nebulizer

Abstract

The present application provides an atomizer. The atomizer is provided with: a gas supply member provided with a gas supply port for supplying gas; and a liquid supply member provided with a liquid supply port for supplying liquid, the gas supply member having a gas supply surface as a surface forming the gas supply port, the liquid supply port being open toward an axis orthogonal to the gas supply surface at the gas supply port, the liquid supply member having a first inclined surface between the liquid supply port and the gas supply port, the first inclined surface being inclined so as to move away from the axis orthogonal to the gas supply port as it moves away from the gas supply surface in a first cross section including a gas flow path and a liquid flow path, the liquid supply port being located at a position projecting with respect to a plane containing the first inclined surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an atomizer that mixes and atomizes liquid and gas. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, atomizers that mix and atomize liquid and gas have been disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] The atomizer in Patent Document 1 utilizes the Venturi effect for atomization. Specifically, it draws out liquid accumulated in the storage area by spraying compressed air from the nozzle orifice and creating a negative pressure around it, and then mixes the drawn-out liquid with the compressed air, thereby atomizing the liquid.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-132471 Specification

[0005] Including the structure disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is required to further increase the atomization amount. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems and provide an atomizer that can improve the amount of atomization.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the atomizer of the present invention is an atomizer that mixes and atomizes gas and liquid, comprising: a gas supply member having a gas flow path and a gas supply port for supplying gas; and a liquid supply member having a liquid flow path and a liquid supply port for supplying liquid, wherein the gas supply member has a gas supply surface as the surface forming the gas supply port, the liquid supply port opens toward an axis orthogonal to the gas supply surface at the gas supply port, the liquid supply member has a first inclined surface between the liquid supply port and the gas supply port, the first inclined surface is inclined in a first cross section including the gas flow path and the liquid flow path such that it moves away from the axis as it moves away from the gas supply surface, and the liquid supply port is located at a position protruding relative to the plane including the first inclined surface.

[0008] The atomizer according to the present invention can increase the amount of atomization. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a top view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a bottom view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1 with the third housing removed.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the atomizer in Embodiment 1 with the third housing removed.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the support component in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 8 From Figure 5 , Figure 6 The atomizer shown further omits the perspective view of the supporting components.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the longitudinal cross-section of the atomizer in Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 10A This is a perspective view showing the longitudinal cross-section of the first housing in Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 10B This is a perspective view showing the longitudinal cross-section of the first housing in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 11A This is a perspective view showing a longitudinal cross-section of the liquid supply component in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 11B This is a perspective view showing the liquid supply component in Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 12A This is a perspective view of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 12B This is a perspective view showing the longitudinal cross-section of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 13 This is a longitudinal sectional view showing the peripheral structure of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 14 This is a magnified perspective view of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 15 This is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0027] Figure 16 This is a magnified top view of the atomizing section in Embodiment 1.

[0028] Figure 17This is a top view of the gas supply port in Embodiment 1.

[0029] Figure 18 This is a top view of the liquid supply port in Embodiment 1.

[0030] Figure 19A It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 1.

[0031] Figure 19B It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 2.

[0032] Figure 19C It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 3.

[0033] Figure 19D It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 4.

[0034] Figure 19E It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 5.

[0035] Figure 19F It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 6.

[0036] Figure 19G It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 7.

[0037] Figure 19H It is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section of the liquid supply component involved in Modified Example 8.

[0038] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the atomizer in Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0039] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an atomizer is provided that mixes and atomizes a gas and a liquid, comprising: a gas supply member having a gas flow path and a gas supply port for supplying gas; and a liquid supply member having a liquid flow path and a liquid supply port for supplying liquid, wherein the gas supply member has a gas supply surface as the surface forming the gas supply port, the liquid supply port opens toward an axis orthogonal to the gas supply surface at the gas supply port, the liquid supply member has a first inclined surface between the liquid supply port and the gas supply port, the first inclined surface being inclined in a first cross section including the gas flow path and the liquid flow path such that it moves away from the axis as it moves away from the gas supply surface, and the liquid supply port is located at a position protruding relative to the plane including the first inclined surface.

[0040] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an atomizer as described in the first aspect is provided, wherein the liquid supply member has a second inclined surface at a position upstream of the first inclined surface in the gas flow direction and facing the gas blown out from the gas supply port, wherein the second inclined surface is inclined in the first cross section such that it approaches the axis as it moves away from the gas supply surface.

[0041] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an atomizer as described in the second aspect is provided, wherein the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are connected by a ridge line.

[0042] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer as described in the third aspect is provided, wherein when viewed from above the gas supply port, the ridge has a shape that approaches the upstream side of the liquid flow direction at the liquid supply port as it moves away from the gas supply port.

[0043] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer described in any one of the first to fourth aspects is provided, wherein the liquid supply component further has a liquid supply surface forming the liquid supply port.

[0044] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer as described in the fifth aspect is provided, wherein the liquid supply surface extends substantially parallel to the axis described above.

[0045] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, an atomizer described in any one of the first to sixth aspects is provided, wherein, with respect to the opening size of the liquid supply port, the maximum dimension of the lateral direction orthogonal to the first cross section is greater than the maximum dimension of the longitudinal direction intersecting the lateral direction.

[0046] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer described in any one of the first to seventh aspects is provided, wherein the maximum lateral dimension of the gas supply port orthogonal to the first cross section is greater than the maximum longitudinal dimension intersecting the lateral dimension.

[0047] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer described in any one of the first to eighth aspects is provided, further comprising a piezoelectric pump for supplying gas to the aforementioned gas supply port.

