METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR IMPROVING THE AESTHETICS OF VAPING

Abstract

A method, system and device for improving the aesthetics of vaping, where the system embodies a functional wearable that houses, via one or more passages, a vapor redirecting device hidden therein. The vapor redirecting device provides an intake conduit and one or more exhaust conduits having an inlet and at least one outlet, respectively. The inlet is disposed adjacent an inlet portion of an inlet passage of the functional wearable so that a wearer of the functional wearable can urge vapor through the inlet and out the one or more exhaust conduits, which are disposed along different areas or zones of the functional wearable.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE SUBJECT DISCLOSURE

This application claims priority from provisional application 63/743,919, filed Jan. 19, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present subject disclosure relates to vaping and, more particularly, to a method, system and device for improving the aesthetics of vaping.

BACKGROUND

An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), commonly called a vape, is a device that simulates tobacco smoking. It consists of an atomizer, a power source such as a battery, and a container such as a cartridge or tank. Instead of smoke, the user inhales and exhales vapor. As such, using an e-cigarette is often called “vaping”. Vaping devices can include tobacco but there are also nicotine-free vaping devices.

Just like traditional tobacco smoking, there is a social stigma associated with vaping among a significant percentage of those who do not use e-cigarettes (“non-vapers”). Non-vapers tend to look down on vaping because they find the use visually unappealing, and many find the habit obnoxious or annoying because of the ‘second-hand smoke’ issues of vape exhaust.

As can be seen, there is a need for a method, system and device for improving the aesthetics of vaping, and thereby lessening the opprobrium that sometimes accompanies vaping.

SUMMARY OF THE SUBJECT DISCLOSURE

The method, system and device for improving the aesthetics of vaping embodies a multi-purpose solution that aims above and beyond avoiding social disapproval, as the inventor understands that people tend to dislike carrying ‘stuff’ around, except their smart device, of course. Also, there is an additional and related appreciation on behalf of the inventor that avoiding the appearance of vaping also requires a vapor redirecting mechanism that is hidden in plain sight and not held in one's hand. Because if a user is required to walk around with the vapor redirecting mechanism visible, this would attract negative attention the user is trying to avoid. Finally, it is contemplated that even re-directed exhaust vapor is still visible (absent carrying around a canister-like apparatus), and thus likely, when spotted, to warrant unwanted attention. The solution that addresses all these challenges is a vapor redirecting device that is fashionably incorporated or otherwise hidden in a wearable, wherein the exhaust vapor is expelled in a manner that is amusing, stylish or otherwise does not elicit the social disapproval mentioned above.

There are several embodiments disclosed herein to achieve one or more of the foregoing objectives. In some versions of the present disclosure, an extension tube is provided in a wearable, preferably at least a portion of which, if not a majority of which, is hidden in the wearable. In other versions of the present disclosure, a long extension tube is provided in a wearable to redirect the exhaled smoke a sufficient distance from the vaping individual, such as out a window, reducing interference with other non-vaping individuals adjacent the vaping individual. In still other versions of the present disclosure, the vaping device is connectable to a connecting tube system which includes at least one valve through which smoke can be exhaled. In such versions, at least a portion, and more preferably a majority, of the connecting system is hidden in the wearable. The vaping device itself can also be hidden in the wearable in some embodiments and removed for vaping. Each of these versions/embodiments are discussed in detail below.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a vaping system is provided comprising a functional wearable providing an inlet passage and at least one outlet passage; a vapor redirecting device interconnecting the inlet passage and the at least one outlet passage in such a way that the vapor redirecting device is substantially not visible; and an intake conduit of the vapor redirecting device, wherein the intake conduit has an inlet disposed at an inlet portion of the inlet passage.

In some embodiments, the vapor redirecting device includes at least one exhaust conduit communicating with the intake conduit, each exhaust conduit having an outlet disposed adjacent an outlet portion of a respective outlet passage, whereby vapor urged by way of the intake conduit is emitted from each of the outlet passages of the functional wearable.

The vaping system in some embodiments includes one or more valves between the intake and exhaust conduit(s).

In some embodiments, the functional wearable evokes a shape of an animal, and the at least one outlet passage is adjacent an orifice of the animal.

In some embodiments, the functional wearable further comprises a first aesthetic feature that substantially encases an entirety of the intake conduit, wherein the first aesthetic feature is configured to be within twelve inches of the mouth of a wearer of the functional wearable, and wherein the functional wearable evokes a shape of an animal, and wherein the first aesthetic feature is evocative of said animal.

