ADJUSTABLE DEVICE

An adjustable device may include an adapter, a stem configured to connect to the adapter, and a diffuser configured to connect to at least one of the adapter or the stem. The adjustable device may include a variety of configurations to adjust the length of the adjustable device. Additional adjustable devices, systems including the adjustable devices, and methods of forming the adjustable devices are also disclosed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to adjustable devices, and related systems and methods. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to adjustable devices (e.g., downstems) and associated systems and methods, for applications such as, for example, vaporizing and/or smoking.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Various embodiments of the disclosure relate to adjustable devices that are generally used in the context of vaporizing and/or smoking. According to some embodiments, an adjustable device may include an adapter configured to connect to a diffuser. In additional embodiments, the adjustable device may include an adapter configured to connect to a stem, and the stem is configured to connect to a diffuser. In some embodiments, the adjustable device may include an adapter removably connected to a diffuser. In additional embodiments, the adjustable device may include an adapter removably connected to a stem, and a diffuser removably connected to the stem.

In various embodiments of the disclosure, the adapter may include only a first portion. In additional embodiments, the adapter may include a first portion and a second portion configured to connect to the first portion. In various embodiments of the disclosure, the stem may include one or more portions. The first portion of the adapter and one or more portion(s) of the stem may be configured to connect to any other of the adapter, the other portion(s) of the stem, and/or the diffuser. For example, the first portion of the adapter, one or more portion(s) of the stem, and the diffuser may include a common (e.g., shared) connection feature such that the portions may be mixed and matched in any desired sequence or arrangement to adjust a length of the adjustable device.

According to some embodiments, a system may include a pipe and an adjustable device at least partially within the pipe. The pipe may comprise an annular portion at a first end of the pipe. The adjustable device may comprise an adapter connected to the annular portion, a stem connected to the adapter, and a diffuser positioned within the pipe and connected to the stem.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the Brief Summary above and in the Detailed Description, the claims below, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method acts) of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that the disclosure includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular embodiment, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments described herein.

The following description provides specific details, such as components, assembly, and materials in order to provide a thorough description of embodiments of the disclosure. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced without employing these specific details.

The use of the term “for example,” means that the related description is explanatory, and though the scope of the disclosure is intended to encompass the examples and legal equivalents, the use of such terms is not intended to limit the scope of an embodiment or this disclosure to the specified components, acts, features, functions, or the like.

As used herein, the term “configured to” in reference to a structure or device intended to perform some function refers to size, shape, material composition, material distribution, orientation, and/or arrangement, etc. of the referenced structure or device.

As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including,” and grammatical equivalents thereof include both open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method acts, and more restrictive terms such as “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” and grammatical equivalents thereof.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

As used herein, relational terms, such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used for clarity and convenience in understanding the disclosure and accompanying drawings and does not connote or depend on any specific preference, orientation, or order, except where the context clearly indicates otherwise.

FIGS.1-3show an adjustable device100in an assembled state (FIG.1), in a disassembled state (FIG.2), and a cross-sectional view of the adjustable device100in a disassembled state (FIG.3), in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. The adjustable device100may be utilized in the context of vaporizing and/or smoking, although the use of the adjustable device100is in no way limited to the vaporizing and/or smoking context. In the vaporizing and/or smoking context, the adjustable device100may function as what is colloquially referred to as a “downstem.” A smoking and/or vaporizing substance may be placed within a vaporizing and/or smoking device (e.g., a pipe, such as a “bong,” etc.), and then the smoking and/or vaporizing substance may be heated to produce vapor and/or smoke. The adjustable device100may be utilized to generate a suction force to draw air, smoke, and/or vapor through the vaporizing and/or smoking device, and optionally a liquid (e.g., water), before being inhaled by a user (e.g., a human). The liquid, such as water, may help to cool and/or at least partially filter particulates from the air, smoke, and/or vapor. The adjustable device100may be configured to connect to (e.g., be inserted into, etc.) the vaporizing and/or smoking device in a desired manner. For example, the adjustable device100may be positioned such that an end portion of the adjustable device100is at least partially submerged within the liquid in the smoking and/or vaporizing device. The size of vaporizing and/or smoking devices may vary, so the adjustable device100can be adjusted as desired based on the size of the device(s) in which the adjustable device100will be used. The process is shown and described below with respect toFIG.24.

