Patent ID: 12239159

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more embodiments are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. It may be evident, however, that the various embodiments can be practiced without these specific details, e.g., without applying to any particular networked environment or standard. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the embodiments in additional detail.

In addition, the word “example” or “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

As mentioned, various embodiments are described herein of an interface that enables connection, and disconnection, of an air filter to a smokable element via the interface in a reusable fashion, or to related methods for interfacing the smokable element, e.g., an herbal joint, to the air filter, e.g., a smoke and/or tar filter. Beneficially, the smokable element can be securely and repeatedly interfaced to, or connected with, the air filter. For example, interfacing between the air filter and smokable elements can comprise removably inserting the smokable element into the interface at one end, where the interface at the other end is attached to the air filter that allows unwanted particles to be filtered when the smokable element is being consumed.

In this regard, and now referring toFIG.1, a perspective view100of an interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element, such as an herbal joint (not pictured) is illustrated. In this example embodiment, the interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105a, and a round end102with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other. In this example, the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter (not pictured) of the round end102. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.2, a top view200of the interface110with the horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.2, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with the circular opening105aand the round end102with the circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the diameter103of the circular opening105aon the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the circular opening106on the round end102, and where the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115. InFIG.2, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

Now referring toFIG.3, a cross sectional view300of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.3, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with the circular opening105aand the round end102with the circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the diameter103of the circular opening105aon the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the circular opening106on the round end102, where the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115, and where the diameter107of the opening becomes increasingly larger moving away from the round end102. InFIG.3, the increase in the diameter107is shown by diameters107a,107b, and107c. InFIG.3, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

Now referring toFIG.4, a perspective view400of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable end201of a smokable element210, where the round end102of the interface110is affixed404to a circular opening301of an air filter310, and where the smokable element210is inserted401into the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. It is noted that the smokable element210, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end201of the smokable element210is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element210will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element210is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element210could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element210abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.5, a flowchart500of a method for inserting a smokable element into the circular opening of the horn-shaped end of the interface is illustrated. The method500comprises: at502, removably inserting, into a circular opening of a smoke and tar filter, a first circular end of an interface to a smokable element, resulting, at504, in a first air seal between an outside of the first circular end of the interface to the smokable element and the smoke and tar filter, wherein the interface to the smokable element comprises a continuous internal channel defining a hollow chamber for at least partially receiving the smokable element via a first opening of a second end of the interface to the smokable element.

At506, the method comprises removably receiving, into the first opening of the second end of the interface to the smokable element, a smokable end of the smokable element, wherein the smokable end is opposite the first circular end. Further, at least a portion of the continuous internal channel at the smokable end defines a baffle into which the smokable end of the smokable element is insertable resulting in at least a substantial restriction of air flowing into the continuous internal channel, other than smoke received in the continuous internal channel from the smokable end of the smokable element. Also, the removably receiving comprises receiving an application of a squeezing force by the baffle that results in a deformation of the geometry of the baffle to match or substantially match a geometry of the smokable end of the smokable element, and receiving a release of the application of the squeezing force after the smokable end has been received into the first opening of the second end of the interface to the smokable element that results in the smokable end being press fit within the baffle, and further results in a second air seal between an outside of the smokable end and the second end.

At508, it is noted that the removably receiving results in at least a substantial restriction of air flowing into the continuous internal channel, other than the smoke received in the continuous internal channel from the smokable end of the smokable element.

Now referring toFIG.6, a perspective view600of the interface110with a circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force402is applied to the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening105ato a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. InFIG.6, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance402abetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force402is applied and a second distance402bbetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force402.

Now referring toFIG.7, a top view700of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force402is applied to the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening105ato a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. InFIG.7, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance402abetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force402is applied and a second distance402bbetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the deformation of the first cross-sectional shape is greatest.

Now referring toFIG.8, a perspective view800of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed405twistable knob117where the opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115is illustrated. InFIG.8, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a first cross-sectional shape115, and where a twistable knob117is rotatably affixed405to the interface110in a manner that allows the twistable knob117to apply a squeezing force (not pictured) to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape115to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. It is noted that the smokable element210, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end201of the smokable element210is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element210will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element210is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element210could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element210abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101. It is noted that this twistable knob117can be rotatably affixed405anywhere on the interface110which allows the twistable knob117to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110.