In some embodiments, the functional wearable further comprises a second aesthetic feature that substantially encases an entirety of a body of a vaping device so that the vaping device is not visible or substantially not visible, and wherein the second aesthetic feature is evocative of said animal.

In some embodiments, the vapor redirecting device is retained within the functional wearable. It can be fastened by various ways to enable releasable retention such as by hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro). The vaping device can also be releasably retained in the wearable in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the intake conduit is movable between a retracted position and an extended position where a previously hidden portion of the intake conduit, adjacent the inlet, is visible and accessible to the user.

In some embodiments, a slide hole in the functional wearable is provided, wherein the intake conduit slides through the slide hole when moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a vaping system is provided comprising a wearable having an inlet and at least one outlet passage, the outlet passage remote from a mouth of the user; and a vapor redirecting device positioned within the wearable, the vapor redirecting device including a conduit extending from an inlet to an outlet portion adjacent the outlet passage of the wearable, wherein at least a majority of the conduit is hidden within the wearable.

In some embodiments, the wearable is a hat and the outlet is positioned on a portion of the hat above and spaced from the mouth of the user.

In some embodiments, the wearable is a hat including at least one hidden fastener configured to retain the conduit. In some embodiments, a vaping device is hidden within the hat and retained by at least one fastener.

In some embodiments, the conduit of the vapor redirecting device is attached to the wearable and provides for entry of exhaled smoke through the conduit and out the at least one outlet passage remote from the mouth of the user.

In some embodiments, the conduit includes an intake tube configured for connection to a vaping device, and the conduit is attached to the wearable and provides for entry of exhaled smoke from the user's mouth through the conduit and out the at least one outlet passage remote from the mouth of the user.

The vaping system in some embodiments includes one or more one way valves to control fluid passage through the vapor directing device.

In some embodiments, the wearable includes a first aesthetic feature in the shape of an animal.

In some embodiments, the conduit is movable with respect to the wearable between a retracted position for non-use and an extended position for use.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present subject disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the subject disclosure appertains will more readily understand how to make and use the system and apparatus (device) disclosed herein, preferred embodiments thereof will be described in detail herein below with reference to the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of the vaping system of the present disclosure shown incorporating a hidden vapor redirecting device in a functional wearable in the form of a hat.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view similar to FIG. 1 showing use of the vaping system exhausting vapor in a fanciful manner that interplays with the design concept embodied by the functional wearable.

FIG. 2A illustrates in phantom lines how the vapor redirecting device is hidden within the wearable.

FIG. 2B is a close up view of the conduits and elbow joint of the vapor redirecting device of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the vaping system of the present disclosure shown in use, wherein the functional wearable is in the form of a snake design concept worn in a scarf-like manner.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views showing one use of the elongated connector design of FIG. 3 in an automobile wherein FIG. 3A shows the system not in use and FIG. 3B shows the system in use exhaling smoke out the automobile window.

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the vaping system of the present disclosure having a connecting tube retractable with respect to the wearable shown in the form of a hat, the connecting tube shown in the extended position.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the wearable of FIG. 4, illustrating the push-pull component, wherein an inlet of an intake tube is in a retracted position for storage and is movable to the extended position for use as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the system of the present disclosure wherein the wearable, in the form of a hat, has a slide hole for an intake tube, the intake tube is removed for clarity so that the slide hole can be clearly seen.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the wearable of the present disclosure showing a tube of the vapor redirecting device extending from a slide hole and terminating in a fanciful feature in an animal form.

FIG. 7A is a view similar to FIG. 7 showing in phantom the vapor redirecting device hidden within the wearable.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the subject disclosure, illustrating the functional wearable in the form of a hat having push-pull system, the inlet of the intake tube of the vapor redirecting device is shown in the extended position for use by the wearer.

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the wearable of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of an alternate embodiment of the system of the present disclosure having a valve system, a wearable lighting system and showing a vaping device removably attached to an interior of the wearable in the form of a hat.

FIG. 10A is a bottom plan view of an alternate embodiment of the system of the present disclosure having a valve system and vaping device removably attached to an interior of the wearable in the form of a hat.

