nebulizer

Abstract

A sprayer that suppresses leakage of liquid is provided. The sprayer includes a nozzle and an adapter. The nozzle has at least one sub-nozzle having a front end portion provided with a spray hole. The adapter has a connection tube that is in fluid communication with a container, two core portions, and a receiving portion provided at a base end portion of each core portion. A hole portion in fluid communication with the connection tube is provided at each receiving portion. The nozzle is installed to the adapter in a manner that at least one of the two core portions is disposed inside the sub-nozzle and the base end portion of the sub-nozzle is inserted into the receiving portion. A core portion side passage in fluid communication with the connection tube is formed between the sub-nozzle and the core portion. In a mounted state in which the nozzle is installed to the adapter, an outer surface of the sub-nozzle is in contact with an opposite surface of the receiving portion that opposes the outer surface. At least one of the contact portions of the outer surface of each sub-nozzle and the opposite surface of each receiving portion is a true circle or a substantially true circle in a cross section that intersects the axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sprayer for spraying liquid into the nasal cavity. Background Technology

[0002] As such a sprayer, for example, the sprayer described in Patent Document 1 is known. Patent Document 1 discloses a nasal sprayer that connects to a container holding liquid and simultaneously sprays liquid into each nasal cavity from two nozzle tubes. This nasal sprayer has a button, a cap-shaped push member mounted on the button, and a tubular guide rod connected to the push member to allow fluid communication of the liquid. The button has a flat plate portion, two nozzle tubes standing upwards on the plate portion, and a downward-facing cylindrical portion extending downwards from the plate portion. The push member fits into the downward-facing cylindrical portion of the button. Thus, a space is formed between the plate portion of the button and the top of the push member, allowing liquid to pass through during spraying. Two connecting holes are provided in the plate portion of the button, which fluidly communicate this space with the interior of each nozzle tube. That is, the two connecting holes, viewed along the axial direction of the nozzle tubes, are located inside the downward-facing cylindrical portion of the button. Liquid is supplied to the aforementioned space through the guide rod, enters the interior of each nozzle tube through each connecting hole, and is sprayed from a nozzle located at the front end of each nozzle tube.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-105365 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] A nasal sprayer, as described above, has a guide rod and two nozzle tubes, and when viewed radially from the nozzle tubes, it has a roughly Y-shaped form. In sprayers of this shape, for ease of assembly, the nozzle-side components (e.g., the button described above) and the container-side components (e.g., the pusher described above) are typically formed separately, and these components are then combined. However, in this structure, when the internal pressure of the flow path increases during spraying, there is a problem of liquid leakage from the contact points between the components.

[0008] However, the purpose of this invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems and provide a sprayer that suppresses liquid leakage.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] One aspect of the sprayer of the present invention comprises a nozzle inserted into a nostril and an adapter, the adapter connecting the nozzle to a container holding liquid, wherein...

[0011] The nozzle has at least one secondary nozzle, which has a front end and a base end with spray holes that are inserted into the nostril.

[0012] The adapter has:

[0013] A fluid-connecting pipe having a connecting end that connects to the container;

[0014] Two cores arranged side-by-side extend axially along the connecting tube and have an axis different from that of the connecting tube in a radial direction intersecting the axial direction; and

[0015] A U-shaped and annular receiving portion is provided on the outer side of each core and at the base end, opening towards the front end of each core.

[0016] Each receiving part is provided with a hole that is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe.

[0017] The nozzle is mounted to the adapter such that at least one of the two cores is disposed inside the secondary nozzle, and the base end of the secondary nozzle is inserted into the receiving portion.

[0018] A core-side passage is formed between the secondary nozzle and the core, which is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe via the orifice.

[0019] The core-side passage forms at least a portion of the flow path from the orifice to the spray orifice.

[0020] With the nozzle installed in the adapter, the outer surface of the auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of the receiving portion are in liquid-tight contact in a manner that divides the core-side passage and the outside.

[0021] In the installed state, at least one of the contact portions between the outer surface of each auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of each receiving part is a perfect circle or approximately a perfect circle at a cross section intersecting the axial direction.

[0022] Invention Effects

[0023] According to the present invention, a sprayer that suppresses liquid leakage can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the sprayer 1 and syringe 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of sprayer 1 and syringe 9.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of sprayer 1.

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Top view of sprayer 1.

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 VV line end face view of sprayer 1.

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A bottom view of nozzle 2.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of rod 3.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A 3D view of adapter 4.

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 Top view of adapter 4.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 5 A partial enlarged view of the receiving part 45 in the middle.

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of region Z1.

[0035] Figure 12 yes Figure 2 Side view of stop 5.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 4 VV line end face view of sprayer 1.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XIV-XIV.

[0038] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 XV-XV profile of sprayer 1.

[0039] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVI-XVI.

[0040] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVII-XVII.

[0041] Figure 18 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVIII-XVIII.

[0042] Figure 19 The sprayer 1 of the first variation of the embodiment of the present invention is related to... Figure 11 The corresponding magnified view.

[0043] Figure 20 The sprayer 1 of the second variation of the embodiment of the present invention is related to... Figure 11 The corresponding magnified view.

[0044] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of a sprayer 1A according to a third variation of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A three-dimensional view of the core material 28 in the sprayer 1A.

[0046] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1A along line XXIII-XXIII.

[0047] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1A along line XXIV-XXIV.

[0048] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 XXV-XXV profile of sprayer 1A. Detailed Implementation

[0049] According to the first aspect of the invention,

[0050] A sprayer is provided, comprising a nozzle inserted into a nostril and an adapter, the adapter connecting the nozzle to a container holding liquid, wherein...

[0051] The nozzle has at least one secondary nozzle, which has a front end portion having a spray hole and being inserted into the nostril, and a base end portion.

[0052] The adapter has:

[0053] A fluid-connecting pipe having a connecting end that connects to the container;

[0054] Two cores arranged side-by-side extend axially along the connecting tube and have an axis different from that of the connecting tube in a radial direction intersecting the axial direction; and

[0055] A U-shaped and annular receiving portion is provided on the outer side of each core and at the base end, opening towards the front end of each core.

[0056] Each receiving part is provided with a hole that is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe.

[0057] The nozzle is mounted to the adapter such that at least one of the two cores is disposed inside the secondary nozzle, and the base end of the secondary nozzle is inserted into the receiving portion.

[0058] A core-side passage is formed between the secondary nozzle and the core, which is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe via the orifice.

[0059] The core-side passage forms at least a portion of the flow path from the orifice to the spray orifice.

[0060] With the nozzle installed in the adapter, the outer surface of the auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of the receiving portion are in liquid-tight contact in a manner that divides the core-side passage and the outside.

[0061] In the installed state, at least one of the contact portions between the outer surface of each auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of each receiving part is a perfect circle or approximately a perfect circle at a cross section intersecting the axial direction.

[0062] According to the second aspect of the invention,

[0063] Provided is a spray according to the first embodiment, wherein the contact portion is formed in the axial direction between the connecting tube and the spray orifice.

[0064] According to the third aspect of the invention,

[0065] Provided is a sprayer according to a first or second embodiment, wherein the opposing surfaces of the receiving portion are inclined such that, in the installed state, they move away from the outer side of the core in the axial direction as they approach the opening of the receiving portion.

[0066] The opposite surface of the receiving part and the outer surface of the auxiliary nozzle are in linear contact at the contact part.

[0067] According to the fourth aspect of the invention,

[0068] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to third embodiments, wherein the receiving portion has an annular protrusion projecting outward from the outer surface of the inner side constituting the opposing surfaces.

[0069] The nozzle has a protrusion that protrudes toward the opposite side of the receiving part in the installed state.

[0070] In the installed state, the protrusion of the nozzle is positioned on the side that is further away from the spray hole in the axial direction than the protrusion of the receiving portion, and contacts the protrusion of the receiving portion.

[0071] According to the fifth aspect of the invention,

[0072] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the nozzle has two of the secondary nozzles.

[0073] Each core component is positioned inside each auxiliary nozzle in the installed state.

[0074] In the installed state, both contact portions are perfectly round or approximately perfectly round at the cross-sections intersecting the axial direction.

[0075] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention,

[0076] Provided is a sprayer according to the fifth aspect, wherein, when the adapter is viewed from above, the outline of each core is formed by the base end of each core.

[0077] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention,

[0078] Provided is a sprayer according to the fifth or sixth embodiment, wherein, inside each sub-nozzle, a chamber constituting at least a portion of each flow path is formed between the front end of each sub-nozzle and the front end of each core.

[0079] In each flow path, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path in each chamber is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path in each core side passage.

[0080] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention,

[0081] Provided is a sprayer according to the seventh aspect, wherein the sprayer further includes a rod inside each of the auxiliary nozzles and disposed between the front end of each auxiliary nozzle and the front end of each core.

[0082] Each chamber is formed between the front end of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle.

[0083] A rod-side passage is formed between the inner sides of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle.

[0084] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention,

[0085] Provided is a sprayer according to the eighth aspect, wherein, in each flow path, the flow path cross-section of the rod-side passage is smaller than the flow path cross-section of the chamber.

[0086] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention,

[0087] What is provided is a sprayer according to the eighth or ninth embodiment, wherein each rod contacts the front end of each auxiliary nozzle.

