Atomizing nozzle an filter and spray generating device

US6503362B1 · kind B1 · 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: Dec 27, 1999
• Grant date: Jan 7, 2003
• Expiry date: Dec 27, 2019

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, each with generally planar surfaces, that are joined together. A first set of channels is formed in the generally planar surface of a first one of the members to form, in cooperation with the generally planar surface of the second of the members, a plurality of filter passageways. A plenum chamber is formed in the first member. The plenum chamber is in fluid communication with and downstream of the plurality of filter passageways. A second set of channels is formed in the generally planar surface of the first member to form, in cooperation with the generally planar surface of the second member, a plurality of nozzle outlet passageways. These nozzle outlet passageways are in fluid communication with the plenum chamber. The nozzle outlet passageways include a plurality of nozzle outlets which are adapted to discharge a plurality of fluid jets that impinge on one another to thereby atomize a flow of fluid.