Login| Sign Up| Help| Contact|

Patent Searching and Data


Title:
TERPENE-DELIVERY CIGARETTE MOUTHPIECE DEVICE AND METHOD
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/183731
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A device and a method of making a device that includes a mouthpiece, a filter containing terpenes, and a cigarette holder. The mouthpiece has a mouth opening and far opening connecting therewith. The filter fits within the mouthpiece's far opening. The cigarette holder has near and far end portions. The holder's near end portion securely engages the mouthpiece's far opening and the filter within the mouthpiece. The holder has near and far openings therein. In use, the holder's far opening receives an end portion of a cigarette. During inhalation, airflow from the cigarette's end portion is drawn through the holder's near opening and across the filter, thus releasing the terpenes released for inhalation, with smoke through the mouth opening.

Inventors:
DALEY KINGSLEY (CA)
Application Number:
PCT/CA2019/050383
Publication Date:
October 03, 2019
Filing Date:
March 27, 2019
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
TERP TIPS INC (CA)
International Classes:
A24F7/04; A24D3/18; A24F7/00
Foreign References:
CN100586318C2010-02-03
CN201018921Y2008-02-13
CA2853647A12013-06-13
CN208129447U2018-11-23
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
HOLBECHE, Kevin (CA)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS:

1. A device, for use with a cigarette having a cigarette end portion, comprising:

(a) a mouthpiece having a mouthpiece near end portion and a mouthpiece far end portion, wherein the mouthpiece near end portion is shaped to define a mouth opening therein, and the mouthpiece far end portion is shaped to define a mouthpiece far opening therein, and wherein the mouthpiece far opening connects in fluid

communication with the mouth opening and, inside the mouthpiece, a passage of airflow leads from the mouthpiece far opening to the mouth opening in use;

(b) one or more terpenes;

(c) a filter containing the terpenes, wherein the filter is received and fits within the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening, and wherein the filter is adapted to release the terpenes upon the airflow across the filter, inside the mouthpiece far opening, in use; and

(d) a cigarette holder having a holder near end portion and a holder far end portion, wherein the holder near end portion is engaged and fits in the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening, wherein the holder near end portion securely engages the filter within the mouthpiece, wherein the holder near end portion is shaped to define a holder near opening therein, and the holder far end portion is shaped to define a holder far opening therein, wherein the holder far opening connects in fluid communication with the holder near opening and, inside the cigarette holder, the airflow leads from the holder far opening to the holder near opening in use, and wherein the holder far opening and the holder far end portion are shaped and adapted to operatively receive the cigarette end portion in use;

wherein, in use, the cigarette end portion is received and fits within the holder far end portion through the holder far opening and, during inhalation, the airflow and smoke from the cigarette end portion in the holder far end portion is drawn through the holder near opening and across the filter, thus releasing the terpenes for inhalation with the airflow and the smoke, through the mouth opening by the user.

2. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the terpenes comprise one or more naturally occurring cannabis terpenes.

3. A device according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the naturally occurring cannabis terpenes are selected from the group consisting of myrcene, limonene, linalool, caryophyllene, pinene, alpha-bisabolol, eucalyptol, trans-nerolidol, humulene, delta 3 carene, camphene, borneol, terpineol, valencene, and geraniol.

4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mouthpiece far end portion is further shaped to define one or more vents, and wherein the vents connect with the mouthpiece far opening and, inside the mouthpiece, the passage of the airflow leads from the vents across the filter inside the mouthpiece far opening in use; and wherein, during inhalation, the passage of the airflow from the vents is drawn across the filter, thus releasing the terpenes for inhalation, through the mouth opening by the user.

5. A device according to claim 4, wherein the one or more vents are provided as two venturi-shaped vents shaped in and through opposing top and bottom portions of the mouthpiece far end portion.

6. A device according to one of claims 4 and 5 wherein, in use, the vents reduce temperatures of the airflow, including the airflow with the smoke from the cigarette end portion, across the filter, thus reducing degradation of the terpenes, inhaled by the user.

7. A device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the mouthpiece far end portion is further shaped to define an inner channel adjacent each of the vents inside the mouthpiece far opening; and wherein, during inhalation, the airflow from the vents inside the mouthpiece leads, in fluid communication, through a respective one said inner channel, before being drawn across the filter to release the terpenes for inhalation as aforesaid.

8. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the holder near end portion is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a plurality of radially arranged nubs that axially extend into secure engagement with the filter in the mouthpiece; and wherein, during inhalation, the airflow from the vents inside the mouthpiece leads, in fluid communication, through spaces between adjacent ones of the radially arranged nubs, before being drawn across the filter to release the terpenes for inhalation as aforesaid.

9. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the mouthpiece far end portion is shaped to define a textured grip portion for handling and gripping of the device in use.

10. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the mouthpiece is formed from an acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer material.

11. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the filter is substantially tubular in shape, and further shaped to define a filter opening, axially through the filter; and wherein, during inhalation, the airflow from the holder near opening is drawn across the filter and through the filter opening, thus to release the terpenes for inhalation as aforesaid.

12. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the filter comprises an absorbent pad that receives, houses, and stores the terpenes for release during inhalation as aforesaid.

13. A device according to claim 12, wherein the absorbent pad receives, houses, and stores moisture for release into the airflow when drawn across the filter during inhalation.

14. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the filter is formed from a polypropylene material.

15. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the holder far end portion is shaped, inside the holder far opening, to define a spiral screw-threaded portion; wherein the spiral screw-threaded portion is shaped and adapted to operatively receive the cigarette end portion in use; wherein, in use, the cigarette end portion engages the spiral screw-threaded portion, and is helically twisted with the spiral screw-threaded portion, to secure the cigarette end portion inside the holder far opening; and wherein each said spiral screw-threaded portion and said holder far opening are shaped and adapted to securely receive a variety and range of diameters for the cigarette, and for the cigarette end portion, within the holder far opening.

16. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the cigarette holder is formed from a silicone material.

17. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the mouthpiece and the cigarette holder are formed from food-grade materials that are stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water.

18. A method of making the device according to claim 1 , comprising steps of: (a) inserting and fitting the filter, containing the terpenes, within the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening; (b) inserting and fitting the holder near end portion in engagement with the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening; and (c) bringing the holder near end portion into secure engagement with the filter within the

mouthpiece.

19. A method according to claim 18, further comprising a step (d), before step (a), of storing one or more naturally occurring cannabis terpenes within the filter.

20. A method according to claim 19, wherein in step (d), one or more of the naturally occurring cannabis terpenes are selected from the group consisting of myrcene, limonene, linalool, caryophyllene, pinene, alpha-bisabolol, eucalyptol, trans-nerolidol, humulene, delta 3 carene, camphene, borneol, terpineol, valencene, and geraniol.

21. A method according to any one of claims 19 to 20, wherein in step (d), the terpenes are stored within an absorbent pad of the filter.

22. A method according to claim 21 , wherein in step (d), moisture is stored within the absorbent pad.

23. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein in step (c), a plurality of radially arranged nubs, that are provided on the holder near end portion, axially extend into secure engagement with the filter within the mouthpiece.

24. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising a step (e), before step (a), of forming the mouthpiece from a food-grade acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer material that is stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water.

25. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 24, further comprising a step (f), before step (a), of forming the filter from a polypropylene material.

26. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 25, further comprising a step (g), before step (b), of forming the cigarette holder from a food-grade silicone material that is stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water.

Description:
TERPENE-DELIVERY CIGARETTE MOUTHPIECE DEVICE AND METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001 ] The present invention relates generally to mouthpieces and, more particularly, to a cigarette mouthpiece device and method.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Mouthpieces may have been used to hold cigarettes, including tobacco and/or cannabis (alternately herein, “marijuana”) cigarettes, during smoking. (Cannabis / marijuana cigarettes may alternately herein be referred to as“joints”.) Mouthpieces may have been used with machine and hand-rolled cigarettes, including machine and hand-rolled joints.

[0003] At least some, and perhaps all, odors that emanate from fresh cannabis (whether medically and/or recreationally) may be generally believed to come from the plant’s terpene and/or sesqui-terpene content. Of perhaps about 200 terpenes and/or sesqui-terpenes in cannabis, perhaps about half may be generally believed to be pharmacologically active. Terpenes may act directly and/or by enhancing / diminishing one or more medical and/or other desired effects of cannabinoids and/or may be contributors (and perhaps major contributors) to enjoyment in smoking, including in smoking tobacco and/or cannabis.

[0004] Terpenes may be volatile aromatic molecules which may evaporate quickly, announcing the presence of marijuana by smell. Research on terpene and/or cannabinoid interactions may have shown that the presence of certain terpenes may alter the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”) and/or cannabidiol (“CBD”). The terpenes and/or cannabinoids may interact to create what may have been generally known as an“entourage effect”. This effect may be understood by comparing the effects of smoking freshly cured marijuana vs. smoking older cured marijuana and/or marijuana oil extract. Some terpenes may increase the medically active and/or other desired effects of THC and/or CBD. What may be needed is an invention which can help put this knowledge to good use, preferably so as to induce more rapid relaxation or a more intense “high”, and/or to increase the effectiveness of cannabinoids on pain, inflammation, digestion, mood, blood flow and/or brain function.

[0005] Individual terpenes also may be beneficial. For example: Pinene may be a bronchodilator; b-Caryophyllene may lower blood pressure and/or increase one of more effects of CBD; and/or Limonene and/or Linalool may elevate mood and/or enhance THC. The entire list of terpenes and their respective benefits may be extensive.