Referring collectively toFIGS.1-3, the adjustable device100generally includes a first section101that includes an adapter102, and optionally, a stem104configured to connect to the adapter102. The adjustable device100may additionally include a diffuser106configured to connect to the first section101(e.g., the adapter102and, optionally, the stem104). As shown inFIG.1, the adjustable device100, in the assembled state, includes the first section101removably connected to a diffuser106. In some embodiments, the first section101includes the adapter102removably connected to the stem104, and the stem is removably connected to the diffuser106such that the stem104is interposed between the adapter102and the diffuser106. In additional embodiments, the first section101includes only the adapter102removably connected to the diffuser106, and the stem104may be entirely omitted from the adjustable device100. The adjustable device100may include a variety of configurations (FIGS.4-23). Thus, in some embodiments, the adjustable device100includes the adapter102and the diffuser106.

In the assembled state shown inFIG.1, the adjustable device100, may exhibit any desired shape(s) and/or size(s). For example, as shown inFIG.1, the adjustable device100, in the assembled state, may exhibit a generally elongated tubular shape.

The adjustable device100may define a central opening108that may extend continuously through each portion of the adjustable device100from a first end110of the adjustable device100to a second end112opposite the first end110. Thus, the central opening108may extend substantially an entire length (e.g., a distance from the first end110to the second end112) of the assembled adjustable device100.

The adjustable device100may be adjustable in length (e.g., the distance from the first end110to the second end112), and also in width (e.g., diameter) of the adapter102. For example, as shown inFIGS.1-3, the adapter102may include a first portion114and, optionally, a second portion116configured to removably connect to the first portion114. In addition, the stem104may include a first portion118, a second portion120, a third portion122, and/or a fourth portion124that may each be configured to removably connect to one another. Thus, the vertical dimension (e.g., dimension in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100may vary, and the lateral dimension(s) (e.g., dimensions in the X-direction and/or Y-direction) of at least a portion (e.g., the adapter102) of the adjustable device100may vary depending on a particular configuration. Portions of the adjustable device100, including the portions114,116of the adapter102, and/or the portions118,120,122,124of the stem104may be mixed and matched as desired to form a variety of configurations of the adjustable device100. In some embodiments, each of the adapter102, the stem104, and the diffuser106include common connection features (e.g., same shape, size, and/or type) such that the diffuser106is configured to connect to the stem104, or the adapter102, and the stem104is configured to connect to the adapter102. Various configurations of the adjustable device100are shown and described below with respect toFIGS.4-23.

Continuing with reference toFIGS.1-3, the adapter102may exhibit any desired shape and/or size. In some embodiments, the adapter102may be configured to interface with a portion of another device, such as a “bowl” section and/or the bowl of a smoking and/or vaporizing device (seeFIG.24). For example, the lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction) of the adapter102may be corresponding to that of the smoking and/or vaporizing device in which the adapter102and remainder of the adjustable device100will be used. Because smoking and/or vaporizing devices may exhibit different shapes and sizes, and the shape and size (e.g., lateral dimensions, such as a diameter) of the bowl section and/or bowl may also vary, the size of the adapter102may also vary (e.g., by adding or subtracting the second portion116) to complement the size and shape of the bowl. Accordingly the adapter102may transition from a first diameter to a second diameter by adding and/or subtracting the second portion116from the first portion114of the adapter.

In some embodiments, the adapter102includes only the first portion114. In additional embodiments, the adapter102includes both the first portion114and the second portion116removably connected to the first portion114. To facilitate a removable connection between the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the second portion116may include a first connection feature125. The first connection feature125of the second portion116may be configured to engage a first connection feature127of the first portion114. For example, the first connection feature127may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the first connection feature125.

