A diffuser device that disperses liquid or solid substances at room temperature into the air as vapor.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) for dispersing a substance that is in a liquid or solid state at room temperature into the air in a vapor state. The substance is placed in a storage container (60). The device has a porous body (70) extending in a longitudinal direction (QQ), a proximal portion (71) disposed within the storage container (60), and a distal portion (72) disposed outside the storage container (60). The distal portion (72) of the porous body (70) has a peripheral surface (73) that serves as the evaporation surface for the substance and a central hole (74) spaced apart from the peripheral surface (73). A heating element (110) is housed in the hole (74).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of diffusing devices for dispersing substances that are in a liquid or solid state at ambient temperature into the air in a vapor state. [Background technology]

[0002] A diffusing device of the above type is known, for example, from WO 2019 / 243734. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a diffusing device for dispersing a substance that is in a liquid or solid state at ambient temperature into air in a vapor state, the diffusing device comprising: a storage container having an interior volume for containing a substance; a longitudinally extending porous body having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction, the proximal portion being located within the interior volume of the reservoir and the distal portion being located outside the reservoir; a heating element; It is equipped with the reservoir has a bottom wall that partially defines the interior volume, the proximal portion of the porous body contacting the bottom wall or spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom wall, the predetermined distance being set so that the porous body contacts the substance when the interior volume is 50% filled with the substance; the distal portion of the porous body having a peripheral surface that is an evaporation surface for the substance and a central hole spaced apart from the peripheral surface, the heating element being housed in the hole; the diffusing device further comprises an air guide configured to direct a flow of air around the peripheral surface;

[0004] In such a diffusing device, the liquid substance diffuses by capillary action through the porous body to a distal portion and then to the peripheral surface, where evaporation of the substance is promoted by heating of the porous body by the heating element and air flow around the peripheral surface.

[0005] Because the heating element is contained within the bore, a greater proportion of the energy delivered to the heating element is effectively delivered to the porous mass without loss, e.g., by convection, particularly compared to configurations in which the heating element is in contact with the periphery or end surface of the distal portion. This makes the diffusing device highly energy efficient. In particular, the device significantly increases the amount of material that can be vaporized per unit of energy delivered to the heating element.

[0006] Furthermore, since the heating element is contained within the hole, it is easier to control the temperature of the porous body at the circumferential surface, which in turn makes it easier to control the effect that heating of the porous body by the heating element has on the evaporation of the substance at the circumferential surface, particularly compared to a configuration in which the heating element is in contact with the circumferential or end surface of the distal portion.

[0007] In some embodiments, such a diffusing device may include one or more of the following features:

[0008] In one embodiment, the porous body is made of wood, textiles, ceramics, polymers, or porous metal materials obtained by sintering metal or metal alloy powders.

[0009] In one embodiment, the porous body has uniform porosity.

[0010] In one embodiment, the porous body has a constant cross-sectional shape from the distal portion to the proximal portion.

[0011] In one embodiment, the porous body has a constant cross-sectional shape from the distal portion to the proximal portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the entire porous body has the constant cross section, which simplifies the manufacturing process of the porous body, as the porous body can be formed by extrusion or molding.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cross section is circular, which further simplifies the manufacture of the porous body.

[0014] In one embodiment, the hole opens at an end face of the distal portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises an insulating element, the insulating element closing the hole.

[0016] The insulating element further increases the proportion of the energy delivered to the heating element that is effectively delivered to the porous mass rather than being lost, for example, by convection, making the diffusing device much more energy efficient.

[0017] In one embodiment, the distal portion of the porous body has an end wall closing the pores.

[0018] Such end walls further increase the proportion of energy supplied to the heating element that is effectively delivered to the porous mass without being lost, for example, to convection, making the diffusing device more energy efficient. Furthermore, the surfaces of the end walls provide additional evaporation surfaces for the material, thereby increasing the total surface area available for evaporation of the material. Therefore, the diffusing device can evaporate a greater amount of material per unit of energy supplied to the heating element.

[0019] In one embodiment, the heating element is housed in the bore and contacts an inner wall of the distal portion that defines the bore.

[0020] This increases the efficiency with which the heating element heats the distal portion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the porous body is integral with the storage container.

[0022] Thus, the reservoir and porous body can be provided as a removable assembly that is inserted into the diffusing device as a unit, further simplifying use of the diffusing device. However, other arrangements are possible. Thus, in one embodiment, the porous body is permanently installed in the diffusing device. In another embodiment, the porous body is removable from the reservoir.