[0006] Terpenes may be volatile aromatic molecules secreted inside tiny resin glands of plants, including cannabis flowers. They evaporate easily and light, oxygen, and temperature may all contribute. Terpenoids may be derivatives of terpenes following oxidation, e.g., when a cannabis flower is dried and cured. The two terms may be used interchangeably herein. Many industries use terpenes for making essential oils, health and beauty products, including perfumes. Synthetic terpenes may be used for flavoring and as food additives. Some common cannabis terpenes can be found in other plants, while others are exclusive to cannabis.

[0007] Each terpene breaks down and/or degrades at its own specific temperature. For example, some smaller terpenes may start breaking down or degrading at temperatures in excess of about 21 °C (70°F) and others may begin to break down or degrade in excess of about 37°C (100°F). Boiling and/or combustion temperatures of different terpenes may also vary, but generally some of them may start boiling at temperatures in excess of about 155°C (311 °F).

[0008] Some of the distinctive fragrances and flavour in cannabis - and advantageous effects from terpenes - may be owing, at least in part, to the presence of one or more of the following terpenes (among others): myrcene; limonene; linalool; caryophyllene, including beta-caryophyllene; pinene, including alpha-pinene and beta-pinene; alpha-bisabolol, also known as levomenol and bisabolol; eucalyptol; trans-nerolidol; humulene; delta 3 carene; camphene; borneol; terpineol; valencene; and geraniol.

[0009] Much academic, commercial, and/or journalistic research, writing, and/or other effort in recent years may have been directed to the advantages of terpenes, including terpenes in cannabis. See, for example, the following:

- Flelena; “Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects Explained (Complete Guide)”;

Greencamp (a subsidiary of Wikala.com Inc.); 1 February 2018 (updated 14 March 2019) [last accessed online via https://greencamp.com/ terpenes/ on 27 March 2019]; - Ben-Shabat S, Fride E, Sheskin T, Tamiri T, Rhee MH, Vogel Z, Bisogno T, De Petrocellis L, Di Marzo V, Mechoulam R; “An entourage effect: inactive endogenous fatty acid glycerol esters enhance 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol cannabinoid activity”; European Journal of Pharmacology, July 1998; 353(1 ):23-31 ;

- Gertsch J, Leonti M, Raduner S, Racz I, Chen JZ, Xie XQ, Altmann KH, Karsak M, Zimmer A;“Beta-caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid”; Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America ; July 2008; 105(26):9099-9104;

- Russo EB; “Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid- terpenoid entourage effects”; British Journal of Pharmacology, August 2011 ; 163(7): 1344-1364;

- Mediavilla V, Steinemann S;“Essential oil of Cannabis sativa L. strains”; Journal of the International Hemp Association, 1997, 4(2):80-82;

- Miller JA, Lang JE, Ley M, Nagle R, Hsu CH, Thompson PA, Cordova C, Waer A, Chow HH,“Human breast tissue disposition and bioactivity of limonene in women with early-stage breast cancer”; Cancer Prevention Research, Jun 2013, 6(6):577-584

- Al Mansouri S, Ojha S, Al Maamari E, Al Ameri M, Nurulain SM, Bahi A;“The cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist, b-caryophyllene, reduced voluntary alcohol intake and attenuated ethanol-induced place preference and sensitivity in mice”; Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, September 2014, 124:260-268; and - Yang CB, Pei WJ, Zhao J, Cheng YY, Zheng XH, Rong JH; “Bornyl caffeate induces apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells via the ROS- and JNK-mediated pathways”, Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 2014, 35:113-123.

[0010] To better understand marijuana aging, a short explanation may be of assistance. Perhaps within about seven (7) days of harvesting and/or drying, marijuana may lose about 50% of its terpenes to evaporation and/or oxidative degradation. Light, oxygen, and/or temperature may all contribute to this loss. Over the next 21 days, or so, an additional about 50% of the amount remaining may be lost to imperfect storage conditions, perhaps leaving about 25% of the original terpene content in marijuana that may be about 30 days old.

[0011 ] Terpenes may alter the effect of the cannabinoids. Terpenes and cannabinoids may act together to create a combined effect which may be experienced with freshly-cured cannabis, but which may be lost with older dried plant material, concentrates, and/or oils. Research may suggest the effect of THC may be diminished at 25% terpene content, but may be restored when the terpene profile is returned to its original 100% concentration.

[0012] It may be advantageous and/or desirable to use introduce and/or reintroduce terpenes, such as cannabis terpenes, when smoking a cigarette (e.g., a tobacco and/or cannabis cigarette).

[0013] If terpenes play a role (and perhaps even a major role) in the enjoyment of smoking, including enjoyment of smoking marijuana and/or contribute to its beneficial medical effects, what may be needed is an invention which can help to address the problem of terpene loss. In fact, the problem of terpene loss may have been mulled over and analyzed for years, with various methods tried to restore the original concentration of terpenes and/or sesqui-terpenes. None may have been adequate and/or particularly successful in doing so.

