SANITARY SMOKING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF SMOKING

Abstract

The present invention in one aspect discloses a sanitary smoking apparatus and a method for smoking using the sanitary smoking apparatus. The sanitary smoking apparatus comprises a hollow cylindrical tube having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end has at least one slit opening. The sanitary smoking apparatus further comprises a top portion and a bottom portion of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube comprises at least one or more loops. In an embodiment, the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube is configured to be stretched apart using the one or more loops. In an embodiment the distal end is configured to hold a smoking element, and wherein the proximal end is inserted in a mouth of a user.

Claims

1. A sanitary smoking apparatus, the sanitary smoking apparatus comprising: a hollow cylindrical tube having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end has at least one slit opening; and a top portion and a bottom portion of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube comprises at least one or more loops, wherein the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube is configured to be stretched apart using the one or more loops, wherein the distal end is configured to hold a smoking element, and wherein the proximal end is inserted in a mouth of a user.

2. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hollow cylindrical tube and the one or more loops is made at least one of a food grade flexible material comprising at least one of: silicone, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Fluorocarbon, Neoprene or Nitrile, metals, and other hard materials safe for skin, wherein the material of the hollow cylindrical tube is high heat resistant.

3. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible material insulates the user's fingers from heat dissipated by the smoking element, and wherein the sanitary smoking apparatus protects the user from germs and bodily fluids even if the same smoking element is smoked by another user.

4. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the smoking element comprises at least one of a cigarette, a cigar, a tobacco cigarette, cannabis cigarette, a blunt, a joint, a rollup, e-cigarettes, vape cartridges, or a narrow cylinder containing a psychoactive material.

5. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein when the user smokes the smoking element then the smoke passes via the hollow cylindrical tube from the distal end to the proximal end into the mouth of the user, thereby forming a channel for smoking.

6. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more loops are used as a gripping mechanism to hold the sanitary smoking apparatus, wherein the one or more loops are arranged diametrically, wherein the one or more loops fixedly join an outer surface of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube.

7. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a hollow conical structure disposed within the hollow cylindrical tube.

8. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hollow conical structure having a wide base end and an opposing tapered nose cone end, each end forming an opening in fluid communication through a channel running concentrically through an inner conical smoking tip, the wide base end forming a pair of slits that allow the wide base end to be expanded for receiving the smoking element, each of the ends having a first diameter.

9. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one slit opening comprises two opposing slits that extend in either a longitudinal direction or a horizontal direction of the distal end.

10. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube are configured to be stretched apart using at least one of: hinges, torsion springs, magnets, or screws

11. A method of smoking, the method comprising: inserting one or more fingers of a user in one or more loops of a sanitary smoking apparatus for gripping the sanitary smoking apparatus, the sanitary smoking apparatus comprising a hollow cylindrical tube having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end has a slit opening; stretching the one or more loops to apply pressure in a direction perpendicular to a length of the hollow cylindrical tube using the inserted fingers such that the slit opening expands; inserting a smoking element, at the distal end, inside the expanded slit opening of the hollow cylindrical tube; releasing the pressure on the one or more loops such that the one or more loops retract and revert to an original state; securing the smoking element inserted in the slit opening by pressing the one or more loops towards each other; and inserting the proximal end of the hollow cylindrical tube in a mouth of a user to perform smoking of the smoking element.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein when the slit opening expands, a diameter of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube increases.