[0048] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, an atomizer described in any one of the first to ninth aspects is provided, wherein the gas supply component and the liquid supply component are separate.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] (Implementation Method 1)

[0051] Figures 1-4This is a diagram showing the atomizer 2 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 1 , Figure 2 This is a 3D view of atomizer 2. Figure 3 This is a top view of atomizer 2. Figure 4 This is a bottom view of atomizer 2.

[0052] Nebulizer 2 is a device that mixes and atomizes liquid and gas. Nebulizer 2 is used, for example, as a medical nebulizer. Liquids include, for example, saline solution, organic solvents (ethanol, etc.), and pharmaceuticals (steroids, β2 receptor agonists, etc.), and gases include, for example, air.

[0053] Figure 1 , Figure 2 The atomizer 2 shown includes a housing 4, a blow nozzle 6, and a switch 8. The atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1 is a portable atomizer that can be used independently without being connected to other devices. A battery (not shown) for power can also be built into the atomizer 2. The user blows atomized liquid from the blow nozzle 6 by pressing the switch 8 (see arrow A). Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, regarding the orientation of the atomizer 2 in its independent state, the left-right direction is defined as the X direction, the front-back direction as the Y direction, and the up-down direction as the Z direction. The X and Y directions are also referred to as "lateral".

[0054] The housing 4 is an internal component that houses the atomizer 2 and forms the outline of the atomizer 2. The housing 4 has a first housing 10, a second housing 12, and a third housing 14. The upper first housing 10 and the middle second housing 12 are fitted together, and the middle second housing 12 and the lower third housing 14 are fitted together.

[0055] The blow nozzle 6 is a nozzle formed in a protruding manner in the first housing 10. The blow nozzle 6 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the atomizer 2, forming a flow path and opening for blowing out the atomized liquid.

[0056] Switch 8 is a component used to switch the operation of atomizer 2 on / off. Switch 8 is located on the front surface of atomizer 2, similar to blow nozzle 6, and is positioned between second housing 12 and third housing 14.

[0057] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, a mark 16 is provided on the upper surface of the first housing 10. Mark 16 is a mark used to allow the user to easily identify the orientation of the atomizer 2. In Embodiment 1, mark 16 is an arrow that appears as a triangle when viewed from above.

[0058] like Figure 2As shown, a power cover 17 can also be provided on the third housing 14. The power cover 17 is detachably provided to cover the power insertion part 20, which will be described later. Figure 5 The cover is located at the position of the power supply cover 17. Alternatively, a simple opening can be provided instead of a power supply cover 17. However, having a power supply cover 17 allows for a sealed power supply section, which is preferable.

[0059] like Figure 4 As shown, the third housing 14 has a bottom surface 18. The bottom surface 18 is the surface that forms the bottom surface of the atomizer 2, and has a flat shape so that the atomizer 2 can stand independently.

[0060] Figure 5 , Figure 6 A perspective view of the atomizer 2 with the third housing 14 removed.

[0061] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the atomizer 2 is equipped with a support component 19, a power insertion part 20, two control boards 22 and 24, and two piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28.

[0062] Support component 19 supports the power supply insertion part 20, control board 22, 24, piezoelectric pump 26, 28 and switch 8. Figure 6 The support member 19 is fixed to the second housing 12 by screws 29A and 29B. The power insertion part 20 is a member that forms an opening for inserting a power source such as AC power. The power insertion part 20 is electrically connected to each of the control boards 22 and 24 via wiring not shown. By inserting a power source into the power insertion part 20, power can be supplied to the control boards 22 and 24 and the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28. The control boards 22 and 24 are circuit boards for driving the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28, respectively. The control board 22 applies a driving voltage to drive the piezoelectric pump 26 at a predetermined frequency (e.g., 20kHz), and the control board 24 applies a driving voltage to drive the piezoelectric pump 28 at a predetermined frequency (e.g., 20kHz).

[0063] Piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 are piezoelectric pumps (also known as "miniature blowers," "miniature pumps," etc.) that utilize piezoelectric elements. Specifically, they have a structure that allows the piezoelectric element (not shown) to be bonded to a metal plate (not shown). By supplying alternating current to the piezoelectric element and the metal plate, bending deformation in a single piezoelectric mode is generated to transport gas. Such piezoelectric pumps incorporate a diaphragm (not shown) that functions as a valve to restrict gas flow in one direction.

[0064] Figure 7 A perspective view showing the support component 19. (e.g.) Figure 7As shown, the support member 19 has multiple mounting portions 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, and 39. Mounting portion 30 is an opening for mounting the power insertion portion 20 and is located on the rear surface of the support member 19. Mounting portions 32 and 34 are openings for mounting the control boards 22 and 24, respectively. Mounting portions 36 and 38 are openings for mounting the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28, respectively. Mounting portion 39 is an opening for mounting the switch 8 and is located on the front surface of the support member 19.

[0065] The support member 19 also has a nozzle portion 40. The nozzle portion 40 is a cylindrical component that forms a flow path for supplying air generated by the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 to the downstream side. The nozzle portion 40 is formed to extend through the upper surface portion 41 of the support member 19, and has an upstream end 40A on one side (i.e., the lower side) and a downstream end 40B on the other side (i.e., the upper side) relative to the upper surface portion 41.

[0066] Figure 8 Indicates from Figure 5 , Figure 6 The perspective view of the atomizer 2 shown is further omitted, showing the support component 19.

[0067] like Figure 8 As shown, two connecting flow path components 42 and 44 are also provided inside the atomizer 2. Connecting flow path component 42 is a cylindrical component forming a flow path for connecting piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 to each other. Connecting flow path component 44 is a cylindrical component forming a flow path for connecting piezoelectric pump 28 to the downstream side. Piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 are connected in series via connecting flow path components 42. By providing two piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 as gas supply sources, the gas supply volume can be increased.