In some embodiments, the first connection feature125of the second portion116may include lip126and an exterior recessed section128adjacent the lip126(e.g., in the Z-direction). In addition, the first connection feature127of the first portion114may include a ridge132configured to rest against a surface of the second portion116, and a corresponding interior recessed section134configured to receive the first connection feature125(e.g., the lip126) of the second portion116of the adapter102.

In additional embodiments, the first connection feature127of the first portion114may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature125of the second portion116may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the first portion114to the second portion116.

The size of the first connection feature125(e.g., the lip126) of the second portion116, and the size of the first connection feature127(e.g., interior recessed section134) of the first portion114may be a different size (e.g., larger or smaller) than other connection features between portions of the adjustable device100. which may inhibit (e.g., prevent) the second portion116of the adapter102from inadvertently being connected to a portion of the stem104or the diffuser106.

The first portion114of the adapter102may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the first portion114of the adapter102may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the first portion114may exhibit a tapered shape such that a first end of the first portion114is larger (e.g., laterally) than a second end of the first portion114, which may facilitate a connection to the second portion116of the adapter102and/or another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device.

The first portion114of the adapter102may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the first portion114of the adapter102may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 millimeters (mm) to about 20 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 18 mm, from about 13 mm to about 16 mm, such as about 12 mm, about 14 mm, or about 16 mm. In addition, the first portion114of the adapter102may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension of from about 10 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 15 mm to about 45 mm, from about 20 mm to about 40 mm, from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, (e.g., about 28 mm, about 30 mm, or about 32 mm).

The second portion116of the adapter102may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the second portion116of the adapter102may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the second portion116may exhibit a tapered shape such that a first end of the second portion116is wider than a second end of the second portion116, which may facilitate a connection to another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device. For example, the second end (e.g., narrow end) of the second portion116may be substantially the same size (e.g., laterally) as the ridge132of the first portion114. In some embodiments, the second portion116of the adapter102exhibits substantially the same shape as the first portion114. In additional embodiments, the second portion116of the adapter102exhibits a different shape than the first portion114.

The second portion116of the adapter102may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the second portion116of the adapter102may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 mm to about 30 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 28 mm, from about 14 mm, to about 26 mm, from about 16 mm to about 24 mm, from about 18 mm to about 22 mm (e.g., about 19 mm or about 20 mm). In addition, the second portion116of the adapter102may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension of from about 10 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 15 mm to about 45 mm, from about 20 mm to about 40 mm, from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, (e.g., about 28 mm, about 30 mm, or about 32 mm). In some embodiments, the second portion116of the adapter102exhibits substantially the same longitudinal dimension (e.g., length) as the first portion114. In additional embodiments, the second portion116of the adapter102exhibits a different longitudinal dimension (e.g., length) than the first portion114.

The adapter102may be configured to connect to the stem104and/or the diffuser106. For example, the first portion114of the adapter102may be configured to connect to any of the portions118,120,122,124of the stem104and/or the diffuser106. To facilitate a removable connection between the first portion114of the adapter102and the stem104(e.g., the first portion118of the stem104), the first portion114of the adapter102may include a second connection feature135configured to connect to a first connection feature137of the first portion118of the stem104. For example, the first connection feature137of the first portion118of the stem104may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the second connection feature135of the first portion114of the adapter102.

In some embodiments, the second connection feature135of the first portion114of the adapter102may include lip136and an exterior recessed section138adjacent the lip136(e.g., in the Z-direction). The first connection feature137of the first portion118of the stem104may include a corresponding interior recessed section140(e.g., complementary interior recessed section) configured to receive the second connection feature135(e.g., the lip136) of the first portion114of the adapter102.

In additional embodiments, the second connection feature135of the first portion114of the adapter102may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature137of the first portion118of the stem104may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the first portion114of the adapter to the first portion118of the stem104.

