Abstract
Various structures for interfaces for a smokable element to connect to a smoke and/or tar filter, and related methods, are provided. For example, the structures and methods enable repeatably and securely connecting or interfacing a smokable element, e.g., an herbal joint, to an air filter, e.g., a smoke and/or tar filter. For instance, an interface can have a horn-shaped end with a deformable opening that receives a smokable element, creating at least a partial seal between the deformable opening of the horn-shaped end and the smokable element. Also, the other end of the interface can have a round end that attaches to an air filter.
Claims
1. A system, comprising: an air filter comprising an opening; and an interface component configured to interface a smokable element to the air filter, wherein the interface component comprises a continuous horn-shaped channel defining a hollow inner chamber extending from a first end of the interface component to at least near a second end of the interface component, wherein the interface component is coupled with the air filter to permit a flow of air through the hollow inner chamber of the interface component and the opening in the air filter, and the interface component comprises an elastomeric material that configures the interface component to be deformable from a first shape to a second shape that permits insertion of the smokable element into an opening at the first end of the interface component in response to receipt of a squeezing force, and to be deformable to a third shape that yields a press fit with the smokable element in response to release of the squeezing force while the smokable element is inserted into the opening at the first end of the interface component.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second end of the interface component is coupled with the air filter.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein a seal formed between the air filter and a corresponding part of the interface component facilitates the flow of air through the hollow inner chamber of the interface component and the opening in the air filter.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein while the interface component is in the first shape, the opening at the first end of the interface component has an oblong shape or an oval shape, and while the interface component is in the second shape, the opening at the first end of the interface component is substantially circular.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein a first area defined by the opening at the first end of the interface component is larger than a second area defined by an opening at the second end of the interface component that interfaces with the opening in the air filter.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the second end of the interference component is configured to form another press fit with the opening in the air filter.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the press fit yields a seal between the smokable element and the first end of the interface component.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the seal is a partial seal that causes a mixture of smoke from the smokable element and external air to be received through the opening at the first end of the interface component and conveyed to the opening in the air filter via the horn-shaped channel.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the interface component further comprises a twistable knob that, in response to application of a rotating force, adjusts an amount of the external air that enters the opening at the first end of the interface component.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the application of the rotating force causes a squeezing force to be applied to the opening at the first end of the interface component, and the squeezing force changes a cross-sectional shape of the opening at the first end of the interface component.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the air filter is at least one of a smoke filter or a tar filter.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein, while the interface component is in the first shape, the opening at the first end of the interface component has one of an oval shape, a star shape, or a rectangular shape.
13. A method, comprising: coupling a first end of an interface component with an air filter, wherein the interface component comprises a continuous horn-shaped internal channel defining a hollow inner chamber extending from a second end of the interface to at least near the first end of the interface component; removably receiving, into an opening of the second end of the interface component, an end of a smokable element, wherein at least a portion of the continuous horn-shaped internal channel at the second end defines a baffle into which the smokable end of the smokable element is insertable, and the removably receiving comprises: deforming the interface component, via an application of a squeezing force, to yield a first geometry of the baffle that permits insertion of the end of the smokable element into the opening of the second end of the interface component, and deforming the interface, via a release of the application of the squeezing force while the end is received into the opening of the second end of the interface component, to yield a second geometry of the baffle that yields a press fit with the smokable element.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the coupling causes a seal to be formed between the air filter and the interface component, and the seal facilitates a flow of air through the hollow inner chamber of the interface component and an opening in the air filter.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the press fit creates a seal between the smokable element and the second end of the interface component.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the seal is a partial seal that facilitates receipt of a mixture of smoke from the smokable element and external air through the opening at the second end of the interface component.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising, in response to application of a rotating force to a twistable knob of the interface component, adjusting an amount of the external air that enters the opening at the second end of the interface component.