[0023] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a support element for the heating element, the support element being secured to the diffusing device, hi one embodiment, the heating element being secured to the support element.

[0024] In one embodiment, the reservoir has an opening through which the porous body passes.

[0025] In one embodiment, the proximal portion is located below the opening in a downward direction along the longitudinal axis, and the distal portion is located above the opening in an upward direction opposite the downward direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0026] In one embodiment, the proximal portion of the porous body contacts the bottom wall.

[0027] In one embodiment, the bottom wall has a groove, and one end of the proximal wall is received in the groove.

[0028] The grooves help to hold the proximal portion in place within the interior volume of the reservoir, and together with the openings help to prevent deformation of the porous body in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0029] In one embodiment, the diffusing device is used in a use position in which the downward direction is downward relative to the acceleration of gravity and the upward direction is upward relative to the acceleration of gravity. In such a use position, the substance tends to diffuse upward through the porous body by capillary action. In this case, in one embodiment, the predetermined distance is set so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume is less than 50% filled with the substance, preferably so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume is less than 20% filled with the substance, more preferably so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume is less than 5% filled with the substance, and more preferably so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume is less than 3% filled with the substance.

[0030] In one embodiment, the air guide comprises a housing surrounding the distal portion of the porous body, the housing extending in the longitudinal direction so as to direct the flow of air along the circumferential surface in the longitudinal direction.

[0031] This allows a satisfactory evaporation of the substance at the peripheral surface to be achieved with a simple structure, in particular with a simple design of the porous body.

[0032] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises an air inlet, at least one air outlet, and at least one fan for driving a flow of air from the air inlet towards the at least one air outlet such that the air flow moves along the circumferential surface in the longitudinal direction.

[0033] In one embodiment, the fan is downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the porous body in the direction of air circulation, so that material evaporated on the evaporation surface does not pass through the fan.

[0034] In one embodiment, the fan is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.

[0035] In one embodiment, the diffusing device is configured such that an air flow moves in the downward direction along the circumferential surface, and the substance tends to diffuse upward through the porous body by capillary action while the air flow moves downward along the circumferential surface. In one embodiment, the air inlet is positioned above the at least one air outlet in the longitudinal direction so that the air flow moves in the downward direction along the circumferential surface. In one embodiment, the support element is positioned above the heating element in the longitudinal direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the diffusing device is configured such that a flow of air moves in the upward direction along the circumferential surface. In one embodiment, the air inlet is positioned in the longitudinal direction below the at least one air outlet so that a flow of air moves in the upward direction along the circumferential surface. In one embodiment, the support element is positioned in the longitudinal direction below the heating element.

[0037] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises an inner separator wall disposed within the housing, the inner separator wall at least partially, preferably completely, surrounding the storage vessel such that airflow circulates around the inner separator wall.

[0038] With such inner separator walls, if recondensation of evaporated material occurs within the housing, this recondensation tends to occur on the inner separator walls rather than in the storage vessel.

[0039] In one embodiment, the heating element comprises or consists of an electrical resistor.

[0040] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises an electronic circuit board, and the electrical resistor receives power from the electronic circuit board.

[0041] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises a controller configured to control the heating element based on a set temperature of the porous body.

[0042] In one embodiment, the diffusing device further comprises at least one temperature sensor connected to the controller, the controller being configured to control the heating element based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor.

[0043] In one embodiment, the control device is located on the electronic circuit.

[0044] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to control the fan, and in particular to control the operating speed of the fan.

[0045] In one embodiment, the substance comprises at least one compound selected from semiochemical molecules, pheromones, allomones, kairomones, synomones of natural or synthetic origin.

[0046] In one embodiment, the substance is a solution containing at least one sexual or non-sexual pheromone, allomone, synomone or kairomone that induces a positive or negative response in a target species, and the resulting behavior can be sexual confusion, any other type of confusion, sexual attraction, any other type of attraction, any type of repellent response (repulsion) in Arachnida or Arthropods, including Hexapoda, where Hexapoda particularly includes insects, especially pests.

[0047] In one embodiment, the substance is a solution containing at least one pheromone or at least one sex pheromone, allomone, synomone or kairomone that induces a positive or negative response in a target species, the resulting behavior can be sedative, relaxing, euphoric or intimidating, particularly in mammals and birds.