The size of the second connection feature135of (e.g., the lip136, threads, openings, pins, etc.) of the first portion114of the adapter102, and the corresponding connection feature137(e.g., the interior recessed section140, threads, pins, openings, etc.) of the first portion118of the stem104may be substantially the same size as other connection features between the first portion114of the adapter102, portions118,120,122,124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106of the adjustable device100. Common connection features (e.g., same size, shape, and/or type etc.) between portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100may facilitate portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100being mixed and matched with one another to change the longitudinal dimension (e.g., in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100.

The first portion118of the stem104may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the first portion118of the stem104may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the first portion118may exhibit a cylindrical shape such that a first end of the first portion118is substantially the same size as a second end of the first portion118, which may facilitate the first portion118being inserted into another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device.

The first portion118of the stem104may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the first portion118of the stem104may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 18 mm, from about 13 mm to about 16 mm, such as about 12 mm, about 14 mm, or about 16 mm. In addition, the first portion118of the stem104may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension within a range of from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, such as from about 25 mm to about 100 mm, from about 40 mm to about 90 mm, from about 50 mm to about 90 mm, such as about 70 mm or about 80 mm (e.g., about 76 mm or about 3 inches).

The first portion118of the stem104may be configured to connect to the first portion114of the adapter, another portion120,122,124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106. To facilitate a removable connection between the first portion118of the stem104and another portion of the stem104(e.g., the second portion120of the stem104), the first portion118may include a second connection feature141configured to connect to a first connection feature143of the second portion120of the stem104. For example, the first connection feature143of the second portion120of the stem104may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the second connection feature141of the first portion118of the stem104.

In some embodiments, the second connection feature141may include lip142and an exterior recessed section144adjacent the lip142(e.g., in the Z-direction). The first connection feature143of the second portion120of the stem104may include a corresponding interior recessed section146(e.g., complementary interior recessed section) configured to receive the second connection feature141(e.g., lip142) of the first portion118of the stem104.

In additional embodiments, the second connection feature141of the first portion118of the stem104may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature143of the second portion120of the stem104may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the first portion118to the second portion120.

The size of the second connection feature141(e.g., the lip142) of the first portion118of the stem104, and the first connection feature143(e.g., the interior recessed section146) of the second portion120of the stem104may be substantially the same size as other lips and recessed sections between the first portion114of the adapter, portions120,122,124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106of the adjustable device100. Common connection features (e.g., same size, shape, and/or type etc.) between portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106may facilitate portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100being mixed and matched with one another to change the longitudinal dimension (e.g., in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100.

The second portion120of the stem104may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the second portion120of the stem104may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the second portion120may exhibit a cylindrical shape such that a first end of the second portion120is substantially the same size as a second end of the second portion120, which may facilitate the second portion120being inserted into another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device.

The second portion120of the stem104may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the second portion120of the stem104may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 18 mm, from about 13 mm to about 16 mm, such as about 12 mm, about 14 mm, or about 16 mm. In addition, the second portion120of the stem104may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension within a range of from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, such as from about 20 mm to about 90 mm, from about 30 mm to about 80 mm, from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, such as about 50 mm or about 60 mm (e.g., about 57 mm or about 2.25 inches).

The second portion120of the stem104may be configured to connect to the first portion114of the adapter, another portion118,122,124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106. To facilitate a removable connection between the second portion120of the stem104and another portion of the stem104(e.g., the third portion122of the stem104), the second portion120may include a second connection feature149configured to connect to a first connection feature151of the third portion122of the stem104. For example, the first connection feature151of the third portion122of the stem104may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the second connection feature149of the second portion120of the stem104.

In some embodiments, the second connection feature149may include lip148and an exterior recessed section150adjacent the lip142(e.g., in the Z-direction). The first connection feature151of the third portion122of the stem104may include a corresponding interior recessed section152(e.g., complementary interior recessed section) configured to receive the second connection feature149(e.g., the lip148) of the second portion120of the stem104.

In additional embodiments, the second connection feature149of the second portion120of the stem104may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature151of the third portion122of the stem104may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the second portion120to the third portion122.

