Apparatus for providing aerosol for medical treatment and methods
US6915962B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 20, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 12, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 20, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05B17/0646
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Embodiments of the present invention include apparatus and methods for aerosolizing liquid. One embodiment of the invention provides an apparatus for generating an aerosol. The apparatus includes an actuator having a first face and a second face and defining an opening therethrough, as well as a vibratory element in mechanical communication with the actuator, and a sealing member configured to isolate the vibratory element from a surrounding environment. In accordance with certain embodiments, the apparatus further comprises an aerosolization element mounted on the actuator and disposed substantially over the opening, wherein the aerosolization element defines at least one aperture therethrough. Hence, the vibratory element may be operated to vibrate to cause movement of the aerosolization element in such a manner that a liquid at the first face of the aerosolization element can be dispensed as an aerosol through the at least one aperture. Some embodiments feature an electrode coupled to the vibratory element.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.