13. The sanitary smoking apparatus of claim 11, wherein the hollow cylindrical tube and the one or more loops is made of a food grade flexible material comprising at least one of: silicone, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Fluorocarbon, Neoprene or Nitrile, metals, and other hard materials safe for skin, wherein the material of the hollow cylindrical tube is high heat resistant.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the flexible material insulates the user's fingers from heat dissipated by the smoking element, and wherein the sanitary smoking apparatus protects the user from germs and bodily fluids even if the same smoking element is smoked by another user.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary sanitary smoking tip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a frontal view of the sanitary smoking tip shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip shown in FIG. 1, showing a cigarette aligned with the cigarette insert end of the tube, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a frontal view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the fingers applying outward pressure on the handle portion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end separated to enable insertion of the cigarette, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end in the natural tube position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end in the natural tube position snugly retaining the mouth end of the cigarette, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a smoker receiving the sanitary smoking tip, and a cigarette inserted therein, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate perspective view of a smoker smoking a cigarette with the sanitary smoking tip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart diagram of an exemplary method for smoking with a sanitary smoking tip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] FIGS. 11A-11E illustrate perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the sanitary smoking tip, where FIG. 11A shows an inner conical smoking tip, FIG. 11B shows an outer cylindrical smoking tip having a larger diameter, FIG. 11C shows a ring-shaped handle portion, FIG. 11D shows the inner conical smoking tip and the outer cylindrical smoking tip, with slits in each smoking tip, and FIG. 11E shows the inner conical smoking tip disposed inside the cavity of the outer cylindrical smoking tip, such that both smoking tips can receive a cigarette in a secure, safe manner, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIGS. 12A-12L illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIGS. 13A-13F illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a hinge based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIGS. 14A-14I illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIGS. 15A-15B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a thimble based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0028] FIGS. 16A-16D illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

[0030] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0031] At the outset, it should be clearly understood that like reference numerals are intended to identify the same structural elements, portions, or surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as may be further described or explained by the entire written specification of which this detailed description is an integral part. The drawings are intended to be read together with the specification and are to be construed as a portion of the entire “written description” of this invention as required by 35 U.S.C. § 112.

[0032] One objective of the present invention is to minimize the transfer of germs and saliva between smokers sharing a smoking element, such as a cigarette through use of a flexible, sanitary smoking tip that easily receives a 300 from one end, and a mouthpiece from an opposing end.

[0033] Another objective is to form slits/splits in the cigarette insert end, so as to facilitate separating the cigarette insert end to insert the cigarette.

[0034] Yet another objective is to provide a mouth end that is flexible, so as to easily and snugly receive a mouthpiece.

[0035] Another objective is to insulate the hands of the smoker form the heat of the cigarette through use of food grade silicone material.

[0036] An exemplary objective is to provide a sanitary smoking tip that is fabricated from food grade silicone, which minimizes germs.

[0037] Additional objectives are to provide an inexpensive way to manufacture the sanitary smoking tip.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will recognize that smokers who share a cigarette usually pass the cigarette mouth-to-mouth. The sanitary smoking tip provides a means to smoke and share the cigarette without contact of the other smoker's saliva or germs. The prior art smoking tip is sized and dimensioned to receive a rolled substance size. However, the prior art is not universal, so as to accept all sorts and diameters of cigarettes, so as to open and close to go over the filter end of the cigarette for personal sanitary purposes. This sanitary smoking tip is thus, configured to open and close with finger and thumb rings/bands to pull apart and fit the cigarette, no matter the size of filter.

[0039] A unique novel aspect is that sanitary smoking tip has a tubular or conical shaped tube with a cigarette insert end for inserting a cigarette, and a mouth end for inserting a mouthpiece. The cigarette insert end is sized to removably fit a cigarette. The mouth end is sized to removably fit a mouthpiece therein. A pair of opposing slits cut through a section of the cigarette insert end. A pair of rings project from the outer surface of the tube, adjacent to the cigarette insert end. In one embodiment, a pair of rings that make up handle portion can be pulled apart to widen the slits; and thereby increase the diameter of the cigarette insert end. This larger diameter is effective for facilitating the ingress and egress of the cigarette. Handle portion can be pinched together to snugly retain the cigarette in the cigarette insert end. The tube is fabricated from food grade silicone.

