the control mechanism 140 can underscore its importance in the device's functionality, allowing users to easily switch between operational modes as desired and providing a visual indication to the user as to the current operational mode of the device.

[0040]FIGS. 4A and 4B show close-up views of the top portion of the smoking device 100 with the mouthpiece removed, revealing the internal configuration. In FIG. 4A, which corresponds to the cartridge-operation mode shown in FIG. 3A, the cover plate 410 can be seen positioned to block the exhale inlet 430 (not visible in this view). The inhale outlet 420 is exposed, allowing airflow from the cartridge to the mouthpiece when inhaling.

[0041]In FIG. 4B, which corresponds to the filter-operation mode shown in FIG. 3B, the cover plate 410 has moved to block the inhale outlet 420. The exhale inlet 430 is now exposed, allowing exhaled air to flow into the device and through the filter.

[0042]The cover plate 410 may be mechanically linked to the control mechanism 140 seen in FIGS. 3A and 3B, such that operating the control mechanism causes the cover plate 410 to move between these two positions. This configuration enables the user to easily switch between cartridge-operation mode and filter-operation mode by manipulating the external control mechanism, without needing to inhale or exhale through the device.

[0043]The inhale outlet 420 and exhale inlet 430 may have different shapes or sizes optimized for their respective airflow directions. For example, the inhale outlet 420 may be larger to allow for easier inhalation, while the exhale inlet 430 may be smaller or shaped to direct exhaled air efficiently into the filter.

[0044]In some examples, additional sealing elements may be provided around the cover plate 410, inhale outlet 420, and exhale inlet 430 to ensure proper airflow isolation between the two modes. These sealing elements may include gaskets, O-rings, or other flexible materials that compress when the cover plate 410 is in position.

[0045]The specific mechanism for moving the cover plate 410 may vary in different examples. For instance, it may slide linearly, rotate about a pivot point, or employ a combination of movements to transition between the two positions. The mechanism may also include detents or locking features to securely hold the cover plate 410 in each position until deliberately moved by the user.

[0046]FIGS. 5A and 5B show bottom views of the smoking device 100 with the access hatch 130 removed, revealing the internal configuration. In FIG. 5A, which corresponds to the cartridge-operation mode shown in FIGS. 3A and 4A, the filter cavity 510 can be seen on one side of the device. The cartridge cavity 520 is visible on the opposite side, configured to receive the cartridge 620.

[0047]In FIG. 5B, which corresponds to the filter-operation mode shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B, the same filter cavity 510 and cartridge cavity 520 can be observed. However, the internal airflow path may be different in this configuration to direct exhaled air through the filter cavity 510.

[0048]The filter cavity 510 may be shaped to securely hold the filter in place while allowing airflow through it during the filter-operation mode. The cavity may include features such as grooves or protrusions to properly orient and retain the filter.

[0049]Similarly, the cartridge cavity 520 may be designed to accommodate the cartridge, potentially including electrical contacts or other interfaces to connect the cartridge to the device's heating or vaporization system. The cavity may also incorporate airflow channels to allow air to pass through the cartridge during the cartridge-operation mode.

[0050]In some examples, sealing elements may be visible around the edges of the filter cavity 510 and cartridge cavity 520 to ensure proper airflow isolation between the two cavities. These sealing elements may include gaskets, O-rings, or other flexible materials that compress when the access hatch 130 is closed.

[0051]The specific shapes and sizes of the filter cavity 510 and cartridge cavity 520 may vary in different examples to accommodate different filter and cartridge designs. For instance, the cavities may be circular, rectangular, or have more complex geometries depending on the components they are designed to hold.

[0052]In some examples, additional features may be visible in the bottom view, such as airflow channels, electrical connections, or structural supports. These features may contribute to the overall functionality of the device, enabling the seamless switching between cartridge-operation and filter-operation modes as described earlier.

[0053]FIG. 6 illustrates various components of the smoking device 100 in an exploded view. The mouthpiece 120 is shown at the top of the figure, detached from the main body portion 110. The mouthpiece 120 may have a dark color contrasting with the lighter body portion 110, as seen in previous figures, though the colors used are entirely optional and not limiting in any way.

[0054]The body portion 110 is depicted as an elongated structure with a hexagonal cross-section, consistent with earlier descriptions, but need not be shaped in this manner, instead being capable of using any shape that performs the functionalities described herein. The body portion 110 may include features such as the control mechanism 140 (not explicitly labeled in this figure) and openings for airflow.

[0055]To the left of the body portion 110, a cartridge 620 is shown. The cartridge 620 may be cylindrical in shape with a clear body, allowing the liquid contents to be visible. The cartridge 620 may have a white top and bottom, potentially serving as sealing or connection points.

