Patent Description:
A vaporizer may include an electronic device that simulates tobacco smoking. In some instances, a vaporizer may include a handheld battery-powered vaporizer that produces an aerosol (e.g., a vapor) instead of smoke produced by burning tobacco. A vaporizer may include a heating element that is used to aerosolize (e.g., atomize) an aerosolizable substance (e.g., a substance that produces an aerosol when heating, such as a liquid, a liquid solution, a wax, an herbal material, etc.) to produce the aerosol. In some examples, the liquid solution may be referred to as an e-liquid. The aerosol produced by the vaporizer may include particulate matter. In some instances, the particulate matter may include propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, and/or flavoring. <CIT> describes an aerosol-generating system, which includes a liquid storage portion configured to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, a first electrode and a second electrode spaced from the first electrode, an aerosol-generator including one or more aerosol-generating elements and a control system. At least one of the aerosol-generating elements includes one of the first electrode and the second electrode. The first electrode and the second electrode are arranged such that at least a portion of the liquid storage portion is between the first electrode and the second electrode. The control system is configured to measure an electrical quantity between the first electrode and the second electrode and determine the amount of liquid aerosol-forming substrate held in the liquid storage portion based on the measured electrical quantity information. The liquid storage portion may be substantially sealed. The liquid storage portion may comprise one or more outlets for liquid aerosol-forming substrate held in the liquid storage portion to flow from the liquid storage portion to the aerosol-generator. The liquid storage portion may comprise one or more semi-open inlets. This may enable ambient air to enter the liquid storage portion. The one or more semi-open inlets may be semi-permeable membranes or one way valves, permeable to allow ambient air into the liquid storage portion and impermeable to substantially prevent air and liquid inside the liquid storage portion from leaving the liquid storage portion. The one or more semi-open inlets may enable air to pass into the liquid storage portion under specific conditions. <CIT> describes an electrically operated aerosol-generating system comprising: a liquid reservoir (<NUM>) comprising a rigid housing; an air inlet valve (<NUM>) in the rigid housing, configured to allow air into the liquid reservoir when a pressure difference between outside of the housing and inside of the housing exceeds a threshold pressure difference; a vapouriser (<NUM>) configured to vapourise the liquid; a pump (<NUM>) connected to an outlet through the rigid housing and configured to pump liquid from the liquid reservoir to the vapouriser. The invention provides a pump between the liquid reservoir. This improves the reliability and efficiency of delivery of liquid to the wick. In addition, the invention provides an air inlet valve in the liquid reservoir. This allows the pressure inside the reservoir to equalise with atmospheric pressure. This in turn allows a rigid reservoir housing to be used, providing the necessary robustness for the liquid reservoir. <CIT> describes an e-liquid cartridge designed to supply e-liquid to an electronic cigarette vaporiser, or personal vaporiser (PV), in which the cartridge includes an air pressure valve. The air pressure valve is designed so that as the fluid level inside the cartridge/reservoir falls, atmospheric pressure enables the air pressure valve to allow air to flow into the cartridge/reservoir and ensure equalisation of the air pressure. The valve may be an air-porous e-liquid impermeable PTFE or PTFE-coated layer or membrane or a mechanical valve, and may be oleophobic and hydrophobic. The air facing side of the membrane may include strands of polypropylene. The cartridge lid may comprise a plenum chamber. The membrane may be ultrasonically fused with the lid, which may be HDPE, PETG or COC. Also described in a vaporiser system comprising a PV, a case, a microprocessor, a cartridge and a pump. <CIT> describes a liquid formulation for an e-vaping device, which includes a vapor former, optionally water, nicotine, and optionally an acid. The vapor former includes propylene glycol and substantially no glycerin or glycerol. The liquid formulation is configured to form a vapor having a particulate phase and a gas phase when heated in the e-vaping device.

Additional advantages and details of the disclosure are explained in greater detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying schematic figures, in which:.

The present disclosure relates generally to systems, methods, and products used for preventing leakage in a vaporizer device. Accordingly, various embodiments are disclosed herein of devices, systems, computer program products, apparatus, and/or methods for preventing leakage of an aerosolizable substance within a vaporizer device.

According to the present invention, there is provided a vaporizer device according to claim <NUM>.

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "end," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments or aspects of the disclosure. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments or aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting unless otherwise indicated.

No aspect, component, element, structure, act, step, function, instruction, and/or the like used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" and "at least one. " Furthermore, as used herein, the term "set" is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, a combination of related and unrelated items, etc.) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or "at least one. " Where only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms "has," "have," "having," or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least partially on" and "based at least in part on" unless explicitly stated otherwise.

In some non-limiting embodiments, a vaporizer device may include a reservoir configured to contain an aerosolizable substance, the reservoir comprising a first opening and a second opening; a susceptor element coupled to the reservoir, the susceptor element positioned within the first opening of the reservoir, the susceptor element configured to be in contact with the aerosolizable substance; and a leakage prevention structure configured to transition the reservoir from a sealed state to an unsealed state. When the reservoir is in the unsealed state, the leakage prevention structure enables air to flow through the second opening. When the reservoir is in the sealed state, a vacuum is formed in the reservoir, and when the reservoir transitions from the sealed state to the unsealed state, the vacuum is released.

In some non-limiting embodiments, a user may use a vaporizer device to heat an aerosolizable substance to produce an aerosol for inhalation. For example, the user may use the vaporizer device to heat the aerosolizable substance, and the heat may cause the aerosolizable substance to transition to an aerosol. The user may then draw in air from the vaporizer device (e.g., by breathing in on the mouthpiece of the vaporizer device) and inhale the aerosol.