[0040] Disclosed herein is a sanitary smoking tip. The sanitary smoking tip comprises of a flexible, cylindrical-shaped tube defining a channel having opposing openings. In an embodiment, the tube further defining a cigarette insert end and an opposing mouth end, the cigarette insert end defining one or more slits, the slits segregating the cigarette insert end into multiple longitudinal sections. In an embodiment, the slits configured to enable adjacent longitudinal sections of the cigarette insert end to separate. In an embodiment, the flexible configuration of the cigarette insert end configured to bias the adjacent longitudinal sections together, so as to form the natural cylindrical-shaped tube. In an embodiment, the mouth end being sufficiently pliable, so as to enable the diameter to increase. The sanitary smoking tip comprises a handle portion disposed on the cigarette insert end, the handle portion providing a grip surface to enable pulling and separating the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insert end. In an embodiment, when the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insert end are separated, the cigarette ingresses the cigarette insert end, and when the longitudinal sections are in the natural tubular shape, the cigarette is snugly retained inside the cigarette insert end. In an embodiment, when a mouth piece ingresses the mouth end, the diameter increases, so as to create a snug fit with the mouth piece.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary sanitary smoking tip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present invention presented in FIGS. 1-11E, a sanitary smoking tip 100 and method 1000 of smoking, includes a tubular or conical shaped flexible tube 102 for retaining a cigarette in a sanitary manner, while smoking. The sanitary smoking apparatus 100 (interchangeably termed as the sanitary smoking tip 100) comprises a hollow cylindrical tube having a proximal end and a distal end. In an embodiment, the distal end has at least one slit opening. In an embodiment, the at least one slit opening comprises two opposing slits that extend in either a longitudinal direction or a horizontal direction of the distal end.

[0043] In an embodiment, the term slit opening may also correspond to a split opening. In an embodiment, the slit may be manufactured during manufacturing of the sanitary smoking tip and the slit opening may be split apart or stretched apart using a plurality of mechanism, such as torsion springs, hinge based mechanism, magnets or screws.

[0044] In an embodiment, the hollow cylindrical tube and the one or more loops is made at least one of a food grade flexible material comprising at least one of: silicone, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Fluorocarbon, Neoprene or Nitrile, metals, and other hard materials safe for skin. In an embodiment, the material of the hollow cylindrical tube is high heat resistant. The flexible material insulates the user's fingers from heat dissipated by the smoking element. Thus, the sanitary smoking apparatus protects the user from germs and bodily fluids even if the same smoking element is smoked by another user.

[0045] The sanitary smoking apparatus 100 further comprises a top portion and a bottom portion of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube comprises at least one or more loops. In an embodiment, the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube is configured to be stretched apart using the one or more loops. In an embodiment, the distal end is configured to hold a smoking element and the proximal end is inserted in a mouth of a user. In an embodiment, the smoking element comprises at least one of a cigarette, a cigar, a tobacco cigarette, cannabis cigarette, a blunt, a joint, a rollup, e-cigarettes, vape cartridges, or a narrow cylinder containing a psychoactive material.

[0046] In an embodiment, the one or more loops are used as a gripping mechanism to hold the sanitary smoking apparatus. In an embodiment, the one or more loops are arranged diametrically, and the one or more loops fixedly join an outer surface of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube. In an embodiment, the top portion and the bottom portion of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube are configured to be stretched apart using at least one of: hinges, torsion springs, magnets, or screws.

[0047] When the user smokes the smoking element then the smoke passes via the hollow cylindrical tube from the distal end to the proximal end into the mouth of the user, thereby forming a channel for smoking.

[0048] The sanitary smoking apparatus 100 further comprises a hollow conical structure disposed within the hollow cylindrical tube. In an embodiment, the hollow conical structure having a wide base end and an opposing tapered nose cone end, each end forming an opening in fluid communication through a channel running concentrically through an inner conical smoking tip, the wide base end forming a pair of slits that allow the wide base end to be expanded for receiving the smoking element, each of the ends having a first diameter.

[0049] As FIG. 1 shows, tube 102 (interchangeably termed as hollow cylindrical tube) has a cigarette insert end 104 (interchangeably termed as the distal end) defining multiple longitudinal slits 106a, 106b and a handle portion 112 (interchangeably termed as one or more loops). Handle portion 112 is operable to pull apart longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of the cigarette insert end 104, along the slits 106a, 106b. This serves to increase the diameter of the cigarette insert end 104, so as to enable ingress of a cigarette 300 (interchangeably termed as smoking element). Tube 102 also defines an opposing, and resilient, mouth end 110 defining a diameter that stretches to increase, and then biases back to the natural cylindrical shape. This enables a mouthpiece to be snugly inserted into mouth end 110 of tube 102, if desired.