[0014] For example, the prior art may have included terpene infused rolling papers. Terpene infused rolling papers, however, may have suffered from a significant problem due to effects of light. Once such a rolling paper was removed from its packaging and exposed to outside light and temperature, the infused terpenes began to degrade and evaporate. In addition, an alight portion (alternately herein, a“coal” or“cherry”) of a rolled cigarette may typically burn at about 485 degrees Celsius, and heat therefrom may have vaporized a substantial amount of the infused terpenes adjacent to the coal, before they could be inhaled, thus degrading the aroma and benefits which otherwise might have been associated with the infused terpenes.

[0015] In another example, the prior art may have included bamboo tips, which were infused with cannabis derived terpenes, for insertion into cigarettes during hand-rolling. Such infused bamboo filter tips, however, may have been difficult and/or irritating to insert into cigarettes during hand-rolling. Additionally, these bamboo tips were not readily adapted for any use whatsoever with pre-rolled cigarettes. [0016] What may be needed and/or desired is an invention which increases the concentration of terpenes and/or sesqui-terpenes received by a user during intake of smoke from tobacco and/or cannabis.

[0017] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a mouthpiece device and/or method.

[0018] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more disadvantages and/or shortcomings associated with the prior art, to meet or provide for one or more needs and/or advantages, and/or to achieve one or more objects of the invention - one or more of which may preferably be readily appreciable by and/or suggested to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings and/or disclosures hereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] According to the invention, there is disclosed a novel and inventive mouthpiece device and method of use. The mouthpiece device according to the invention preferably delivers lost terpenes and/or moisture to marijuana smokers, preferably to increase their smoking pleasure. Preferably, when the mouthpiece device according to the invention is combined with cured marijuana: the effects of THC and/or CBD may be potentiated; the temperature of inhaled vapor may be decreased; coughing may be reduced; and/or the pleasure associated with smoking marijuana may be enhanced. Preferably, the mouthpiece device according to the invention may be formed as a molded high-density polyethylene (“HDPE”) one-time use mouthpiece. It may preferably, according to the invention, be equipped with two venturi air vents and a polypropylene filter dosed with the desired terpene profile and/or moisture. Preferably, to protect mouthpiece devices according to the invention before use and/or to guarantee long product shelf life, the mouthpiece devices according to the invention may be packaged in heat-sealed Mylar sleeves, preferably labelled with the terpene content and/or a recommendation about the type of marijuana for which they may be best suited.

[0020] Mouthpiece devices and methods of use according to the invention may preferably amplify one or more desired effects of marijuana, preferably by replacing lost terpenes and/or moisture. They may preferably recreate a pleasurable “entourage effect” (such as otherwise may be experienced when smoking fresh cured marijuana), preferably by combining original lost terpenes and/or by delivering them while smoking, and/or preferably to enhance one or more effects from the marijuana.

[0021 ] According to the invention, two aero-dynamic vents may preferably be modelled into the mouthpiece device to cool inhaled marijuana vapor, which otherwise may be up to 80 degrees Celsius. The lower temperatures afforded by using the mouthpiece device and/or methods according to the invention may preferably correlate, favorably, with reduced throat irritation and/or less coughing. The added terpenes and/or moisture afforded by using the mouthpiece device and/or methods according to the invention may preferably improve one or more experiences which otherwise might be associated with smoking a lower quality and/or poorly cured marijuana.

[0022] The mouthpiece device and/or methods of use according to the invention may preferably afford a smoother and/or more relaxing experience. [0039] According to the invention, there is also disclosed a mouthpiece device for use with a cigarette having a cigarette end portion. The device includes a mouthpiece, one or more terpenes, a filter, and a cigarette holder. The mouthpiece has a mouthpiece near end portion and a mouthpiece far end portion. The mouthpiece near end portion is shaped to define a mouth opening therein. The mouthpiece far end portion is shaped to define a mouthpiece far opening therein. The mouthpiece far opening connects with the mouth opening. Inside the mouthpiece, a passage of airflow leads from the mouthpiece far opening to the mouth opening in use. The filter contains the terpenes. The filter is received and fits within the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening. The filter is adapted to release the terpenes upon the passage of the airflow across the filter, inside the mouthpiece far opening, in use. The cigarette holder has a holder near end portion and a holder far end portion. The holder near end portion is engaged and fits in the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening. The holder near end portion securely engages the filter within the mouthpiece. The holder near end portion is shaped to define a holder near opening therein. The holder far end portion is shaped to define a holder far opening therein. The holder far opening connects with the holder near opening. Inside the cigarette holder, the passage of the airflow leads from the holder far opening to the holder near opening in use. The holder far opening and the holder far end portion are shaped and adapted to operatively receive the cigarette end portion in use. In use, the cigarette end portion is received and fits within the holder far end portion through the holder far opening. During inhalation, the airflow and smoke from the cigarette end portion in the holder far end portion is drawn through the holder near opening and across the filter. Thus, the terpenes are released for inhalation, with the smoke, through the mouth opening by the user.