[0088] A guide passage is formed between the front ends of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle, extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction and providing fluid communication between the side passages of each rod and each spray hole.

[0089] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention,

[0090] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to tenth embodiments, wherein, in each flow path, the flow path cross-section of each core side passage is smaller than the flow path cross-section of each orifice.

[0091] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention,

[0092] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to eleventh embodiments, wherein the receiving portion, when viewed from above the adapter, has both a portion overlapping the connecting tube and a portion not overlapping the connecting tube.

[0093] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention,

[0094] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to twelfth embodiments, wherein the connecting tube has:

[0095] The large cross-section portion is located axially closer to the connecting end portion than the hole portion; and

[0096] The smaller cross-section portion is located on the side of the connection end in the axial direction, which is closer to the larger cross-section portion than the larger cross-section portion, and its cross-section relative to the axial direction is smaller than that of the larger cross-section portion.

[0097] The sprayer also includes a stop disposed inside the connecting pipe.

[0098] The stop member is configured to have a liquid-tight contact with the inner surface of the connecting pipe at the small cross-section portion, and to form a gap between itself and the inner surface of the connecting pipe at the large cross-section portion.

[0099] The stop member is configured to slide from the small cross-section portion to the large cross-section portion when pressed by the liquid from the connecting end side in the axial direction.

[0100] According to the fourteenth aspect of the invention,

[0101] Provided is a sprayer according to the thirteenth aspect, wherein the connecting tube has an enlarged portion disposed between the large cross-section portion and the small cross-section portion, and the cross-section gradually enlarges relative to the axial direction as it approaches the small cross-section portion.

[0102] According to the fifteenth aspect of the invention,

[0103] Provided is a sprayer according to the fourteenth aspect, wherein the connecting tube has a narrowing portion disposed between the enlarged portion and the large cross-section portion, and the cross-section gradually narrows relative to the axial direction as it moves away from the large cross-section portion.

[0104] According to the sixteenth aspect of the invention,

[0105] Provided is a sprayer according to any one of the first to fifteenth forms, wherein the shape of the nozzle and the shape of the adapter are symmetrical with respect to the axis of the connecting tube.

[0106] Hereinafter, a sprayer according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures, and descriptions are omitted.

[0107] 1. Structure

[0108] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the sprayer 1 and syringe 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the sprayer 1 and syringe 9. Figure 1 and Figure 2 And the following Figures 3-6 , Figures 8 to 21 and Figures 23-25 For ease of explanation, the X, Y, and Z axes are shown as mutually orthogonal. In this specification, assuming the state of normal use, the positive direction of the Z-axis is referred to as "up" and the negative direction of the Z-axis as "down". However, the terminology used to indicate these directions does not imply limitation on the usage of the invention.

[0109] like Figure 1 As shown, the sprayer 1 is connected to the syringe 9 for simultaneously spraying liquid into both nostrils. The syringe 9 is an example of the "container" of this invention. Figure 2 As shown, the sprayer 1 includes: a nozzle 2 inserted into the nostril, a rod 3 disposed inside the nozzle 2, an adapter 4 installed in the nozzle 2, and a stop 5 disposed inside the adapter 4.

[0110] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of sprayer 1. (See image below.) Figure 3 As shown, nozzle 2 has two sub-nozzles 21 extending side-by-side along the Z-axis and a base 22 connecting the two sub-nozzles 21. Nozzle 2 is formed, for example, from synthetic resin materials such as polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, polyacetal, and polybutylene terephthalate. Nozzle 2 can also be integrally formed by injection molding.

[0111] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Top view of sprayer 1. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 VV line end face view of sprayer 1. Figure 5 Two virtual axes C1 and one virtual axis C2 are shown. Each virtual axis C1 passes through the central portion of the XY section of each auxiliary nozzle 21. The virtual axis C2 passes through the central portion of the XY section of the connecting pipe 41 of the adapter 4, which will be described later. Figure 5 In the example shown, sprayer 1 has a shape that is linearly symmetrical with respect to the virtual axis C2. That is, the two virtual axes C1 extend symmetrically with respect to the virtual axis C2. Figure 5 In this figure, only the components located to the left of the virtual axis C2 are given reference numerals.

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, the secondary nozzle 21 is cylindrical in shape and has a front end portion 21a that inserts into the nostril and a base end portion 21b on the opposite side. The front end portion 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 is closed except for the spray hole 23 described later. On the other hand, the base end portion 21b of the secondary nozzle 21 is open.

[0113] The secondary nozzle 21 has a shape that extends axially along the corresponding virtual axis C1. That is, the virtual axis C1 extends along the Z-axis. For example, each virtual axis C1 can be tilted at an angle of 0 to 15° relative to the virtual axis C2, such that it moves away from the virtual axis C2 as it advances in the positive direction along the Z-axis. Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the secondary nozzle 21 is along the virtual axis C1 and its diameter decreases as it approaches the front end 21a.

[0114] like Figures 3-5 As shown, a spray hole 23 for spraying liquid is provided in the center of the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21. Figures 3-5 In the example shown, when viewing the secondary nozzle 21 along the virtual axis C1, the spray orifice 23 is a circle with a diameter of 300 μm. It should be noted that the shape of the spray orifice 23 is not limited to this; when viewing the secondary nozzle 21 along the virtual axis C1, it can also be a circle with a diameter of 200 to 600 μm.

[0115] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A bottom view of nozzle 2. (See attached image.) Figure 6 As shown, a recess 24 is formed in the center of the inner surface of the front end portion 21a of the secondary nozzle 21, and three grooves 25 are connected to the recess 24. The recess 24 communicates with the outside of the nozzle 2 via the spray hole 23. The recess 24 is a generally truncated cone shape that converges from the inner surface of the front end portion 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 toward the spray hole 23. The area of ​​the cross section of the recess 24 orthogonal to the virtual axis C1 is larger than the area of ​​the opening surface of the spray hole 23.

[0116] When viewed from below along the Z-axis, the groove 25 extends from the periphery of the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 along the tangential direction of the circular recess 24. Figure 6 In the example shown, three slots 25 are arranged at 120° intervals along the circumference of the virtual axis C1. However, the number of slots 25 and the shape of each slot 25 when viewed from below the sub-nozzle 21 are not limited to this. For example, two or more slots 25 may also be arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the virtual axis C1.

[0117] like Figure 5 As shown, the radially inner side surface of the secondary nozzle 21 relative to the corresponding virtual axis C1 constitutes the inner side surface 21c. Figure 6 As shown, a protrusion 26 protruding towards the virtual axis C1 is provided on the inner side 21c of the secondary nozzle 21. The protrusion 26 is used to mount the rod 3 to the secondary nozzle 21. Figure 6 In the example shown, three protrusions 26 are arranged at 120° intervals along the circumference of the virtual axis C1. However, the number and shape of the protrusions 26 are not limited to this. For example, two or fewer or more than four protrusions 26 may be formed.

[0118] like Figure 3 As shown, the base 22 of nozzle 2 is formed to cover the base ends 21b of the two auxiliary nozzles 21. Figure 5 As shown, the base 22 branches out from the circumference of each sub-nozzle 21, and is integral between two sub-nozzles 21. Figure 6 As shown, the base 22 has two lower edges 22a surrounding the base end portion 21b of each auxiliary nozzle 21 when viewed from below the nozzle 2.

[0119] Each lower edge 22a has three protrusions 27 that face the base end portion 21b of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and protrude inward. Therefore, as Figure 6 As shown, the base 22 has a total of six protrusions 27. The protrusions 27 are used to mount the nozzle 2 to the adapter 4.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown, a roughly cylindrical rod 3 is installed inside each of the sub-nozzles 21. Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of rod 3. In Figure 7 The diagram shows the virtual axis C1 with the rod 3 positioned inside the sub-nozzle 21. For ease of explanation, the following description will assume the rod 3 is positioned inside the sub-nozzle 21 (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0121] like Figure 7As shown, rod 3 has an outwardly protruding bulge 31 at the center of the virtual axis C1 along the axial direction. In this embodiment, four bulges 31 are provided at 90° intervals along the circumference of the virtual axis C1. It should be noted that... Figure 7 The image shows three of the four bulges 31. The number and shape of the bulges 31 are not limited to those described above. For example, three or fewer or more than five bulges 31 may be formed. In this way, the rod 3 has a barrel-shaped shape with a centrally bulging portion. Each bulge 31 has an inclined surface 31a that runs along the virtual axis C1 and moves away from the virtual axis C1 as it approaches the front end 21a of the sub-nozzle 21.

[0122] On the other hand, grooves 32 are formed between the protruding portions 31, recessed inward relative to the protruding portions 31 and extending in the direction of extension of the rod 3. Therefore, the rod 3 has four grooves 32. Figure 7 The image shows two of the four slots 25.

[0123] The rod 3 is preferably symmetrical in the direction in which it extends. That is, the upper and lower halves of the rod 3 are preferably symmetrical. With such a rod 3, when the rod 3 is arranged inside the secondary nozzle 21, it is not necessary to consider the vertical orientation of the rod 3, that is, it is not necessary to consider which side of the rod 3 is facing upwards, so the sprayer 1 can be easily manufactured.

[0124] Rod 3 is formed, for example, by injection molding of synthetic resin materials such as polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, polyacetal, and polybutylene terephthalate.