[0050] Once the cigarette 300 has been affixed inside the cigarette insert end 104, and the mouth piece inserted inside the mouth end 110, the sanitary smoking tip 100 enables a smoker to smoke and share a cigarette 300 without contact of the other smoker's 800 saliva or germs. Such an arrangement of cigarette 300 and mouthpiece inside tube 102 of sanitary smoking tip 100 also minimizes the times that the smoker 800 touches the same cigarette 300 with different hands. In some embodiments, sanitary smoking tip 100 may be used to securely and safely retain a cigarette 300 (interchangeably termed as smoking element), including, without limitation: a tobacco cigarette, a cannabis cigarette, a blunt, a joint, a cigar, and any a narrow cylinder containing psychoactive material.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates a frontal view of the sanitary smoking tip shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] In one aspect of the present invention, shown in FIG. 2, a sanitary smoking tip 100 comprising a flexible, cylindrical-shaped tube 102 defining a channel 200 having opposing openings, the tube 102 further defining a cigarette insert end 104 and an opposing mouth end 110, the cigarette insert end 104 defining one or more slits 106a, 106b, the slits 106a-b segregating the cigarette insert end 104 into multiple longitudinal sections 108a, 108b. The slits 106a-b are configured to enable adjacent longitudinal sections 108a-b of the cigarette insert end 104 to separate.

[0053] The flexible configuration of the cigarette insert end 104 configured to bias the adjacent longitudinal sections 108a-b together, so as to form the natural cylindrical-shaped tube 102. The mouth end 110 being sufficiently pliable, so as to enable the diameter to increase. Further, a handle portion 112 disposed on the cigarette insert end 104, the handle portion 112 providing a grip surface to enable pulling and separating the longitudinal sections 108a-b of the cigarette insert end 104. In an embodiment, when the longitudinal sections 108a-b of the cigarette insert end 104 are separated, the cigarette 300 ingresses the cigarette insert end 104.

[0054] In an embodiment, when the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b are in the natural tubular shape, the cigarette 300 is snugly retained inside the cigarette insert end 104. In an embodiment, when a mouth piece ingresses the mouth end 110, the diameter increases, so as to create a snug fit with the mouth piece. In a second aspect, the tube 102 is fabricated from a food grade silicone.

[0055] In another aspect, the one or more slits 106a, 106b comprises two opposing slits 106a, 106b that extend at least 10% of the longitudinal of the cigarette insert end 104. In another aspect, the cigarette 300 is at least one of the following: a tobacco cigarette 300, cannabis cigarette 300, a blunt, a joint, a cigar, any a narrow cylinder containing psychoactive material. In another aspect, the handle portion 112 comprises a pair of flexible rings arranged diametrically. In another aspect, the handle portion 112 fixedly joins the outer surface of the cigarette insert end 104.

[0056] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip shown in FIG. 1, showing a cigarette aligned with the cigarette insert end of the tube, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] As referenced in FIG. 3, sanitary smoking tip 100 comprises a flexible, cylindrical-shaped tube 102. Tube 102 defines a channel 200 with opposing openings. In one non-limiting embodiment, the tube 102 is fabricated from a food grade silicone. Those skilled in the art will recognize that food grade silicone is a non-toxic type of silicone, which contains no chemical fillers or byproducts; thereby making a safe to insert into the mouth of the smoker. Furthermore, food grade silicone is a non-toxic silicone that can withstand heating and freezing without leaching or off-gassing, hazardous chemicals. Due to the use of food grade silicon, the sanitary smoking tip 100 can be easily molded and mass-produced from a distributor that makes silicone molds.

[0058] Tube 102 is generally elongated forms and inner channel. The ends of the two are defined by a cigarette insert end 104 and an opposing mouth end 110. The cigarette insert end 104 may have one or more slits 106a, 106b (See FIG. 4). FIG. 4 illustrates a frontal view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the fingers applying outward pressure on the handle portion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] In one possible embodiment, opposing slits 106a, 106b extend the length of at least 10% from the terminus of the cigarette insert end 104 into the body of the tube 102. Slits 106a-b create separation between longitudinal sections 108a-b of the tube 102, which allows the cigarette insert end 104 be separated into multiple longitudinal sections 108a, 108b along the length of slits 106a, 106b. As discussed, this increases the diameter of the cigarette insert end 104, so as to insert the cigarette 300 into the channel. In essence, the longitudinal slits 106a, 106b are configured to enable adjacent longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of the cigarette insert end 104 to separate.