[0056]To the right of the body portion 110, a filter 610 is depicted. The filter 610 appears as a tall, rectangular component, designed to fit within the filter cavity 510 shown in previous figures. The filter 610 may be made of a material suitable for capturing smoke and odors during the filter-operation mode.

[0057]At the bottom of the figure, an access hatch 130 is shown. The access hatch 130 may have an oval or elongated shape, designed to cover the bottom of the body portion 110 and provide access to the cartridge cavity 520 and filter cavity 510.

[0058]In some examples, the cartridge 620 may be replaceable, allowing users to switch between different substances or refill when empty. The filter 610 may also be designed for easy replacement, enabling users to maintain optimal filtration performance over time.

[0059]The exploded view in FIG. 6 illustrates how these components can be assembled to form the complete smoking device 100. The user may insert the cartridge 620 and filter 610 into their respective cavities within the body portion 110, then secure them in place by attaching the access hatch 130. The access hatch 130 can include a light assembly that can illuminate in various circumstances, such as when a user is inhaling or exhaling through the device. The mouthpiece 120 can then be coupled to the top of the body portion 110 to complete the assembly.

[0060]This configuration allows for easy maintenance and replacement of consumable components (cartridge and filter) while maintaining the device's dual-mode functionality. The user can easily switch between cartridge-operation and filter-operation modes using the control mechanism 140, as described in previous figures.

[0061]FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the smoking device 100 in the cartridge-operation mode. The same components previously described in FIGS. 3A, 4A, and 5A can be seen, including the cover plate 410 and inhale outlet 420. In this configuration, the cover plate 410 is positioned to block the exhale inlet 430, allowing airflow only through the cartridge 620 and out the inhale outlet 420.

[0062]The figure also illustrates additional components of the device. An inhale flow path 710 is shown, indicating the direction of airflow when a user inhales through the device in cartridge-operation mode. This path begins at an inhale inlet 720, passes through the cartridge 620, and exits through the inhale outlet 420 to the mouthpiece (not labelled in this cross-sectional view).

[0063]The inhale inlet 720 may be located at the bottom of the device, allowing air to enter and pass through the cartridge 620. This inlet may include features such as air channels or perforations to optimize airflow and ensure even heating or vaporization of the contents in the cartridge 620. In another embodiment, the inhale inlet 720 is located in a different location that provides airflow through the cartridge 620 in the direction shown.

[0064]The cartridge 620 is shown in its position within the device, typically containing the substance to be vaporized or heated. The cartridge 620 may have various internal structures or components designed to facilitate efficient vaporization or heating of its contents.

[0065]The filter 610 is also visible in this cross-sectional view, positioned in the filter cavity as described in previous figures. Although not active in the cartridge-operation mode, its presence illustrates the dual-functionality of the device.

[0066]In some examples, the inhale flow path 710 may include additional features not explicitly shown in the figure. These could include air channels designed to optimize airflow, heating elements to maintain the temperature of the vapor as it travels through the device, or sensors to monitor airflow rate or temperature.

[0067]The specific dimensions and proportions of the components shown in FIG. 7 may vary in different implementations of the device. For example, the relative sizes of the cartridge 620 and filter 610 could be adjusted to optimize performance or increase capacity. Similarly, the shape and size of the inhale inlet 720 and inhale outlet 420 could be modified to achieve desired airflow characteristics.

[0068]In some examples, additional sealing elements or gaskets may be present around the cover plate 410, inhale outlet 420, and exhale inlet 430 to ensure proper airflow isolation between the two operational modes. These elements are not explicitly shown in the figure but may be understood to be present where necessary to maintain the intended functionality of the device.

[0069]The cross-sectional view provided in FIG. 7 helps illustrate the internal structure and airflow dynamics of the smoking device 100 in its cartridge-operation mode. This view, combined with the previously described figures, provides a comprehensive understanding of how the device functions in both its operational modes.

[0070]FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the smoking device 100 in the filter-operation mode. Many of the same components previously described in FIGS. 3B, 4B, and 5B can be seen, including the cover plate 410 and exhale inlet 430. In this configuration, the cover plate 410 is positioned to block the inhale outlet (not labelled in this view), allowing airflow only through the exhale inlet 430 and into the filter 610.

[0071]The figure illustrates additional components and airflow paths in the filter-operation mode. An exhale flow path 810 is shown, indicating the direction of airflow when a user exhales into the device. This path begins at the exhale inlet 430, passes through the filter 610, and exits through an exhale outlet 820.