However, the vaporizer device may not include a mechanism to prevent leakage of the aerosolizable substance from within the vaporizer device. For example, the aerosolizable substance may be a liquid that is able to flow out (e.g., leak) from a container, such as a reservoir within the vaporizer device (e.g., in which the liquid is stored) into one or more compartments of the vaporizer device. In this way, leakage of the aerosolizable substance may cause damage to and/or a malfunction of the vaporizer device. In some examples, the vaporizer device may include a cap (e.g., a lid) that encloses an opening of the container. However, the cap may have to be removed each time before the vaporizer device is to be used. In addition, the user may find it highly undesirable for any portion of the aerosolizable substance (e.g., in a non-aerosolized form) to be inhaled or ingested.

In some non-limiting embodiments, the vaporizer device may include a filter, such as a mesh screen, that covers an opening of the container that holds the aerosolizable substance. If the aerosolizable substance is of a specific form that will not move through the filter, such as an herbal material, ingestion of the aerosolizable substance may be prevented. However, for other forms of aerosolizable substances that may move through the filter, such as liquids and/or waxes, use of the vaporizer device with or without the filter may result in the user ingesting the aerosolizable substance.

As described herein, a vaporizer device may include a reservoir configured to contain an aerosolizable substance, the reservoir comprising a first opening and a second opening, a susceptor element coupled to the reservoir, the susceptor element positioned within the first opening of the reservoir, the susceptor element configured to be in contact with the aerosolizable substance, and a leakage prevention structure configured to transition the reservoir from a sealed state to an unsealed state. In some non-limiting embodiments, when the reservoir is in the unsealed state, the leakage prevention structure enables air to flow through the second opening, when the reservoir is in the sealed state, a vacuum is formed in the reservoir, and when the reservoir transitions from the sealed state to the unsealed state, the vacuum is released. In some non-limiting embodiments, the leakage prevention structure includes a valve coupled to the reservoir. When the reservoir is in the sealed state, the valve is in a closed position and, when in the closed position, the valve prevents the aerosolizable substance from being transferred through the first opening of the reservoir. Additionally, when the reservoir is in the unsealed state, the valve is in an open position and, when in the open position, the valve enables the aerosolizable substance to be transferred through the first opening of the reservoir. In some non-limiting embodiments, the leakage prevention structure includes a secondary reservoir configured to receive the aerosolizable substance from the susceptor element and a duct comprising a first end portion, a second end portion, and a channel between the first end portion and the second end portion to allow air to flow within the channel, where the first end portion of the duct is positioned within the reservoir and the second end portion of the duct is positioned within the secondary reservoir. When an amount of aerosolizable substance included in the secondary reservoir is at a predetermined amount, the reservoir is in the sealed state. Additionally, when the amount of aerosolizable substance included in the secondary reservoir is not at the predetermined amount, the reservoir is in the unsealed state.

In this way, the leakage prevention structure may prevent any portion of the aerosolizable substance from being inhaled or ingested by a user. In addition, the leakage prevention structure may prevent damage to and/or a malfunction of the vaporizer device without requiring the use of a cap that can impede a user's enjoyment of the vaporizer device.

<FIG> are diagrams of a non-limiting embodiment of vaporizer device <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> includes first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> are coupled together via an interference fit. As shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> are disassembled. As further shown in <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> may include housing <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include first housing section 162a and second housing section 162b. In some non-limiting embodiments, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include first housing section 162a. In some non-limiting embodiments, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include second housing section 162b. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM>. For example, vaporizer device <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM> extending from first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, first portion <NUM> may include neck portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may include aperture <NUM>. Neck portion <NUM> may be sized and configured to fit into aperture <NUM> to provide for correct alignment for components of vaporizer device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram of vaporizer device <NUM> shown in <FIG>. It is noted that all components of vaporizer device <NUM> shown in <FIG> are not required in each and every embodiment but the components of vaporizer device <NUM> are shown in <FIG> for purposes of complete illustration. As shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> are coupled together via an interference fit. As further shown in <FIG>, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM> may be included in first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> as appropriate.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may include one or more devices capable of controlling power source <NUM> to provide power to one or more components (e.g., inductor element <NUM>) of a vaporizer device (e.g., vaporizer device <NUM>, vaporizer device <NUM>, vaporizer device <NUM>). In one example, control device <NUM> is configured to control an amount of heat provided by a susceptor element (e.g., susceptor element <NUM>) to an aerosolizable substance in contact with susceptor element <NUM> based on a magnetic field associated with inductor element <NUM> (e.g., a magnetic field produced by inductor element <NUM>). In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> includes a computing device, such as a computer, a processor, a microprocessor, a controller, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> includes one or more electrical circuits that provide power conditioning for power provided by power source <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> may include one or more electrical components and/or one or more devices capable of providing electromagnetic energy to susceptor element <NUM> and/or receiving electromagnetic energy from susceptor element <NUM>. For example, inductor element <NUM> may include an induction coil, such as a planar or pancake inductor, or a spiral inductor. In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> is configured to provide electromagnetic energy (e.g., in the form of a magnetic field, such as a magnetic induction field, in the form of electromagnetic radiation, etc.) to a susceptor element to cause the susceptor element <NUM> to generate heat based on receiving the electromagnetic energy. In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> has a size and configuration (e.g., a design) based on the application for which inductor element <NUM> is applied. In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> has a length in the range between <NUM> to <NUM>. In one example, inductor element <NUM> has a length of about <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> has a width (e.g., a diameter) in the range between <NUM> to <NUM>. In one example, inductor element <NUM> has a width of about <NUM>. In one example, inductor element <NUM> includes an induction coil that has <NUM> turns of <NUM> gauge wire in <NUM> layers with an inside diameter of about <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, inductor element <NUM> has an inductance value in the range between <NUM>µH to <NUM>µH. In one example, inductor element <NUM> has an inductance value of about <NUM>µH.