[0060] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end separated to enable insertion of the cigarette, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b being separated in such a manner, along the length of the slits 106a, 106b. However, after the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b are released, the flexible configuration of the cigarette insert end 104 biases the adjacent longitudinal sections 108a, 108b together, so as to form the natural cylindrical-shaped tube 102 (See FIG. 6). This serves to snugly retain the cigarette 300 therein.

[0061] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end in the natural tube position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Looking now at the opposite end of tube 102, the mouth end 110 is sufficiently pliable, so as to enable the diameter to increase. Thus, the smoker can forcibly insert a mouthpiece into the opening of the mouth and for tube 102. The pliable configuration of the mouth and also allows the smoker to easily pull, or pluck, the mouthpiece from mouth end 110 of tube 102.

[0062] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip, showing the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insertion end in the natural tube position snugly retaining the mouth end of the cigarette, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 7, sanitary smoking tip 100 also provides a handle portion 112 affixed to the cigarette insert end 104. Handle portion 112 provides a grip surface to enable pulling and separating the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of the cigarette insert end 104. Looking at the illustrations, it is evident that without handle portion 112, it would be difficult all the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b apart without inserting fingers into the cigarette insert end 104 of the two, which inadvertently would increase germs therein. Thus, the handle portion 112 also reduce germs and contamination between smokers.

[0063] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a smoker receiving the sanitary smoking tip, and a cigarette inserted therein, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one non-limiting embodiment, handle portion 112 comprises a pair of flexible rings arranged diametrically. This use of two rings on opposite ends of the allows the finger and thumb to naturally pry apart the cigarette insert end 104 of tube 102, so as to ingress the cigarette into tube 102 (See FIG. 8). However, handle portion 112 can also be shaped in a square, oval, triangular, and irregular shape. The shape can be configured in such a manner for ornamental effect. Thus, when longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of cigarette insert end 104 are separated by gripping handle portion 112, the diameter of the cigarette insert end 102 increases sufficiently so that the cigarette 300 easily ingresses, or slides, into the cigarette insert end 104.

[0064] Thereafter, the smoker can release the handles, allowing the cigarette 300 insert end to bias towards the natural tube 102 shape. Thus, when the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b are in the natural tubular shape, the cigarette 300 is snugly retained inside the cigarette insert end 104. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking tip 100, showing the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of the cigarette insertion end 104 in the natural tube 102 position snugly retaining the mouth end 110 of the cigarette 300. Similarly, the smoker can once again pry apart the longitudinal sections 108a-b of cigarette insert end 104 after finishing the smoke.

[0065] Looking now at the opposing mouth end 110 of the two, when a mouth piece ingresses mouth end 110, the diameter increases, so as to create a snug fit with the mouth piece. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the mouthpiece can be a slender with an interior channel that is defined by a flattened mouth portion terminating in a slotted end that the smoker can purse the lips around, and a wide end that mates with mouth end 110 of tube 102. However, in some embodiments, sanitary smoking tip may be used without inserting mouthpiece therein, whereby the smoker 800 simply sucks on mouth end of the tube 102.

[0066] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate perspective view of a smoker smoking a cigarette 300 with the sanitary smoking tip 100. As illustrated, FIG. 9A shows the smoker pulling the handle portion 112 apart to separate the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b of the cigarette insert end 104. FIG. 9B shows the cigarette 300 aligned with the opening at the cigarette insert end 104 of the tube 102. FIG. 9C shows cigarette 300 fully inserted, and the thumb and finger holding the sanitary smoking tip 100 to press down on cigarette 300. Thus, when the longitudinal sections 108a, 108b are in the natural tubular shape, cigarette 300 is snugly retained inside the cigarette insert end 104. FIG. 9D illustrates the finger passing through the handle portion 112 ring while smoking.

[0067] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart diagram of an exemplary method for smoking with a sanitary smoking tip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] A method of smoking the smoking element comprises inserting one or more fingers of a user in one or more loops of a sanitary smoking apparatus for gripping the sanitary smoking apparatus. The sanitary smoking apparatus comprises a hollow cylindrical tube having a proximal end and a distal end. In an embodiment, the distal end has a slit opening. In an embodiment, the hollow cylindrical tube and the one or more loops is made of a food grade flexible material comprising at least one of: silicone, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Fluorocarbon, Neoprene or Nitrile, metals, and other hard materials safe for skin. In an embodiment, the material of the hollow cylindrical tube is high heat resistant.

