Vaping has become an increasingly popular pastime over the last decade, with more and more people turning to the alternative lifestyle of enjoying nicotine without the harmful effects of smoking. But how did it all begin? Who were the key players in the invention of the vape device and what kind of technology is involved?
The story of vaping goes back to the early 1960s when Herbert A. Gilbert, a Korean War veteran, filed a patent for a device that would heat up flavoured air, creating a smokeless inhalation device. At the time, cigarettes were the predominant form of nicotine consumption, and while Gilbert’s invention was revolutionary, it never gained traction and was ultimately forgotten.
Fast forward to 2003, when a Chinese pharmacist, Hon Lik, invented a device that would eventually become the modern vape device. Lik was inspired by the death of his father, who died of lung cancer due to smoking cigarettes. Lik’s invention was the first commercially successful device of its kind, and he was awarded a patent in 2006.
So what exactly is in a vape device? In its most basic form, a vape device is composed of four main components: a battery, an atomizer, a cartridge, and a mouthpiece. The battery is the power source that powers the device and is usually rechargeable. The atomizer is a heating element that is responsible for heating up the e-liquid contained in the cartridge, which is then vaporized and inhaled through the mouthpiece.
The atomizer is what makes the device so different from traditional cigarettes, as it is able to heat the e-liquid more efficiently and evenly, and without burning it. This allows for a smoother, more flavoursome experience. The cartridges come in a variety of flavours, from fruity to tobacco, and can be refilled with e-liquid as needed.
The technology behind the modern vape device has improved drastically over the years. Nowadays, devices are equipped with a wide variety of features, such as adjustable wattage, temperature control, and even Bluetooth connectivity. These features allow for an even more customised, personalised vaping experience.
The vaping industry has grown exponentially since its inception, and now there are countless brands and devices available on the market. Some of the most popular brands include SMOK, Vaporesso, and GeekVape. Each of these brands offers a wide selection of devices, from basic starter kits to more advanced mods and tanks.
The selection of e-liquids is just as vast, with a seemingly endless array of flavours available. Fruity flavours such as blueberry, strawberry, and watermelon are particularly popular, as well as classic tobacco flavours. There are also dessert flavours, such as chocolate and vanilla, and even savoury flavours such as pizza and popcorn. The relatively recent emergence of Nic Salt flavours to the market is another innovation – becoming popular with vapers due to and increased ability to deliver nicotine to the user.
Vaping has come a long way since its inception, and the technology behind it continues to evolve. Thanks to the key players in the invention of the modern vape device, we now have access to a wide variety of devices and flavours to enjoy. As the industry continues to grow, we can only expect to see even more innovations in the years to come.