In some non-limiting embodiments, power source <NUM> includes one or more devices capable of providing power to inductor element <NUM> and/or control device <NUM>. For example, power source <NUM> includes an alternating electrical current (AC) power supply (e.g., a generator, an alternator, etc.) and/or a direct current (DC) power supply (e.g., a battery, a capacitor, a fuel cell, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, power source <NUM> is configured to provide power to one or more other components of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, power source <NUM> includes one or more electrical circuits that provide power conditioning for power provided by power source <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be included in second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> as appropriate.

In some non-limiting embodiments, first housing section 162a may surround (e.g., entirely surround, partially surround, surround at least a portion of, etc.) the components of vaporizer device <NUM> included in first portion <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM> that are surrounded by second housing section 162b.

In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may be configured to hold an aerosolizable substance (e.g., aerosolizable substance <NUM> shown in <FIG>). In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may include first opening <NUM> and second opening <NUM>. For example, reservoir <NUM> may include first opening <NUM> that is configured to couple to at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be configured to transfer at least a portion of an aerosolizable substance from reservoir <NUM> through first opening <NUM> via a capillary action of susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be coupled to (e.g., attached to reservoir <NUM>) to cover second opening <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be configured to control the flow of air (e.g., airflow) into and/or out of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may be configured to hold an aerosolizable substance that is a liquid (e.g., a viscous substance). In some non-limiting embodiments, secondary reservoir <NUM> may be positioned opposite first opening of reservoir <NUM>. For example, secondary reservoir <NUM> may be positioned opposite first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, secondary reservoir <NUM> may include susceptor element <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM>) positioned in secondary reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> and secondary reservoir <NUM> may define one or more additional openings that enable air to flow along susceptor element <NUM>. For example, housing <NUM> and secondary reservoir <NUM> may define one or more additional openings that enables air to flow along susceptor element <NUM> and then through third opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be constructed of a combination of materials and configured to be in contact with an aerosolizable substance to achieve an appropriate effect. For example, susceptor element <NUM> may be an interwoven cloth (or otherwise intimately mixed combination) of fine induction heating wires, strands, and/or threads with wicking wires, strands, and/or threads. Additionally or alternatively, susceptor element <NUM> may include materials that are combined in the form of a rope or foam, or suitably deployed thin sheets of material. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may include rolled up alternating foils of material. Additionally or alternatively, susceptor element <NUM> may be surrounded (e.g., partially, completely, etc.) by inductor element <NUM>, which may not necessarily be in contact with susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, as susceptor element <NUM> may include a mesh wick, the mesh wick may be constructed of a material that is efficiently heated by induction (e.g., a FeCrAl alloy or ferritic stainless steel alloy). In some non-limiting embodiments, the mesh wick may be formed using a Kanthal mesh. Additionally or alternatively, susceptor element <NUM> may be removable from first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> so that susceptor element <NUM> may be able to be cleaned, reused, and/or replaced separate from first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include one or more components that prevent an aerosolizable substance from flowing out of (e.g., leaking, leaving, etc.) reservoir <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> in a non-aerosolized form and moving into other areas of vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM> and a device to cause valve <NUM> to transition reservoir <NUM> from a sealed state to an unsealed state. For example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM> and actuator <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM> and/or other components (e.g., actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>) of vaporizer device <NUM> that function with control device <NUM> (e.g., provide data associated with a measurement of a sensor to control device <NUM>, receive a control signal from control device <NUM>, perform an operation based on a control signal from control device <NUM>, etc.) to operate with valve <NUM> to prevent the aerosolizable substance from flowing out of reservoir <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> in a non-aerosolized form. In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM>, where valve <NUM> is coupled to reservoir <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of reservoir <NUM>). In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may include a flexible membrane. For example, valve <NUM> may include or may be constructed from a suitable grade of silicone rubber. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may include a hydrophobic material. For example, valve <NUM> may be coated with a hydrophobic material.

In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition reservoir <NUM> between a sealed state to an unsealed state. For example, valve <NUM> may be coupled to reservoir <NUM> and when the reservoir <NUM> is in the sealed state, valve <NUM> is in a closed position. When in the closed position, valve <NUM> may prevent the aerosolizable substance from being transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. When reservoir <NUM> is in the unsealed state, valve <NUM> is in an open position. When in the open position, valve <NUM> enables the aerosolizable substance to be transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when leakage prevention structure <NUM> transitions reservoir <NUM> from the sealed state to the unsealed state, a vacuum in reservoir <NUM> may be released and a flow of air through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> may be enabled. In some non-limiting embodiments, when leakage prevention structure <NUM> transitions reservoir <NUM> from the unsealed state to the sealed state, the vacuum may be formed in reservoir <NUM>, and the flow of air through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> may be disabled.

In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> (e.g., first housing section 162a and/or second housing section 162b) may be replaceable to allow a user to customize a particular appearance of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may surround reservoir <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of reservoir <NUM>). In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, air that flows through channel <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> (e.g., valve <NUM> of leakage prevention structure <NUM>) to transition to an open position, thereby transitioning reservoir <NUM> from the sealed state to the unsealed state.