[0069] The method further comprises stretching the one or more loops to apply pressure in a direction perpendicular to a length of the hollow cylindrical tube using the inserted fingers such that the slit opening expands. In an embodiment, when the slit opening expands, a diameter of the distal end of the hollow cylindrical tube increases.

[0070] The method further comprises inserting the smoking element, at the distal end, inside the expanded slit opening of the hollow cylindrical tube.

[0071] The method further comprises releasing the pressure on the one or more loops such that the one or more loops retract and revert to an original state. The method further comprises securing the smoking element inserted in the slit opening by pressing the one or more loops towards each other. The method further comprises inserting the proximal end of the hollow cylindrical tube in a mouth of a user to perform smoking of the smoking element. In an embodiment, the flexible material insulates the user's fingers from heat dissipated by the smoking element. Further, the sanitary smoking apparatus protects the user from germs and bodily fluids even if the same smoking element is smoked by another user.

[0072] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart diagram of an exemplary method 1000 for smoking with a sanitary smoking tip. Method 1000 may include an initial Step 1002 of providing a sanitary smoking tip having a flexible tube that forms a channel with opposing open ends, a cigarette insert end forming multiple slits, and an opposing mouth end, the smoking tip further having a handle portion at the cigarette insert end. Method 1000 may further comprise a Step 1004 of gripping the handle portion with the fingers. A Step 1006 includes prying open the cigarette insert end along the length of the slits, such that the diameter increases. Referring back to FIG. 9A shows the smoker pulling the handle portion apart to separate the longitudinal sections of the cigarette insert end. A Step 1008 comprises inserting a cigarette into the opening of the cigarette insert end. Referring back to FIG. 9B shows the cigarette aligned with the opening at the cigarette insert end of the tube.

[0073] In some embodiments, a Step 1010 includes releasing outward pressure on the handle portion, so as to enable the tube to bias towards the natural tube position. In some embodiments, a Step 1012 may include pressing down on the handle portion to secure the cigarette into the cigarette insert end. A Step 1014 comprises forcibly inserting a mouthpiece into the mouth end of the tube. Method 1000 may further comprise a Step 1016 of smoking the cigarette, whereby the silicone material of the tube helps insulate the fingers from the heat. Referring back to FIG. 9C shows the cigarette fully inserted, and the thumb and finger holding the sanitary smoking tip to press down on the cigarette.

[0074] The present disclosure is unique in that the smoking tip can have different variations of shape and size. Not only is the smoking tip 100 scalable, but multiple variations can work together to more securely and sanitarily retain the cigarette. One such possible variation is a dual-tube smoking tip 1100, where an inner conical smoking tip having a first diameter, and an outer cylindrical smoking tip having a second diameter stack inside each other. The first diameter is smaller, such that the inner conical smoking tip resides inside the interior cavity of the outer cylindrical smoking tip. However, as in the aforementioned sanitary smoking tip 100, the cigarette 300 is securely retained for sanitary smoking between multiple smokers.

[0075] FIGS. 11A-11E illustrate perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the sanitary smoking tip, where FIG. 11A shows an inner conical smoking tip.

[0076] For example, the alternative embodiment of the dual-tube smoking tip 1100 is shown in FIG. 11A where an inner conical smoking tip 1102 having a wide base end 1104a and an opposing tapered nose cone end 1104b. Each end 1104a-b forms an opening in fluid communication through a channel that runs concentrically through the inner conical smoking tip 1102. The inner conical smoking tip 1102 has a generally conical shape, and a first small and large diameter at both ends, respectively. A pair of opposing slits 1106a, 1106b allow the base end 1104a to be expanded for receiving the cigarette. FIG. 11B shows an outer cylindrical smoking tip having a larger diameter. Specifically, FIG. 11B shows an outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108 defining a wide base end 1110a and a rounded nose 1110b. Each end 1110a-b forms an opening in fluid communication through a channel that runs concentrically through the outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108. Further, the outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108 has a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. This allows the outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108 to align with, and receive the inner conical smoking tip 1102. A pair of opposing slits 1112a, 1112b allow the wide base end 1110a to be expanded for receiving the cigarette.