[0048] In one embodiment, the material comprises a solvent selected from isopropyl myristate, dipropylene, glycol, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, or an isoparaffin hydrocarbon, such as L or P or N or V isoparaffin.

[0049] In one embodiment, the substance is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of fragrances, semiochemicals, cosmetics, essential oils, perfumes, fungicides or neutralizers, and plant protection and agricultural agents that can be used on humans or animals. In one embodiment, the substance is a solution comprising at least one compound selected from the above groups.

[0050] In one embodiment, the substance is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of human-safe fragrances, cosmetics, essential oils, perfumes, disinfectants, or neutralizers. In one embodiment, the substance is a solution comprising at least one compound selected from the above groups.

[0051] In one embodiment, the animal-safe fragrance is selected from fatty acids or esterified forms of said fatty acids, such as methyl oleate, methyl palmitate, dimethyl azelate, and dimethyl pimelate.

[0052] In one embodiment, the viscosity of the substance in its liquid state is greater than 1 cPa·s at 25°C, such as greater than 8 cPa·s at 25°C, and less than 1 cPa·s at 60°C.

[0053] In one embodiment, the boiling point of the substance at atmospheric pressure is between 30°C and 400°C.

[0054] In one embodiment, the substance is in a liquid state at room temperature, for example, the substance has a melting point of −70° C. to 0° C. at atmospheric pressure.

[0055] In one embodiment, the substance is in a solid state at room temperature, for example, the substance has a melting point above 30°C, for example 30°C to 40°C, at atmospheric pressure.

[0056] The present invention also relates to the use of the above-described diffusing device for dispersing a substance that is in a liquid or solid state at room temperature and is contained in a storage container into the air in a vapor state, with the diffusing device in the use position in which the downward direction of the diffusing device is a direction that is directed downward relative to the acceleration due to gravity.

[0057] In one embodiment, the diffusing device is placed in an enclosed space such as a greenhouse or building, or in a location that is shielded from deposition.

[0058] The present invention will be better understood and other objects, details, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of several specific embodiments of the present invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the specific embodiments described below are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0059] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a diffusing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 1 showing a diffusing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 1 showing a diffusing device of a first modified form of the second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 1 showing a diffusing device of a second modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 5] 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing the inner separator wall of the diffusing device. [Figure 6] 2 is a partial view of the diffusing device of FIG. 1, along with a functional block diagram showing the various components of the diffusing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a diffusing device for dispersing a substance that is in a liquid state at room temperature into the air in a vapor state. The diffusing device is designated by the reference numeral 1 in the figure, and will be referred to below as "device 1" for convenience.

[0061] The device 1 comprises a fixed part, generally designated 20 .

[0062] The fixed part 20 includes a wall 25. The wall 25 defines an interior space 26 of the fixed part 20. As will be explained below, this interior space 26 houses various components of the device 1. The wall 25 also forms an enclosure surrounding these components of the device 1.

[0063] Although not shown in Figure 1, the wall 25 may be part of a housing or other suitable rigid container that is part of the fixed part 20. This housing or rigid container may house various components of the device 1, in particular a power socket and / or a battery, one or more indicator lights for a user of the device 1, one or more buttons for a user of the device 1, etc.

[0064] 1 also shows removable assembly 50, which is inserted partially or completely into interior space 26. Removable assembly 50 includes a storage container 60 and a wick 70. Wick 70 is secured to storage container 60 so that removable assembly 50 can be picked up and inserted into interior space 26 as a unit by lifting removable assembly 50 together.

[0065] The reservoir 60 has an interior volume 69 containing a liquid substance. The interior volume 69 is defined by a bottom wall 68, a side wall 67, and a top wall 66 of the reservoir 60.

[0066] It should be noted that the outer shape of the storage container 60 shown in Figure 1 is merely an example. The storage container 60 can have any suitable outer shape, so long as it includes an interior volume 69. The shape of the interior volume 69 shown in Figure 1 is likewise merely an example. The interior volume 69 can have any suitable shape.

[0067] The core 70 extends in a longitudinal direction QQ, which is indicated by a thick dashed line in FIG.

[0068] In the following description, an upward direction A and a downward direction D opposite to the upward direction A are assigned relative to the longitudinal direction QQ. The upward direction A and the downward direction D are indicated by arrows in Figure 1. Expressions such as "lower", "below", "downward", "low" and the like should be interpreted with reference to the downward direction D along the longitudinal direction QQ. Expressions such as "higher", "up", "upward", "higher" and the like should be interpreted with reference to the upward direction A along the longitudinal direction QQ.