In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include fifth opening <NUM>. For example, housing <NUM> may include fifth opening <NUM> that enables air to flow from an environment outside housing <NUM> into channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, fifth opening <NUM> enables air to flow from an environment outside housing <NUM> into reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may be constructed from any suitable material such as wood, metal, fiberglass, plastic, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM>. For example, housing <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM>, where mouthpiece component <NUM> is interchangeable. In such an example, variants of mouthpiece component <NUM> may be designed such that mouthpiece component <NUM> may restrict airflow to reproduce the pulling sensation (e.g., similar to the sensation users may prefer and/or be familiar with in respect to smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, mouthpiece component <NUM> may be associated with (e.g., coupled to, integrally formed with, etc.) first housing section 162a of vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, mouthpiece component <NUM> may be associated with first housing section 162a of vaporizer device <NUM> and mouthpiece component <NUM> may be configured to enable air to flow from fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> to an area outside of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, mouthpiece component <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, channel <NUM> may extend through first portion <NUM> and/or second portion <NUM> of housing <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, channel <NUM> may extend between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> to enable airflow through channel <NUM> between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Channel <NUM> may be defined within housing <NUM> that connects third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, first housing section 162a and reservoir <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of reservoir <NUM>) may define channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, second housing section 162b and reservoir <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of reservoir <NUM>) may define channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, channel <NUM> may include a non-linear channel. For example, channel <NUM> may include a plurality of cross-sectional areas that vary (e.g., that increase and/or decrease by between up to <NUM>% between the smallest cross-sectional area and the largest cross-sectional area) along channel <NUM>. In such an example, portions of channel <NUM> that have wider cross-sectional areas than other portions of channel <NUM> that have less-wide cross-sectional areas may have drops of aerosolized material (e.g., aerosolizable substance that has been aerosolized) that condensate and/or aggregate in the portions of channel <NUM> that have wider cross-sectional areas than other portions of channel <NUM>. In this example, the drops of aerosolized material may collect and enter an orifice (e.g., orifice <NUM> as shown in <FIG>) and the drops may be absorbed by an absorbent material (e.g., absorbent material <NUM> shown in <FIG>), such as cotton, wool, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned within channel <NUM>. For example, valve <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned entirely within or at least partially within channel <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> to transition to an open position. For example, the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause pressure within channel <NUM> to decrease. In such an example, the pressure within channel <NUM> may decrease based on suction generated at fourth opening <NUM> (e.g., at mouthpiece component <NUM> that is adjacent fourth opening <NUM>). In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition to the open position based on the decrease of pressure within channel <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the cessation of the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> to transition to the closed position. For example, the cessation of the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause pressure within channel <NUM> to increase. In such an example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition to the closed position based on the increase of pressure within channel <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be configured to control the flow of air into reservoir <NUM> (e.g., by sealing reservoir <NUM> or by unsealing reservoir <NUM>) during operation of vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, valve <NUM> may include a flexible material that is configured to control the flow of air into reservoir <NUM> during operation of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be sized and/or configured to fit over (e.g., to cover) second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be sized and/or configured to fit over fifth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. For example, valve <NUM> may be sized and/or configured to fit over fifth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be configured to control the flow of air between fifth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> and second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when valve <NUM> is in the closed position, reservoir <NUM> may be in the sealed state and valve <NUM> may prevent the aerosolizable substance included in reservoir <NUM> from being transferred through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, when valve <NUM> is in the open position, reservoir <NUM> may be in the unsealed state and valve <NUM> may enable the aerosolizable substance included in reservoir <NUM> to be transferred through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, actuator <NUM> is configured to cause valve <NUM> to transition between a closed position and an open position. In some non-limiting embodiments, actuator <NUM> may include a bimetallic strip that is configured to cause valve <NUM> to transition between the closed position and the open position based on the bimetallic strip receiving energy (e.g., energy in the form of heat, energy in the form of an electrical current, etc.) from one or more components of vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, actuator <NUM> may include a bimetallic strip that is configured to cause valve <NUM> to transition between the closed position and the open position based on the bimetallic strip receiving energy from power source <NUM> based on a control signal from control device <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, temperature sensor <NUM> may include one or more devices configured to obtain data associated with a temperature. For example, temperature sensor <NUM> may include a thermocouple, a silicon sensor chip, an infrared thermometer, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, temperature sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a temperature within channel <NUM>. For example, temperature sensor <NUM> may be positioned within channel <NUM> (e.g., entirely within, at least partially within, etc.).

In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may include one or more devices configured to obtain data associated with a pressure at a location associated with vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, pressure sensor <NUM> and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may include an aneroid barometer sensor, a manometer sensor, a Bourdon tube pressure sensor, a vacuum pressure sensor, a sealed pressure sensor, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a pressure within channel <NUM>. For example, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned within channel <NUM> (e.g., entirely within, at least partially within, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned outside vaporizer device <NUM> (e.g., entirely outside, at least partially outside, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned along an exterior surface of housing <NUM> and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be at least partially included in housing <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control valve <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may control valve <NUM> to transition between the open position and the closed position. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control actuator <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may control actuator <NUM> to transition valve <NUM> between the open position and the closed position. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control actuator <NUM> to transition valve <NUM> between the open position and the closed position based on the data associated with the temperature inside channel <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, when an amount of pressure within channel <NUM> satisfies a pressure threshold associated with the unsealed state of reservoir <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM> (e.g., valve <NUM> of leakage prevention structure <NUM>) may be configured to transition from the closed position to the open position based on the amount of pressure within channel <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, when the amount of pressure within channel <NUM> does not satisfy the pressure threshold associated with the unsealed state of reservoir <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition from the open position to the closed position based on the amount of pressure within channel <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may determine whether an amount of pressure within channel <NUM> satisfies a pressure threshold. For example, control device <NUM> may determine whether an amount of pressure within channel <NUM> satisfies a pressure threshold associated with the unsealed state of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> (e.g., valve <NUM> of leakage prevention structure <NUM>) to transition to the open position or to the closed position based on determining whether pressure within channel <NUM> satisfies the pressure threshold associated with the unsealed state of reservoir <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, control device <NUM> may cause valve <NUM> to transition to the open position or to the closed position based on determining whether pressure within channel <NUM> satisfies the pressure threshold associated with the sealed state of reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with an amount of pressure within channel <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with an amount of pressure within channel <NUM> from pressure sensor <NUM> positioned within channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with an amount of pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with an amount of pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM> from pressure sensor <NUM> positioned outside vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may determine a difference between the pressure within channel <NUM> and the pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may cause valve <NUM> to transition to the open position or the closed position based on the difference between the pressure within channel <NUM> and the pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, an amount of the aerosolizable substance transferred from reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> to an area outside of reservoir <NUM> may be determined at least in part based on a pressure inside reservoir <NUM>. The pressure inside reservoir <NUM> may be associated with the position of valve <NUM> coupled to reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, the amount of the aerosolizable substance transferred from reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> may increase when the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> increases (e.g., when valve <NUM> is in and/or transitions to the open position). Additionally or alternatively, the amount of the aerosolizable substance transferred from reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> may decrease when the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> decreases (e.g., when valve <NUM> is in the closed position and/or transitions to the closed position).