[0040] According to an aspect of a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mouthpiece far end portion may preferably, but need not necessarily, be further shaped to define one or more vents. The vents may preferably, but need not necessarily, connect with the mouthpiece far opening. Inside the mouthpiece, the passage of the airflow may preferably, but need not necessarily, lead from the vents across the filter inside the mouthpiece far opening in use. During inhalation, the passage of the airflow from the vents may preferably, but need not necessarily, be drawn across the filter, thus releasing the terpenes for inhalation, through the mouth opening by the user.

[0041 ] According to an aspect of a preferred embodiment of the invention, the one or more vents may preferably, but need not necessarily, be provided as two venturi-shaped vents shaped in and through opposing top and bottom portions of the mouthpiece far end portion.

[0042] According to an aspect of a preferred embodiment of the invention, the filter may preferably, but need not necessarily, include an absorbent pad that receives, houses, and stores the terpenes for release during inhalation as aforesaid.

[0043] According to an aspect of a preferred embodiment of the invention, the holder far end portion may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped, inside the holder far opening, to define a spiral screw-threaded portion. The spiral screw-threaded portion may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped and adapted to operatively receive the cigarette end portion in use. In use, the cigarette end portion may preferably, but need not necessarily, engage the spiral screw-threaded portion, and be helically twisted with the spiral screw-threaded portion, to secure the cigarette end portion inside the holder far opening.

[0044] According to the invention, there is also disclosed a method of assembling the mouthpiece device. In step (a), the filter containing the terpenes is inserted and fit within the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening. In step (b), the holder near end portion is inserted and fit in engagement with the mouthpiece through the mouthpiece far opening. And, in step (c), the holder near end portion is brought into secure engagement with the filter within the mouthpiece.

[0045] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of this detailed description with reference to the figures which accompany this application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, and related systems and methods according to the present invention, as to their structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be better understood from figures which accompany this application, in which presently preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that any such figures are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying figures:

[0047] Figure 1 A is a top back right perspective view of a mouthpiece device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0048] Figure 1B is a top front left perspective view of the device of Figure 1 A;

[0049] Figure 2A is an exploded top back right perspective view of the device of Figure 1A, showing a mouthpiece, filter, and cigarette holder thereof;

[0050] Figure 2B is an exploded top front left perspective view of the device of Figure 1A, showing the mouthpiece, filter, and cigarette holder thereof;

[0051 ] Figure 3A is a top plan view of the device of Figure 1A;

[0052] Figure 3B is a left side elevational view of the device of Figure 1 A;

[0053] Figure 4A is a left side sectional view of the device of Figure 1 A;

[0054] Figure 4B is a top front left perspective sectional view of the device of Figure 1 A;

[0055] Figure 5A is a top back left perspective view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A;

[0056] Figure 5B is a top front left perspective view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A;

[0057] Figure 6A is a front elevational view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A; [0058] Figure 6B is a left side elevational view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A, showing section line 6D-6D;

[0059] Figure 6C is a back elevational view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A;

[0060] Figure 6D is a bottom sectional view of the cigarette holder of Figure 6B, shown in partial section along line 6D-6D thereof;

[0061 ] Figure 6E is a bottom front right perspective sectional view of the cigarette holder of Figure 2A;

[0062] Figure 7A is a top front left perspective view of the mouthpiece of Figure 2A;

[0063] Figure 7B is a top back left perspective view of the mouthpiece of Figure 2A;

[0064] Figure 7C is a top plan view of the mouthpiece of Figure 2A, showing section line 8B-8B;

[0065] Figure 8A is a left side elevational view of the mouthpiece of Figure 2A;

[0066] Figure 8B is a left side sectional view of the mouthpiece of Figure 7C, shown along section line 8B-8B thereof;

[0067] Figure 8C is a top front right perspective sectional view of the mouthpiece of Figure 2A;

[0068] Figure 9A is a left side elevational view of the device of Figure 1A, shown in use with a cigarette; and [0069] Figure 9B is a left side sectional view of the device of Figure 4A, shown in use with a cigarette.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0070] Figures 1A to 9B show a device 40, for use with a cigarette 30, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the cigarette 30 has a cigarette near end portion 32 and a cigarette far end portion 34.

[0071 ] As best seen in Figures 2A and 2B, the device 40 includes a mouthpiece 50, a filter 70 containing one or more terpenes, and a cigarette holder 80. The mouthpiece 50 and the cigarette holder 80 are preferably formed from injection molded food-grade materials that are stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water. Materials and their qualities preferably comply with all applicable food and drug regulations in Canada, the United States, and elsewhere, as appropriate. In the presence of smoke, food, water, and/or in other environments, the materials used for the mouthpiece 50 and the cigarette holder 80 according to the present invention preferably have no turbidity, precipitate, or foreign odor, and are not otherwise subject to undue deterioration.