[0125] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A 3D view of adapter 4. (See attached image.) Figure 8 As shown, the adapter 4 has a connecting tube 41 connected to the syringe 9, two cylindrical cores 42 connected to the connecting tube 41, and a circumferential wall 43 surrounding each core 42. The adapter 4 is injection molded from synthetic resin materials such as polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, styrene-based elastomer materials, and olefin-based elastomer materials.

[0126] exist Figure 5 and Figure 8 In the diagram, a virtual axis C2 extending parallel to the Z-axis is shown. (Example:) Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the connecting tube 41 has a cylindrical shape centered on the virtual axis C2. That is, the connecting tube 41 extends along the virtual axis C2 and the Z-axis. The virtual axis C2 is not consistent with any virtual axis C1.

[0127] like Figure 8As shown, the connecting tube 41 has a connecting end 41a that connects to the syringe 9 and a communicating end 41b on the opposite side. The connecting end 41a of the connecting tube 41 is open. On the other hand, the communicating end 41b of the connecting tube 41 is closed by the closing part 41e of the connecting tube 41, except for the hole 451 of the receiving part 45 described later.

[0128] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the connecting tube 41 and the two cores 42 are integrally formed. However, in this specification, the case is described where the connection between the closed portion 41e of the connecting tube 41 and the circumferential wall 43 constitutes the upper end of the connecting tube 41 in the axial direction of the virtual axis C2. That is, the connecting tube 41 has a length in the axial direction of the virtual axis C2 from the opening formed at the connecting end 41a to this upper end. Figure 5 And the following Figure 10 and Figure 13 The double-dotted line L1 shown indicates the position of the upper end of the connecting pipe 41 along the axial direction of the virtual axis C2.

[0129] like Figure 8 As shown, two connecting protrusions 411 protruding in a direction away from the virtual axis C2 are provided at the connecting end 41a of the connecting tube 41. The two connecting protrusions 411 are formed at 180° intervals in the circumferential direction of the connecting tube 41. The connecting protrusions 411 are used to connect the syringe 9 to the adapter 4. For example, the connecting protrusions 411 have a shape conforming to standards such as ISO 80369-7. However, the number and shape of the connecting protrusions 411 are not limited to the above, as long as they can connect the connecting tube 41 to the container such as the syringe 9 without leakage. For example, the number and shape of the connecting protrusions 411 may also correspond to the number and shape of the container such as the syringe 9 connected to the adapter 4. Alternatively, the connecting protrusions 411 may not be provided on the connecting tube 41.

[0130] like Figure 5 As shown, the core 42 is positioned inside the secondary nozzle 21 in the installed state where the nozzle 2 is mounted on the adapter 4. At this time, each core 42 is coaxially configured with each virtual axis C1. Therefore, the two cores 42 extend along each virtual axis C1 and run parallel to each other along the virtual axis C2.

[0131] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the core 42 has an upper front end portion 42a and a lower base end portion 42b. Furthermore, the core 42 has a cylindrical side portion 421 extending along the virtual axis C1 and a top portion 422 provided at the front end portion 42a. The top portion 422 is located axially below the edge of the front end portion 42a of the core 42. Therefore, a concave portion 44 surrounded by the side portion 421 and the top portion 422 is formed at the front end portion 42a of the core 42.

[0132] like Figure 8 As shown, two cutouts 421a are formed on the side portion 421 of the core portion 42. The cutouts 421a are formed to open radially relative to the concave portion 44 in the core portion 42. Figure 9 yes Figure 2 Top view of adapter 4. Figure 9 In this drawing, only components located to the left of the virtual axis C2 are given reference numerals. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the two cutouts 421a are formed, for example, at a circumferential distance of 180° from each other in the core 42.

[0133] like Figure 8 As shown, the radially outer side surface of the side portion 421 relative to the corresponding virtual axis C1 constitutes the outer side surface 42c of the core portion 42. A groove 46 extending between the base end portion 42b and the cutout portion 421a of the core portion 42 is formed on the outer side surface 42c of the core portion 42. Figure 9 In the example shown, two slots 46 are formed at 180° intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the core 42. However, the number and arrangement of slots 46 are not limited to this. For example, one or more slots 46 may be formed in the circumferential direction of the virtual axis C1. In addition, slots 46 may not be provided as long as the core side passage 65 described later is formed.

[0134] like Figure 9 As shown, when the adapter 4 is viewed from above along the virtual axis C2, the outline of the core 42 is formed by the base end portion 42b of the core 42. That is, all parts of the core 42 are located inside the base end portion 42b of the core 42 when the adapter 4 is viewed from above.

[0135] like Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the circumferential wall 43 is configured to extend along the virtual axis C1 and in the top view adapter 4 (refer to...) Figure 9 The base end portion 42b of the core 42 is surrounded at that time. Figure 10 yes Figure 5 A partial enlarged view of the connecting part 45 in the middle. (See image below.) Figure 10 As shown, the circumferential wall 43 is connected to the base end portion 42b of the corresponding core portion 42. Therefore, an upward-opening annular and U-shaped receiving portion 45 is formed between the side portion 421 of the core portion 42 and the circumferential wall 43. It should be noted that "U-shaped" is not limited to a U-shaped curve at the bottom, but also includes shapes such as... Figure 10 As shown, the bottom part of the U-shape forms an angular shape. In this specification, the receiving part 45 refers to both the side part 421 and the circumferential wall 43 of the core part 42, and the annular and U-shaped space surrounded by them.

[0136] The radially inner side surface of the circumferential wall 43, relative to the corresponding virtual axis C1, forms a facing surface 43a opposite to the outer side surface 42c of the core 42. The facing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is an example of the "facing surface of the receiving portion" in this invention. Figure 10 As shown, the circumferential wall 43 is inclined such that, when the nozzle 2 is installed on the adapter 4, it moves away from the outer side 42c of the core 42 in the axial direction of the virtual axis C1 as it approaches the opening of the receiving portion 45. That is, the receiving portion 45 has a groove shape in which the width expands from the bottom toward the opening.

[0137] The surface of the circumferential wall 43 opposite to the opposing surface 43a constitutes the outer surface 43b of the circumferential wall 43. For example... Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, an annular protrusion 431 protruding radially outward toward the secondary nozzle 21 is provided on the outer surface 43b of the circumferential wall 43. Figure 10 As shown, protrusion 431 is formed axially along the virtual axis C1 near the bottom of the receiving portion 45. Protrusion 431 is used to connect the adapter 4 to the nozzle 2.

[0138] like Figure 9 As shown, the base end portion 42b and the circumferential wall 43 of each core portion 42 are connected to the communicating end portion 41b of the connecting pipe 41. In this embodiment, the core portion 42, the circumferential wall 43, and the receiving portion 45 are formed symmetrically with respect to the virtual axis C2.

[0139] Figure 9 The dashed lines in the diagram show the outline of the connecting tube 41. When viewed from above, the connecting tube 41 overlaps with a portion of each circumferential wall 43. On the other hand, the connecting tube 41 does not overlap with all portions of each circumferential wall 43. That is, each circumferential wall 43 has both a portion that overlaps with the connecting tube 41 when viewed from above and a portion that does not overlap with the connecting tube 41. In this embodiment, the connecting tube 41 further overlaps with a portion of each receiving portion 45 and a portion of each core portion 42.

[0140] A hole 451 is provided at the overlapping portion of each receiving part 45 and the connecting pipe 41 to allow fluid communication between the receiving part 45 and the connecting pipe 41. In this embodiment, the hole 451 passes through the bottom of the receiving part 45 in the Z-axis direction. It should be noted that the hole 451 may also pass through the circumferential wall 43 in the X-axis direction, for example.

[0141] A groove 452 extending from the hole 451 to the end of each groove 46 is provided at the bottom of the receiving part 45. By providing the groove 452, the liquid passing through the hole 451 can easily flow through the receiving part 45 along the circumference of each virtual axis C1.

[0142] Figure 11 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a local area Z1. (See image below.) Figure 11 As shown, the connecting tube 41 has: a portion closer to the connecting end 41a than the two holes 451 (in... Figure 11 The large-section portion (large-diameter portion) 412 is provided on the lower side (in the middle); and the small-section portion (small-diameter portion) 413 is provided on the side closer to the connecting end 41a than the large-section portion 412. The inner diameter of the small-section portion 413 is smaller than the inner diameter of the large-section portion 412. For example, the area of ​​the XY section of the small-section portion 413 is smaller than the area of ​​the XY section of the large-section portion 412. That is, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the area of ​​the XY plane surrounded by the small-section portion 413 is smaller than the area of ​​the XY plane surrounded by the large-section portion 412.

[0143] The connecting pipe 41 has an enlarged portion 414 between the large cross-section portion 412 and the small cross-section portion 413. Regarding the enlarged portion 414, along the Z-axis direction and as it approaches the large cross-section portion 41, the inner diameter and XY cross-section of the connecting pipe 41 gradually increase. In other words, at the enlarged portion 414, the inner surface 41c on the axially inner side of the connecting pipe 41 inclines away from the virtual axis C2 as it approaches the large cross-section portion 412.