[0072]The exhale inlet 430 may be located near the top of the device, allowing exhaled air to enter and flow down through the filter 610. This inlet may include features such as air channels or baffles to optimize airflow and ensure efficient filtration of the exhaled smoke or vapor.

[0073]The filter 610 is shown in its position within the device, typically containing materials designed to capture smoke particles and odors. The filter 610 may have various internal structures or layers optimized for different types of filtration.

[0074]The exhale outlet 820 may be located at the bottom or side of the device, allowing filtered air to exit. This outlet may include features such as vents or perforations to disperse the filtered air and further reduce visibility of any remaining vapor. The exhale outlet 820 can correspond to the exhaust ports 210 depicted in FIG. 2, in an example.

[0075]The cartridge 620 is also visible in this cross-sectional view, positioned in the cartridge cavity as described in previous figures. Although not active in the filter-operation mode, its presence illustrates the dual functionality of the device.

[0076]In some examples, the exhale flow path 810 may include additional features not explicitly shown in the figure. These could include air channels designed to optimize airflow, cooling elements to reduce the temperature of the exhaled vapor, or sensors to monitor airflow rate or filter efficiency.

[0077]The specific dimensions and proportions of the components shown in FIG. 8 may vary in different implementations of the device. For example, the relative sizes of the filter 610 and exhale outlet 820 could be adjusted to optimize filtration performance or increase airflow capacity. Similarly, the shape and size of the exhale inlet 430 could be modified to accommodate different mouthpiece designs or improve user comfort during exhalation.

[0078]In some examples, additional sealing elements or gaskets may be present around the cover plate 410, exhale inlet 430, and other interfaces to ensure proper airflow isolation between the two operational modes. These elements are not explicitly shown in the figure but may be understood to be present where necessary to maintain the intended functionality of the device.

[0079]The cross-sectional view provided in FIG. 8 helps illustrate the internal structure and airflow dynamics of the smoking device 100 in its filter-operation mode. This view, combined with the previously described figures, provides a comprehensive understanding of how the device functions in both its operational modes, demonstrating its versatility and user-configurable nature.

[0080]Stage 910 of the example method of FIG. 9 can include providing the user-configurable smoking device. This stage may involve manufacturing, assembling, selling, buying, or otherwise making available a smoking device that includes a body portion shaped to receive a cartridge and a filter, a mouthpiece coupled to the body portion, and a control mechanism for selectively allowing airflow through either the cartridge or filter. The body portion can be designed to accommodate both the cartridge and filter in separate compartments, allowing for easy replacement of these components when needed. The mouthpiece can be ergonomically designed for user comfort and can be removable for cleaning or replacement. The control mechanism can take various forms, such as a sliding switch, rotating knob, push button, or pull knob, positioned on the exterior of the device for easy access and manipulation by the user.

[0081]Stage 920 of the example method can include operating the control mechanism, by a user, to engage the cartridge-operation mode. In this stage, the user may manipulate the control mechanism to a specific position or state that configures the internal airflow paths of the device to allow air to flow through the cartridge. This operation can involve moving a cover plate or other internal component to block the filter inlet while opening the pathway to the cartridge. The user can perform this action without needing to inhale or exhale through the mouthpiece, allowing for convenient mode switching.

[0082]Stage 930 can include inhaling through the mouthpiece, by the user, such that smoke flows through the cartridge and out of the mouthpiece. In this stage, the user can place their lips on the mouthpiece and draw air through the device. The airflow will pass through the cartridge, where it can pick up vapor or smoke from the substance contained within, before exiting through the mouthpiece into the user's mouth. The airflow through the cartridge can also activate a heating element that heats the air flowing through the cartridge, vaporizing or combusting the contents of the cartridge. The device can be designed to optimize this airflow path for efficient vaporization or heating of the cartridge contents.

[0083]Stage 940 of the example method can involve operating the control mechanism, by the user, to engage the filter-operation mode. Similar to stage 920, the user can manipulate the control mechanism to reconfigure the internal airflow paths of the device. This action can move the cover plate or other internal component to block the cartridge outlet while opening the pathway to the filter. Again, this operation can be performed independently of any inhalation or exhalation through the mouthpiece.

[0084]Stage 950 can include exhaling into the mouthpiece, by the user, such that exhaled smoke flows through the filter and out of the body portion of the smoking device. In this stage, the user can exhale directly into the mouthpiece. The exhaled smoke or vapor will then be directed through the filter, where particles and odors can be captured. The filtered air can then exit the device through an exhaust port, which may be located on the bottom or side of the body portion. This filtering process can help reduce the smell and visibility of the exhaled smoke or vapor, potentially enhancing discretion and reducing environmental impact.

