Method and apparatus for dispensing liquids as an atomized spray
US7083112B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 6, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 6, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/15
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention provides exemplary methods and apparatus for dispensing liquids as an atomized spray. In one particularly preferably method, a liquid is dispensed as an atomized spray from a vibratable member having a front surface and a rear surface, with the member having at least one tapered hole between the surfaces for dispensing the liquid. The tapered hole has a larger cross-sectional area at the rear surface than at the front surface. The liquid is delivered from a supply container to the rear surface of the vibratable member in an amount sufficient to cover the hole with liquid. The vibratable member is then vibrated to dispense at least a portion of the liquid through the hole and from the front surface. Additional liquid is delivered from the supply container and to the rear surface in volumes that are substantially equal to the volumes dispensed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.