[0144] The connecting pipe 41 has an outwardly recessed portion 416 above the large cross-section portion 412. The recess 416 is formed along the axial direction of the virtual shaft C2 in the hole portion 451 of the receiving portion 45 (see reference). Figure 5 Below the hole 451. The recess 416 extends, for example, from the hole 451 along the virtual axis C2 toward the connecting end 41a of the connecting tube 41.

[0145] like Figure 5 As shown, a generally cylindrical stop 5 extending along the virtual axis C2 is disposed inside the connecting pipe 41. The stop 5 is coaxially disposed with the virtual axis C2. Hereinafter, the situation where the stop 5 is disposed inside the connecting pipe 41 will be described.

[0146] Figure 12 yes Figure 2 Side view of stop 5. Figure 12 The diagram shows the X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, and virtual axis C2 corresponding to the stop 5 located inside the connecting tube 41. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 12 As shown, the stop 5 has a small diameter portion 51 with a reduced diameter. On the side closer to the connecting end 41b of the connecting pipe 41 than the small diameter portion 51 of the stop 5 (in... Figure 12 The lower side is provided with a water-stopping part 52, which has a diameter larger than that of the small-diameter part 51. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5 is in liquid-tight contact with the inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41 all around the circumference.

[0147] like Figure 12As shown, in the stop member 5, four protrusions 53 are provided on the side closer to the connecting end 41a of the connecting pipe 41 than the smaller diameter portion 51, protruding outward and extending along the virtual axis C2. The four protrusions 53 are arranged at 90° intervals in the circumferential direction of the stop member 5. Figure 12 The image shows three of the four protrusions 53. The protrusions 53 contact the inner surface 41c at the small cross-section 413 of the connecting pipe 41. Four grooves 54, recessed inward relative to the protrusions 53 and extending along the virtual axis C2, are formed between adjacent protrusions 53 in the circumferential direction. Figure 12 The image shows two of the four slots 54. For example... Figure 5 As shown, a recess 55 is formed in the stop member 5, which is recessed along the virtual axis C2 toward the connecting end 41a.

[0148] The stop 5 is formed, for example, from synthetic resin materials such as polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, styrene-based elastomer materials, olefin-based elastomer materials, and synthetic rubber. For example, the stop 5 is formed by injection molding.

[0149] The syringe 9 connected to the sprayer 1 can also have a structure that is already known. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the syringe 9 has a cylindrical outer barrel 91, a cylindrical connector 92 located at the front end 91a of the outer barrel 91, and a plunger 93 inserted into the outer barrel 91. A sealing gasket 94 is provided at the end of the plunger 93 that is inserted into the outer barrel 91.

[0150] A spiral groove (not shown) is formed on the inner surface of connector 92 for screwing into instruments such as sprayer 1 and injection needle. This groove may have a shape conforming to standards such as ISO 80369-7. Sealing gasket 94 slides inside outer cylinder 91 together with plunger 93 while in liquid-tight contact with the inner surface of outer cylinder 91. By pressing plunger 93 toward the front end 91a of outer cylinder 91, liquid held inside outer cylinder 91 can be ejected from the front end 91a.

[0151] 2. Assembly status of sprayer 1

[0152] Next, the assembly of the sprayer 1 will be described. The rod 3 is disposed inside each of the sub-nozzles 21 with the bulge 31 in contact with the protrusion 26 of the sub-nozzle 21. More specifically, the inclined surface 31a of the bulge 31 contacts the portion of the protrusion 26 that is further forward of its tip 21a. Through this contact, the rod 3 applies force along the virtual axis C1 toward the front end 21a of the sub-nozzle 21. Thus, the rod 3 makes more reliable contact with the front end 21a of the sub-nozzle 21.

[0153] like Figure 5As shown, a spray chamber 61, which is in fluid communication with the spray orifice 23, is formed between the recess 24 of the secondary nozzle 21 and the rod 3. A guide passage 62, which is in fluid communication with the spray chamber 61, is formed between the groove 25 of the secondary nozzle 21 and the rod 3. A rod-side passage 63, which is in fluid communication with the guide passage 62, is formed between the inner side surface 21c of the secondary nozzle 21 and the rod 3. The groove 32 of the rod 3 may also form part of the rod-side passage 63.

[0154] The adapter 4 is installed on the nozzle 2 with each core 42 inserted into each auxiliary nozzle 21. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the base end portion 21b of the auxiliary nozzle 21 is inserted into the receiving portion 45. In this embodiment, the base end portion 21b of the auxiliary nozzle 21 contacts the bottom of the receiving portion 45. In the receiving portion 45, the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 is in liquid-tight contact with the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43. That is, a contact portion 66 is formed by the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43.

[0155] exist Figure 10 In the example shown, an annular corner 212 is formed on the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21, extending circumferentially throughout the secondary nozzle 21 and facing the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43. The corner 212 is formed in the axial direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the virtual axis C2 at a position higher than the connecting pipe 41. It should be noted that... Figure 10 In the diagram, the position of the upper end of the connecting pipe 41 along the axial direction of the virtual axis C2 is indicated by a double-dotted line L1.

[0156] Therefore, the contact portion 66 is located axially above the connecting pipe 41 on the virtual shaft C2, and is formed in a linear shape covering the entire circumference of the receiving portion 45. The contact portion 66 can be formed in a planar shape, but it is preferable to form it in a linear shape as in this embodiment. By forming the contact portion 66 in a linear shape, compared to a planar structure, the force of the circumferential wall 43 pressing against the auxiliary nozzle 21 can be concentrated in a smaller area. Therefore, the contact pressure between the circumferential wall 43 and the auxiliary nozzle 21 in the contact portion 66 can be increased.

[0157] In this embodiment, the base end portion 21b of the secondary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43 make contact at the contact portion 66, thereby tilting in a direction away from each other in the radial direction of the virtual axis C1. That is, the base end portion 21b of the secondary nozzle 21 tilts so that it approaches the virtual axis C1 as it advances in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Meanwhile, the circumferential wall 43 tilts so that it moves away from the virtual axis C1 as it advances in the positive direction of the Z-axis. It should be noted that when the base end portion 21b of the secondary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43 are in contact, either only one of them may be tilted, or neither may be tilted.

[0158] The protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43 is positioned axially along the virtual axis C1, closer to the spray hole 23 than the lower edge 22a of the nozzle 2, and contacts the protrusion 27 of the nozzle 2. This contact prevents the nozzle 2 from being undesirably removed from the adapter 4. Thus, the mounting state of the adapter 4 relative to the nozzle 2 is maintained.

[0159] A portion of the rod 3 is housed in the concave portion 44 of the adapter 4. A chamber 64 communicating with the rod-side passage 63 is formed between the rod 3 and the front end 42a of the core 42. The rod 3 is positioned so that it does not contact the bottom of the concave portion 44, i.e., the top surface 422 of the core 42 (see reference). Figure 5 The concave part 44 can also form part of the chamber 64.

[0160] A core-side passage 65 is formed between the inner side 21c of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the outer side 42c of the core 42, allowing fluid communication between the chamber 64 and the orifice 451. The core-side passage 65 and its exterior are fluidly separated by the contact portion 66.

[0161] According to the above structure, a flow path is formed in the sprayer 1, which has an orifice 451, a core side passage 65, a chamber 64, a rod side passage 63, a guide passage 62, a spray chamber 61 and a spray hole 23.

[0162] 3. Actions during spraying

[0163] The following describes the operation of spraying liquid from the atomizer 1. First, the liquid to be sprayed is filled inside the syringe 9. For example, if the connector 92 of the syringe 9 has a shape conforming to the ISO 80369-7 standard, an instrument such as an injection needle or tube conforming to that standard can be connected to the connector 92. Therefore, liquid can be drawn from a vial or ampoule and filled into the syringe 9 via the injection needle or the like connected to the connector 92. Alternatively, a pre-filled syringe pre-filled with liquid can also be used as the syringe 9.

[0164] Next, screw the connecting protrusion 411 of the connecting tube 41 into the connector 92 of the syringe 9, thereby connecting the sprayer 1 to the syringe 9 (see reference). Figure 1 Next, the plunger 93 of the syringe 9 is pressed towards the front end 91a of the outer barrel 91. The following explanation will describe the situation where the plunger 93 is continuously pressed until the spraying is finished.

[0165] When the plunger 93 is first pressed in, the liquid filling the syringe 9 enters the connecting tube 41. At this time, the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5 and the inner surface 41c are at the small cross-section 413 of the connecting tube 41 (see reference). Figure 11The seal is in liquid-tight contact with the stopper 5, preventing liquid from entering the portion closer to the connecting end 41b than the stopper 52. Therefore, the air inside the connecting pipe 41 is compressed between the sealing gasket 94 and the stopper 52.

[0166] As the plunger 93 is pressed further in, the stop 5 is pressed with a force exceeding the maximum static friction relative to the inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41, thus initiating sliding toward the communicating end 41b of the connecting pipe 41. The magnitude of a force applied to the liquid to initiate the sliding of the stop 5 is equal to or greater than the magnitude of a force applied to the liquid for spraying.

[0167] Once the stop 5 begins to slide, it is pressed by the plunger 93 via the liquid and also by the rebound force of the compressed air, thus accelerating rapidly. Furthermore, when the water-stopping portion 52 of the stop 5 reaches the enlarged portion 414 of the connecting pipe 41, the stop 5 is further pressed towards the communicating end 41b of the connecting pipe 41 through the contact between the water-stopping portion 52 and the inclined inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41. Therefore, the stop 5 accelerates further.

