Atomizing nozzle and filter and spray generating device

US5911851A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Frank Bartels · Hattingen, DE
• Wulf Bachtler · Mainz, DE
• Stephen Terence Dunne · Stowmarket, GB
• Joachim Eicher · Karlsruhe, DE
• Bernhard Freund · Gau-Algesheim, DE
• William B. Hart · Ipswich, GB
• Christoph Lessmoellmann · Gernsbach, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 11, 1996
• Grant date: Jun 15, 1999
• Expiry date: Jun 11, 2016

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B05B1/3405
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A nozzle assembly for use in atomizing and generating sprays from a fluid. The nozzle assembly includes two members joined together. In one of the two members are formed one or more nozzle outlets, one or more fluid inlets, and a plurality of channels that form filter passageways. The nozzle outlets discharge fluid jets that impinge on one another to thereby atomize the fluid. Alternatively, an impact element or a vortex-generating structure can be used in the nozzle outlet to atomize the fluid. Methods are also provided for producing the nozzle assembly by forming the inlets, outlets, and/or channels through electrical or chemical etching or other processes that selectively remove material from at least one face of a nozzle assembly member.