[0072] The mouthpiece 40 is preferably formed from an acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (alternately herein, an“AS plastic”) material. The mouthpiece 40 has a mouthpiece near end portion 52 and a mouthpiece far end portion 62. The mouthpiece near end portion 52 is shaped to define a mouth opening 54 therein. [0073] The mouthpiece far end portion 62 is shaped to define a mouthpiece far opening 64 therein, as well as a textured grip portion 65 for handling and gripping the device 40 in use. The mouthpiece far opening 64 connects in fluid communication with the mouth opening 54. Inside the mouthpiece, as best seen in Figures 8B and 8C, a passage of airflow leads from the mouthpiece far opening 64 to the mouth opening 54 in use.

[0074] The mouthpiece 50 also has two venturi-shaped vents 68 that are shaped in and through opposing top and bottom portions of the mouthpiece far end portion 62. The mouthpiece 50 thus has a dual-venturi design and the device 40 may preferably function as a vented cigarette holder. The vents 68 connect with the mouthpiece far opening 64. The mouthpiece far end portion 62 is further shaped to define an inner channel 67 adjacent each of the vents 68 inside the mouthpiece far opening 64.

[0075] Inside the mouthpiece far opening 64, the mouthpiece far end portion 62 has a filter stop member 60. The filter 70 is received through the mouthpiece far opening 64 and fits within the mouthpiece 50. The filter 70 has a filter near end portion 72 and a filter far end portion 74. The filter near end portion 72 securely engages the filter stop member 60 (as best seen in Figures 4A and 4B) inside the mouthpiece 50.

[0076] The filter 70 is preferably formed from a polypropylene material into a substantially tubular shape. The filter 70 has a filter opening 74 extending axially therethrough. The filter 70 is preferably formed into the absorbent pad that receives, houses, and stores moisture and the terpenes. The terpenes preferably include one or more naturally occurring cannabis terpenes, such as, for example, myrcene, limonene, linalool, caryophyllene, pinene, alpha-bisabolol, eucalyptol, trans-nerolidol, humulene, delta 3 carene, camphene, borneol, terpineol, valencene, and/or geraniol.

[0077] The cigarette holder 80 is formed from a silicone material, and has a holder near end portion 82 and a holder far end portion 92. The holder near end portion 82 is engaged and fits in the mouthpiece 50 through the mouthpiece far opening 64. The holder near end portion 82 is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a plurality of radially arranged nubs 88. The nubs 88 axially extend into secure engagement with the filter far end portion 74 within the mouthpiece 50. The nubs 88 also have a tapered edge (as best seen in Figure 5A) that engages the filter far end portion 74 and urges the filter 70 into secure engagement with the filter stop member 60, and with the mouthpiece 50, inside the mouthpiece far opening 64 (as best seen in Figure 4A).

[0078] The holder near end portion 82 is shaped to define a holder near opening 84 therein. The holder far end portion 92 is shaped to define a holder far opening 94 therein. The holder far opening 94 connects, in fluid communication, with the holder near opening 84. Inside the cigarette holder, and as best shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 6D and 6E, the airflow leads from the holder far opening 94 to the holder near opening 84 in use.

[0079] The holder far end portion 92 is preferably shaped, inside the holder far opening 94, to define a spiral screw-threaded portion 98. The spiral screw-threaded portion 98 is shaped and adapted to operatively receive the cigarette near end portion 32 (shown in Figures 9A and 9B) in use. In use, the cigarette near end portion 32 engages the spiral screw-threaded portion 98, and is helically twisted relative to the spiral screw-threaded portion 98, to secure the cigarette end portion 32 inside the holder far opening 94. The spiral screw-threaded portion 98 and the holder far opening 94 may be provided in a variety of different sizes, each shaped and adapted to securely receive a variety and range of diameters for the cigarette 30, and for the cigarette near end portion 32, within the holder far opening 94. For example, two different sized devices 40 may be provided to hold various sized hand-rolled cigarettes, for example, one for smaller cigarettes and another for an average to larger sized cigarette.

[0080] In use, the cigarette near end portion 32 is received and fits within the holder far end portion 92 through the holder far opening 94. During inhalation, the airflow and smoke from the cigarette near end portion 32 in the holder far end portion 92 is drawn through the holder near opening 84, across the filter 70, and through the filter opening 74, thus releasing the terpenes and the moisture into the airflow for inhalation with the smoke from the cigarette 30 through the mouth opening 54 by a user.