[0168] like Figure 11 As shown by the double-dotted line, when the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5 reaches the large cross-section 412 of the connecting pipe 41, the water-stopping part 52 moves away from the inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41. Therefore, the compressed liquid enters the connecting pipe 41 from the side closer to the connecting end 41b than the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5. Figure 11 The middle position is the upper side.

[0169] Figure 13 yes Figure 4 VV line end face view of sprayer 1. Figure 13 In this drawing, only components located to the left of the virtual axis C2 are given reference numerals. Figure 5 The difference lies in Figure 13 The stop 5 is shown in the state of being disposed on the large cross-section portion 412 of the connecting pipe 41. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XIV-XIV. Figure 14 The circular dashed line in the figure shows the inner surface 41c of the communicating end 41b of the connecting pipe 41. (See figure) Figure 14 As shown, the liquid passes through the orifice 451 along the axial direction of the virtual axis C2 and enters the core side passage 65 and the gap between the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43. The liquid fills each core side passage 65 in the circumferential direction of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and flows towards the spray hole 23 along the axial direction of each virtual axis C1 in each core side passage 65.

[0170] Figure 15 yes Figure 13The cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along the XV-XV line. That is, in Figure 15 The image shows the area near the opening of the axially mounted receiving portion 45 of the virtual shaft C2 (see reference). Figure 13 Cut a cross-section of sprayer 1. (For example...) Figure 15 As shown, the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 are in liquid-tight contact throughout the entire circumference. That is, a contact portion 66 is formed by the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43.

[0171] The contact portion 66 is circular or approximately circular at the cross-section intersecting the virtual axis C2. The roundness of this cross-section of the contact portion 66 is preferably 0.1 times or less, more preferably 0.05 times or less, and even more preferably 0.025 times or less. Here, "roundness" is an index representing the magnitude of the deviation of the measured circle from a geometrically correct circle. For example, roundness is obtained by measuring the difference in radii of the two circles when the measured circle is sandwiched between two concentric, geometrically correct circles, with the interval between the two circles being minimized. In this description, roundness is expressed as the ratio of the aforementioned radius to the difference in radii of the smaller of the two circles. For example, if the radius of the smaller of the two circles is 4 mm, this difference is preferably 0.4 mm or less, more preferably 0.2 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.1 mm or less.

[0172] The flatness ratio of the contact portion 66 is preferably 1 / 6 or less, more preferably 1 / 12 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 24 or less. Here, "flatness ratio" is expressed as (ab) / a when the major radius of the ellipse is a and the minor radius is b.

[0173] Regarding the nozzle 2 not installed on the adapter 4, the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21 is circular or substantially circular at the cross-section where it intersects the virtual axis C2 and passes through the contact portion 66 corresponding to the secondary nozzle 21. The circularity of this cross-section of the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21 is preferably 0.1 times or less, more preferably 0.05 times or less, and even more preferably 0.025 times or less. The flatness of this cross-section of the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21 is preferably 1 / 6 or less, more preferably 1 / 12 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 24 or less. With such an outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21, a circular or substantially circular contact portion 66 can be achieved at the cross-section intersecting the virtual axis C2.

[0174] Regarding the adapter 4 without the nozzle 2 installed, the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is circular or substantially circular at the section that intersects the virtual axis C2 and passes through the contact portion 66 corresponding to the circumferential wall 43. The circularity of this section of the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is preferably 0.1 times or less, more preferably 0.05 times or less, and even more preferably 0.025 times or less. The flatness of this section of the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is preferably 1 / 6 or less, more preferably 1 / 12 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 24 or less. Based on this opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43, a circular or substantially circular contact portion 66 can be achieved at the section intersecting the virtual axis C2.

[0175] In this embodiment, each contact portion 66 is a perfect circle at the cross-section orthogonal to the virtual axis C2, i.e., the XY cross-section. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the contact portion 66 fluidly divides the gap between the secondary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43, that is, the space that is fluidly connected with the core side passage 65 and its outside.

[0176] The core-side passage 65 has a portion whose flow path cross-section is smaller than that in the orifice 451. Therefore, at this portion of the core-side passage 65, the liquid flow velocity increases, thus shortening the time required for the liquid to travel from the orifice 451 to the spray hole 23. That is, the time from when the stopper 52 leaves the inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41 to when the liquid begins to spray from the spray hole 23 is shortened. Therefore, operability during spraying can be improved.

[0177] In this specification, "one cross-section / opening surface is larger / smaller than another cross-section" means that the area, diameter, and / or perimeter of the one cross-section / opening surface is larger / smaller than the corresponding area, diameter, and / or perimeter of the other cross-section / opening surface. Furthermore, in this specification, when comparing the sizes of cross-sections / opening surfaces of passages, etc., in each flow path, if multiple passages, etc., are provided in each flow path, it is desirable to use the sum of the sizes of the cross-sections / opening surfaces of the multiple passages, etc., for comparison.

[0178] In this specification, "flow path cross section" refers to the cross section at the cross section of the flow path that is orthogonal to the flow direction of the liquid. In this embodiment, the liquid flows along the virtual axis C2 in the orifice 451, so the flow path cross section of the orifice 451 can also be described as the cross section that intersects the virtual axis C2.

[0179] like Figure 13 As shown, the core-side passage 65 extends along the virtual axis C2. That is, the liquid flows along the virtual axis C2 in the core-side passage 65. Therefore, the flow path cross-section of the core-side passage 65 can also be described as the cross-section that intersects the virtual axis C2.

[0180] Figure 16 yes Figure 13A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVI-XVI. (See diagram below.) Figure 16 As shown, after passing through the core side passage 65, the liquid enters the concave part 44, i.e., the chamber 64, through the cut part 421a.

[0181] The chamber 64 has a portion whose flow path cross-section is larger than that of the core-side passage 65. In this embodiment, the liquid flows in the chamber 64 along the virtual axis C1, so the flow path cross-section of the chamber 64 can also be described as a cross-section intersecting the virtual axis C1. In addition, the secondary nozzle 21 extends along the virtual axis C2, so the flow path cross-section of the chamber 64 can also be described as a cross-section intersecting the virtual axis C2.

[0182] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVII-XVII. (See diagram below.) Figure 17 As shown, the liquid enters the rod-side passage 63 after passing through chamber 64. The rod-side passage 63 has a smaller flow path cross-section than that of chamber 64. In this embodiment, the rod-side passage 63 extends along virtual axis C1 and each virtual axis C2. That is, the liquid flows in the rod-side passage 63 along virtual axis C1 and each virtual axis C2. Therefore, the flow path cross-section of chamber 64 can also be described as the cross-section intersecting virtual axis C1 or each virtual axis C2.

[0183] Figure 18 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1 along line XVIII-XVIII. (See diagram below.) Figure 18 As shown, the liquid enters the guide passage 62 after passing through the rod-side passage 63. The guide passage 62 has a smaller flow path cross-section than the rod-side passage 63. Therefore, the liquid can be accelerated as it flows from the rod-side passage 63 to the guide passage 62. Thus, compared to a structure where the flow path cross-section of the guide passage 62 is larger than that of the rod-side passage 63, the required flow rate for spraying in the spray hole 23 can be easily obtained. In this embodiment, the guide passage 62 extends radially relative to each virtual axis C1. That is, the liquid flows radially in the guide passage 62 relative to each virtual axis C1. Therefore, the flow path cross-section of the chamber 64 can also be described as a radial cross-section relative to the virtual axis C1.

[0184] Liquid enters spray chamber 61 through guide passage 62. Guide passage 62 is circumferentially open relative to spray chamber 61. Therefore, the liquid forms a vortex flow and atomizes within spray chamber 61. The atomized liquid then passes through spray hole 23 (see reference). Figure 4 It is sprayed into the nostrils into which the secondary nozzle 21 is inserted.

[0185] The opening surface of the spray hole 23 is smaller than the cross-section of the flow path. In this embodiment, the opening surface of the spray hole 23 is smaller than the cross-section of each flow path of the guide path 62, the rod-side path 63, the chamber 64, the core-side path 65, and the orifice 451.

[0186] By reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path at a certain point, the flow velocity at that point can be increased, while the pressure required to allow the liquid to pass through the flow path can be increased. By making the opening surface of the spray hole 23 smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path in other parts of the flow path, the required flow velocity for spraying can be ensured in the spray hole 23 while reducing the pressure required to allow the liquid to pass through the flow path. Therefore, a sprayer 1 with improved operability during spraying can be realized.

[0187] It should be noted that, in the above description, the syringe 9 is exemplified as a container connected to the nebulizer 1, but it is not limited to this. For example, a pump container (e.g., a nasal drop pump) having a mechanism for dispensing liquid in a compressed state can also be connected to the nebulizer 1. In such a case, the liquid can be compressed in the container, so the stop 5 is not required.

[0188] 4. Effects, etc.