Now referring toFIG.9, a top view900of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed405twistable knob117where the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101is in its original first shape115is illustrated. InFIG.9, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a first cross-sectional shape115, and where a twistable knob117is rotatably affixed405to the interface110in a manner that allows the twistable knob117to apply a squeezing force (not pictured) to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape115to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. InFIG.9, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc. It is noted that this twistable knob117can be rotatably affixed405anywhere on the interface110which allows the twistable knob117to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110.

Now referring toFIG.10, a perspective view1000of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed405twistable knob117where the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101is in its deformed second cross-sectional shape116is illustrated. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a first cross-sectional shape115, and where a twistable knob117is rotatably affixed405to the interface110in a manner that allows the twistable knob117to apply a squeezing force402to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape115to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. InFIG.10, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance402abetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force402is applied and a second distance402bbetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force402.

Now referring toFIG.11, a top view1100of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element210, and a rotatably affixed405twistable knob117where the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101is in its deformed second shape116is illustrated. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the diameter103of the horn-shaped end101is larger than the diameter104of the round end102, where the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a first cross-sectional shape115, and where a twistable knob117is rotatably affixed405to the interface110in a manner that allows the twistable knob117to apply a squeezing force402to deform the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape115to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. InFIG.11, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance402abetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force402is applied and a second distance402bbetween the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force402.

Now referring toFIG.12, a perspective view1200of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element210, and a rotatably affixed405twistable knob117where the round end102of the interface110is affixed404to a circular opening301of an air filter310, and where the smokable element210is inserted401into the circular opening105of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. It is noted that the smokable element210, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end201of the smokable element210is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element210will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element210is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element210could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element210abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.13, a perspective view1300of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119is illustrated. InFIG.13, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, and where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be opened119by an application of force406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from a first cross-sectional shape115(not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.14, a top view1400of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element210(element210not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119is illustrated. InFIG.14, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, and where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be opened119by an application of force406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from a first cross-sectional shape115(not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110.

Now referring toFIG.15, a perspective view1500of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120is illustrated. InFIG.15, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, and where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape116(not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.16, a top view1600of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120is illustrated. InFIG.16, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106(elements102and106not pictured), and where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal114(not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110. InFIG.16, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

Now referring toFIG.17, a perspective view1700of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120, and where a slidably movable ring121holds408the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120is illustrated. InFIG.17, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, where the slidably movable ring121snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110preventing the at least two hinged flaps118from opening119, and where the slidably movable ring121can be moved along the length of the interface110toward the horn-shaped end101away from the round end102via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be remain closed120. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.18, a top view1800of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120, and where a slidably movable ring121holds408the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120is illustrated. InFIG.18, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, where the slidably movable ring121snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110preventing the at least two hinged flaps118from opening119, and where the slidably movable ring121can be moved along the length of the interface110toward the horn-shaped end101away from the round end102via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be remain closed120. InFIG.18, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

Now referring toFIG.19, perspective view1900of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119, and where a slidably movable ring121holds408the at least two hinged-flaps118closed (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.19, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape116to its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, where the slidably movable ring121snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110preventing the at least two hinged flaps118from opening119, and where the slidably movable ring121can be moved along the length of the interface110toward the horn-shaped end101away from the round end102via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be remain closed120. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.20, a top view2000of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119, and where a slidably movable ring121holds408the at least two hinged-flaps118closed (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.20, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape116to its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, where the slidably movable ring121snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end101of the interface110preventing the at least two hinged flaps118from opening119, and where the slidably movable ring121can be moved along the length of the interface110toward the horn-shaped end101away from the round end102via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be remain closed120.

Now referring toFIG.21, a perspective view2100of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120, and where at least one clip122holds409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120is illustrated. InFIG.21, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105and a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, and where at least one clip122can be removably affixed412to the at least two hinged-flaps118by an application of force413which prevents the at least two hinged-flaps118from opening119. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101. It is also noted that the at least one clip can be removably affixed anywhere on the interface110which allows the at least one clip122to hold409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120.

Now referring toFIG.22, a top view2200of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are closed120, and where at least one clip122holds409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120is illustrated. InFIG.22, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, and where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be closed120by an application of force407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape115which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, and where at least one clip122can be removably affixed412to the at least two hinged-flaps118by an application of force413which prevents the at least two hinged-flaps118from opening119. InFIG.22, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape115can be circular, as shown, but it can also be any other shape suited to the carriage of air, such as star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc. It is noted that the at least one clip can be removably affixed anywhere on the interface110which allows the at least one clip122to hold409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed120.