The size of the second connection feature149(e.g., the lip148) of the second portion120of the stem104, and the first connection feature151(e.g., the interior recessed section152) of the third portion122of the stem104may be substantially the same size as other connection features between the first portion114of the adapter, portions118,122,124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106of the adjustable device100. Common connection features (e.g., same size, shape, and/or type etc.) between portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106may facilitate portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100being mixed and matched with one another to change the longitudinal dimension (e.g., in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100.

The third portion122of the stem104may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the third portion122of the stem104may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the third portion122may exhibit a cylindrical shape such that a first end of the third portion122is substantially the same size as a second end of the third portion122, which may facilitate the third portion122being inserted into another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device.

The third portion122of the stem104may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the third portion122of the stem104may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 18 mm, from about 13 mm to about 16 mm, such as about 12 mm, about 14 mm, or about 16 mm. In addition, the third portion122of the stem104may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension within a range of from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, such as from about 10 mm to about 85 mm, from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, from about 30 mm to about 45 mm, such as about 35 mm or about 40 mm (e.g., about 38 mm or about 1.5 inches).

The third portion122of the stem104may be configured to connect to the first portion114of the adapter, another portion118,122,124of the stem104and/or the diffuser106. To facilitate a removable connection between the third portion122of the stem104and another portion of the stem104(e.g., the fourth portion124of the stem104), the third portion122may include a second connection feature153configured to connect to a first connection feature155of the fourth portion124of the stem104. For example, the first connection feature155of the fourth portion124of the stem104may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the second connection feature153of the third portion122of the stem104.

In some embodiments, the second connection feature153may include a lip154and an exterior recessed section156adjacent the lip142(e.g., in the Z-direction). The first connection feature155of the fourth portion124of the stem104may include a corresponding interior recessed section158(e.g., complementary interior recessed section) configured to receive the second connection feature153(e.g., the lip154) of the third portion122of the stem104.

In additional embodiments, the second connection feature153of the third portion122of the stem104may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature155of the fourth portion124of the stem104may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the third portion122to the fourth portion124.

The size of the second connection feature153(e.g., the lip154) of the third portion122of the stem104, and the first connection feature155(e.g., the interior recessed section158) of the fourth portion124of the stem104may be substantially the same size as other connection features between the first portion114of the adapter, portions118,120,124of the stem, and/or the diffuser106of the adjustable device100. Common connection features (e.g., same size, shape, and/or type etc.) between portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106may facilitate portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100being mixed and matched with one another to change the longitudinal dimension (e.g., in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100.

The fourth portion124of the stem104may exhibit any desired tubular shape. For example, the fourth portion124of the stem104may exhibit a chisel shape, a frustoconical shape, a conical shape, a dome shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, a circular cylinder shape, a pillar shape, a truncated version of one of the foregoing shapes, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing shapes. As shown inFIGS.1-3, the fourth portion124may exhibit a cylindrical shape such that a first end of the fourth portion124is substantially the same size as a second end of the fourth portion124, which may facilitate the fourth portion124being inserted into another device, such as, for example, a smoking and/or vaporizing device.

The fourth portion124of the stem104may exhibit any desired size, such as any desired lateral dimension(s) (e.g., in the X-direction and/or Y-direction), and/or any desired longitudinal dimension(s) (e.g., in the Z-direction). For example, the fourth portion124of the stem104may exhibit lateral dimension(s) (e.g., a diameter) within a range of from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 12 mm to about 18 mm, from about 13 mm to about 16 mm, such as about 12 mm, about 14 mm, or about 16 mm. In addition, the fourth portion124of the stem104may exhibit a maximum longitudinal dimension within a range of from about 5 mm to about 100 mm, such as from about 10 mm to about 60 mm, from about 12 mm to about 25 mm, such as about 25 mm or about 20 mm (e.g., about 19 mm or about 0.75 inches).