[0068] Piezoelectric pump 26 has an upstream end 26A and a downstream end 26B. The upstream end 26A is open to the atmosphere, and the downstream end 26B is connected to the flow path component 42. Piezoelectric pump 28 has an upstream end 28A and a downstream end 28B. The upstream end 28A is connected to the flow path component 42, and the downstream end 28B is connected to the flow path component 44.

[0069] according to Figure 8 In the flow path structure shown, piezoelectric pump 26 draws in air from upstream end 26A and discharges the air to connecting flow path component 42 via downstream end 26B. Piezoelectric pump 28 draws in air supplied from connecting flow path component 42 from upstream end 28A and discharges the air to connecting flow path component 44 via downstream end 28B.

[0070] Connecting flow path component 44 and Figure 7 The upstream end 40A of the nozzle portion 40 shown is connected. The upper portion of the nozzle portion 40 protruding from the upper surface portion 41 is inserted into the nozzle portion 40, including the downstream end 40B. Figure 8The opening 46 shown is located at the bottom of the first housing 10.

[0071] use Figures 9-13 The surrounding structure of the opening 46 of the first housing 10 will be described.

[0072] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view showing the longitudinal cross-section of atomizer 2. Figure 10A , Figure 10B These are perspective views showing the longitudinal cross-section of the first housing 10. Figure 11A , Figure 11B These are a perspective view showing the longitudinal cross-section of the liquid supply component 56 and a perspective view showing the whole component.

[0073] like Figure 9 As shown, the nozzle portion 40 is inserted into the gas supply member 50 disposed in the first housing 10 through the opening 46 of the first housing 10. The gas supply member 50 is a cylindrical portion with a gas supply port 52 formed at its front end, and a gas flow path 54 is formed inside. In Embodiment 1, the gas supply member 50 is integrally disposed with the first housing 10 and is located in the central portion of the first housing 10. The first housing 10 including the gas supply member 50 may also be referred to as the "gas supply member".

[0074] Gas flow path 54 extends from opening 46 of first housing 10 to gas supply port 52. Gas flow path 54 is a flow path for gas supplied from the downstream end 40B of nozzle portion 40 inserted into opening 46 to gas supply port 52. Figure 9 As shown, with the nozzle section 40 connected to the gas supply component 50, the gas supplied from the nozzle section 40 is blown upward from the gas supply port 52 through the gas flow path 54 of the gas supply component 50.

[0075] A liquid supply component 56 is installed on the outside of the gas supply component 50. The liquid supply component 56 is a component that forms a liquid supply port 58 for supplying liquid. The liquid supply component 56 also has a liquid suction port 59 formed at its bottom for sucking out liquid. In Embodiment 1, the liquid supply component 56 is a separate component from the gas supply component 50.

[0076] like Figure 9 As shown, a liquid storage section 55 is provided around the gas supply member 50 and the liquid supply member 56. The liquid storage section 55 is a portion that stores liquid for supplying to the liquid supply member 56. In Embodiment 1, the liquid storage section 55 is formed by a bottom surface 55A provided inside the first housing 10 and an inner peripheral surface 55B adjacent to the bottom surface 55A. The liquid storage section 55 faces the liquid intake port 59 of the liquid supply member 56. In the accompanying drawings, the liquid stored in the liquid storage section 55 is not shown.

[0077] like Figure 11A , Figure 11B As shown, the liquid supply component 56 has a mounting portion 60 and a flow path forming portion 62.

[0078] The mounting portion 60 is used to mount the liquid supply member 56 onto the gas supply member 50. The mounting portion 60 is cylindrical and has a shape in which the upper end portion 64 protrudes inward. With the gas supply member 50 disposed in the interior space of the mounting portion 60 and the upper surface of the gas supply member 50 abutting against the upper end portion 64 of the mounting portion 60, the liquid supply member 56 is mounted on the outside of the gas supply member 50.

[0079] The flow path forming section 62 is the part that forms the liquid flow path 66. The liquid flow path 66 is a flow path that extends from the liquid supply port 58 to the liquid suction port 59. In Embodiment 1, the liquid flow path 66 extends upward from the liquid suction port 59, bends at approximately a right angle, and extends laterally to the liquid supply port 58.

[0080] like Figure 9 As shown, with the liquid supply component 56 installed on the outside of the gas supply component 50, the gas supply port 52 and the liquid supply port 58 are positioned close to each other. The gas supply component 50 forming the gas supply port 52 and the liquid supply component 56 forming the liquid supply port 58 constitute an "atomizing section M" for mixing and atomizing gas and liquid.

[0081] use Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13 The surrounding structure of the atomizing section M will be described. Figure 12A This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the peripheral structure of the atomizing section M. Figure 12B It is a three-dimensional view showing a longitudinal cross-section of the peripheral structure including the atomizing part M. Figure 13 This is a longitudinal sectional view showing the peripheral structure of the atomizing section M.

[0082] like Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13 As shown, with the gas supply port 52 and the liquid supply port 58 close to each other, the gas supply port 52 opens upwards, and the liquid supply port 58 opens laterally (towards the rear of the atomizer 2). Figure 13 As shown, the liquid supply port 58 opens toward the direction of the gas flow P blown out from the gas supply port 52.