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with the temperature inside channel <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with the temperature inside channel <NUM>, and control device <NUM> may determine whether the temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased or decreased. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may determine whether the temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased at a predetermined rate (e.g., a predetermined rate associated with the generation of suction at mouthpiece component <NUM>). In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may cause heating element <NUM> to generate thermal energy. For example, control device <NUM> may cause heating element <NUM> to generate thermal energy based on control device <NUM> determining that the temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased at the predetermined rate. In such an example, actuator <NUM> may be configured to transition to the open position based on heating element <NUM> generating thermal energy.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may receive data associated with the temperature inside channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may determine whether a temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased at a predetermined rate. For example, control device <NUM> may determine whether a temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased at a predetermined rate during a time (e.g., during a period of time). In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may cause heating element <NUM> to generate thermal energy based on determining that the temperature inside channel <NUM> has increased at the predetermined rate. Additionally or alternatively, control device <NUM> may forego causing heating element <NUM> to generate thermal energy based on determining that the temperature inside channel <NUM> has not increased at the predetermined rate. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be configured to transition to the closed position based on heating element <NUM> foregoing generating thermal energy. Additionally or alternatively, valve <NUM> may be configured to transition to the open position based on heating element <NUM> generating thermal energy. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state.

<FIG> and <FIG> are simplified schematic diagrams that illustrate the operation of vaporizer device <NUM> based on components shown in first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>and <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> may include aerosolizable substance <NUM> in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, to use vaporizer device <NUM>, a user may generate suction at fourth opening <NUM>. The suction may cause air to flow through channel <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, airflow is represented by arrows in bold. As further shown in <FIG>and <FIG>, the air may flow through channel <NUM> and the air may pass along at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM> and the air may carry an aerosol that is generated based on susceptor element <NUM> heating aerosolizable substance <NUM> in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may generate heat based on the electromagnetic energy that is absorbed and/or provide heat to aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is in thermal contact with at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, a user may generate suction at fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> and cause air to flow along at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM> and through third opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, the air may flow from third opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> through channel <NUM> and through fourth opening <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is in thermal contact (e.g., in physical contact with so that thermal energy can be transferred) with at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM> may be aerosolized based on receiving heat from susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is aerosolized may be transported via the air flowing from third opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> through channel <NUM> and through fourth opening <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, when reservoir <NUM> is in the sealed state, valve <NUM> may be in a closed position. In some non-limiting embodiments, when in the closed position, valve <NUM> may prevent aerosolizable substance <NUM> from being transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when reservoir <NUM> is in the unsealed state, valve <NUM> may be in an open position. In some non-limiting embodiments, when in the open position, valve <NUM> enables aerosolizable substance <NUM> to be transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> to transition to an open position. For example, the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause pressure within channel <NUM> to decrease. In such an example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be allowed to be transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> toward secondary reservoir <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, a cessation of the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause leakage prevention structure <NUM> to transition to the closed position. For example, the cessation of the flow of air between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> may cause pressure within channel <NUM> to increase. In such an example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition to the closed position based on the increase of pressure within channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when leakage prevention structure <NUM> transitions reservoir <NUM> from the unsealed state to the sealed state, the vacuum may be formed in reservoir <NUM>, and the flow of air through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> may be disabled. In such an example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be prevented from being transferred through opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> toward secondary reservoir <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram of vaporizer device <NUM>. It is noted that all components of vaporizer device <NUM> shown in <FIG> are not required in each and every embodiment, but the components of vaporizer device <NUM> are shown in <FIG> for purposes of complete illustration.

As shown in <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> includes first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM>. For the purpose of illustration, <FIG> depicts vaporizer device <NUM> where first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> are coupled via an interference fit. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing 462a and 462b, valve <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>, described above. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more components of vaporizer device <NUM> may be the same as, or similar to, one or more components of vaporizer device <NUM>, as described herein. For example, one or more of reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be the same as or similar to one or more of reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>, respectively.

As shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or secondary reservoir <NUM>. For example, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, valve <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> that are surrounded (e.g., partially surrounded and/or completely surrounded) by first housing section 462a of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>. For example, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM> that are surrounded (e.g., partially surrounded and/or completely surrounded) by second housing section 462b. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more components included in first portion <NUM> may additionally, or alternatively, be included in second portion <NUM>. Similarly, in some non-limiting embodiments, one or more components included in second portion <NUM> may additionally, or alternatively, be included in first portion <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, some or all of the components of vaporizer device <NUM>, described herein, may be the same as or similar to some or all of the components of vaporizer device <NUM>, described above.