The fourth portion124of the stem104may be configured to connect to the first portion114of the adapter, another portion118,120,122of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106. To facilitate a removable connection between the fourth portion124of the stem104and, for example, the diffuser106, the fourth portion124may include a second connection feature159configured to connect to a first connection feature161of the diffuser106. For example, the first connection feature161of the diffuser106may correspond to (e.g., be complementary to) the second connection feature159of the fourth portion124of the stem104.

In some embodiments, the second connection feature159may include a lip160and an exterior recessed section162adjacent the lip160(e.g., in the Z-direction). The first connection feature161of the diffuser106may include a corresponding interior recessed section164(e.g., a complementary interior recessed section) configured to receive the second connection feature159(e.g., the lip154) of the fourth portion124of the stem104.

In additional embodiments, the second connection feature159of the fourth portion124of the stem104may include threads, pins, openings, etc. and the first connection feature161of the diffuser106may include corresponding (e.g., complementary) threads, openings, pins, etc. to removably connect (e.g., secure) the fourth portion124to the diffuser106.

The size of the second connection feature159(e.g., the lip160) of the fourth portion124of the stem104, and the first connection feature161(e.g., the interior recessed section164) of the diffuser106may be substantially the same size as other connection features between the first portion114of the adapter and/or the portions118,120,122, and/or124of the stem104of the adjustable device100. Common connection features (e.g., same size, shape, and/or type etc.) between portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106may facilitate portions114,118,120,122,124, and/or106of the adjustable device100being mixed and matched with one another to change the longitudinal dimension (e.g., in the Z-direction) of the adjustable device100.

The diffuser106may be utilized to disperse air, vapor, and/or smoke to facilitate thermal transfer of heat and/or improve cooling of the air, vapor, and/or smoke traveling through the adjustable device100during use (e.g., in a vaporizing and/or smoking device, such as a pipe). Accordingly, the diffuser106is generally located at one end (e.g., the first end110) of the adjustable device100in the assembled state, and the adapter102is generally located at another end (e.g., the second end112), opposite the end with the diffuser106. To facilitate dispersing air, vapor, and/or smoke traveling through the adjustable device100(e.g., from the second end112to the first end110), the diffuser106defines an end opening166and additional openings168oriented laterally around and longitudinally along the diffuser106. For example, sidewalls of the diffuser106may define the end opening166additional openings168that may be used to disperse air, vapor, and/or smoke through the diffuser106. The end opening166may be smaller than a remaining portion of a central cavity of the diffuser106to promote flow outside of both the end opening166and the additional openings168. In some embodiments, the size of the end opening166may be substantially the same size as the additional openings168. In additional embodiments, the size of the end opening166may be different than the size of the additional openings168.

In some embodiments, each of the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may be made of and/or comprise the same material(s) as one another. In additional embodiments, one or more of the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may be made of and/or comprise different material(s) than one or more of the other components of the adjustable device100.

In some embodiments, the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may be formed utilizing conventional manufacturing processes. For example, the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may be formed via casting, molding, etc., to include the geometry (e.g., size, shape, internal cavities, etc.) of the desired final product. The first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may then undergo one or more material removal processes (e.g., turning, milling, drilling, etc.) to remove excess material and finalize the desired geometry of the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106. Afterwards, the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may undergo material finishing processes (e.g., grinding, polishing, abrasive blasting (e.g., sand blasting), coating (e.g., powder coating, dip coating, etc.), plating (e.g., electroplating, electroless plating, etc.)) to finalize the surface roughness, texture, and overall aesthetic of the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106.

In additional embodiments, the first portion114and the second portion116of the adapter102, the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and the fourth portion124of the stem104, and/or the diffuser106may be formed utilizing one or more additive manufacturing processes, such as, for example, binder jetting, inkjet 3D printing, directed metal deposition, micro-plasma powder deposition, direct laser sintering, selective laser sintering, selective laser melting, electron beam melting, electron beam freeform fabrication, laminated object manufacturing, stereolithography, etc. For example, a controller may slice a three-dimensional model (e.g., a 3D CAD model) into layers via a conventional process to create a substantially two-dimensional image of each layer including a thickness of each layer. In some embodiments, liquid resin (e.g., including a photoreactive material) may be preheated to a desired viscosity, and the liquid resin may be deposited where required to form the first layer. Support structures may be printed simultaneously with the part for stability during printing. The deposited material may then exposed to UV light, which cures and solidifies the layer of material. Once the first layer has solidified, the build platform may be lowered by one layer heights and the process is repeated until the part is finished.