[0083] like Figure 13 , Figure 12BAs shown, the gas supply port 52 is located at the front end of the narrowed diameter section 54A of the gas flow path 54. By providing the narrowed diameter section 54A, the gas flow path 54 is narrowed only near the outlet, allowing air with less resistance to be transported to the vicinity of the gas supply port 52 within the gas flow path 54, thereby increasing the air velocity blown out from the gas supply port 52. Similarly, the liquid supply port 58 is located at the front end of the narrowed diameter section 66A of the liquid flow path 66. With this flow path structure, atomization utilizing the Venturi effect can be performed based on the gas flow P blown out from the gas supply port 52.

[0084] Here, the operation of the atomizer 2, which utilizes the Venturi effect for atomization, will be explained. First, the user presses the switch 8, thereby activating the atomizer 2. The control boards 22 and 24 drive the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28, respectively, to generate compressed air. The compressed air generated by the piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 is blown upwards from the gas supply port 52 through the nozzle section 40.

[0085] A negative pressure is generated in the peripheral region including the liquid supply port 58 based on the gas flow P from the gas supply port 52. As a result, liquid accumulated in the liquid storage section 55 is drawn into the liquid flow path 66 from the liquid suction port 59, generating a liquid flow Q (Venturi effect) flowing towards the liquid supply port 58. The liquid flow Q discharged from the liquid supply port 58 is atomized by mixing with the gas flow P, which is compressed air. The atomized liquid advances upward within the internal space of the first housing 10, is graded, and blown out from the blow-out nozzle 6.

[0086] In the atomizer 2 with the above-described structure, the shape of the liquid supply component 56 was studied to improve the atomization amount of the atomizing section M. Specifically, using... Figures 14-16 Please provide an explanation.

[0087] Figure 14 It is a magnified 3D view of the atomizing part M. Figure 15 This is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section M. Figure 16 This is a magnified top view of the atomizing section M. Figure 15 A cross-section (first cross-section) is shown in particular, including the gas flow direction P1 at the gas supply port 52 and the liquid flow direction Q1 at the liquid supply port 58. In other words, it is a cross-section including the gas flow path 54 and the liquid flow path 66. Figure 16 This is a view taken from above, looking towards the gas supply port 52.

[0088] like Figure 14 , Figure 15As shown, the gas supply component 50 has a gas supply surface 68 as the surface for forming the gas supply port 52. In Embodiment 1, the gas supply surface 68 has a flat shape, and the gas supply port 52 is formed flush with the gas supply surface 68.

[0089] like Figure 15 As shown, the gas flow direction P1 at the gas supply port 52 can be defined as the direction in which the gas flow path 54 extends in the gas supply port 52. Since the gas flow path 54 of Embodiment 1 is connected approximately perpendicularly to the gas supply surface 68, the gas flow direction P1 at the gas supply port 52 is a direction approximately perpendicular to the gas supply surface 68.

[0090] The liquid supply component 56 has a first inclined surface 70, a second inclined surface 72, a liquid supply surface 74, and a third inclined surface 76. They are arranged in the following order from the upstream side of the gas flow direction P1: second inclined surface 72, first inclined surface 70, liquid supply surface 74, and third inclined surface 76.

[0091] like Figure 15 As shown, the first inclined surface 70, the second inclined surface 72, and the third inclined surface 76 are all surfaces inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1 at the gas supply port 52 and the axis P2 containing the gas flow direction P1. The axis P2 is an imaginary straight line orthogonal to the gas supply port 52, and is an imaginary line at the center of the circle when drawing the smallest circle containing the gas supply port 52. In other words, the axis P2 is an imaginary straight line orthogonal to the gas supply surface 68 at the gas supply port 52. Specifically, the first inclined surface 70 and the third inclined surface 76 are inclined in a direction away from the axis P2 containing the gas flow direction P1 as they move away from the gas supply surface 68 along the gas flow direction P1. On the other hand, the second inclined surface 72 is inclined in a direction closer to the axis P2 containing the gas flow direction P1 as it moves away from the gas supply surface 68 along the gas flow direction P1.

[0092] The liquid supply surface 74 is the surface that forms the liquid supply port 58. The liquid supply surface 74 is formed between the first inclined surface 70 and the third inclined surface 76, connecting the first inclined surface 70 and the third inclined surface 76. In Embodiment 1, the liquid supply surface 74 is a surface substantially parallel to the gas flow direction P1 and the axis P2 at the gas supply port 52. In Embodiment 1, the liquid supply surface 74 forms the liquid supply port 58 at its lower end. Therefore, the liquid supply port 58 is continuously formed with the first inclined surface 70 and the ridge line 80 described later.

[0093] In Embodiment 1, the first inclined surface 70 and the second inclined surface 72 are continuously formed and connected to each other by a ridge line 78. Similarly, the first inclined surface 70 and the liquid supply surface 74 are continuously formed and connected to each other by a ridge line 80, and the liquid supply surface 74 and the third inclined surface 76 are continuously formed and connected to each other by a ridge line 82.

[0094] like Figure 15 , Figure 14 As shown, the second inclined surface 72 is arranged at an angle relative to the flow direction P1 and axis P2 of the gas blown from the gas supply port 52. The gas blown from the gas supply port 52 collides with the second inclined surface 72, bending away from the liquid supply component 56 while being blown upwards. In contrast, the first inclined surface 70 is inclined in the opposite direction to the second inclined surface 72. As a result, the peripheral area of ​​the first inclined surface 70 becomes a concave area relative to the gas flow P, making it difficult for the negative pressure to diffuse to the surroundings, and the negative pressure becomes higher. Since the liquid supply port 58 is located near the first inclined surface 70, which is the negative pressure generating area, a strong negative pressure is generated around the liquid supply port 58, thereby attracting liquid with a strong attraction.