[0077] FIG. 11C shows a ring-shaped handle portion. Specifically, FIG. 11C shows a ring-shaped handle portion 1114 that affixes to wide base end 1110a of outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108. This use of two rings on opposite ends of the allows the finger and thumb to naturally pry apart the wide base end 1110a of outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108, and base end 1104a of inner conical smoking tip 1102 to enable ingress of the cigarette 300 therein.

[0078] FIG. 11D shows the inner conical smoking tip and the outer cylindrical smoking tip, with slits in each smoking tip. Specifically, in combination, FIG. 11D shows the inner conical smoking tip 1102 and the outer cylindrical smoking tip 1108, with slits 1106a-b, 1112a-b in each smoking tip. Since the smoking tips 1102, 1108 fit snugly together, the slits are aligned, such that the wide base ends 1104a, 1110a can be pried apart simultaneously to further increase the diameter of the dual-tube smoking tip 1100.

[0079] With reference to FIG. 11A-11E the alternative embodiment of the sanitary smoking tip is described below. The a dual-tube sanitary smoking tip, comprises a flexible inner conical smoking tip defining a wide base end and an opposing tapered nose cone end, each end forming an opening in fluid communication through a channel running concentrically through the inner conical smoking tip, the wide base end forming a pair of slits that allow the wide base end to be expanded for receiving a cigarette, the ends each having a first diameter. A flexible outer cylindrical smoking tip defining a wide base end and a rounded nose, each end forming an opening in fluid communication through a channel that runs concentrically through the outer cylindrical smoking tip. The wide base end forms a pair of slits that allow the wide base end to be expanded for receiving the cigarette, the ends each having a second diameter larger than the first diameter.

[0080] In an embodiment, the flexible inner conical smoking tip is disposed inside the channel of the outer cylindrical smoking tip. The dual-tube sanitary smoking tip further comprises a ring-shaped handle portion attached to the wide base end of the outer cylindrical smoking tip. The handle portion provides a grip surface to enable pulling and separating the longitudinal sections of the wide base end for both smoking tips, whereby the cigarette ingresses both channels of the smoking tips.

[0081] Further, FIG. 11E shows the inner conical smoking tip disposed inside the cavity of the outer cylindrical smoking tip, such that both smoking tips can receive a cigarette in a secure, safe manner. This double layered configuration has greater structural integrity, and provides greater insulation against the heat of the cigarette. Also, the inner conical smoking tip 1102, having a smaller diameter at both ends, and a very narrow nose cone end 1104b, provides greater grip on cigarette 300.

[0082] FIGS. 12A-12L illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening. A protrusion is provided at a center portion so that a user can press on the protrusion to create the split/slit opening for inserting the smoking element.

[0084] FIG. 12B illustrates an exploded view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. The torsion spring is used to press the protrusion and because of the tension of the torsion spring, the openable portion closes back which helps to snugly grip the smoking element inserted in the hollow tubular cylindrical structure.

[0085] FIG. 12C illustrates a top view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. FIG. 12D illustrates a pin that is used to mount the torsion spring on the hollow tubular cylindrical structure. FIG. 12E illustrates a back view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. FIG. 12F illustrates an exploded side view illustrating the different components in the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. FIGS. 12G and 12J illustrates an assembled sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement.

[0086] FIGS. 12H and 12I illustrates different perspective views of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. FIG. 12K illustrates a side view in which the slits are in open position of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement. FIG. 12L illustrates another side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a torsion spring arrangement.

[0087] FIGS. 13A-13F illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a hinge based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0088] FIGS. 13A and 13F illustrates a side view of the hinge based arrangement of the sanitary smoking apparatus when the slits/splits are in closed position. FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of the hinge based arrangement of the sanitary smoking apparatus when the slits/splits are in open position. FIG. 13C illustrates a front view of the hinge based arrangement of the sanitary smoking apparatus when the slits/splits are in closed position. FIGS. 13D and 13E combinedly illustrates an exploded view of the hinge based arrangement of the sanitary smoking apparatus.