[0189] As described above, the nebulizer 1 of this embodiment includes a nozzle 2 inserted into the nostril and an adapter 4 connecting the nozzle 2 to a syringe 9 containing liquid. The nozzle 2 has at least one secondary nozzle 21, which has a front end 21a and a base end 21b having a spray hole 23 and being inserted into the nostril. The adapter 4 has: a fluid-contact connecting tube 41 having a connecting end 41a connected to the syringe 9; two cores 42 arranged side-by-side, extending axially along the connecting tube 41, and having an axis different from the connecting tube 41 in a radial direction intersecting the aforementioned axial direction; and a U-shaped and annular receiving portion 45 provided on the outer side 42c of each core 42 and at the base end 42b, opening toward the front end 42a of each core 42. Each receiving portion 45 has a hole 451 in fluid communication with the connecting tube 41. The nozzle 2 is mounted to the adapter 4 such that at least one of the two cores 42 is disposed inside the secondary nozzle 21, and the base end 21b of the secondary nozzle 21 is inserted into the receiving portion 45. A core-side passage 65 is formed between the secondary nozzle 21 and the core 42, communicating fluidly with the connecting pipe 41 via the orifice 451. The core-side passage 65 constitutes at least a portion of the flow path from the orifice 451 to the spray hole 23. In the installed state where the nozzle 2 is mounted on the adapter 4, the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 opposite to the outer surface 21d are in liquid-tight contact in a manner that divides the core-side passage 65 and the outside. In the above-described installed state, at least one of the contact portions 66 between the outer surface 21d of each secondary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of each circumferential wall 43 is circular or approximately circular at a cross-section intersecting the aforementioned axial direction.

[0190] According to this structure, at least one of the contact portions 66 between the outer surface 21d of the secondary nozzle 21 and the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is circular or approximately circular at a cross section intersecting the axial direction. This allows the pressure of the liquid acting to pull the contact portion 66 apart to be dispersed throughout the entire circumference of the contact portion 66. That is, it prevents the liquid pressure from concentrating in a portion of the contact portion 66. Therefore, since the possibility of the contact portion 66 being pulled apart due to this pressure concentration can be reduced, a sprayer 1 that suppresses liquid leakage can be realized.

[0191] When the gap between two components is to be liquid-tightly sealed, a sealing component such as a packing or O-ring can be sandwiched between the two components. In such a structure, two contact portions are formed between the two components and the sealing component. On the other hand, according to the above structure, the secondary nozzle 21 does not contact the circumferential wall 43 via the sealing component. That is, only one contact portion 66 is formed between the secondary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43. Therefore, compared with the structure in which a sealing component is sandwiched between the secondary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43, the number of contact portions where liquid can leak can be reduced, thus enabling the sprayer 1 to suppress liquid leakage.

[0192] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the contact portion 66 is formed between the connecting pipe 41 and the spray hole 23 in the aforementioned axial direction. That is, the contact portion 66 is formed in the Z-axis direction at a position higher than the connecting pipe 41.

[0193] like Figure 14 As shown, the portion of the circumferential wall 43 that runs parallel to the connecting pipe 41 in the Z-axis direction is integrally formed with the closing portion 41e of the connecting pipe 41. That is, in this portion, the wall thickness of the circumferential wall 43 at the section intersecting the aforementioned axial direction is not constant or approximately constant. In the case of plastic-molded cylinders with different wall thicknesses, uneven curing of the plastic can easily reduce dimensional accuracy. Specifically, in the case of the plastic-molded adapter 4, the roundness of the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 at the section intersecting the aforementioned axial direction tends to be lower.

[0194] On the other hand, such as Figure 15 As shown, the portion of the circumferential wall 43 that is higher than the connecting pipe 41 in the Z-axis direction is not integrated with the connecting pipe 41, and its wall thickness is constant or approximately constant. Therefore, uneven plastic curing is less likely to occur, and the roundness of the opposite surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 at the section intersecting the aforementioned axial direction is less likely to decrease. That is, a perfectly round or approximately round contact portion 66 can be formed more reliably at the section intersecting the aforementioned axial direction. Therefore, a sprayer 1 that further suppresses liquid leakage can be achieved.

[0195] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is inclined such that, in the above-described installation state, it moves away from the outer side surface 42c of the core 42 along the axial direction of the virtual axis C1 as it approaches the opening of the receiving portion 45. The opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 and the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 are in linear contact at the contact portion 66.

[0196] According to this structure, compared to a structure where the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 and the outer surface 21d of the auxiliary nozzle 21 are in planar contact, the force of the circumferential wall 43 and the auxiliary nozzle 21 pressing against each other is concentrated in the linear contact portion 66. This increases the contact pressure between the circumferential wall 43 and the auxiliary nozzle 21 in the contact portion 66. Furthermore, since the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is inclined as described above, the circumferential wall 43 presses the base end portion 21b of the auxiliary nozzle 21 towards the core portion 42 via the contact portion 66. This reduces the eccentricity between the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the circumferential wall 43. Therefore, the possibility of liquid leakage from the contact portion 66 is reduced, thus enabling a sprayer 1 that further suppresses liquid leakage.

[0197] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the circumferential wall 43 has an annular protrusion 431 that protrudes outward from the outer surface 43b forming the inner side of the opposing surface 43a. The nozzle 2 has a protrusion 27 that protrudes toward the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 in the above-described installation state. In the above-described installation state, the protrusion 27 of the nozzle 2 is positioned on the side of the circumferential wall 43 further away from the protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43 in the axial direction of the virtual axis C1, and contacts the protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43.

[0198] According to this structure, the protrusion 27 of the nozzle 2 contacts the protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43 from the lower side of the virtual axis C1. Thus, the protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43 functions as an anti-detachment component relative to the nozzle 2, thereby reducing the possibility of undesirably removing the nozzle 2 from the adapter 4.

[0199] As described above, when the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is inclined relative to the outer side surface 42c of the core 42, the auxiliary nozzle 21 can move more easily in the direction of disengagement from the receiving portion 45 compared to when the opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 is not inclined. That is, the nozzle 2 can be easily removed from the adapter 4. On the other hand, according to the above structure, since the possibility of undesirably removing the nozzle 2 from the adapter 4 is reduced, the inclined opposing surface 43a of the circumferential wall 43 can be realized.

[0200] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the nozzle 2 has two sub-nozzles 21. Each core 42 is disposed inside the sub-nozzle 21 in the above-described installation state. In the above-described installation state, both contact portions 66 are perfectly round or approximately round at the cross-section intersecting the above-described axial direction.

[0201] According to this structure, the possibility of pulling the contact portions 66 apart can be reduced at both ends of the two contact portions 66. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a sprayer 1 that further suppresses liquid leakage.

[0202] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the outline of each core 42 is formed by the base end portion 42b of each core 42 when viewed from above the adapter 4.

[0203] According to this structure, when the nozzle 2, which integrates two parallel auxiliary nozzles 21, is installed on the adapter 4, the two auxiliary nozzles 21 can be covered with two cores 42 along the axial direction of the virtual axis C2. That is, in order to cover each auxiliary nozzle 21 with its respective core 42, it is not necessary to temporarily deform (e.g., flex) the nozzle 2. Therefore, the nozzle 2 can be formed with a low flexibility. By reducing the flexibility of the nozzle 2, deformation of the auxiliary nozzles 21 due to liquid pressure is less likely to occur, thus reducing the possibility of liquid leakage from the contact portion 66. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a sprayer 1 that further suppresses liquid leakage.

[0204] Furthermore, when an anti-detachment component is formed based on the protrusion 27 of the nozzle 2 and the protrusion 431 of the circumferential wall 43, the flexibility of the nozzle 2 can be reduced as long as the protrusion 27 passes downward along the Z-axis direction past the protrusion 431 during nozzle 2 installation. Therefore, the aforementioned effect can be achieved.

[0205] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, a chamber 64 constituting at least a portion of each flow path is formed inside each auxiliary nozzle 21 and between the front end portion 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21 and the front end portion 42a of each core portion 42. In each flow path, the flow path cross-section of each chamber 64 is larger than the flow path cross-section of each core portion side passage 65.

[0206] According to this structure, the flow path cross-section of chamber 64 is larger than that of the core-side passage 65, thus slowing down the liquid as it flows from the core-side passage 65 into chamber 64. Therefore, when the leading positions of the liquid flow in the two flow paths are different, the difference in leading positions can be shortened. This shortens the time difference between the start of spraying in the two spray holes 23, thereby suppressing uneven spray volume from the two spray holes 23. Therefore, liquid can be sprayed evenly into both nasal cavities.

[0207] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, a rod 3 is also provided inside each auxiliary nozzle 21, disposed between the front end portion 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21 and the front end portion 42a of each core portion 42. Each chamber 64 is formed between each rod 3 and the front end portion 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21. A rod-side passage 63 is formed between each rod 3 and the inner side surface 21c of each auxiliary nozzle 21.

[0208] According to this structure, a chamber 64 can be formed between the front end 21a of the auxiliary nozzle 21 and the front end 42a of the core 42. Furthermore, since a rod-side passage 63 is formed, liquid can be guided from the core-side passage 65 toward the spray hole 23. Therefore, compared to a structure without the rod 3, liquid can be supplied to the spray hole 23 more stably, improving the stability of liquid spraying.

[0209] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the rod-side passage 63 is smaller than that of the chamber 64 in each flow path.