18. An apparatus, comprising: an interface component configured to convey smoke from a smokable element to an opening of an air filter via a hollow inner chamber that traverses from a first end of the interface component to at least near a second end of the interface component, wherein the interface component is made of an elastomeric material, at least a portion of the hollow inner chamber comprising a continuous horn-shaped channel, and the interface component is configured to be deformable, in response to receipt of a squeezing force, from a first shape to a second shape that permits insertion of the smokable element into an opening at the first end of the interface component, and to be deformable, in response to release of the squeezing force while the smokable element is inserted into the opening at the first end of the interface component, to a third shape that yields a press fit with the smokable element.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein while the interface component is in the first shape, the opening at the first end of the interface component has an oblong shape or an oval shape, and while the interface component is in the second shape, the opening at the first end of the interface component is substantially circular.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the second end of the interference component is configured to form a press fit with the opening in the air filter.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and an opening with circular cross sections, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0038] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, when affixed to an air filter and a smokable element is inserted, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method for inserting a smokable element into the interface, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, when a squeezing force is applied to the horn-shaped end, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0041] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, when a squeezing force is applied to the horn-shaped end, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0042] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and a rotatably affixed twistable knob where the opening of the horn-shaped end is in its original first shape, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0043] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and a rotatably affixed twistable knob where the opening of the horn-shaped end is in its original first shape, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0044] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and a rotatably affixed twistable knob where the opening of the horn-shaped end is in its deformed second shape, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0045] FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and a rotatably affixed twistable knob where the opening of the horn-shaped end is in its deformed second shape, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0046] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and a rotatably affixed knob when affixed to an air filter and a smokable element is inserted, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0047] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, and where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0048] FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, and where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0049] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, and where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0050] FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, and where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0051] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, and where a slidably movable ring holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0052] FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, and where a slidably movable ring holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0053] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, and where a slidably ring holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0054] FIG. 20 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, and where a slidably movable ring holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0055] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, and where at least one clip holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0056] FIG. 22 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are closed, and where at least one clip holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0057] FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, and where at least one clip holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0058] FIG. 24 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where the horn-shaped end comprises at least two hinged-flaps, where the at least two hinged-flaps are open, and where at least one clip holds the at least two hinged-flaps closed, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0059] FIG. 25 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and with an opening having a star-shaped cross section, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0060] FIG. 26 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, and with an opening having a rectangle-shaped cross section, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0061] FIG. 27 illustrates a perspective view of the continuous channel defining a hollow inner chamber of an article of manufacture and an air filter, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0062] FIG. 28 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for inserting an interface to a smokable element into a smoke and tar filter, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0063] FIG. 29 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of an interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where a squeezing force is applied to the horn-shaped end of the interface, resulting in a deformation that accommodates the reception of the smokable element.
[0064] FIG. 30 illustrates a top view of another example embodiment of an interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, where a squeezing force is applied to the horn-shaped end of the interface, resulting in a deformation that accommodates the reception of the smokable element.
[0065] FIG. 31 illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0066] FIG. 32 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, when a squeezing force is applied to the horn-shaped end, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0067] FIG. 33 illustrates a top view of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0068] FIG. 34 illustrates a cross-sectional, side view of an example embodiment of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
[0069] FIG. 35 illustrates a cross-sectional, perspective view of an example embodiment of the interface with a horn-shaped end for reception of a smokable element, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0070] 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.
[0071] 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.
[0072] 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.
[0073] In this regard, and now referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view 100 of an interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element, such as an herbal joint (not pictured) is illustrated. In this example embodiment, the interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a, and a round end 102 with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other. In this example, the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter (not pictured) of the round end 102. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0074] Now referring to FIG. 2, a top view 200 of the interface 110 with the horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 2, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with the circular opening 105a and the round end 102 with the circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the diameter 103 of the circular opening 105a on the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the circular opening 106 on the round end 102, and where the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115. In FIG. 2, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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.
[0075] Now referring to FIG. 3, a cross sectional view 300 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 3, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with the circular opening 105a and the round end 102 with the circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the diameter 103 of the circular opening 105a on the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the circular opening 106 on the round end 102, where the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115, and where the diameter 107 of the opening becomes increasingly larger moving away from the round end 102. In FIG. 3, the increase in the diameter 107 is shown by diameters 107a, 107b, and 107c. In FIG. 3, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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.