[0069] FIG. 1 shows that the device 1 can be used in a use position in which the downward direction D is downward and the upward direction A is upward relative to the gravitational acceleration G. The direction and orientation of the gravitational acceleration G are indicated by arrows in FIG. 1. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, in the use position, the longitudinal direction QQ is parallel to the direction of the gravitational acceleration G. Alternatively, other orientations are possible.

[0070] The core 70 has, in the longitudinal direction QQ, a proximal portion 71 and a distal portion 72 opposite the proximal portion 71 .

[0071] Distal portion 72 is disposed externally of reservoir 60. When removable assembly 50 is inserted into interior space 26, as shown in FIG.

[0072] The proximal portion 71 is disposed within the interior volume 69 of the reservoir 60 such that the proximal portion 71 is in contact with the liquid substance contained within the interior volume 69 .

[0073] The proximal portion 71 is inserted into the reservoir 60 through an opening 65 in the reservoir 60, which passes through the top wall 66. One or more sealing elements (not shown) may be positioned to ensure a sealed connection between the core 70 and the opening 65.

[0074] 1, the lower end of the proximal portion 71 is received in a groove 64 provided in the bottom wall 68. The groove 64 tends to hold the proximal portion 71 in a fixed position within the internal volume 69. Furthermore, the groove 64, together with the opening 65, tends to prevent deformation of the core 70 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction QQ.

[0075] Alternatively, if the bottom wall 68 does not have the groove 64, the proximal portion 71 contacts the bottom wall 68. At least one retaining element (not shown) can be provided within the interior volume 69 to, for example, retain the wick 70, thereby forcing the proximal portion 71 into contact with the bottom wall 68. In this way, it is ensured that the proximal portion 71 remains in contact with the liquid substance until the liquid substance in the reservoir 60 is substantially emptied.

[0076] Alternatively, the proximal portion 71 does not contact the bottom wall 68, but is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom wall 68 along the longitudinal direction QQ. This predetermined distance is set so that the wick 70 remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume 69 is less than 50% filled with the substance, preferably so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume 69 is less than 20% filled with the substance, and more preferably so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume 69 is less than 5% filled with the substance and so that the porous body remains in contact with the substance when the internal volume 69 is less than 3% filled with the substance. At least one retaining element (not shown) can be provided within the internal volume 69 to, for example, hold the wick 70 in place, thereby maintaining the predetermined distance. The predetermined distance is set to ensure that the proximal portion 71 remains in contact with the liquid substance until the liquid substance in the reservoir 60 is substantially completely emptied.

[0077] The core 70 may be made partly or entirely of a porous material, such as wood, textiles, ceramics, or polymers. Another example of a possible porous material is a porous metal obtained by sintering a metal or metal alloy powder. Such porous materials are well known in the art, and the techniques for obtaining them will not be described in detail here.

[0078] Specifically, the proximal portion 71 and the distal portion 72 are made in part or in whole from any one of the aforementioned porous materials, and between the proximal portion 71 and the distal portion 72 along the longitudinal direction QQ, the core 70 is made in part or in whole from the aforementioned porous material.

[0079] In one simple embodiment, the entire core 70 is made of one porous material and has uniform porosity, which simplifies the manufacturing of the core 70.

[0080] Alternatively, wick 70 may have non-uniform porosity or may be made from any two or more of the aforementioned porous materials.

[0081] The core 70 further has a central hole 74 (hereinafter referred to as "hole 74"). The hole 74 is spaced from the circumferential surface 73. In the illustrated example, the hole 74 extends from the distal portion 72 to the proximal portion 73. More specifically, the hole 74 extends the entire length of the core 70 along the longitudinal direction QQ and is open at the upper end surface 72A of the distal portion 72 and the lower end surface 72A of the proximal portion 71. Alternatively, the hole 74 may not be open at the proximal portion 71. The hole 74 may also extend only at the distal portion 72.

[0082] The core 70 may have a constant cross section from the distal portion 72 to the proximal portion 71, and the core 70 between the distal portion 72 and the proximal portion 71 may likewise have rotational symmetry about the longitudinal direction QQ. In particular, the entire core 70 may exhibit rotational symmetry about the longitudinal axis QQ. This may further simplify the manufacture of the core 70, since the core 70 may be manufactured by extrusion or molding.

[0083] A variety of cross sections can be selected for the core 70 .