[0210] According to this structure, the cross-sectional area of ​​the rod-side passage 63, which is closer to the spray orifice 23 in the flow path, is smaller than that of the chamber 64. Therefore, the liquid can be accelerated as it flows from the chamber 64 to the rod-side passage 63. Thus, compared to a structure where the cross-sectional area of ​​the rod-side passage 63 is larger than that of the chamber 64, the required flow velocity for spraying in the spray orifice 23 can be easily obtained.

[0211] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, each rod 3 has an outwardly protruding bulge 31. Each auxiliary nozzle 21 has a protrusion 26 protruding inward from each inner side surface 21c. In the above-described installation state, the protrusion 26 of each auxiliary nozzle 21 is positioned on the side of each virtual axis C1 that is further away from each spray hole 23 than the bulge 31 of each rod 3, and contacts the bulge 31 of each rod 3. Each rod 3 contacts the front end portion 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21. Between each rod 3 and the front end portion 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21, a guide passage 62 is formed extending in a direction intersecting the above-described axial direction, which fluidly communicates each rod-side passage 63 with each spray hole 23.

[0212] For example, if a guide passage 62 is formed between the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 and the core 42 extending near the front end 21a without the rod 3, there is a possibility that an undesirable gap may occur between the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 and the core 42 due to manufacturing tolerances of the adapter 4. When such a gap occurs, the flow path area of ​​the guide passage 62 increases, thus reducing the flow rate of the liquid in the guide passage 62. On the other hand, according to the above structure, the rod 3 contacts the protrusion 26 of the secondary nozzle 21 and the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21 to form the guide passage 62. As a result, it is less likely that an undesirable gap will occur between the rod 3 and the front end 21a of the secondary nozzle 21, thus ensuring the dimensional stability of the guide passage 62. Therefore, the required flow rate for spraying can be obtained more reliably in the spray hole 23.

[0213] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, in each flow path, the flow path cross-section of each core side passage 65 is smaller than the flow path cross-section of each orifice 451.

[0214] According to this structure, the flow path cross-section of the core-side passage 65 is smaller than that of the orifice 451. Therefore, compared to a structure where the flow path cross-section of the core-side passage 65 is larger than that of the orifice 451, the flow velocity in the core-side passage 65 can be accelerated. This shortens the time required for the liquid to pass through the flow path, thus reducing the time difference between the start of pressing the liquid and the start of spraying. Therefore, a sprayer 1 with improved operability during spraying can be achieved.

[0215] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the receiving part 45 has both a portion that overlaps with the connecting tube 41 and a portion that does not overlap with the connecting tube 41 when viewed from above the adapter 4.

[0216] To prevent liquid leakage from the connection between the connecting tube 41 and the syringe 9, the connecting end 41a of the connecting tube 41 preferably has a circular or nearly circular cross-section. To achieve this cross-sectional shape through plastic molding, the connecting tube 41 is preferably configured as a cylindrical shape with a circular or nearly circular cross-section along its entire length. This configuration causes the connecting tube 41 to increase in size along the Y-axis when it overlaps completely with the two receiving portions 45. Consequently, when inserting the nozzles 21 into the two nasal cavities, the connecting tube 41 may interfere with the upper lip, making it impossible to insert the nozzles 21 into the nostrils at the appropriate angle.

[0217] On the other hand, according to the above structure, when viewed from above, the connecting tube 41 overlaps only a portion of each receiving part 45, rather than the entirety of both receiving parts 45. Thus, while achieving a perfectly circular or nearly circular cross-section along the entire length of the connecting tube 41, its diameter can be reduced in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, leakage of liquid from the connection between the connecting tube 41 and the syringe 9 can be suppressed, and a sprayer 1 capable of inserting each auxiliary nozzle 21 into each nostril at an appropriate angle can be achieved. Furthermore, the small diameter of the connecting tube 41 reduces the amount of liquid remaining in the connecting tube 41 and being discarded after spraying. Therefore, a sprayer 1 with high liquid utilization efficiency can be achieved.

[0218] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the connecting tube 41 has: a large cross-section portion 412, located on the axial side closer to the connecting end 41a than the hole portion 451; and a small cross-section portion 413, located on the axial side closer to the connecting end 41a than the large cross-section portion 412, and whose cross-section relative to the axial direction is smaller than that of the large cross-section portion 412. The sprayer 1 further includes a stop member 5 disposed inside the connecting tube 41. The stop member 5 is configured to be in liquid-tight contact with the inner surface 41c of the connecting tube 41 at the small cross-section portion 413, and to form a gap between the stop member 5 and the inner surface 41c of the connecting tube 41 at the large cross-section portion 412. The stop member 5 is configured to slide from the small cross-section portion 413 to the large cross-section portion 412 when pressed by liquid from the connecting end 41a side in the axial direction.

[0219] According to this structure, once the stop 5 begins to slide, it is pressed by the plunger 93 via the liquid and also by the rebound force of the compressed air, thus accelerating rapidly. In other words, the time from the start of movement of the stop 5 and the plunger 93 pressing the stop 5 to the start of liquid spraying is short. Therefore, even at the start of spraying, a force sufficient to cause the stop 5 to begin sliding can be applied to the liquid. That is, even at the start of spraying, sufficient force can be applied to the liquid for spraying, ensuring stable liquid spraying.

[0220] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the connecting pipe 41 has an enlarged portion 414, which is provided between the large cross-section portion 412 and the small cross-section portion 413, and the cross-section gradually enlarges relative to the axial direction as it approaches the small cross-section portion 413.

[0221] According to this structure, when the water-stopping part 52 reaches the enlarged part 414 of the connecting pipe 41, the stop member 5 is pressed towards the communicating end 41b of the connecting pipe 41 through the contact between the water-stopping part 52 and the inclined inner surface 41d of the connecting pipe 41. This further accelerates the stop member 5, thus further shortening the time from the start of movement of the stop member 5 and the plunger 93 to the start of liquid spraying. Therefore, even at the start of spraying, sufficient force can be applied to the liquid for spraying, resulting in a more stable liquid spray.

[0222] In the sprayer 1 of this embodiment, the shapes of the nozzle 2 and the adapter 4 are symmetrical with respect to the axis of the connecting pipe 41.

[0223] According to this structure, the shapes of the nozzle 2 and the adapter 4 are symmetrical with respect to the axis of the connecting pipe 41, so the two flow paths can be formed into symmetrical shapes. As a result, liquid can be sprayed from the two spray holes 23 with the same spray pattern, thus allowing liquid to be sprayed evenly into both nasal cavities.

[0224] [Variation Example]

[0225] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these descriptions are merely examples of the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the above exemplary embodiments. For example, the following changes can be made. The following variations can be appropriately combined.

[0226] [First Variation]

[0227] Figure 19 The sprayer of the first modified embodiment of the present invention and Figure 11 The corresponding magnified view. (And) Figure 11 Compared to the connecting pipe 41 shown, Figure 19The connecting pipe 41A shown does not have the large cross-section portion 412 and the enlarged portion 414. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the small cross-section portion 413 and the recess 416 are continuous along the axial direction of the virtual axis C2. For example, the boundary between the small cross-section portion 413 and the recess 416 is formed into a stepped shape. Figure 19 As shown by the double-dotted line, when the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5 reaches the recess 416 of the connecting pipe 41, the water-stopping part 52 moves away from the inner surface 41c of the connecting pipe 41. Therefore, the compressed liquid enters the connecting pipe 41 from the side closer to the connecting end 41b than the water-stopping part 52 of the stop member 5. Figure 19 The middle position is the upper side.

[0228] According to this structure, as in the embodiment described above, the time from the start of movement of the stop member 5 and the plunger 93 to the start of liquid spraying can be shortened. Therefore, even at the start of spraying, sufficient force can be applied to the liquid for spraying, resulting in a more stable liquid spray. Furthermore, according to the above structure, it is not necessary to form an enlarged portion 414 with a surface inclined relative to the virtual axis C2; therefore, when the adapter 4 is formed by injection molding, the shape of the mold used for forming can be simplified.

[0229] [Second variation]

[0230] Figure 20 The sprayer of the second variation of the embodiment of the present invention is... Figure 11 The corresponding magnified view. (And) Figure 11 Compared to the connecting pipe 41 shown, Figure 20 The connecting pipe 41B shown further has a narrowing portion 415. The narrowing portion 415 is provided between the enlarged portion 414 and the small cross-section portion 413. With respect to the narrowing portion 415, the cross-section of the connecting pipe 41 gradually narrows relative to the axial direction along the virtual axis C1 and as it approaches the enlarged portion 414.

[0231] According to this structure, the connecting pipe 41 has a narrowing portion 415, which increases the difference in cross-sectional area in the enlarged portion 414. Therefore, the stop 5, through the contact between the water-stopping portion 52 and the inclined inner surface 41d of the connecting pipe 41, can be pressed more forcefully toward the communicating end 41b of the connecting pipe 41. This further accelerates the stop 5, thus further shortening the time from the start of movement of the stop 5 and the plunger 93 to the start of liquid spraying. Therefore, even at the start of spraying, sufficient force can be applied to the liquid for spraying, resulting in a more stable liquid spray.

[0232] [Third variation]

[0233] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the sprayer 1A according to a third variation of an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3Compared to the sprayer 1 shown, in Figure 21 In the sprayer 1A shown, the front end 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21 is open. In addition, a core material 28 is provided at the front end 21a of each auxiliary nozzle 21.