In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may be the same or similar to reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be the same or similar to susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may extend through at least a portion of first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing 462a and 462b may be the same or similar to housing 162a and 162b. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may be the same or similar to valve <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, actuator <NUM> may be the same as or similar to actuator <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, secondary reservoir <NUM> may be the same as or similar to secondary reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include one or more components that cooperate to prevent aerosolizable substances from leaving vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include valve <NUM> and/or secondary duct <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be the same or similar to leakage prevention structure <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include third opening <NUM> and/or fourth opening <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, fourth opening <NUM> may include a plurality of openings. For example, fourth opening <NUM> may include a plurality of openings where at least one opening is aligned along an axis of reservoir <NUM> and/or susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing 462a may include fifth opening <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, secondary duct <NUM> may be coupled to fifth opening <NUM> to enable the flow of air from outside vaporizer device <NUM> into reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may define channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include orifice <NUM>. For example, orifice <NUM> may be configured to collect liquid that passes through channel <NUM>, where the liquid is not aerosolized. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include absorbent material <NUM> (e.g., cotton, wool, and/or the like). Absorbent material <NUM> may absorb liquid that passes through orifice <NUM> that is not aerosolized.

In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may include a flexible membrane that is configured to control airflow and/or seal off reservoir <NUM> during operation of vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, the flexible membrane of valve <NUM> may include first portion 474a that extends across second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> and second portion 474b that couples to the exterior surface of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, second portion 474b may be folded to enable valve <NUM> to extend toward the open position and to retract toward the closed position. In some non-limiting embodiments, valve <NUM> may include at least a portion of secondary duct <NUM> extending through to enable airflow between an environment outside of vaporizer device <NUM> and reservoir <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram of vaporizer device <NUM>. It is noted that all components of vaporizer device <NUM> shown in <FIG> are not required in each and every embodiment, but the components of vaporizer device <NUM> are shown in <FIG> for purposes of complete illustration. As shown in <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> includes first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> are coupled via an interference fit.

In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM> (e.g., first housing section 562a and second housing section 562b), mouthpiece component <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>, described above. As shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, housing <NUM>, mouthpiece component <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM>. For example, second portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> may include control device <NUM>, inductor element <NUM>, and/or power source <NUM> that are surrounded (e.g., partially surrounded and/or completely surrounded) by second housing section 562b. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more components included in first portion <NUM> may additionally, or alternatively, be included in second portion <NUM>. Similarly, in some non-limiting embodiments, one or more components included in second portion <NUM> may additionally, or alternatively, be included in first portion <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, some or all of the components of vaporizer device <NUM>, described herein, may be the same as or similar to some or all of the components of vaporizer device <NUM> and/or vaporizer device <NUM>, described above. For example, one or more of reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, and/or housing <NUM> may be the same as or similar to one or more of reservoir <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, leakage prevention structure <NUM>, and/or housing <NUM>, respectively.

In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may be configured to hold an aerosolizable substance. In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may include first opening <NUM> and/or second opening <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned within (e.g., entirely within, at least partially within, etc.) first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. Susceptor element <NUM> may be configured to transfer the aerosolizable substance from reservoir <NUM> through first opening <NUM> via a capillary action of susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, reservoir <NUM> may be configured to hold an aerosolizable substance that is a liquid.

In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include one or more components that cooperate to prevent aerosolizable substances from leaving vaporizer device <NUM> in a non-aerosolized form and, as a result, by being ingested by a user associated with (e.g., operating) vaporizer device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may be configured to transition reservoir <NUM> between a sealed state to an unsealed state. For example, when leakage prevention structure <NUM> transitions reservoir <NUM> from the sealed state to the unsealed state, a vacuum associated with reservoir <NUM> may be released and a flow of air through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> may be enabled. Additionally or alternatively, when leakage prevention structure <NUM> transitions reservoir <NUM> from the unsealed state to the sealed state, a vacuum associated with reservoir <NUM> may be formed in reservoir <NUM>, and the flow of air through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> may be disabled.

In some non-limiting embodiments, when an amount of aerosolizable substance included in secondary reservoir <NUM> is at a predetermined amount, reservoir <NUM> may be in a sealed state. Additionally or alternatively, when an amount of aerosolizable substance included in secondary reservoir <NUM> is not at the predetermined amount, reservoir <NUM> may be in an unsealed state.

In some non-limiting embodiments, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include duct <NUM>. For example, leakage prevention structure <NUM> may include duct <NUM> positioned within and extending through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, duct <NUM> may be configured to control airflow and/or seal off reservoir <NUM> in conjunction with aerosolizable substance located in secondary reservoir <NUM> during operation of vaporizer device <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, duct <NUM> may be positioned within first opening <NUM> and an opening of first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may constitute second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, duct <NUM> may be configured to control airflow into and/or out of reservoir <NUM>, as described herein.

In some non-limiting embodiments, secondary reservoir <NUM> may be positioned opposite first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, at least a portion of susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned within secondary reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> and secondary reservoir <NUM> may define one or more openings that enable air to flow along susceptor element <NUM> and then through third opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Susceptor element <NUM> may be configured to generate thermal energy (e.g., heat), the thermal energy may causes an amount of the aerosolizable substance associated with (e.g., in contact with) susceptor element <NUM> to be aerosolized, and, when aerosolizing the aerosolizable substance, susceptor element <NUM> absorbs the aerosolizable substance from secondary reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, duct <NUM> may include first end portion <NUM>, second end portion <NUM>, and a channel between first end portion <NUM> and second end portion <NUM>. In such an example, the channel may allow air to flow within duct <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may be positioned within reservoir <NUM>. For example, first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may extend through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In such an example, the channel of duct <NUM> may include first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may be positioned within secondary reservoir <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, duct <NUM> (e.g., at least a portion of duct <NUM>) extends through first opening <NUM> of the reservoir. In some non-limiting embodiments, an opening at first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> defines first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned coaxially with regard to duct <NUM>. For example, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned within and extend through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>, such that susceptor element <NUM> is within first opening <NUM> and surrounding duct <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned between the portion of duct <NUM> that extends through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> and first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. For example, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned between a face of reservoir <NUM> that defines first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> and duct <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include first housing section 562a and second housing section 562b. For example, housing <NUM> may be sized and/or configured to surround the components of vaporizer device <NUM>, as described above. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include fifth opening <NUM>. For example, housing <NUM> may include fifth opening <NUM> that enables air to flow from an environment outside housing <NUM> into channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may be constructed from any suitable material such as wood, metal, fiberglass, plastic, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, housing <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM>. For example, housing <NUM> may include mouthpiece component <NUM>, where mouthpiece component <NUM> is interchangeable.