[0095] In implementation 1, particularly Figure 15 In the cross-section shown, the liquid supply port 58 is positioned protruding from the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70 (refer to arrow R). The imaginary surface 84 is an imaginary surface that exists flush with the first inclined surface 70. With this configuration of the liquid supply port 58, compared to a position flush with the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70, the liquid supply port 58 can be positioned closer to the gas flow P, i.e., a position where a strong negative pressure is generated. This improves the attraction of the liquid utilizing the Venturi effect, thereby increasing the atomization rate.

[0096] By positioning the liquid supply port 58 in a protruding position, the liquid supply surface 74 forming the liquid supply port 58 can also be configured as a surface substantially parallel to the gas flow direction P1 and the axis P2. This allows the liquid atomized by the atomizing unit M to be smoothly guided along the liquid supply surface 74.

[0097] like Figures 14-16 As shown, the first inclined surface 70, the second inclined surface 72, the liquid supply surface 74, and the third inclined surface 76 of Embodiment 1 all have curved shapes. In Embodiment 1, in particular, they are arc shapes with a certain curvature.

[0098] like Figure 16As shown, when viewed from above the gas supply port 52, the ridges 78, 80, and 82 all have a shape that moves laterally (in the X direction) away from the gas supply port 52 and approaches the upstream side (arrow Q2) of the liquid flow direction Q1 of the liquid supply port 58. Similarly, the first inclined surface 70, the second inclined surface 72, the liquid supply surface 74, and the third inclined surface 76 also have a shape approaching the upstream side Y1.

[0099] As the gas blown out from the gas supply port 52 rises while slightly diffusing along the X direction (which is transverse), the first inclined surface 70, the second inclined surface 72, and the edge 78 connecting them have a shape close to the upstream side (arrow Q2), thereby reducing the deviation in distance to the liquid supply port 58. As a result, the liquid discharged from the liquid supply port 58 merges more uniformly with the gas flow P, enabling uniform atomization and thus increasing the amount of atomization.

[0100] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the first inclined surface 70, the second inclined surface 72, the liquid supply surface 74, and the third inclined surface 76 all have smooth curved shapes, and the edges 78, 80, and 82 also have gently curved shapes when viewed from above. As a result, turbulence is less likely to occur in the gas blown out from the gas supply port 52, the gas flow P rises smoothly, and the flow rate can be maintained, thus the Venturi effect is more likely to be observed.

[0101] Next, Figure 17 , Figure 18 The diagram shows the top views of the gas supply port 52 and the liquid supply port 58, respectively.

[0102] like Figure 17 As shown, the gas supply port 52 in Embodiment 1 forms a horizontally elongated rectangular opening. The gas supply port 52 has a horizontal width L1 and a vertical width L2. The horizontal width L1 is the length along the X direction, which corresponds to the horizontal direction of the gas supply port 52, and the vertical width L2 is the length along the Y direction, which corresponds to the vertical direction of the gas supply port 52. The horizontal width L1 is the maximum horizontal dimension of the gas supply port 52, and the vertical width L2 is the maximum vertical dimension of the gas supply port 52. In Embodiment 1, the horizontal width L1 is set to be greater than the vertical width L2.

[0103] By making the gas supply port 52 horizontally elongated, the gas flow P blown out from the gas supply port 52 can rise while spreading laterally, generating negative pressure over a wide range. This allows for atomization over a large area, increasing the atomization volume and further reducing the particle size.

[0104] like Figure 18As shown, in Embodiment 1, the liquid supply port 58 is formed as a horizontally elongated opening by connecting two semicircles with two straight lines. The liquid supply port 58 has a horizontal width L3 and a vertical width L4. The horizontal width L3 is the length along the X direction, which corresponds to the horizontal direction of the liquid supply port 58, and the vertical width L4 is the length along the Z direction, which corresponds to the vertical direction of the liquid supply port 58. The horizontal width L3 is the maximum horizontal dimension of the liquid supply port 58, and the vertical width L4 is the maximum vertical dimension of the liquid supply port 58. In Embodiment 1, the horizontal width L3 is set to be greater than the vertical width L4.

[0105] By making the liquid supply port 58 horizontally elongated, the liquid supply port 58 can widely receive the negative pressure generated over a large area in response to the gas flow P blown out laterally, thereby expanding the atomization range and resulting in an increase in atomization amount and a reduction in particle size.

[0106] As described above, the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1 is an atomizer that mixes and atomizes gas and liquid, comprising: a gas supply member 50, having a gas flow path 54 and a gas supply port 52 for supplying gas; and a liquid supply member 56, having a liquid flow path 66 and a liquid supply port 58 for supplying liquid. The gas supply member 50 has a gas supply surface 68 that forms the surface of the gas supply port 52. The liquid supply port 58 opens toward an axis P2 orthogonal to the gas supply surface 68 at the gas supply port 52. The liquid supply member 56 has a first inclined surface 70 between the liquid supply port 58 and the gas supply port 52. The first inclined surface 70 is located in a cross-section including the gas flow path 54 and the liquid flow path 66 (…). Figure 15 In the cross-section shown (also referred to as the "first cross-section"), the inclination is such that it moves away from axis P2 as it moves away from the gas supply surface 68. The liquid supply port 58 is located in a position that protrudes relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70.

[0107] With this structure, by providing the first inclined surface 70, a negative pressure can be generated based on the gas flow P from the gas supply port 52, and liquid can be drawn from the liquid supply port 58 and atomized using the Venturi effect. Furthermore, by providing the liquid supply port 58 at a position protruding relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70, the negative pressure around the liquid supply port 58 becomes higher, allowing a larger amount of liquid to be drawn from the liquid supply port 58. This improves the atomization rate.