[0234] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A perspective view of the core material 28 in the sprayer 1A. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the case where the rod 3 is disposed inside the auxiliary nozzle 21 will be described. Figure 22 As shown, the core material 28 has a generally cylindrical shape extending along the extension direction of the sub-nozzle 21, i.e., the axial direction of the virtual axis C1. The core material 28 has an annular protrusion 281 formed at the central portion of the axial direction of the virtual axis C1. The protrusion 281 protrudes outward and extends in the circumferential direction of the virtual axis C1. The protrusion 281 is used for mounting the core material 28 to the sub-nozzle 21.

[0235] In the core material 28, a spray hole 23 is formed at the end of the secondary nozzle 21 on the front end 21a side along the axial direction of the virtual shaft C1. The shape and size of the spray hole 23 can also be, for example, the spray hole 23 in the above embodiment (refer to...). Figure 4 )same.

[0236] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 The cross-sectional view of sprayer 1A along line XXIII-XXIII. That is, Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view taken along the Y direction, showing a portion of the front end 21a of the auxiliary nozzle 21 on one side cut parallel to the ZX plane. (See diagram below.) Figure 23 As shown, an annular groove 211 is formed on the inner side 21c of the sub-nozzle 21. The core material 28 is inserted from the front end 21a of the sub-nozzle 21. At this time, the core material 28 is installed on the sub-nozzle 21 by inserting the protrusion 281 of the core material 28 into the groove 211 of the sub-nozzle 21.

[0237] With the core material 28 installed on the secondary nozzle 21, the rod 3A is housed inside the core material 28. For example, as Figure 23 As shown, a portion of the rod 3A can also be housed inside the core material 28.

[0238] A recess 24 and three grooves 25 connected to the recess 24 are formed on the inner surface of the core material 28. Figure 23 One of the three grooves 25 is shown. Rod 3A contacts the inner surface of core material 28 along the axial direction of virtual axis C1. Thus, a spray chamber 61 communicating with spray orifice 23 is formed between the recess 24 of core material 28 and rod 3A. Additionally, a guide passage 62 is formed between the groove 25 of core material 28 and rod 3A.

[0239] Rod 3A has a protrusion 33 that protrudes along the virtual axis C1 toward the spray hole 23. By providing the protrusion 33, when the liquid enters the spray chamber 61 from the guide passage 62, it is easy to form a vortex-like flow centered on the protrusion 33.

[0240] The rod 3A has a bulge 31 that extends from the lower end of the rod 3A to the central part and protrudes outward along the axial direction of the virtual axis C1. Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of sprayer 1A along line XXIV-XXIV. (See diagram below.) Figure 24 As shown, the rod 3A has, for example, three protrusions 31. On the other hand, grooves 32 are formed between the protrusions 31, which are recessed relative to the protrusions 31 and extend axially along the virtual axis C1.

[0241] The protruding portion 31 of the rod 3A contacts the inner side surface 21c of the auxiliary nozzle 21. On the other hand, a portion of the rod-side passage 63 is formed between the groove 32 of the rod 3A and the inner side surface 21c of the auxiliary nozzle 21.

[0242] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 The cross-sectional diagram of the sprayer 1A along the XXV-XXV line. (See diagram below.) Figure 25 As shown, rod 3A contacts the inner surface of core material 28 at a portion. On the other hand, in the non-contact portion between rod 3A and core material 28, a portion of rod-side passage 63 is formed between rod 3A and core material 28. In this modified example, rod-side passage 63 also has a portion whose flow path cross-section is smaller than that of chamber 64.

[0243] Industrial availability

[0244] The sprayer according to the invention can suppress liquid leakage, and is therefore useful for various sprayers.

[0245] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0246] 1. 1A sprayer

[0247] 2 nozzles

[0248] 21 auxiliary nozzles

[0249] 21a Front end

[0250] 21b base end

[0251] 21d outer surface

[0252] 23 Spray nozzles

[0253] 4 Adapters

[0254] 41, 41A, 41B connecting pipes

[0255] 41a Connection end

[0256] 42 cores

[0257] 42a Front end

[0258] 42b base end

[0259] 42c External side

[0260] 43 Circumferential wall

[0261] 43a Opposite face

[0262] 45. Contracting Department

[0263] 451 Hole

[0264] 65 Core side passage

[0265] 66 Contact Department

[0266] 9. Syringe

Claims

1. A sprayer comprising a nozzle inserted into a nostril and an adapter connecting said nozzle to a container holding liquid, wherein, The nozzle has at least one secondary nozzle, which has a front end portion having a spray hole and being inserted into the nostril, and a base end portion. The adapter has: A fluid-connecting pipe having a connecting end that connects to the container; Two cores arranged side by side extend axially along the connecting tube and have an axis different from that of the connecting tube in a radial direction intersecting the axial direction; and A U-shaped and annular receiving portion is provided on the outer side of each core and at the base end, opening towards the front end of each core. Each receiving part is provided with a hole that is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe. The nozzle is mounted to the adapter such that at least one of the two cores is disposed inside the secondary nozzle and the base end of the secondary nozzle is inserted into the receiving portion. A core-side passage is formed between the secondary nozzle and the core, which is in fluid communication with the connecting pipe via the orifice. The core-side passage forms at least a portion of the flow path from the orifice to the spray orifice. With the nozzle installed in the adapter, the outer surface of the auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of the receiving portion are in liquid-tight contact in a manner that divides the core-side passage and the outside. In the installed state, at least one of the contact portions between the outer surface of each auxiliary nozzle and the opposite surface of each receiving part is a perfect circle or approximately a perfect circle at a cross section intersecting the axial direction.

2. The sprayer according to claim 1, wherein, The contact portion is formed axially between the connecting pipe and the spray hole.

3. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The opposite surfaces of the receiving portion are inclined such that, in the installed state, they move away from the outer side of the core as they approach the opening of the receiving portion in the axial direction. The opposite surface of the receiving part and the outer surface of the auxiliary nozzle are in linear contact at the contact part.

4. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The receiving portion has an annular protrusion that projects outward from the outer surface of the inner side constituting the opposing surfaces. The nozzle has a protrusion that protrudes toward the opposite side of the receiving part in the installed state. In the installed state, the protrusion of the nozzle is positioned on the side that is further away from the spray hole in the axial direction than the protrusion of the receiving portion, and contacts the protrusion of the receiving portion.

5. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The nozzle has two of the secondary nozzles. Each core component is positioned inside each auxiliary nozzle in the installed state. In the installed state, both contact portions are perfectly round or approximately perfectly round at the cross-sections intersecting the axial direction.

6. The sprayer according to claim 5, wherein, When viewed from above, the outline of each core is formed by the base end of each core.

7. The sprayer according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, Inside each sub-nozzle, a chamber constituting at least a portion of each flow path is formed between the front end of each sub-nozzle and the front end of each core. In each flow path, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path in each chamber is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path in each core side passage.

8. The sprayer according to claim 7, wherein, The sprayer also includes a rod disposed inside each sub-nozzle, between the front end of each sub-nozzle and the front end of each core. Each chamber is formed between the front end of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle. A rod-side passage is formed between the inner sides of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle.

9. The sprayer according to claim 8, wherein, In each flow path, the cross-sectional area of ​​the rod-side passage is smaller than that of the chamber.

10. The sprayer according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, Each rod has an outwardly protruding bulge. Each nozzle has a protrusion that extends inward from its internal side. In the installed state, the protrusions of each auxiliary nozzle are positioned on the side that is further away from the bulges of each rod from each spray hole in the axial direction, and are in contact with the bulges of each rod. Each rod contacts the front end of each auxiliary nozzle. A guide passage is formed between the front ends of each rod and each auxiliary nozzle, extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction and fluidly communicating the side passages of each rod with each spray hole.

11. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, In each flow path, the cross-sectional area of ​​each core side passage is smaller than that of each orifice.

12. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, Viewed from above, the receiving portion has both a portion that overlaps with the connecting pipe and a portion that does not overlap with the connecting pipe.

13. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The connecting pipe has: The large cross-section portion is located axially closer to the connecting end portion than the hole portion; and The smaller cross-section portion is located on the side of the connection end in the axial direction, which is closer to the larger cross-section portion than the larger cross-section portion, and its cross-section relative to the axial direction is smaller than that of the larger cross-section portion. The sprayer also includes a stop disposed inside the connecting pipe. The stop member is configured to have a liquid-tight contact with the inner surface of the connecting pipe at the small cross-section portion, and to form a gap between the stop member and the inner surface of the connecting pipe at the large cross-section portion. The stop member is configured to slide from the small cross-section portion to the large cross-section portion when pressed by the liquid from the connecting end side in the axial direction.

14. The sprayer according to claim 13, wherein, The connecting pipe has an enlarged portion located between the large cross-section portion and the small cross-section portion, and the cross-section gradually enlarges relative to the axial direction as it approaches the large cross-section portion.

15. The sprayer according to claim 14, wherein, The connecting pipe has a narrowing section located between the enlarged section and the small cross-section section, and the cross-section gradually decreases relative to the axial direction as it moves away from the small cross-section section.

16. The sprayer according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The shapes of the nozzle and the adapter are symmetrical with respect to the axis of the connecting pipe.

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