In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include channel <NUM> extending through first portion <NUM> and/or second portion <NUM> of housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, channel <NUM> may extend between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM> to enable airflow through channel <NUM> between third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Channel <NUM> may be defined within housing <NUM> that connects third opening <NUM> and fourth opening <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, first housing section 562a and/or second housing section 562b may cooperate with at least a portion of reservoir <NUM> to define channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, channel <NUM> may include a non-linear channel, as described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, channel <NUM> may include temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM>. For example, temperature sensor <NUM>, pressure sensor <NUM>, and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned within (e.g., entirely within, at least partially within, etc.) channel <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state. For example, control device <NUM> may cause susceptor element <NUM> to generate heat to aerosolize the aerosolizable substance in secondary reservoir <NUM>. When a predetermined amount of the aerosolizable substance in secondary reservoir <NUM> has been aerosolized, second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may be open and air may flow through duct <NUM> and into reservoir <NUM>. When air flows into reservoir <NUM> through duct <NUM>, reservoir <NUM> may transition between the sealed state and the unsealed state.

In some non-limiting embodiments, temperature sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a temperature within channel <NUM>. For example, temperature sensor <NUM> may be positioned within (e.g., entirely within, at least partially within, etc.) channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state based on data associated with a temperature within channel <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state based on data associated with the temperature received from temperature sensor <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned within channel <NUM> and pressure sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a pressure within channel <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned outside vaporizer device <NUM> and pressure sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>. For example, pressure sensor <NUM> may be positioned along an exterior surface of housing <NUM> and/or pressure sensor <NUM> may be at least partially included in housing <NUM>. In such an example, pressure sensor <NUM> may be configured to obtain data associated with a pressure outside vaporizer device <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state based on data associated with a pressure within channel <NUM> and/or data associated with a pressure outside channel <NUM>. For example, control device <NUM> may control susceptor element <NUM> to generate thermal energy to transition reservoir <NUM> between the sealed state and the unsealed state based on data associated with the pressure received from pressure sensor <NUM> and/or pressure sensor <NUM>.

<FIG> are simplified schematic diagrams that illustrate the operation of vaporizer device <NUM> based on components shown in first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, vaporizer device <NUM> may include aerosolizable substance <NUM> in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred (e.g., may flow) from reservoir <NUM> through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM>. For example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred from reservoir <NUM> through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM>. In such an example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred from reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM> when a pressure inside reservoir <NUM> is greater than or equal to a pressure outside of reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, an amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be included in secondary reservoir <NUM>. For example, an amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred from reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may prevent the flow of air into reservoir <NUM>. For example, the amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may prevent the flow of air into reservoir <NUM> when second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> is submerged in aerosolizable substance <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> is submerged in aerosolizable substance <NUM> the flow of air through duct <NUM> may be prevented. For example, when second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> is submerged in aerosolizable substance <NUM> the flow of air through duct <NUM> may be prevented and a vacuum may form in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, once the vacuum forms in reservoir <NUM> the remaining portion of aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be retained in reservoir <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, susceptor element <NUM> may generate heat. For example, susceptor element <NUM> may generate heat and susceptor element <NUM> may cause aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in susceptor element <NUM> to be aerosolized. In some non-limiting embodiments, the aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is aerosolized by susceptor element <NUM> may be carried away from susceptor element <NUM> via an air flow. In some non-limiting embodiments, the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> may decrease based on the aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is aerosolized by susceptor element <NUM> being carried away from susceptor element <NUM> via the flow of air across susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may be absorbed by susceptor element <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> may enable air to flow through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>. For example, duct <NUM> may enable air to flow through second opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> when an amount of aerosolized substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> is not at a predetermined amount. In some non-limiting embodiments, when the amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> is equal to or less than the predetermined amount, air may flow from second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> to first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, as air flows from second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> to first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>, the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> may increase.

<FIG> is a diagram of vaporizer device <NUM>. It is noted that all components of vaporizer device <NUM> shown in <FIG> are not required in each and every embodiment but the components of vaporizer device <NUM> are shown in <FIG> for purposes of complete illustration. For example, as shown in <FIG>, susceptor element <NUM> and duct <NUM> may both extend through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, first portion <NUM> of vaporizer device <NUM> includes reservoir <NUM>, duct <NUM>, susceptor element <NUM>, and secondary reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, vaporizer device <NUM> may include aerosolizable substance <NUM> in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred (e.g., may flow) through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM>. For example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred from reservoir <NUM> to secondary reservoir <NUM> via susceptor element <NUM> when a pressure inside reservoir <NUM> is greater than or equal to a pressure outside of reservoir <NUM>, and aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be included in secondary reservoir <NUM>. In such an example, an amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be transferred to secondary reservoir <NUM> to prevent the flow of air through second portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may prevent the flow of air through second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> to first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>. For example, the amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may prevent the flow of air through second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> to first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>, thereby causing a vacuum to form in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when the vacuum forms in reservoir <NUM> the remaining portion of aerosolizable substance <NUM> may be retained in reservoir <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, first end portion <NUM> and/or second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> may include a tapered shape. In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may be positioned coaxially with regard to duct <NUM>, where second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM> comprises a tapered edge shape, and an end portion of susceptor element <NUM> comprises a tapered edge shape that corresponds to the tapered edge shape of second end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, susceptor element <NUM> may generate heat causing aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in susceptor element <NUM> to be aerosolized. For example, as susceptor element <NUM> generates heat and causes aerosolizable substance <NUM> to be aerosolized, and the aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is aerosolized may be carried away from susceptor element <NUM> via an air flow. In some non-limiting embodiments, the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> may decrease based on aerosolizable substance <NUM> to be aerosolized. In some non-limiting embodiments, aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may be absorbed by susceptor element <NUM>. For example, aerosolizable substance <NUM> that is included in secondary reservoir <NUM> may be absorbed by susceptor element <NUM> and carried away from susceptor element <NUM> via the air flow. In some non-limiting embodiments, as aerosolizable substance <NUM> is carried away from susceptor element <NUM> via the air flow, duct <NUM> may enable air to flow through first opening <NUM> of reservoir <NUM> based on the absorption of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM>. For example, when an amount of aerosolizable substance <NUM> included in secondary reservoir <NUM> is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, air may flow from second end portion <NUM> through duct <NUM> to first end portion <NUM> of duct <NUM>. In this example, the pressure inside reservoir <NUM> may increase.

