Thin film capillary vaporization: device and methods
US9746194B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 16, 2011 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 10, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/3653
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for the generation of directed vapor from a liquid source. Vaporization takes place within a device capable of confining boiling to a geometrically small volume, and expelling it as heated vapor via capillary vaporization. The foregoing is accomplished through the use of a lightweight, compact and portable personal vaporization device that generates heated vapor by the flash boiling of small volumes of aqueous liquid in a safe and energy-efficient manner. Further, the production of vapor absent microbes in aqueous systems is accomplished through the combination of microporous componentry and flash vaporization. The apparatus and methods are directed toward personal humidification for comfort and therapeutic purposes in the case of aqueous liquids, but may also be used with other, non-aqueous liquids.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.