FIG. 11 is a perspective of a valve and tube assembly 12 of an alternate embodiment of the vapor redirecting device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a close up perspective view of the valve and tube assembly of FIG. 11, wherein a valve component includes two (internal) one-way valves, one for intake and one for outflow, and the arrows depicting flow direction.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are close up views of the valves and joint of FIG. 12 showing flow direction during inhaling and exhaling.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBJECT DISCLOSURE

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the subject disclosure. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the subject disclosure, since the scope of the subject disclosure is best defined by the appended claims.

The subject disclosure in general embodies a vapor redirecting device integrated with a functional wearable. The functional wearable is shown in many of the drawings as a hat but could also be in the form of a scarf, jacket or other garment.

The outlet of the exhaust conduit and the inlet of the intake conduit as will become apparent from the discussion below may be of sufficient distance from a bystander so they are not bothered by the vapor or even notice or see the exhaust vapor.

There are several different embodiments of the present disclosure. In general, these include a) a vapor redirecting device so exhaust exits in a fanciful manner through the wearable remote from the user's mouth; b) a vapor redirecting device in the form of a long extension tube within a wearable so exhaust exits remote from the user, and in some versions, through a fanciful form at the end of the extension tube; and c) a redirecting device with valves to enable inhaling and exhaling through a tube hidden in the wearable. Each of these versions are discussed in detail below.

In these embodiments, the wearable has an inlet passage and at least one outlet passage, and the redirecting device, in the form of one or more tubes forming conduit(s) therein, extends within the wearable from adjacent an inlet portion of the inlet passage to adjacent an outlet portion of the at least one outlet passage, with at least a portion of the redirecting device hidden by or within the wearable.

Turning now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify like components throughout the several views, the embodiment of FIGS. 1-2B will initially be discussed. The vapor redirecting device 10 includes an intake conduit 14 that receives a user's exhaust vapor at an inlet 16 thereof. The inlet 16 may include a mouthpiece. The vapor redirecting device 10 provides one or more exhaust conduits 22 fluidly coupled to the intake conduit 14; each exhaust conduit 22 provides an outlet for emitting the exhaust vapor along a portion of the functional wearable 50.

The functional wearable 50 may be headwear, e.g., a hat, such as shown in FIG. 1, although any other wearable article that is worn around or adjacent to the head or neck or other body area can be utilized. The system and method embody a device that improves the appeal of vaping by after inhaling through the vaping device, instead of exhaling to exit at the user's mouth, the vape exhaust is redirected to an exit remote from the user's mouth. That is, the exhaust vapor is redirected by the redirecting device 10 to vape exhaust through some sort of art form or design concept embodied by the functional wearable 50. FIG. 1 shows an example of a functional wearable 50 in the form of a bull hat fancifully having a bull's head 51 with two nostrils 52 forming outlet passages such that the exhaust E (FIGS. 2 and 2A) is released via exhaust conduit(s) 22 through the nostrils 52 of the bull's head (though it is to be understood that the smoke could be emitted from the horns 56 of the bull's head, or other portions of the wearable 50 as long as it is aesthetically pleasing).

The inlet 16 of the intake conduit 14 is also integrated into an aesthetic feature of the functional wearable 50, whereby the aesthetic feature embodies a design concept that complements the design concept of wearable's aesthetic. By way of example, the intake conduit 14 fluidly coupled to the mouthpiece 16 is positioned inside (and thereby hidden to an observer) of the aesthetic feature. By way of a non-limiting example, the aesthetic feature could take the appearance of a leg 58 of the above-mentioned bull as shown in FIG. 1. This aesthetic feature, that clandestinely provides the intake conduit 14 and in some embodiments the inlet/mouthpiece 16 as well, could drape adjacent the wearer's mouth for easy access. Note, in some embodiments, the vaping device (e-cigarette) is accessibly hidden in another aesthetic feature (say, an opposing bull leg) of the bull-shaped wearable 50.

From the intake conduit 14, the vapor may flow to a joint 23, e.g. a Y-joint, to divide into two tubes 22a, 22b as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B forming the outlet conduit 22. Each tube 22a, 22b can be directed to a nostril 52 of the bull. In an alternate embodiment, a single tube 22, which is integral with (an extension of the same) inlet conduit 14 or alternatively a separate tube attached to inlet conduit 14, opens at a terminal/distal end adjacent both nostrils so vapor is emitted through both nostrils. In either manner, vape exhaust can exit through both nostrils 52 in a fanciful manner. A valve system as described below could also be provided.

Note in this embodiment of FIGS. 1-2B, the user initially inhales the vapor from a vaping device (not shown) and exhales through the inlet 16. The outlet for the exhaust is provided so the bystander is amused by the vapor exit.