[0081 ] In use, inside the mouthpiece 50, the airflow also leads from the vents 68 across the filter 70 and through the filter opening 74 inside the mouthpiece far opening 64. And, during inhalation, the airflow from the vents 68 inside the mouthpiece leads, in fluid communication, through a respective one said inner channel 67 and through spaces between adjacent nubs 88, before being drawn across the filter 70 and through the filter opening 75 to release the terpenes for inhalation as aforesaid. In use, the vents 68 reduce temperatures of the airflow, including the airflow with the smoke from the cigarette end portion 32, across the filter 70 and through the filter opening 74, thus reducing degradation of the terpenes, inhaled by the user.

[0082] According to a novel and inventive method of making the device 40, the mouthpiece 50 is formed from a food-grade AS plastic material that is stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water. The cigarette holder 80 is formed from a food-grade silicone material that is stable in the presence of smoke, terpenes, and water. And, the filter 70 is formed from a polypropylene material. Then, moisture and naturally occurring cannabis terpenes are preferably stored within the absorbent pad of the filter 70. Next, the filter 70 (containing the terpenes) may be inserted through the mouthpiece far opening 64 and fit within the mouthpiece 50. The holder near end portion 82 is inserted through the mouthpiece far opening 64 and fit in secure engagement with the mouthpiece 50. And, the nubs 88 of the holder near end portion 82 are brought into secure engagement with the filter 70 within the mouthpiece 50.

[0083] According to the invention, the device 40 preferably provides for selective delivery of volatile terpenes and terpenoid inhalants. It includes a vented mouthpiece 50 which prefertably reduces the rate of combustion, lowers inhaled vapor temperature, and/or re-introduces terpenes that may have been lost in curing to provide an improved cannabis smoking experience. The device 40 preferably re-constitutes the terpenes and/or moisture lost when the cannabis was cured. Restoring these products may preferably make smoking more pleasurable and/or reduce coughing. The vented mouthpiece 50 preferably also makes smoking safer and/or lowers the temperature of the inhaled gases, perhaps by about 80 degrees Celsius, thus potentially reducing throat inflammation significantly. Use of the device 40 according to the invention may preferably increase the effectiveness of cannabinoids as a medicine to treat pain, inflammation, mood, digestion, blood flow, and/or brain function, and may preferably makes smoking marijuana more palatable to non-smokers.

[0084] The device 40 preferably replaces lost terpenes and moisture, and delivers them to smokers, preferably increasing their smoking pleasure. Preferably, when the device 40 is combined with well-cured cannabis, the effects of THC and/or CBD may be enhanced, inhaled vapour temperature may be reduced, as may coughing, and the pleasure associated with smoking marijuana may be intensified. This device 40 made inventive use of fluid flow dynamics and medical plethysmography to develop an appropriate degree of vacuum during marijuana smoking inhalation.

[0085] The device 40 is preferably manufactured out of one or more food grade injection moulded polymers. The filter 70 is preferably provided in the form of an internal cylinder containing terpenes and humectants (e.g., moisturizers). The device 40 may preferably be intended for a one-time and/or consumable use. It preferably doses a selected array of terpenes and humectant. To prevent evaporative loss before use and afford longer shelf life, each device 40 may preferably be individually packaged in convenient, easy-to-open heat-sealed Mylar sleeves labelled with the cannabis terpene profile.

[0086] Terpene containing devices 40 according to the invention may preferably amplify recreational and/or therapeutic effects of cannabis pre-rolls or hand rolled joints by replacing lost terpenes and moisture. Also or instead, use of the device 40 may preferably simulate and/or recreate one or more effects experienced when smoking freshly-cured cannabis. In recreating such effects, use of the device preferably re-assembles the correct spectrum of lost terpenes and moisture and delivers them during smoking.

[0087] Because of the two aero-dynamic venturi apertures, or vents 88, molded into the mouthpiece 50, the inhaled cannabis vapour perhaps may be cooled by up to or about 80 °C. Thus, the device 40 may provide a smooth, relaxing experience for the user. Lower vapor temperature may lessen throat irritation and/or reduces coughing, while reintroduced moisture and terpenes may improve the experience.

[0088] Preferably, according to the invention, the device 40 has an ovoid-shaped intake or mouth opening 54, dual venturi-shaped vents 68, and a carefully shaped and specifically adapted terpene-dispensing filter 70. This design preferably lowers combustion temperature upon inhalation. The dual venturi vents 68 reduce inhaled vapor temperature perhaps by about 80 degrees Celsius, which may diminish throat irritation that otherwise might be experienced.

[0089] Preferably, the device 40 successfully delivers missing terpenes, with the terpenes successfully stored in the filter 70. Preferably, the device 40 maintains a slow rate of evaporation and/or combustion throughout the smoking process, and/or the temperature of inhaled vapor may be reduced. Preferably, one overall effect of the device 40 may be to make dried marijuana smoke more like fresh cured marijuance. The experience preferably may be more pleasant, coughing may be diminished, and the THC and/or CBD effect may be enhanced.