[0084] For example, the cross section may be annular, i.e., the peripheral surface 73 and the wall defining the hole 74 are concentric cylinders. Such a cross section further simplifies the manufacture of the core 70.

[0085] Alternatively, the cross section can be set so that the peripheral surface 73 and / or the walls defining the holes 74 are concentric columns with a polygonal base, in particular a regular polygonal base, more particularly a regular hexagonal base.

[0086] Alternatively, the holes 74 may have a non-constant cross section, for example a conical or frusto-conical cross section.

[0087] 1 also shows that device 1 includes a heating unit 100 within interior space 26. Heating unit 100 includes a heating element 110, such as an electrical resistor. When removable assembly 50 is inserted into interior space 26 as described above, heating element 110 is received within bore 74. More specifically, heating element 110 is fully received within bore 74. Preferably, heating element 110 and bore 74 are sized such that heating element 110 contacts the inner wall of distal portion 72 that defines bore 74. This improves the efficiency with which distal portion 72 is heated by heating element 110. To achieve this, the cross-section of heating element 110 can be matched to the cross-section of bore 74.

[0088] To facilitate insertion of heating element 110 into bore 74, the opening in top end wall 72A into which bore 74 opens may be chamfered as shown in FIG.

[0089] The heating element 110 is fixed to, or at least held by, a support element 105 of the heating unit 100, which is arranged above the heating element 110. The support element 105 is fixed to the device 1 in a suitable manner, for example to a wall 25.

[0090] Alternatively, the heating element 110 may be part of the removable assembly 50 instead of being permanently incorporated into the device 1. In this case, the support element 105 may hold the heating element 110 in a fixed position relative to the device 1 and / or wick.

[0091] 1 also shows that device 1 includes air inlet 98, air outlet 99, and fan 90. Air inlet 98 is located above fan 90. Fan 90 is located above heating element 110. Heating element 110 and peripheral surface 73 are located above air outlet 99.

[0092] The operation of the device 1 will now be described when the removable assembly 50 is in its position as shown in FIG.

[0093] Because proximal portion 71 is in contact with the liquid substance and wick 70 is porous as described above, the liquid substance penetrates proximal portion 71 and diffuses by capillary action through wick 70 until it reaches distal portion 72. Because distal portion 72 is porous as described above, the liquid substance continues to diffuse by capillary action through distal portion 72 until it reaches peripheral surface 73 of distal portion 72, which provides an evaporation surface for the substance.

[0094] When fan 90 is operating, fan 90 drives air flow F, indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. 1 . Air flow F is drawn downward in direction D along longitudinal direction QQ from air inlet 98 toward air outlet 99. The geometry of wall 25 ensures that air flow F travels along longitudinal direction QQ. Air flow F passes around peripheral surface 73, which becomes laden with evaporated material. Air flow F, laden with evaporated material, exits through air outlet 99, dispersing the evaporated material into the surrounding air.

[0095] When the heating element 110 is activated, the heating element 110 heats the distal portion 72. Heating the distal portion 72 tends to promote vaporization of the substance at the peripheral surface 73. Heating the wick 70 through the distal portion 72 also tends to promote capillary diffusion of the substance through the wick 70, particularly since the viscosity of the substance decreases with increasing temperature.

[0096] The amount of material vaporized by the device 1 can be adjusted by appropriately adjusting the operating parameters of the fan 90 and / or heating element 110.

[0097] Various configurations can be employed for the fan 90, such as an axial fan, a centrifugal fan, or other types of fan. The fan 90 can be held in a fixed position in the device 1 in any suitable manner.

[0098] An optional air filter 91 can be placed between the air inlet 98 and the fan 90 to reduce the risk of the wick 70 becoming clogged with unwanted foreign particles.

[0099] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the device 2. In Figure 2, elements that are identical or similar to those already described are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0100] Apparatus 2 differs from apparatus 1 in that removable assembly 50 is inserted into interior space 26 in downward direction D rather than upward direction A. As a result, support member 105 is positioned below heating element 110. As shown, support member 105 extends into bore 74, and support element 105 extends above bottom wall 68 of storage container 60.

[0101] As shown, air inlet 98 is located below fan 90. Fan 90 is located below heating element 110. Heating element 110 and peripheral surface 73 are located below air outlet 99. Air flow F circulates in an upward direction A. Otherwise, operation of device 2 is identical to operation of device 1 and will not be described again.