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure where the redirecting device is used solely for exhaling as in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the redirecting device 40 is retractable with respect to the wearable 60, which is in the form of a hat 62. A pull/push tube storage system is utilized for hiding the inlet/mouthpiece 46 and intake conduit 44, which could be slid out for use to an extended or exposed position as shown in FIG. 4 from a retracted position or storage position as shown in FIG. 5. As can be appreciated from the view in FIG. 5, the inlet 46, and in some embodiments the intake conduit 44, or a portion thereof, as well, of the redirecting device 40 can be hidden in space/gap 62c between the upper brim 62b and lower brim 62a of hat 62 which forms the wearable device.

The inlet tube (conduit) 44 can be slidable around the hat within space 62c as it wraps around the hat between brim 62a and 62b. In the retracted position, the intake conduit 44 is substantially not visible to an observer viewing the user wearing the functional wearable 62. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the intake conduit 44 is visible or partially visible to the observer.

Thus, the pull/push tube storage system provides another variation of hiding the mouthpiece and intake conduit of the vapor redirecting device, which could be slid out for use (extended position) and in (retracted position) for storage. In some embodiments, it can be slid out through a slide hole in the wearable 50. The slide hole can be similar to slide hole 78 of FIG. 6 discussed below. In the retracted position, the intake conduit 44, or portions thereof, is substantially not visible to an observer of the user wearing the functional wearable 60. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the intake conduit 44 becomes visible or partially visible to the observer as it is accessed by the user.

An alternate embodiment of the retractable redirecting device is shown in FIGS. 6, 8 and 9. The intake conduit 74, like intake conduit 44 of FIG. 4, is slidable through a slide hole 78 in the wearable 70 in the form of a hat 72. The proximal region of the intake conduit 74 can extend underneath the brim 72a (FIG. 9) where it is hidden or substantially hidden from view. Another portion of the intake tube rests atop the top surface 72b of brim 72a of the hat 72. The intake conduit 74 is retractable to a storage position. In the retracted position, the intake conduit 74 is (or portions thereof) substantially not visible to an observer of the user wearing the functional wearable 70. In some embodiments, in the extended position for use, the intake conduit 74 is visible or partially visible to the observer. Note in this embodiment, portions of the redirecting device are visible on a top portion of the hat wherein in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the redirecting device is more hidden.

It should be appreciated that hats 62 and 72 are provided by way of example as other hats, including hats with fanciful features such as animal heads or shapes, could contain the intake conduit and other portions of the vapor redirecting device in fully or partially hidden manners. FIGS. 7 and 7A shown an example of such embodiment, wherein the wearable 90 is in the form of a hat 92 which has a fanciful animal head which is discussed in detail below.

FIGS. 3, 3A and 3B illustrate another embodiment of the present disclosure where the redirecting device is used solely for exhaling as in FIG. 1. The wearable 80, having the redirecting device 82 hidden therein, is in the form of an elongated wearable that can be worn as a scarf wrapped around the user's neck. The elongated tube 83 of redirecting device 82 is flexible and has an intake conduit 84 at an inlet passage of the wearable 80 with an inlet 86 at a proximal end providing a mouthpiece for the user. The elongated tube 83 extends the length or a substantial length, of the wearable 80, inside thereof, terminating at the wearable outlet passage at a distal end 85. The opening in the distal end provides a remote exit for the smoke as it is spaced a sufficient distance from the user's mouth. The distal end 85 can be a simple opening or can end in the form of a fanciful aesthetic feature such as an animal or other form wherein the smoke exits through the fanciful feature.

One use of wearable device 80 is illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B wherein the terminal distal end 85 is positioned to be placed outside the window W of a vehicle V. An animal form 87 of the wearable device 80 at the distal terminal end 85′ of redirecting device 82′ is shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B, wherein exhaled smoke can exit through nostrils or other parts of the animal form (as in the aforedescribed embodiments) which are positioned outside the window W facing away from the vehicle V. The distal end or animal form can for example be hooked onto the window W. In these embodiments, other passengers in the car are not near the exhaust vapor as it exhausted outside the vehicle. A clip or bracket such as an L-shaped bracket can be used to anchor the exhaust end of the tube to a window or other structure by, for example, clipping or clamping onto the window.