[0085]In some examples, the method can include additional stages not explicitly shown in FIG. 9. For instance, there may be a stage for replacing the cartridge when it is depleted, or for replacing the filter when it becomes saturated. The method can also include stages for cleaning or maintaining various components of the device to ensure optimal performance over time.

[0086]The specific implementation of each stage can vary depending on the exact design of the smoking device. For example, the control mechanism operation in stages 920 and 940 may involve different actions depending on whether it is a sliding switch, rotating knob, push button, or other type of mechanism. Similarly, the airflow paths and filtering efficiency in stages 930 and 950 can depend on the specific internal design and materials used in the device.

[0087]Overall, this method provides a comprehensive process for using a dual-mode smoking device, allowing users to seamlessly switch between inhalation and filtered exhalation modes for a versatile and potentially more discreet smoking experience.

[0088]The smoking device described in the previous figures and claims can be implemented with various modifications and alternatives. For example, the specific shape and dimensions of the body portion 110 can be altered while still maintaining the dual-mode functionality. The body portion 110 may be cylindrical, rectangular, or have other geometric shapes instead of the hexagonal cross-section shown. The size of the device can also be scaled up or down to accommodate different user preferences or portability requirements.

[0089]The mouthpiece 120 can be designed in various shapes and sizes to improve user comfort or to accommodate different inhalation/exhalation patterns. For instance, the mouthpiece 120 may have a circular, square, or other non-oval opening. It may also be made removable or replaceable to allow for easy cleaning or customization.

[0090]The control mechanism 140 for switching between cartridge-operation and filter-operation modes can take different forms beyond those explicitly described. For example, it could be implemented as a touch-sensitive surface, a voice-activated control, or even a smartphone app-controlled feature in different versions of the device.

[0091]The internal configuration of the device can also vary. The relative positions of the cartridge 620 and filter 610 within the body portion 110 may be rearranged to optimize airflow or to simplify the manufacturing process. The specific materials used for the filter 610 can be varied to target different types of particles or odors, potentially allowing for customization based on user preferences or local regulations.

[0092]The airflow paths within the device can be modified to include additional features such as cooling chambers, secondary filters, or even flavor-enhancing components. These modifications can potentially improve the user experience or address specific concerns related to vapor temperature or taste.

[0093]The power source for the device, while not explicitly described in the figures, can be implemented in various ways. This may include rechargeable batteries of different capacities, removable batteries for easy replacement, or even solar-powered options for eco-friendly variants.

[0094]The access hatch 130 can be designed with different opening mechanisms, such as sliding, rotating, or magnetic closures, to improve ease of use or durability. The exhaust port 210 can be repositioned or redesigned to optimize the dispersion of filtered air and further reduce the visibility of any remaining vapor.

[0095]In terms of additional features, the device could incorporate sensors to monitor usage patterns, filter efficiency, or cartridge levels. This data could be used to provide user feedback through LED indicators, a small display screen, or smartphone connectivity.

[0096]The benefits of the described smoking device are numerous. The dual-mode functionality allows users to seamlessly switch between inhalation and filtered exhalation, potentially reducing the environmental impact and increasing discretion in various social settings. The ability to filter exhaled smoke or vapor can significantly reduce odors and visible emissions, making the device more acceptable in shared spaces or areas with strict smoking regulations.

[0097]The user-configurable nature of the device, with its replaceable cartridge and filter, provides flexibility and potentially reduces long-term costs for users. This design also allows for easy maintenance and cleaning, which can extend the life of the device and improve its overall performance.

[0098]The compact and portable design of the smoking device makes it convenient for users to carry and use in various situations. The intuitive control mechanism allows for easy switching between modes without the need for complex operations or additional accessories.

[0099]From a health perspective, the filtration of exhaled smoke or vapor may reduce secondhand exposure for those in the vicinity of the user. While the device is not intended to mitigate health risks associated with smoking or vaping, the filtered exhalation feature can be seen as a harm reduction approach in certain contexts.

[0100]Overall, the described smoking device offers a novel solution to common issues associated with traditional smoking or vaping devices, providing users with greater control over their smoking experience while potentially reducing the impact on their surroundings.

[0101]Other examples of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the examples disclosed herein. Though some of the described methods have been presented as a series of steps, it should be appreciated that one or more steps can occur simultaneously, in an overlapping fashion, or in a different order. The order of steps presented are only illustrative of the possibilities and those steps can be executed or performed in any suitable fashion. Moreover, the various features of the examples described here are not mutually exclusive. Rather any feature of any example described here can be incorporated into any other suitable example. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.