Smoking device using a laser diode as a source of ignition

Abstract

A smoking device, such as a water pipe or a bong, having an integrated laser diode ignition source. The laser diode ignition source provides a long-lasting life span, and does not require the smoker to use a fuel-based lighter that is not recyclable and requires continuous refilling of the fuel cartridge. Furthermore, the laser diode ignition source does not leave any undesirable aftertaste to the organic material. The ignition source is located within a housing, protected from the environment and wind. The ignition source applies a high intensity laser beam to ignite organic material, such as smokable substances, locating within a bowl adjacent to the ignition source.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The invention relates generally to smoking devices, and more particularly, to an improved water pipe or bong which utilizes a laser diode as an ignition source.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]In the smoking of organic materials including some rare and expensive tobaccos, it is found that inhaled smoke oftentimes tends to be somewhat harsh, hot and irritating to the lungs of a smoker. Accordingly, it is desirable that the smoke from these materials be tempered and treated prior to its being inhaled. Devices known as “water pipes” and “bongs” have been used to effect tempering and treatment of smoke.[0005]A water pipe ordinarily includes an upstanding housing which defines a water chamber near its base. A burning bowl is operably connected to the housing for introducing smoke into the water chamber. A mouthpiece communicates with the water chamber for drawing smoke from the burning bowl through the water chamber. As the smoke tra...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

In the smoking of organic materials including some rare and expensive tobaccos, it is found that inhaled smoke oftentimes tends to be somewhat harsh, hot and irritating to the lungs of a smoker.

One problem with traditional smoking devices is that they can be cumbersome and difficult to light in windy environments.

Smokers are forced to buy more expensive ignition sources, such as butane torches, which produce a more intense and steady flame even in the presence of some wind.

However, even with butane torches, there may be difficulty in igniting the organic materials if the wind is particularly strong, such as on the high seas, at the beach, on a lake, in the woods, or anywhere windy or wet conditions prevail.

Thus, if a lighter or a match cannot be found, the smoker cannot use the smoking device.

Another problem with traditional smoking devices is that smokers must use two hands, one hand to hold the smoking device, and the other hand to ignite the organic material.

Thus, a smoker does not have a free hand when using the smoking device.

However, these self-lighting bongs utilize an open, exposed flame to ignite the organic material, and smokers still experience problems of lighting in windy environments.

Yet another problem with traditional smoking devices is that they can require the use of fuel-based lighters, such as butane.

The fuel leaves an aftertaste in the organic material, which is not desirable to the smoker.

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