Note that the wearable devices 80 and 80′ are not limited to use in a vehicle as they can be used in other locations as well where it is desired that exhaust vapor be spaced several feet from the user. For example, the proximal and distal ends can be at least five feet away from each other when the vapor redirecting device is laid flat. This distance enables the wearer to re-direct the exhaust of the vapor far away from a bystander so they are not bothered by the vapor or even notice or see the exhaust vapor. The vapor can also be redirected out an office window or a house window.

FIGS. 7 and 10-12 illustrate another embodiment of the wearable device of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the redirecting device within the wearable has valves to enable inhaling and exhaling through a tube system hidden in the wearable. That is, the vaping device itself is connected to the redirecting device which is used for inhaling and exhaling. This differs from the aforedescribed devices of FIGS. 1 and 3 wherein the redirecting device provides solely for the exhaust vapor after vapor inhaling through the vaping device and the vaping device is kept separate from the redirecting device.

With reference to FIG. 7A, wearable 90 is in the form of a hat having a crown 90a, a brim 90c and an animal form 90c to provide a fanciful feature for vapor exit through the outlet passage, e.g., through the nostrils of the animal head, as in the forms described above or alternatively through other parts of the animal form 90b, e.g. the horns. Other fanciful aesthetic forms are also contemplated.

A substantial portion of the vapor redirecting device 92 is hidden within wearable 90 and with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12 includes an intake conduit 96 and a valve and tube system 93 (or other ways of channeling the vaping device exhaust vapor in the intake conduit 96 to the exhaust conduit(s) 98. The vaping device 95 is attached to the intake conduit 96. The valve and tube system 93 includes a T-joint 91 to provide a 3-way couple connecting the intake conduit 96, a tube/conduit 94 allowing air to flow in either direction and a tube/conduit 98 to direct exhaust. Joints other than T-joints are also contemplated to connect the various tubes/conduits. Contained within the T-joint 91 is a first valve 92a and a second valve 92b. Alternatively, the valve 92a could be positioned in intake tube 96 and valve 92b could be positioned in exhaust tube 98. These valves 92a, 92b are one way valves, with one valve opening as the other remains closed.

The connection and function of the valve and tube system 93 can be appreciated with reference to FIGS. 12, 12A and 12B. Upon inhalation thought intake tube 96, valve 92a is open (see pivoted/angled position of FIG. 12A) and valve 92b is closed (see position of perpendicular to longitudinal axis of conduit/lumen) so tube 96 is in fluid communication with inlet tube/conduit 94 via joint 91. For exhale, valve 92a is closed (see perpendicular position of FIG. 12B) and valve 92b is open (see pivoted/angled position) so that exhaled vapor travels through conduit 94 (which now functions as a smoke intake conduit), through the exhaust tube 98 (connected via joint 91) and exits through the wearable e.g., through a fanciful feature or aesthetic such as an animal form.

An example of one type of valve that can be utilized is shown in FIG. 12A where the valve members 92a, 92b each pivots between open (angled) and closed (perpendicular) position with respect to the lumen of the conduit, depending on air/vapor flow. Other valves/types of valves can also be utilized, e.g., gate valves, ball valves, etc.

The redirecting device 91 is preferably hidden within the wearable 90 as shown in FIG. 7A. As shown in phantom lines, the intake conduit (tube) 96 extends around the inner or topmost portions of crown 90a of the hat 90 and can be secured to an inner surface of the crown 90a by a loop and fastener attachment (e.g., Velcro), hooks, or other removable attachment methods. Also within the hat 90, either the crown portion 90a and/or fanciful animal head 90b, is the joint 91 and the exhaust tubes 98, 99a, 99b, with tubes 99a, 99b open to the outside environment and tube 98 extending through the animal head 90b. Tube 98 can lead directly to the nostrils or other animal portion exit, or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7A, can be bifurcated via joint/elbow 99 into two tubes 99a, 99b in a similar manner as tubes 22a, 22b of FIG. 2B described above to divide the exhaled vapor within the wearable.

The vaping device is positioned within the channel/lumen 95a of inlet 95 for vaping to fluidly communicate with inlet tube 94.