[0090] According to the invention, consumers can preferably target their specific needs by selecting from a variety of devices 40 with a corresponding variety of sizes and terpene profiles that correspond to different cannabis strains, as may be desired and/or required, for optimal delivery of one or more key medicinal and/or recreational attributes.

[0091 ] The device 40 may preferably be put to good use medically by increasing the effectiveness of cannabinoid mixtures to treat pain, inflammation, mood, digestion, and/or blood flow.

[0092] The two aero-dynamic side vents 68 preferably cool inhaled air lowering temperature. The terpene filter 70 preferably adds moisture to reduce throat irritation and coughing.

[0093] According to some embodiments of the invention, high temperature inhaled air may combust with the natural terpenes, creating a so-called“synergy effect” which may change one or more chemical or other effects of cannabinoids.

[0094] Three main components of the device 40 include the cigarette holder 80, the filter 70, and the mouthpiece 50. The filter 70 is placed within the mouthpiece 50. The cigarette holder 80 and the mouthpiece 50 connect by sliding the two pieces together creating a friction that tightens them together. [0095] The device 40 preferably fits a range of various sized hand-rolled cigarettes. Every hand-rolled cigarette may have a different shape and/or size. The device 40 preferably fits various sized hand-rolled cigarettes.

[0096] The filter 70 is an absorbent / moisture pad (rather than a tar filtering system). Inhaled air passes through an opening 74 in the center of the filter 70 allowing a clear pathway for inhaled smoked to collect terpenes as it passes by, combusting with the hot inhaled air causing the so-called“synergy” effect.

[0097] The device 40 is preferably a handheld hand-rolled joint holder. Terpenes are housed in a custom-designed filter 70 for a plug-and-play style action. Unlike other products, use of the device 40 according to the invention preferably eliminates and/or significantly reduces odors from hands and/or fingers. According to the invention, a wide variety of strains both cannabis-derived terpenes and botanical terpenes (which are extracted from fruits and herbs, etc.) may be stored and housed within the filter 70.

[0098] The invention is contemplated for use in association with cannabis to afford increased advantageous utilities in association with same. The invention, however, is not so limited, and can be readily used with tobacco and other cigarettes to afford various advantageous utilities within the scope of the invention. Other embodiments, which fall within the scope of the invention, may be provided.

[0099] The foregoing description has been presented for the purpose of illustration and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. [0100] For example, in one or more alternate preferred embodiments of the invention, a refillable version of the mouthpiece device may be provided, one or more features of the mouthpiece device’s shape and/or design may be changed, and/or one or more different terpenes may be used within the mouthpiece device and/or methods of use according to the invention (e.g., based on those supplied by various companies which provide terpenes).

[0101 ] Naturally, in view of the teachings and disclosures herein, persons having ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that alternate designs and/or embodiments of the invention may be possible (e.g., with substitution of one or more components for others, with alternate configurations of components, etc). Although some of the components, relations, configurations and/or steps according to the invention are not specifically referenced and/or depicted in association with one another, they may be used, and/or adapted for use, in association therewith. All of the aforementioned and various other structures, configurations, relationships, utilities, any which may be depicted and/or based hereon, and the like may be, but are not necessarily, incorporated into and/or achieved by the invention. Any one or more of the aforementioned and/or depicted structures, configurations, relationships, utilities and the like may be implemented in and/or by the invention, on their own, and/or without reference, regard or likewise implementation of any of the other aforementioned structures, configurations, relationships, utilities and the like, in various permutations and combinations, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the pith, marrow, and spirit of the disclosed invention. [0102] Other modifications and alterations may be used in the design, manufacture, and/or implementation of other embodiments according to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is limited only by the claims of this patent application and any divisional and/or continuation applications stemming from this patent application.

PARTS LIST

[0103] The following numbers have been used herein and in the accompanying drawings to denote certain parts, elements, and features of the invention:

- Cigarette 30

- Cigarette near end portion 32

- Cigarette far end portion 34

- Device 40

- Mouthpiece 50

- Mouthpiece near end portion 52

- Mouth opening 54

- Mouth top portion 56a

- Mouth bottom portion 56b

- Mouthpiece interior wall 58

- Filter stop member 60

- Mouthpiece far end portion 62

- Mouthpiece far opening 64

- Textured grip portion 65 - Mouthpiece wall 66

- Inner channel 67

- Vent portion 68

- Filter 70

- Filter near end portion 72

- Filter opening 74

- Filter far end portion 76

- Cigarette holder 80

- Flolder near end portion 82

- Flolder near opening 84

- Flolder insert portion 86

- Nub 88

- Mouthpiece stop member 89

- Flolder stop member 90

- Flolder far end portion 92

- Flolder far opening 94

- Flolder outside portion 96

- Interior wall 97

Spiral portion 98