[0108] Furthermore, the first inclined plane 70 can also be described in other words as follows: That is, as... Figure 15As shown, the liquid supply component 56 has a wall portion W (a first inclined surface 70, a second inclined surface 72, a liquid supply surface 74, and a third inclined surface 76) that restricts the space H for the flow of gas discharged from the gas supply port 52 in a direction (lateral) intersecting the gas flow direction P1. The wall portion W has a first inclined surface 70 upstream of the liquid supply port 58 in the gas flow direction P1, and the first inclined surface 70 is inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1 so that the space H expands along the gas flow direction P1. This description is omitted in the following variations 1-8, but it can be expressed in the same way.

[0109] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the liquid supply component 56 has a second inclined surface 72 located upstream of the first inclined surface 70 in the gas flow direction P1 and facing the gas flow P blown out from the gas supply port 52. The second inclined surface 72... Figure 15 In the cross-section shown, the inclination is such that it approaches axis P2 as it moves away from the gas supply surface 68. According to this structure, by providing a second inclined surface 72, the gas flow P supplied from the gas supply port 52 can collide with the second inclined surface 72 and change direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 15 As shown, when the second inclined surface 72 is shaped to cover the width of the gas supply port 52, the air velocity increases after colliding with the second inclined surface 72.

[0110] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the first inclined surface 70 and the second inclined surface 72 are connected by a ridge line 78. With this structure, the first inclined surface 70 and the second inclined surface 72 are continuously formed by the ridge line 78, thereby increasing the negative pressure generated around the first inclined surface 70, and the liquid supply port 58 can also be positioned close to the negative pressure generation area.

[0111] Additionally, in the atomizer 2 of embodiment 1, such as Figure 16 As shown, when viewed from above the gas supply port 52, the ridge 78 has a shape that moves away from the gas supply port 52 and closer to the liquid supply port 58, towards the upstream side of the liquid flow direction Q1 (arrow Q2). Due to this structure, compared to a straight ridge 78, the deviation in distance from any position on the ridge 78 to the liquid supply port 58 is smaller. Consequently, the deviation in negative pressure around the ridge 78 is also reduced, enabling atomization over a wider range, resulting in increased atomization volume and reduced particle size.

[0112] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the liquid supply member 56 also has a liquid supply surface 74 forming a liquid supply port 58. With this structure, the liquid supply port 58 can be easily formed by providing the liquid supply surface 74.

[0113] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the liquid supply surface 74 extends substantially parallel to the axis P2 at the gas supply port 52. With this structure, the atomized droplets can be guided in a desired direction along the liquid supply surface 74.

[0114] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, regarding the gas supply port 52, compared with... Figure 15 The maximum dimension of the first cross section shown, or the transverse (X direction) or the transverse width L1, is greater than the maximum dimension of the longitudinal (Y direction) or the longitudinal width L2, which intersects the transverse. Based on this structure, negative pressure can be generated over a larger range.

[0115] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the opening size of the liquid supply port 58 is related to... Figure 15 The maximum dimension of the first cross-section in the transverse direction (X direction), i.e., the transverse width L3, is greater than the maximum dimension of the longitudinal direction (Z direction) intersecting the transverse direction, i.e., the longitudinal width L4. According to this structure, the negative pressure generated over a wide range can be widely received by the liquid supply port 58, thereby increasing the atomization volume.

[0116] Furthermore, the atomizer 2 in Embodiment 1 also includes piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 for supplying gas to the gas supply port 52. With this configuration, when using piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 with outputs smaller than motor pumps, the atomization volume can be increased more effectively.

[0117] Furthermore, in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, the gas supply component 50 and the liquid supply component 56 are separate units. This structure increases the design freedom for each component.

[0118] (Variations 1-8)

[0119] Next, use Figures 19A to 19H A variation of the cross-sectional shape of the liquid supply component 56 will be described.

[0120] Figure 19A This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the atomizing section M1 of the liquid supply component 156 involved in Modified Example 1. In Modified Example 1, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the liquid supply surface 174 forming the liquid supply port 158 ​​is inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1 at the gas supply port 52.

[0121] exist Figure 19AIn the example shown, the liquid supply surface 174 is inclined towards the axis P2, which is closer to the gas flow direction P1, as it moves away from the gas supply surface 68. The narrowed portion 166A of the liquid flow path 166 extends to the liquid supply port 158 ​​formed on the liquid supply surface 174. According to this structure, the liquid supply port 158 ​​is positioned more prominently relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70 (refer to arrow R1) compared to the liquid supply port 58 of Embodiment 1. This increases the negative pressure generated around the liquid supply port 158, thereby increasing the atomization amount. Furthermore, the first inclined surface 70 is provided as part of a wall portion W1 upstream of the liquid supply port 158 ​​in the gas flow direction P1, which restricts the space H1 for gas flow from the gas supply port 52 in a direction intersecting the gas flow direction P1. The first inclined surface 70 is inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1 so that the space H1 expands along the gas flow direction P1.

[0122] Figure 19B This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the atomizing section M2 of the liquid supply component 256 involved in Modification 2. In Modification 2, similar to Modification 1, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the liquid supply surface 274 forming the liquid supply port 258 is inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1.