In use, the conduit 94 and inlet 95 can be released from the fasteners within crown 90a of hat 90 for access to the user. The user can then insert the vaping device into channel of inlet 95 for attachment thereto. (The channel lumen dimensioned to receive the vaping device). In other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 7A and 10A, the vaping device D is pre-attached to the inlet 95 and is releasably held within the crown 90a by hook and loop fastening attachment (e.g., Velcro) 101 as shown in FIG. 10A, hooks, or other removable attachment methods that provide secure but releasable attachment inside the wearable.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment wherein in addition to the tube and valve system 93 and vaping device hidden in the wearable 90, a programmable illumination system 100 attached by fasteners 102 (e.g., Velcro fasteners) such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 12,157,067 is included. This system connects to the animal form to emit light to light up features or parts of the animal form. Further details of the illumination system are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 12,157,067, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The systems as disclosed herein can in some embodiments include a three-way valve interconnecting a first conduit to one or more exhaust conduits for enabling fanciful downstream smoke exhaust conditions. The first conduit may be the intake conduit or fluidly coupled thereto. From the intake conduit, the vapor may flow to a hidden three-way valve that directs the smoke to two exhaust conduits terminating at two separate outlets, respectively, for emitting smoke from the wearable in a visibly pleasing manner.

In the systems disclosed herein, the intake conduit can be connectable directly to a mouthpiece of a vaping device or can be connectable to a tube which is connectable to the mouthpiece of the vaping device.

As noted above, various wearables are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. The wearable may be a scarf, where the inlet is located at one end, the intake conduit is hidden in an aesthetic feature that resembles the body of a snake, and wherein the outlet is embodied in a snake head aesthetic feature. The wearable can also be in the form of a jacket where smoke is emitted from a region of the jacket remote from the user's mouth.

The wearable embodied in a stacked arrangement of hats is yet another embodiment contemplated, where the intake conduit and the two exhaust conduits are connected by a “T” joint, of which two of the tubes (or sides of the T joint) have one-way valves, which is hidden within the wearable, except for the non-valved tube when in use. The intake conduit is connected to a standard vaping device and hidden in the wearable. The exhaust tube(s) redirects vape exhaust in an aesthetic and/or an amusing manner.

The vaping device in any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be hidden within the functional wearable so as to enable the user to complete the vaping operation by simply inhaling and exhaling with a single tube, wherein a mouthpiece of the vaping device is adjacent the inlet of the intake conduit.

Hiding the valve and tube assembly (and the vaping device) within the wearable can be accomplished via snaps, magnets, hook and loop fasteners, or other fastening methods to keep the vapor redirecting device hidden inside the wearable. The mouthpiece operatively associated with the vape device (hidden) can in some embodiments be replaced periodically by the user as it can be removably attached to the conduit/tube and the intake conduit of the redirecting device in such embodiments and be connected/disconnected to the other conduits for replacement thereof.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “aligned” means parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “transverse” means perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “length” means the longest dimension of an object. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “width” means the dimension of an object from side to side. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “above” generally means superjacent, substantially superjacent, or higher than another object although not directly overlying the object. Further, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “mechanical communication” generally refers to components being in direct physical contact with each other or being in indirect physical contact with each other where movement of one component affect the position of the other.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments or the claims. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed embodiments.

In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” and the like, are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms unless specifically stated to the contrary.

As used herein, the term “proximal” refers to the device or component closer to the user and the term “distal” refers to the device or component further from the user.

While the above description contains many specifics, those specifics should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments thereof. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations that are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

Although the apparatus and methods of the subject disclosure have been described with respect to preferred embodiments, which constitute non-limiting examples, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the following claims.

Additionally, persons skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with those of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and will appreciate further features and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter based on the description provided.

Throughout the above description, terms such as “approximately,” “about”, “generally,” “substantially,” and the like should be understood to allow for variations in any numerical range or concept with which they are associated. It is intended that the use of terms such as “approximately”, “about”, “substantially”, and “generally” should be understood to encompass variations on the order of 25%, or to allow for manufacturing tolerances and/or deviations in design.

Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

Thus, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within the range.

Although terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections, these operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections should not be limited by the use of these terms in that these terms are used to distinguish one operation, element, component, region, or section from another. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, a first operation, element, component, region, or section could be termed a second operation, element, component, region, or section without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and represents embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” and “A and/or B and/or C” should each be interpreted to include only A, only B, only C, or any combination of A, B, and C.