Now referring toFIG.23, a perspective view2300of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises at least two hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119, and where at least one clip122holds409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.23, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be opened119by an application of force406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape116, which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, and where at least one clip122can be removed from the at least two hinged-flaps118by an application of force414which results in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be opened119by an application of force406. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to circular opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between circular opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101.

Now referring toFIG.24, a top view2400of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101comprises hinged-flaps118, where the at least two hinged-flaps118are open119, and where at least one clip122holds409the at least two hinged-flaps118closed (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.24, the circular opening105ais defined by the diameter103and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with a circular opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101of the interface110comprises at least two hinged-flaps118which can be opened119by an application of force406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110from its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape116, which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening105aof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, and where at least one clip122can be removed from the at least two hinged-flaps118by an application of force414which results in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps118to be opened119by an application of force406.

Now referring toFIG.25, a top view2500of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end102with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end101has an opening105bwith star-shaped cross sections is illustrated. InFIG.25, the star-shaped opening105bis defined by a first distance103abetween two inner points of the star that are across from one another, a second distance103bbetween two inner points of the star that are next to each another, and a third distance103cbetween the tip of one of the arms of the star and an inner point of that arm, and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with an opening105band a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101is larger than the circular opening106of the round end102, where the opening105bhas star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end102towards the horn-shaped end101, and where the opening105bhas a first cross-sectional shape115.

Now referring toFIG.26, a top view2500of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end102with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end101has an opening105bwith rectangular cross sections is illustrated. InFIG.26, the rectangular opening105bis defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the opening105band a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the opening105b, and the circular opening106is defined by the diameter104, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with an opening105band a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101is larger than the circular opening106of the round end102, where the opening105bhas rectangular cross sections, where the rectangular cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end102towards the horn-shaped end101, and where the opening105bhas a first cross-sectional shape115.

Now referring toFIG.27, a continuous channel2702defining a hollow inner chamber2704of an article of manufacture2700extending from a first opening2712at a first end2710of the article of manufacture2700to a second opening2722at or near a second end2720of the article of manufacture, wherein the second end2710is located opposite the first end2710, wherein the first end2710of the article of manufacture2700is slidably insertable into a third opening2732of a third end2730of an air filter2734, resulting in a seal, between the first end2710of the article of manufacture2700and the third end2730of the air filter2734, that at least substantially restricts a flow of air2750, between the first end2710of the article of manufacture2700and the third end2730of the air filter2734, to the first opening2710. The shape of the continuous channel2702can be cylindrical, rectangular, conical, or any defined shape (e.g., as shown) that enables air to flow through the continuous channel2702, e.g., from the second opening2722to the first opening2712. The example continuous channel2702ofFIG.7is shown as an arbitrarily defined shape to emphasize that passage of air (e.g., the flow of air2750) can be achieved by a wide variety of shapes and structures.

Now referring toFIG.28, an example method2800comprises, at2802, removably inserting, into a circular opening of a smoke and tar filter, a first circular end of an interface to a smokable element, resulting in a first air seal between an outside of the first circular end of the interface to the smokable element and the smoke and tar filter, wherein the interface to the smokable element comprises a continuous internal channel defining a hollow chamber for at least partially receiving the smokable element via an opening of a second end of the interface to the smokable element.

Method2800can also comprise, at2804, removably receiving, into the opening of the second end of the interface to the smokable element, a smokable end of the smokable element, wherein the smokable end is opposite the first circular end, wherein at least a portion of the continuous internal channel at the smokable end defines a baffle into which the smokable end of the smokable element is insertable resulting in at least a substantial restriction of air flowing into the continuous internal channel, other than smoke received in the continuous internal channel from the smokable end of the smokable element.

In this regard, the removably receiving of2804can comprise, at2806, receiving an application of a squeezing force by the baffle that results in a deformation of a first geometry of the baffle to match or substantially match a second geometry of the smokable end of the smokable element, and receiving a release of the application of the squeezing force after the smokable end has been received into the opening of the second end of the interface to the smokable element.

Furthermore, at2808, the removably receiving of2804results in the smokable end being press fit within the baffle, and further results in a second air seal between an outside of the smokable end and the second end.