[0076] Now referring to FIG. 4, a perspective view 400 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable end 201 of a smokable element 210, where the round end 102 of the interface 110 is affixed 404 to a circular opening 301 of an air filter 310, and where the smokable element 210 is inserted 401 into the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. It is noted that the smokable element 210, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end 201 of the smokable element 210 is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element 210 will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element 210 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 210 could be received to a point between circular opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element 210 abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0077] Now referring to FIG. 5, a flowchart 500 of a method for inserting a smokable element into the circular opening of the horn-shaped end of the interface is illustrated. The method 500 comprises: at 502, removably inserting, into a circular opening of a smoke and tar filter, a first circular end of an interface to a smokable element, resulting, at 504, 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.
[0078] At 506, 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.
[0079] At 508, 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.
[0080] Now referring to FIG. 6, a perspective view 600 of the interface 110 with a circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force 402 is applied to the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening 105a to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. In FIG. 6, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 402a between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force 402 is applied and a second distance 402b between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force 402.
[0081] Now referring to FIG. 7, a top view 700 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force 402 is applied to the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening 105a to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. In FIG. 7, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 402a between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force 402 is applied and a second distance 402b between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the deformation of the first cross-sectional shape is greatest.
[0082] Now referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view 800 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed 405 twistable knob 117 where the opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115 is illustrated. In FIG. 8, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a first cross-sectional shape 115, and where a twistable knob 117 is rotatably affixed 405 to the interface 110 in a manner that allows the twistable knob 117 to apply a squeezing force (not pictured) to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape 115 to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. It is noted that the smokable element 210, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end 201 of the smokable element 210 is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element 210 will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element 210 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 210 could be received to a point between circular opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element 210 abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101. It is noted that this twistable knob 117 can be rotatably affixed 405 anywhere on the interface 110 which allows the twistable knob 117 to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110.
[0083] Now referring to FIG. 9, a top view 900 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed 405 twistable knob 117 where the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 is in its original first shape 115 is illustrated. In FIG. 9, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a first cross-sectional shape 115, and where a twistable knob 117 is rotatably affixed 405 to the interface 110 in a manner that allows the twistable knob 117 to apply a squeezing force (not pictured) to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape 115 to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. In FIG. 9, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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 knob 117 can be rotatably affixed 405 anywhere on the interface 110 which allows the twistable knob 117 to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110.
[0084] Now referring to FIG. 10, a perspective view 1000 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), and a rotatably affixed 405 twistable knob 117 where the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 is in its deformed second cross-sectional shape 116 is illustrated. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a first cross-sectional shape 115, and where a twistable knob 117 is rotatably affixed 405 to the interface 110 in a manner that allows the twistable knob 117 to apply a squeezing force 402 to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape 115 to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. In FIG. 10, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 402a between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force 402 is applied and a second distance 402b between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force 402.
[0085] Now referring to FIG. 11, a top view 1100 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element 210, and a rotatably affixed 405 twistable knob 117 where the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 is in its deformed second shape 116 is illustrated. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the diameter 103 of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the diameter 104 of the round end 102, where the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a first cross-sectional shape 115, and where a twistable knob 117 is rotatably affixed 405 to the interface 110 in a manner that allows the twistable knob 117 to apply a squeezing force 402 to deform the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape 115 to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. In FIG. 11, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 402a between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points where the squeezing force 402 is applied and a second distance 402b between the edges of the second cross-sectional shape at the points perpendicular to the squeezing force 402.
[0086] Now referring to FIG. 12, a perspective view 1200 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element 210, and a rotatably affixed 405 twistable knob 117 where the round end 102 of the interface 110 is affixed 404 to a circular opening 301 of an air filter 310, and where the smokable element 210 is inserted 401 into the circular opening 105 of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. It is noted that the smokable element 210, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end 201 of the smokable element 210 is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element 210 will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as an alternative since the horn-shaped end narrows as the smokable element 210 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 210 could be received to a point between circular opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element 210 abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0087] Now referring to FIG. 13, a perspective view 1300 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119 is illustrated. In FIG. 13, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, and where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be opened 119 by an application of force 406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from a first cross-sectional shape 115 (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0088] Now referring to FIG. 14, a top view 1400 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element 210 (element 210 not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119 is illustrated. In FIG. 14, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, and where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be opened 119 by an application of force 406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from a first cross-sectional shape 115 (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110.