Claims

1. A vaping system, comprising;

a wearable providing an inlet passage and at least one outlet passage, the inlet passage configured to communicate with a vaping device;

a vapor redirecting device interconnecting the inlet passage and the at least one outlet passage in such a way that at least a majority of the vapor redirecting device is not visible, the vapor redirecting device including, a three-way joint to receive a first flexible tube coupled to the three-way joint and communicating with the inlet passage, a second tube coupled to the three-way joint and communicating with the outlet passage and a third flexible tube coupled to the three-way joint and providing a mouthpiece end, the three-way joint enabling fluid communication between the tubes, the first tube configured to wrap within the wearable and the vapor redirecting device is hidden in the wearable by one or more fastening devices and the second tube is configured such that vapor is exhausted through a front facing. opening in the wearable above eyes of a wearer of the wearable; and

a first valve opening upon inhalation through the intake conduit; and

a second valve opening upon exhalation for exhaling vapor through the wearable;

wherein the first valve is configured to be open while the second valve is configured to be closed and the second valve is configured to be open when the first valve is configured to be closed.;

wherein the vapor is exhausted through a fanciful feature of the wearable in an amusing manner.

2. The vaping system of claim 1, wherein the vapor redirecting device includes at least one exhaust conduit communicating with an intake conduit, each exhaust conduit having an outlet disposed at an outlet portion of a respective outlet passage, whereby vapor urged by way of the intake conduit is emitted from the outlet e of the wearable.

3. The vaping system of claim 1, wherein the outlet and the at least one inlet passage are at least five feet from each other.

4. The vaping system of claim 1, wherein the first valve is between the first tube and the second tube.

5. The vaping system of claim 4, wherein the at least one outlet passage comprises two spaced apart outlet passages and wherein the first and second valves are fluidly coupled between the first tube and the two outlet passages.

6. The vaping system of claim 1, further comprising an intake conduit connectable directly to a mouthpiece of the vaping device or is connectable to a tube which is connectable to the mouthpiece of the vaping device.

7. The vaping system of claim 1, wherein the wearable evokes a shape of an animal, and the opening forming an orifice in the animal, and the at least one outlet passa of the wearable is adjacent an the orifice of the animal.

8. (canceled)

9. The vaping system of claim 13, wherein the vapor redirecting device is retained within the wearable.

10. The vaping system of claim 13, further comprising a fastener in the wearable to releasably retain a vaping device hidden from view within the wearable.

11. The vaping system of claim 1, wherein the first tube forms part of an intake conduit, the intake conduit movable between a retracted position and an extended position where a previously hidden portion of the intake conduit, adjacent the inlet, is visible.

12. The vaping system of claim 11, further comprising a slide hole in the functional wearable, wherein the intake conduit slides through the slide hole when moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

13. A vaping system, comprising:

a wearable having an inlet and at least one outlet the outlet passage remote from a mouth of the user;

a vapor redirecting device positioned within the wearable, the vapor redirecting device including a conduit extending from an inlet portion to an outlet portion, the outlet portion adjacent the outlet passage of the wearable, the vapor redirecting device further including a three-way joint to receive a first flexible tube coupled to the three-way joint and communicating with the inlet passage, a cond tube coupled to the three-way joint and communicating with the outlet passage and a third flexible tube coupled to the three-way joint and providing a mouthpiece end, the three-way joint enabling fluid communication between the tubes, the first tube configured to wrap within the wearable and the vapor redirecting device is hidden in the wearable, and the second tube is configured such that vapc exhausted through an opening in the wearable above eyes of a wearer of the wearable;

wherein at least a majority portion of the conduit is hidden within the wearable, and the inlet portion is adjacent a vaping device connectable to an intake portion of the conduit, the wearer inhaling and exhaling through the conduit; and

first and second valves openable responsive to inhalation and exhalation;

wherein the first valve is configured to be open while the second valve is configured to be closed and the second valve is configured to be open when the first valve is configured to be closed;

wherein the vapor is exhausted through a fanciful feature of the wearable in an amusing manner

14. The vaping system of claim 13, wherein the wearable is a hat and the first tube wraps within the hat forming a loop around a crown of a head of the wearer so it extends from a front toward a back of the bat adjacent the crown.

15. (canceled)

16. The vaping system of claim 13, wherein the conduit includes an intake tube removably attachable to a vaping device.

17. The vaping system of claim 14, wherein the vaping device is removably attachable within the hat and is hidden from view.

18. (canceled)

19. The vaping system of claim 13, wherein the wearable is in a shape of an animal and the opening is in the animal shape and the vapor is visibly exhausted through the opening in the animal shape.

20. The vaping system of claim 13, wherein the conduit is movable with respect to the wearable between a retracted position for non-use and an extended position for use.