Now referring toFIG.29, a top view2900of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force402is applied to the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening105bto a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed star-shaped opening105bof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. InFIG.29, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance103abetween the tip of an arm of the star and an inner point of the arm of the star nearest to where the squeezing force402is applied, a second distance103bbetween two inner points of the star nearest to where the squeezing force402is applied, a third distance103cbetween the tip of one of the arms of the star that is perpendicular to the squeezing force402and an inner point of that arm, a fourth distance103dbetween two inner points of an arm of the star that is perpendicular to the squeezing force402, and a fifth distance103ebetween two inner points of the star that are across from each other, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with an opening105band a round end (not pictured) with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101and the round end are opposite each other, where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101is larger than the circular opening of the round end, where the opening105bhas star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end towards the horn-shaped end101, and where the opening105bhas a second cross-sectional shape116.

Now referring toFIG.30, a top view3000of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force402is applied to the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the opening105bto a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed star-shaped opening105bof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. InFIG.30, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance103atwo opposite sides of the opening105band a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the opening105b, as shown. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with an opening105band a round end (not pictured) with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101and the round end are opposite each other, where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101is larger than the circular opening of the round end, where the opening105bhas star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end towards the horn-shaped end101, and where the opening105bhas a second cross-sectional shape116.

Now referring toFIG.31, a perspective view3100of an example embodiment of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end102with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end101has an opening105bwith oval-shaped cross sections, is illustrated. InFIG.31, the oval-shaped opening105bis defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the opening105band a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the opening105b. The interface110comprises a horn-shaped end101with an opening105band a round end102with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101is larger than the circular opening of the round end102, where the opening105bhas oval-shaped cross sections, where the oval-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end102towards the horn-shaped end101, and where the opening105bhas a first cross-sectional shape115.

Now referring toFIG.32, a top view3200of an example embodiment of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force402is applied to the horn-shaped end101of the interface110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the oval-shaped opening105bto a second cross-sectional shape116which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed oval-shaped opening105bof the horn-shaped end101of the interface110is illustrated. InFIG.32, the oval-shaped opening105bis defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the opening105band a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the opening105b. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with the oval-shaped opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the horn-shaped end101is larger than the round end102, where the circular opening106is defined by its diameter104, and where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape116.

Now referring toFIG.33, a top view3300of the an example embodiment of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. InFIG.33, the oval-shaped opening105bis defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the opening105band a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the opening105b. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with the oval-shaped opening105band the round end102with the circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the circular opening106is defined by its diameter104, where the horn-shaped end101is larger than the round end102, and where the opening105bof the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115.

Now referring toFIG.34, a cross-sectional, side view of an example embodiment of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with an opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the circular opening106is defined by its diameter104, where the horn-shaped end101is larger than the round end102, where the opening105ais defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the opening105aand a second distance (not shown) between the other two opposite sides of the opening105a, where the opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115, and where the cross-sectional shape is the same at every point between the edge of the opening105aand the point123where the opening105ameets the circular opening106. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to an opening105bas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between opening105aand circular opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101. It should also be noted the cross-sectional shape115can be any shape suited to the carriage of air, such as circular, star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

Now referring toFIG.35, a cross-sectional, perspective view of an example embodiment of the interface110with a horn-shaped end101for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. The interface110comprises the horn-shaped end101with an oval-shaped opening105aand a round end102with a circular opening106, where the horn-shaped end101and the round end102are opposite each other, where the circular opening106is defined by its diameter104, where the horn-shaped end101is larger than the round end102, where the oval-shaped opening105ais defined by a first distance103abetween two opposite sides of the oval-shaped opening105aand a second distance103bbetween the other two opposite sides of the oval-shaped opening105a, where the oval-shaped opening105aof the horn-shaped end101has a cross-sectional shape115, and where the cross-sectional shape is the same at every point between the edge of the oval-shaped opening105aand the point123where the oval-shaped opening105ameets the circular opening106. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface110at the horn-shaped end101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end101than the circular opening105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end101, e.g., to an opening105aas an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element is inserted to eventually match or substantially match structural geometries to form or substantially form a seal there between, as described in a variety of further embodiments below. To further illustrate the point, and for the avoidance of doubt, the smokable element could be received to a point between opening105aand opening105bas well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface110via the horn-shaped end101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end101. It should also be noted the cross-sectional shape115can be any shape suited to the carriage of air, such as circular, star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.

In addition, the word “example” or “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

What has been described above includes examples of the present specification. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methods for purposes of describing the present specification, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the present specification are possible. Accordingly, the present specification is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that, unless specifically indicated or required by the sequence of operations, certain steps in the processes described above may be omitted, performed concurrently or sequentially, or performed in a different order.

Although an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, substitutions, variations, and improvements disclosed herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure in its broadest form.