[0089] Now referring to FIG. 15, a perspective view 1500 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 15, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, and where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape 116 (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0090] Now referring to FIG. 16, a top view 1600 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, and where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 16, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106 (elements 102 and 106 not pictured), and where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal 114 (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110. In FIG. 16, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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.
[0091] Now referring to FIG. 17, a perspective view 1700 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120, and where a slidably movable ring 121 holds 408 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 17, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, where the slidably movable ring 121 snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 preventing the at least two hinged flaps 118 from opening 119, and where the slidably movable ring 121 can be moved along the length of the interface 110 toward the horn-shaped end 101 away from the round end 102 via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be remain closed 120. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0092] Now referring to FIG. 18, a top view 1800 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120, and where a slidably movable ring 121 holds 408 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 18, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, where the slidably movable ring 121 snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 preventing the at least two hinged flaps 118 from opening 119, and where the slidably movable ring 121 can be moved along the length of the interface 110 toward the horn-shaped end 101 away from the round end 102 via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be remain closed 120. In FIG. 18, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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.
[0093] Now referring to FIG. 19, perspective view 1900 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119, and where a slidably movable ring 121 holds 408 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 19, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape 116 to 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 end 101 of the interface 110, where the slidably movable ring 121 snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 preventing the at least two hinged flaps 118 from opening 119, and where the slidably movable ring 121 can be moved along the length of the interface 110 toward the horn-shaped end 101 away from the round end 102 via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be remain closed 120. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0094] Now referring to FIG. 20, a top view 2000 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119, and where a slidably movable ring 121 holds 408 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 20, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape 116 to 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 end 101 of the interface 110, where the slidably movable ring 121 snuggly fits around the exterior of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 preventing the at least two hinged flaps 118 from opening 119, and where the slidably movable ring 121 can be moved along the length of the interface 110 toward the horn-shaped end 101 away from the round end 102 via an application of force (not pictured) resulting in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be remain closed 120.
[0095] Now referring to FIG. 21, a perspective view 2100 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120, and where at least one clip 122 holds 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 21, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105 and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, and where at least one clip 122 can be removably affixed 412 to the at least two hinged-flaps 118 by an application of force 413 which prevents the at least two hinged-flaps 118 from opening 119. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101. It is also noted that the at least one clip can be removably affixed anywhere on the interface 110 which allows the at least one clip 122 to hold 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120.
[0096] Now referring to FIG. 22, a top view 2200 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are closed 120, and where at least one clip 122 holds 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120 is illustrated. In FIG. 22, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, and where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be closed 120 by an application of force 407, resulting in a reformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its deformed second cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to its first cross-sectional shape 115 which creates an air seal (not pictured) between an outside of the smokable end (not pictured) and the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, and where at least one clip 122 can be removably affixed 412 to the at least two hinged-flaps 118 by an application of force 413 which prevents the at least two hinged-flaps 118 from opening 119. In FIG. 22, and as mentioned, this cross-sectional shape 115 can 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 interface 110 which allows the at least one clip 122 to hold 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed 120.
[0097] Now referring to FIG. 23, a perspective view 2300 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119, and where at least one clip 122 holds 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 23, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be opened 119 by an application of force 406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape 116, which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, and where at least one clip 122 can be removed from the at least two hinged-flaps 118 by an application of force 414 which results in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be opened 119 by an application of force 406. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if the smokable end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to circular opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101.