[0123] exist Figure 19B In the example shown, the liquid supply surface 274 is inclined in a direction away from the gas supply surface 68 and away from the axis P2 containing the gas flow direction P1. The narrowed portion 266A of the liquid flow path 266 extends to the liquid supply port 258 formed on the liquid supply surface 274. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 258 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70 (refer to arrow R2). Thus, similar to Embodiment 1 and Modification 1, the negative pressure generated around the liquid supply port 258 can be increased, thereby improving the atomization amount. Furthermore, the first inclined surface 70 is provided as part of a wall portion W2 upstream of the liquid supply port 258 in the gas flow direction P1, which restricts the space H2 for gas flow from the gas supply port 52 in a direction intersecting with the gas flow direction P1. The first inclined surface 70 is inclined relative to the gas flow direction P1 so that the space H2 expands along the gas flow direction P1.

[0124] Figure 19C This is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section M3, including the liquid supply component 356 involved in Modified Example 3. In Modified Example 3, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that a liquid supply port 358 is provided at a partially protruding position on the first inclined surface 370.

[0125] exist Figure 19CIn the example shown, the first inclined surface 370 has a protrusion 371. The protrusion 371 is a portion of the reduced diameter portion 366A that extends the liquid flow path 366, and for example has a cylindrical shape. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 358 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 384 containing the first inclined surface 370 (refer to arrow R3). Thus, similar to Embodiment 1 and other variations, the negative pressure generated around the liquid supply port 358 can be increased, thereby improving the atomization amount.

[0126] Figure 19D This is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing portion M4 of the liquid supply component 456 involved in Modification 4. In Modification 4, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the liquid supply surface 472 forming the liquid supply port 458 is an inclined surface.

[0127] exist Figure 19D In the example shown, the liquid supply surface 472 is inclined toward the axis P2, which is closer to the flow direction P1 containing the gas, as it moves away from the gas supply surface 68. The narrowed portion 466A of the liquid flow path 466 extends to the liquid supply port 458 formed on the liquid supply surface 472. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 458 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70 (refer to arrow R4), thereby improving the atomization amount.

[0128] Figure 19E This is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section M5, including the liquid supply component 556 involved in Modification 5. In Modification 5, with... Figure 19D The difference in the modified example 4 is that the liquid supply port 558 formed on the liquid supply surface 572 is located adjacent to the third inclined surface 574. The narrowed portion 566A of the liquid flow path 566 extends to the liquid supply port 558 formed on the liquid supply surface 572. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 558 is positioned to protrude from the imaginary surface 84 including the first inclined surface 70 (arrow R5), thereby improving the atomization amount.

[0129] Figure 19F This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the atomizing section M6 of the liquid supply component 656 involved in Modification 6. In Modification 6, unlike Modifications 4 and 5, the liquid supply port 658 formed on the liquid supply surface 672 is located at an intermediate position that is not adjacent to either the first inclined surface 70 or the third inclined surface 674. The narrowed portion 666A of the liquid flow path 666 extends to the liquid supply port 658 formed on the liquid supply surface 672. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 658 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 84 containing the first inclined surface 70 (arrow R6), thereby increasing the atomization amount.

[0130] Figure 19G This is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section M7, including the liquid supply component 756 involved in Modified Example 7. In Modified Example 7, with... Figure 19D The difference in the modified example 4 is that the liquid supply surface 772 and the third inclined surface 774 forming the liquid supply port 758 are inclined to protrude more than the first inclined surface 70 and the second inclined surface 72. The narrowed portion 766A of the liquid flow path 766 extends to the liquid supply port 758 formed on the liquid supply surface 772. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 758 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 84 including the first inclined surface 70 (arrow R7), thereby improving the atomization amount.

[0131] Figure 19H This is a longitudinal sectional view of the atomizing section M8 of the liquid supply component 856 involved in Modified Example 8. In Modified Example 8, with... Figure 19G The difference in the modified example 7 shown is that the first inclined surface 70 and the second inclined surface 72 are inclined to protrude beyond the liquid supply surface 872 and the third inclined surface 874 that form the liquid supply port 858. The narrowed portion 866A of the liquid flow path 866 extends to the liquid supply port 858 formed on the liquid supply surface 872. Even in this case, the liquid supply port 858 is positioned to protrude relative to the imaginary surface 84 including the first inclined surface 70 (arrow R8), thereby improving the atomization amount.

[0132] (Implementation Method 2)

[0133] use Figure 20 The atomizer according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the differences from Embodiment 1 will be mainly described. Additionally, identical or equivalent structures will be labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0134] The difference between the atomizer 1002 in Embodiment 2 and the atomizer 2 in Embodiment 1 is that it is not a portable sprayer, but is used as part of a stationary sprayer device 1000.

[0135] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of a sprayer device 1000 equipped with the atomizer 1002 in Embodiment 2.

[0136] Figure 20 The sprayer device 1000 shown includes an atomizer 1002, a housing 1004, and a tube 1006.

[0137] The atomizer 1002 is a component corresponding to the first housing 10 and the second housing 12 in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1. The atomizer 1002 has an atomizing section M (not shown), identical to that in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, which mixes and atomizes the compressed air supplied from the housing 1004 with the liquid. The atomized liquid is then blown out from the blow nozzle 1008 (refer to arrow A).

[0138] The housing 1004 is a component for supplying compressed air to the atomizer 1002. The housing 1004 corresponds to the third housing 14 in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, and houses components (not shown) such as a piezoelectric pump and a substrate for generating compressed air. A switch 1010 for operation is provided on the front surface of the housing 1004. When the user presses the switch 1010, compressed air is generated inside the housing 1004 and supplied to the atomizer 1002 through the pipe 1006.

[0139] The internal structure of the atomizer 1002 is the same as that of the first housing 10 and the second housing 12 in the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, so the description is omitted.