It is noted that connection features disclosed herein may be swapped. More specifically, rather than a first piece have a female connector that connects to a second piece having a male connection, the first piece may have a male connector that connects to the second piece having a female connector. Further, it is noted that although openings168are illustrated as holes, the disclosure is not so limited and openings168may include slits or other suitable venting elements.

FIGS.4-13are front views of different configurations of the adjustable device100in an assembled state, in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. In each configuration shown inFIGS.4-13, the adjustable device100includes the first section101removably connected to the diffuser106. For example, the first end110of the adjustable device include the first section101removably connected to the diffuser106at the second end112of the adjustable device100. In addition, in each configuration of the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.4-13, the first section101includes both the first portion114of the adapter102and the second portion116of the adapter102removably connected to the first portion114.

FIG.4shows a first configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102, and the first portion114of the adapter102is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.5shows a second configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the fourth portion124of the stem104, which is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.6shows a third configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the third portion122of the stem104, which is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.7shows a fourth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the second portion120of the stem104, which is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.8shows a fifth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the diffuser106. In some embodiments, some components (e.g., first portion118and diffuser106) may include a unitary piece (e.g., piece of glass). In these embodiments, glass may be configured to couple to silicon, for example. Further, in these embodiments, a glass stem may be one a number of possible lengths.

FIG.9shows a sixth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the fourth portion124of the stem104. The fourth portion124of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the first portion118) is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.10shows a seventh configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the third portion122of the stem104. The third portion122of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the first portion118) is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.11shows an eighth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the second portion120of the stem104. The second portion120of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the first portion118) is removably connected to the diffuser106.

FIG.12shows a ninth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the second portion120of the stem104. The second portion120of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the first portion118) is removably connected to the third portion122of the stem104. The third portion122of the stem104(e.g., the end opposite the second portion120) is removably connected to the diffuser106. In some embodiments, some components (e.g., first portion118, second portion120, third portion122, and/or diffuser106) may include a unitary piece (e.g., piece of glass). In these embodiments, glass may be configured to couple to silicon, for example.

FIG.13shows a ninth configuration of the adjustable device100that includes the adapter102connected to the stem104, which is connected to the diffuser106. More particularly, the second portion116of the adapter102is removably connected to the first portion114of the adapter102. The first portion114of the adapter102(e.g., the end opposite the second portion116) is also removably connected to the first portion118of the stem104, which is removably connected to the second portion120of the stem104. The second portion120of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the first portion118) is removably connected to the third portion122of the stem104. The third portion122of the stem104(e.g., the end opposite the second portion120) is removably connected to the fourth portion124of the stem104. The fourth portion124of the stem (e.g., the end opposite the third portion122) is removably connected to the diffuser106.

While each of the configurations shown inFIGS.4-13generally show the portions118,120,122,124of the stem104in sequence from the first end110to the second end112of the adjustable device100, this disclosure is not so limited. Rather, as previously mentioned, the portions118,120,122,124of stem104may be mixed and matched, and each of the portions118,120,122,124may be positioned in any desired sequence from the first end110to the second end112. For example, the adapter102and the diffuser106may be at ends of the adjustable device100, and the stem104may be positioned between and removably connected to the adapter102and the diffuser106(including any combination of one or more of the first portion118, the second portion120, the third portion122, and/or the fourth portion124in any sequence or arrangement).