[0098] Now referring to FIG. 24, a top view 2400 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 comprises hinged-flaps 118, where the at least two hinged-flaps 118 are open 119, and where at least one clip 122 holds 409 the at least two hinged-flaps 118 closed (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 24, the circular opening 105a is defined by the diameter 103 and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with a circular opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 comprises at least two hinged-flaps 118 which can be opened 119 by an application of force 406, resulting in a deformation of the circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 from its first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) to a second cross-sectional shape 116, which allows for insertion (not pictured) of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed circular opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, and where at least one clip 122 can be removed from the at least two hinged-flaps 118 by an application of force 414 which results in allowing the at least two hinged-flaps 118 to be opened 119 by an application of force 406.
[0099] Now referring to FIG. 25, a top view 2500 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end 102 with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end 101 has an opening 105b with star-shaped cross sections is illustrated. In FIG. 25, the star-shaped opening 105b is defined by a first distance 103a between two inner points of the star that are across from one another, a second distance 103b between two inner points of the star that are next to each another, and a third distance 103c between the tip of one of the arms of the star and an inner point of that arm, and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105b and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the circular opening 106 of the round end 102, where the opening 105b has star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end 102 towards the horn-shaped end 101, and where the opening 105b has a first cross-sectional shape 115.
[0100] Now referring to FIG. 26, a top view 2500 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end 102 with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end 101 has an opening 105b with rectangular cross sections is illustrated. In FIG. 26, the rectangular opening 105b is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the opening 105b and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105b, and the circular opening 106 is defined by the diameter 104, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105b and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the circular opening 106 of the round end 102, where the opening 105b has rectangular cross sections, where the rectangular cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end 102 towards the horn-shaped end 101, and where the opening 105b has a first cross-sectional shape 115.
[0101] Now referring to FIG. 27, a continuous channel 2702 defining a hollow inner chamber 2704 of an article of manufacture 2700 extending from a first opening 2712 at a first end 2710 of the article of manufacture 2700 to a second opening 2722 at or near a second end 2720 of the article of manufacture, wherein the second end 2710 is located opposite the first end 2710, wherein the first end 2710 of the article of manufacture 2700 is slidably insertable into a third opening 2732 of a third end 2730 of an air filter 2734, resulting in a seal, between the first end 2710 of the article of manufacture 2700 and the third end 2730 of the air filter 2734, that at least substantially restricts a flow of air 2750, between the first end 2710 of the article of manufacture 2700 and the third end 2730 of the air filter 2734, to the first opening 2710. The shape of the continuous channel 2702 can be cylindrical, rectangular, conical, or any defined shape (e.g., as shown) that enables air to flow through the continuous channel 2702, e.g., from the second opening 2722 to the first opening 2712. The example continuous channel 2702 of FIG. 7 is shown as an arbitrarily defined shape to emphasize that passage of air (e.g., the flow of air 2750) can be achieved by a wide variety of shapes and structures.
[0102] Now referring to FIG. 28, an example method 2800 comprises, at 2802, 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.
[0103] Method 2800 can also comprise, at 2804, 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.
[0104] In this regard, the removably receiving of 2804 can comprise, at 2806, 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.
[0105] Furthermore, at 2808, the removably receiving of 2804 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.
[0106] Now referring to FIG. 29, a top view 2900 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force 402 is applied to the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the circular opening 105b to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed star-shaped opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. In FIG. 29, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 103a between the tip of an arm of the star and an inner point of the arm of the star nearest to where the squeezing force 402 is applied, a second distance 103b between two inner points of the star nearest to where the squeezing force 402 is applied, a third distance 103c between the tip of one of the arms of the star that is perpendicular to the squeezing force 402 and an inner point of that arm, a fourth distance 103d between two inner points of an arm of the star that is perpendicular to the squeezing force 402, and a fifth distance 103e between two inner points of the star that are across from each other, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105b and a round end (not pictured) with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end are opposite each other, where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the circular opening of the round end, where the opening 105b has star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end towards the horn-shaped end 101, and where the opening 105b has a second cross-sectional shape 116.