[0089] FIGS. 14A-14I illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 14A illustrates a left hand side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. FIG. 14B illustrates a right hand side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. FIG. 14C illustrates a perspective view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. Each prong of the tweezers shown in FIG. 14 C is connected one half of the tubular structure. When the tweezers are in open position the smoking element is inserted in the tubular structure and when the tweezers are pressed then the smoking element snugly fits in the hollow space within the tubular structure. FIG. 14D illustrates a top view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. FIG. 14E illustrates a bottom side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. FIGS. 14F and 14G illustrates the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement in an open positon. FIG. 14H illustrates a perspective view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement. FIG. 14I illustrates another perspective view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a tweezers based arrangement.

[0091] FIGS. 15A-15B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a thimble based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0092] FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a thimble based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening. The user can insert his finger in each of the circular openings to then pry them apart to create the slit/split opening. The smoking element is then inserted in the slit/split and the user then depresses the openings so that the smoking element snugly fits into the cylindrical hollow structure. FIG. 15B illustrates a bottom and top view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a thimble based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening.

[0093] FIGS. 16A-16D illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening. FIG. 16A shows the smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in a closed position. FIG. 16B illustrates a side view of the sanitary smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in order to create the slit/split opening. Each of the front portions of the roach clip are connected with the cylindrical hollow tube. When the roach clip is pressed the cylindrical hollow tube splits apart thereby creating the slit/split opening. The smoking element is inserted in the slit/split opening and then the pressure applied on the roach clip is released so that the smoking element snugly fits into the cylindrical hollow structure. FIG. 16C illustrates the openings provided in the cylindrical tube structure where each of the front portions of the roach clip are inserted. FIG. 16A shows the smoking apparatus having a roach clip based arrangement in an open position thereby creating the slit/split opening for inserting the smoking element.

[0095] Various embodiments of the invention provide method and sanitary smoking apparatus for performing smoking in a healthy manner. The disclosed embodiments encompass numerous advantages. The flexible material insulates the user's fingers from heat dissipated by the smoking element. Further, the sanitary smoking apparatus protects the user from germs and bodily fluids even if the same smoking element is smoked by another user. Further, various ways of creating the slit/split openings make the sanitary smoking apparatus more advantageous and easy to use.

[0096] The claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies.

[0097] The specification has described a method and a sanitary smoking apparatus. The illustrated steps are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.

[0098] It is intended that the disclosure and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims.

[0099] In some embodiments, any combination of shapes, sizes, and textures of inner and/or outer smoking tips may be used. For example, an inner conical smoking tip can reside inside an outer cylindrical smoking tip. Or a cylindrical conical smoking tip can reside inside an outer conical smoking tip. Or a rectangular smoking tip can operate independently. Or a rectangular smoking tip can reside inside a cylindrical conical smoking tip. Or an irregularly shaped smoking tip can serve as an outer or inner smoking tip in relation to a cylindrical, conical, or rectangular smoking tip. In yet another embodiment, a tapered smoking tip may be used independently, or inside a shaped smoking tip having a larger diameter. Further, any shape that is efficacious for retaining a portion of a cigarette, as defined here, may also be used in unitary fashion, or on the inside or outside of another smoking tip to optimize retention of the cigarette.

[0100] In conclusion, sanitary smoking tip and method of smoking includes a tubular or conical shaped flexible tube. The tube defines a cigarette insert end that has longitudinal slits and a handle portion. The handle portion is operable to pull apart longitudinal sections of the cigarette insert end, along the slits. This serves to increase the diameter of the cigarette insert end, so as to enable ingress of a cigarette. The longitudinal sections are biased to return to the natural tube shape after the cigarette has been inserted. The tube also defines an opposing, and resilient, mouth end having a diameter that stretches to increase for snugly inserting a mouthpiece inside. Once the cigarette has been affixed inside the cigarette insert end, and the mouth piece inserted inside the mouth end, the sanitary smoking tip enables a smoker to smoke and share a cigarette without contact from other smoker's saliva and germs.

[0101] Although the process-flow diagrams show a specific order of executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted from the process-flow diagrams for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all the process steps shown in the process-flow diagrams can be combined into a single process.

[0102] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.