[0140] according to Figure 20 The stationary atomizer device 1000 shown allows the user to hold the atomizer 1002 connected to the housing 1004 while blowing the atomized liquid out of the nozzle 1008. Furthermore, the atomizer 1002 of Embodiment 2 has an atomizing section M constructed identically to the atomizer 2 of Embodiment 1, thereby similarly increasing the atomization volume.

[0141] The present invention has been described above using embodiments 1 and 2, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, in the above embodiments, the case of providing two piezoelectric pumps 26 and 28 has been described, but it is not limited to this case, and one or more piezoelectric pumps may also be provided.

[0142] Although this disclosure has been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings and in connection with preferred embodiments, various modifications and alterations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and alterations are to be understood as included therein, provided they do not depart from the scope of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore, variations in the combination and order of elements in the various embodiments can be implemented without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0143] Industrial availability

[0144] This invention is useful for nebulizers used in medical and cosmetic applications.

[0145] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0146] 2...Atomizer; 4...Housing; 6...Blowout Nozzle; 8...Switch; 10...First Housing; 12...Second Housing; 14...Third Housing; 16...Mark; 17...Power Cover; 18...Bottom Surface; 19...Support Component; 20...Power Insertion Part; 22, 24...Control Board; 26...Piezoelectric Pump; 26A...Upstream End; 26B...Downstream End; 28...Piezoelectric Pump; 28A...Upstream End; 28B...Downstream End; 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 39...Mounting Part; 40...Nozzle Part; 40A...Upstream End; 40B...Downstream End; 41...Upper Surface Part; 42, 44... Connecting flow path component; 46...opening; 50...gas supply component; 52...gas supply port; 54...gas flow path; 54A...reduced diameter section; 55...liquid accumulation section; 55A...bottom surface; 55B...inner peripheral surface; 56...liquid supply component; 58...liquid supply port; 59...liquid suction port; 60...mounting part; 62...flow path forming part; 64...upper end; 66...liquid flow path; 66A...reduced diameter section; 68...gas supply surface; 70...first inclined surface; 72...second inclined surface; 74...liquid supply surface; 76...third inclined surface; 78, 80, 82...ridge line; 84...imaginary surface; 1 56... Liquid supply component; 158... Liquid supply port; 166... ​​Liquid flow path; 166A... Reduced diameter section; 174... Liquid supply surface; 256... Liquid supply component; 258... Liquid supply port; 266... ​​Liquid flow path; 266A... Reduced diameter section; 274... Liquid supply surface; 356... Liquid supply component; 358... Liquid supply port; 366... ​​Liquid flow path; 366A... Reduced diameter section; 370... First inclined surface; 371... Protrusion; 384... Imaginary surface; 456... Liquid supply component; 458... Liquid supply port; 466... ​​Liquid flow path; 466A... Reduced diameter section; 472... Liquid supply surface; 474... Third inclined surface; 556... Liquid supply component; 558... Liquid supply port; 566... ​​Liquid flow path; 566A... Reduced diameter section; 572... Liquid supply surface; 574... Third inclined surface; 656... Liquid supply component; 658... Liquid supply port; 666... ​​Liquid flow path; 666A... Reduced diameter section; 672... Liquid supply surface; 674... Third inclined surface; 756... Liquid supply component; 758... Liquid supply port; 766... ​​Liquid flow path; 766A... Reduced diameter section; 772... Liquid supply surface; 774... Third inclined surface; 856... Liquid supply component; 858...Liquid supply port; 866...liquid flow path; 866A...reduced diameter section; 872...liquid supply surface; 874...third inclined surface; 1000...atomizer device; 1002...atomizer; 1004...housing; 1006...tube; 1008...blowing nozzle; 1010...switch.

Claims

1. An atomizer that atomizes a mixture of gas and liquid, wherein, have: A gas supply component is provided with a gas flow path and a gas supply port for supplying gas; and The liquid supply component is equipped with a liquid flow path and a liquid supply port for supplying liquid. The gas supply component has a gas supply surface that forms the surface of the gas supply port. The liquid supply port opens toward the gas supply port along an axis orthogonal to the gas supply surface. The liquid supply component has a first inclined surface between the liquid supply port and the gas supply port. The first inclined surface, in a first cross-section including the gas flow path and the liquid flow path, is inclined such that it moves away from the axis as it moves away from the gas supply surface. The liquid supply port is located at a position that protrudes relative to the plane containing the first inclined surface.

2. The atomizer according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid supply component has a second inclined surface located upstream of the first inclined surface in the gas flow direction and facing the gas blown out from the gas supply port. The second inclined surface in the first cross section is inclined such that it approaches the axis as it moves away from the gas supply surface.

3. The atomizer according to claim 2, wherein, The first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are connected by an edge line.

4. The atomizer according to claim 3, wherein, When viewed from above the gas supply port, the ridge has a shape that approaches the upstream side of the liquid flow direction at the liquid supply port as it moves away from the gas supply port.

5. The atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The liquid supply component also has a liquid supply surface forming the liquid supply port.

6. The atomizer according to claim 5, wherein, The liquid supply surface extends substantially parallel to the axis at the gas supply port.

7. The atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein, Regarding the opening size of the liquid supply port, the maximum dimension of the transverse direction orthogonal to the first cross section is greater than the maximum dimension of the longitudinal direction intersecting the transverse direction.

8. The atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein, The maximum transverse dimension of the gas supply port, which is orthogonal to the first cross section, is greater than the maximum longitudinal dimension intersecting the transverse dimension.

9. The atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein, It also includes a piezoelectric pump for supplying gas to the gas supply port.

10. The atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein, The gas supply component and the liquid supply component are separate units.

Images