FIGS.14-23are front views of additional configurations of the adjustable device ofFIG.1, in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. In each configuration of the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.14-23, the adjustable device100includes the first section101removably connected to the diffuser106. For example, the first end110of the adjustable device include the first section101removably connected to the diffuser106at the second end112of the adjustable device100. In addition, in each configuration of the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.14-23, the first section101includes only the first portion114of the adapter102. To avoid repetition,FIGS.14-23are not described in detail herein. Rather, in each configuration of the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.14-23, the adjustable device100is substantially identical to the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.4-13, respectively, with the only difference being that the adapter102of the adjustable device100shown inFIGS.14-23includes only the first portion114. For example, the adjustable device100ofFIG.14is substantially identical to the adjustable device100ofFIG.4, except the adjustable device100ofFIG.14includes only the first portion114of the adapter102, whereas the adjustable device100ofFIG.4includes the first portion114and the second portion of the adapter102. The same relationship exists betweenFIGS.15and5,FIGS.16and6,FIGS.17and7,FIGS.18and8,FIGS.19and9,FIGS.20and10,FIGS.21and11,FIGS.22and12, andFIGS.23and13.

FIG.24is a side view of a system200that includes the adjustable device100in operation, in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. The system200generally includes the adjustable device100and a pipe202. The pipe202includes a first end204(e.g., an upstream end), a second end206(e.g., a downstream end) opposite the first end204, and a base208(e.g., a chamber) between the first end204and the second end206. The base208may include an interior surface209. During use, air, vapor, and/or smoke generally flows through the pipe202from the first end204through the base208and exits from the second end206due to a suction force applied at the second end206. The base208may be configured to store a liquid, such as water, that may be utilized to cool and/or at least partially filter the air, vapor, and/or smoke that travels through the pipe202.

The first end204of the pipe202may include an annular portion210that includes a central longitudinal axis212. The annular portion210may be configured to receive at least a portion of the adjustable device100. Accordingly, the size (e.g., dimensions in the X-direction and/or Y-direction) of the annular portion210of the pipe202may be substantially the same size as the lateral dimensions (e.g., dimensions in the X-direction and/or Y-direction) of the adjustable device100. Accordingly, the adapter102(e.g., the first portion114or the second portion116, if present) may be configured to connect (e.g., fixedly connect) to an end214of the annular portion210to secure the adjustable device100to the pipe202. As shown inFIG.24, the stem104of the adjustable device100is positioned within the annular portion210of the pipe202, and the second portion116of the adapter102is connected to the end214of the annular portion210. To optimize the cooling and/or filtration of the air, smoke, and/or vapor during use, the longitudinal dimension (e.g., the length) of the adjustable device100may be selected based on the size of the pipe202such that the diffuser106at the end of the adjustable device100is a distance D (defining a distance measured from the interior surface209of the base208of the pipe202to the distalmost portion of the diffuser106relative to the interior surface209). For example, the distance D may be within a range of from about 1 mm to about 300 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 100, from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. As non-limiting examples, the distance D may be about 5 mm, about 10 mm, about 15 mm, about 20 mm, about 30 mm, about 40 mm, about 50 mm, about 60 mm, about 70 mm, about 80 mm, about 90 mm, or about 100 mm. In addition, the distance D may be less than or equal to a liquid level (e.g., water level) of fluid within the base208of the pipe202such that the diffuser106is at least partially (e.g., entirely) submerged in liquid within the base208of the pipe202.

Accordingly, before using the pipe202, the various portions of the adjustable device100may be mixed and matched to achieve a desired length of the adjustable device100such that the diffuser106will be submerged in liquid within the pipe202during use.

A bowl216may then be connected (e.g., secured) to the end of the second portion116of the adapter102within the central opening108of the adjustable device100. A smoking and/or vaporizing substance may be inserted into the bowl216, and the smoking and/or vaporizing substance may be ignited and/or vaporized and mixed with ambient air. A suction force is then applied at the second end206of the pipe202(e.g., a by a user inhaling), and the resulting air, smoke, and/or vapor travels through the central opening108of the adjustable device100, through the end opening166and/or the additional openings168of the diffuser106, through the liquid within the base208of the pipe202, and to the second end206of the pipe.