Referring now to <FIG> is a diagram of example components of a device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, device <NUM> may correspond to control device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, control device <NUM> includes at least one device <NUM> and/or at least one component of device <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, device <NUM> includes bus <NUM>, processor <NUM>, memory <NUM>, storage component <NUM>, input component <NUM>, output component <NUM>, and communication interface <NUM>.

Bus <NUM> includes a component that permits communication among the components of device <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, processor <NUM> is implemented in hardware, software (e.g., firmware), or a combination of hardware and software. For example, processor <NUM> includes a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any processing component (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) that can be programmed to perform a function. Memory <NUM> includes random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc.) that stores information and/or instructions for use by processor <NUM>.

In some non-limiting embodiments, storage component <NUM> stores information and/or software related to the operation and use of device <NUM>. For example, storage component <NUM> includes a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, a solid state disk, etc.), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, a flash memory device (e.g., a flash drive), and/or another type of computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding drive.

In some non-limiting embodiments, input component <NUM> includes a component that permits device <NUM> to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch, a microphone, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, input component <NUM> includes a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a temperature sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, a pressure sensor, etc.). Output component <NUM> includes a component that provides output information from device <NUM> (e.g., a display, a speaker, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), etc.).

In some non-limiting embodiments, communication interface <NUM> includes a transceiver-like component (e.g., a transceiver, a separate receiver and transmitter, etc.) that enables device <NUM> to communicate with other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. In some non-limiting embodiments, communication interface <NUM> permits device <NUM> to receive information from another device and/or provide information to another device. For example, communication interface <NUM> includes an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi® interface, a cellular network interface, a Bluetooth® interface, and/or the like.

In some non-limiting embodiments, device <NUM> performs one or more processes described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, device <NUM> performs these processes based on processor <NUM> executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable medium, such as memory <NUM> and/or storage component <NUM>. A computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) is defined herein as a non-transitory memory device. A non-transitory memory device includes memory space located inside of a single physical storage device or memory space spread across multiple physical storage devices.

Software instructions are read into memory <NUM> and/or storage component <NUM> from another computer-readable medium or from another device via communication interface <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments, when executed, software instructions stored in memory <NUM> and/or storage component <NUM> cause processor <NUM> to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry is used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, embodiments described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

In some non-limiting embodiments, device <NUM> includes additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than those shown in <FIG>. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of device <NUM> may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of device <NUM>.

Although the disclosure has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claim 1:
A vaporizer device (<NUM>) comprising:
a first reservoir (<NUM>) configured to contain a vaporizable substance (<NUM>), the first reservoir comprising a first opening (<NUM>) and a second opening (<NUM>);
a susceptor element (<NUM>) coupled to the first reservoir (<NUM>), the susceptor element (<NUM>) operative to provide heat to the vaporizable substance (<NUM>), the susceptor element (<NUM>) positioned within the first opening (<NUM>) of the first reservoir (<NUM>), the susceptor element (<NUM>) configured to be in contact with the vaporizable substance (<NUM>); and
a leakage prevention structure (<NUM>) configured to transition the first reservoir (<NUM>) from a sealed state to an unsealed state, the leakage prevention structure (<NUM>) for preventing the vaporizable substance (<NUM>) from flowing out of the first reservoir (<NUM>); and
wherein, when the first reservoir (<NUM>) is in the unsealed state, the leakage prevention structure (<NUM>) enables air to flow through the second opening (<NUM>); and
wherein, when the first reservoir (<NUM>) is in the sealed state, a vacuum is formed in the first reservoir (<NUM>) such that a flow of air through the second opening (<NUM>) of the first reservoir (<NUM>) is disabled, and when the first reservoir (<NUM>) transitions from the sealed state to the unsealed state, the vacuum is released such that a flow of air through the second opening (<NUM>) of the first reservoir (<NUM>) is enabled, and
wherein the leakage prevention structure (<NUM>) comprises:
a secondary reservoir (<NUM>) configured to receive the vaporizable substance (<NUM>) from the susceptor element (<NUM>); and
a duct (<NUM>) comprising a first end portion (<NUM>), a second end portion (<NUM>), and a channel between the first end portion (<NUM>) and the second end portion (<NUM>) to allow air to flow within the channel, the first end portion (<NUM>) of the duct (<NUM>) positioned within the first reservoir (<NUM>) and the second end portion (<NUM>) of the duct (<NUM>) positioned within the secondary reservoir (<NUM>); and
wherein, when an amount of vaporizable substance (<NUM>) included in the secondary reservoir (<NUM>) is at a predetermined amount, the first reservoir (<NUM>) is in the sealed state, and when the amount of vaporizable substance (<NUM>) included in the secondary reservoir (<NUM>) is not at the predetermined amount, the first reservoir (<NUM>) is in the unsealed state.