[0107] Now referring to FIG. 30, a top view 3000 of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force 402 is applied to the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the opening 105b to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element (not pictured) into the deformed star-shaped opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. In FIG. 30, the resulting second cross-sectional shape is defined by a first distance 103a two opposite sides of the opening 105b and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105b, as shown. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105b and a round end (not pictured) with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end are opposite each other, where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the circular opening of the round end, where the opening 105b has star-shaped cross sections, where the star-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end towards the horn-shaped end 101, and where the opening 105b has a second cross-sectional shape 116.
[0108] Now referring to FIG. 31, a perspective view 3100 of an example embodiment of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) and a round end 102 with a circular opening (not pictured), where the horn-shaped end 101 has an opening 105b with oval-shaped cross sections, is illustrated. In FIG. 31, the oval-shaped opening 105b is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the opening 105b and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105b. The interface 110 comprises a horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105b and a round end 102 with a circular opening, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the circular opening of the round end 102, where the opening 105b has oval-shaped cross sections, where the oval-shaped cross sections become increasingly larger moving away from the round end 102 towards the horn-shaped end 101, and where the opening 105b has a first cross-sectional shape 115.
[0109] Now referring to FIG. 32, a top view 3200 of an example embodiment of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured), where a squeezing force 402 is applied to the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110, resulting in a deformation of the first cross-sectional shape (not pictured) of the oval-shaped opening 105b to a second cross-sectional shape 116 which allows for insertion of the smokable end (not pictured) of the smokable element into the deformed oval-shaped opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 of the interface 110 is illustrated. In FIG. 32, the oval-shaped opening 105b is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the opening 105b and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105b. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with the oval-shaped opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the round end 102, where the circular opening 106 is defined by its diameter 104, and where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 116.
[0110] Now referring to FIG. 33, a top view 3300 of the an example embodiment of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. In FIG. 33, the oval-shaped opening 105b is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the opening 105b and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105b. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with the oval-shaped opening 105b and the round end 102 with the circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the circular opening 106 is defined by its diameter 104, where the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the round end 102, and where the opening 105b of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115.
[0111] Now referring to FIG. 34, a cross-sectional, side view of an example embodiment of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with an opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the circular opening 106 is defined by its diameter 104, where the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the round end 102, where the opening 105a is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the opening 105a and a second distance (not shown) between the other two opposite sides of the opening 105a, where the opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115, and where the cross-sectional shape is the same at every point between the edge of the opening 105a and the point 123 where the opening 105a meets the circular opening 106. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to an opening 105b as 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 opening 105a and circular opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101. It should also be noted the cross-sectional shape 115 can be any shape suited to the carriage of air, such as circular, star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.
[0112] Now referring to FIG. 35, a cross-sectional, perspective view of an example embodiment of the interface 110 with a horn-shaped end 101 for reception of a smokable element (not pictured) is illustrated. The interface 110 comprises the horn-shaped end 101 with an oval-shaped opening 105a and a round end 102 with a circular opening 106, where the horn-shaped end 101 and the round end 102 are opposite each other, where the circular opening 106 is defined by its diameter 104, where the horn-shaped end 101 is larger than the round end 102, where the oval-shaped opening 105a is defined by a first distance 103a between two opposite sides of the oval-shaped opening 105a and a second distance 103b between the other two opposite sides of the oval-shaped opening 105a, where the oval-shaped opening 105a of the horn-shaped end 101 has a cross-sectional shape 115, and where the cross-sectional shape is the same at every point between the edge of the oval-shaped opening 105a and the point 123 where the oval-shaped opening 105a meets the circular opening 106. It is noted that the smokable element, to be received by interface 110 at the horn-shaped end 101, may actually be received farther into the horn-shaped end 101 than the circular opening 105a. For example, if an end of the smokable element is smaller than circular opening 105a, then the smokable element will be insertable to a point inside the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., to an opening 105a as 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 opening 105a and opening 105b as well, wherever the smokable element abuts the inside of the interface 110 via the horn-shaped end 101, e.g., forms a seal, or substantial seal, with the inside of the horn-shaped end 101. It should also be noted the cross-sectional shape 115 can be any shape suited to the carriage of air, such as circular, star-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, U-shaped, etc.
[0113] 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.
[0114] 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.
[0115] 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.
[0116] 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.