[0102] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the device 3. In Figure 3, elements that are identical or similar to those already described are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0103] Apparatus 3 differs from apparatus 2 in that insulating element 51 closes hole 74. For example, insulating element 51 is made of a plastic material such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Insulating element 51 can be part of removable assembly 50. Alternatively, insulating element 51 can be permanently installed in apparatus 3. Otherwise, operation of apparatus 3 is identical to operation of apparatus 2.

[0104] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the device 4. In Figure 4, elements that are identical or similar to those already described are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0105] Device 4 differs from device 2 in that distal portion 72 of wick 70 includes end wall 75 that closes bore 74. Preferably, heating element 110 is in contact with end wall 75. Upper surface 75A of end wall 75 provides an additional evaporation surface for the substance. In other respects, operation of device 4 is identical to operation of device 2.

[0106] 2-4, the proximal portion 71 of the wick 70 extends through the bottom wall 68 of the reservoir 60. For example, the proximal portion 71 is press-fit into a through opening formed in the bottom wall 68. One or more sealing gaskets (not shown) may be provided to ensure a seal around the proximal portion 71 of the bottom wall 68. Alternatively, the proximal portion 71 may contact the bottom wall 68, optionally with the groove 64 formed therein, or may be spaced apart from the bottom wall 68, as described above with reference to FIG.

[0107] 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1, illustrating that the device 1 can include an inner separator wall 49. The inner separator wall 49 is disposed within the interior space 26 between the side wall 67 and the interior wall 25 of the storage container 60.

[0108] Distal portion 72 is not surrounded by inner separator wall 49, whereas side wall 67 is completely surrounded by inner separator wall 49. Therefore, air flow F carrying the evaporated material at peripheral surface 73 flows along inner separator wall 49, rather than along side wall 67. As a result, if recondensation of the evaporated material occurs in interior space 26, this recondensation occurs on inner separator wall 49, rather than side wall 67. This significantly reduces the risk that a user of device 1 will accidentally come into contact with the recondensed material.

[0109] Alternatively, only a portion of the side wall 67 of the storage container 60 may be surrounded by the inner separator wall 49, but in this case it is preferable to limit the surface of the side wall 67 that is not surrounded by the inner separator wall 49 to prevent evaporated material from re-condensing on the side wall 67.

[0110] The inner separator wall 49 is permanently attached to the device 1. For example, the inner separator wall 49 is connected to the wall 25 via one or more ribs (not shown).

[0111] The reservoir 60 can be secured to the device 1 via the inner separator wall 49, for example, by screw fastening, bayonet fastening, clips, or snap fit. Thus, the reservoir 60 can be secured to the inner separator wall 49 while the wick 70 is already secured to the reservoir 60. In other words, the removable assembly 50 is inserted into the interior space 26 as a single unit, and the reservoir 60 is secured to the inner separator wall 49 while the removable assembly 50 is inserted into the interior space 26. The inner separator wall 49 has an opening at its upper end that allows the distal portion 72 of the wick 70 to pass through the bore 74 to the location where the heating element 110 is housed.

[0112] Although FIG. 5 shows inner separator wall 49 mounted in device 1, it is also possible for inner separator wall 49 to be mounted in devices 2, 3, or 4.

[0113] 6 shows a partial view of the device 1 and a functional block diagram showing the various elements of the device 1. In this figure, dashed lines indicate connections between the elements shown.

[0114] A control device 140, such as a microprocessor, controls the heating element 110 based on the temperature measured by a temperature sensor 141 appropriately positioned in the device 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the temperature sensor 141 is positioned on the circumferential surface 73 of the wick 70 to measure the temperature of the circumferential surface 73. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 141 is embedded in the wick 70. The control device 140 can then control the heating element 110 based on the set temperature of the wick 70 measured by the temperature sensor 141.

[0115] Alternatively, the temperature sensor 141 may be located elsewhere in the device 1, for example within or above the heating element 110.

[0116] The controller 140 may be located, for example, on an electronic circuit board 150, which may also provide power to the heating element 110. The controller 140 may also control the fan 90, and in particular the operating speed of the fan 90.

[0117] It should be noted that the elements described above with reference to Figure 6 are shown schematically and may be located in various locations within device 1. Furthermore, although Figure 6 shows these elements implemented in device 1, they may also be implemented in devices 2, 3, or 4.

[0118] The above embodiments are merely examples, and many other designs are possible.

[0119] In a variation not shown, there may be multiple fans 90. Additionally or alternatively, there may be multiple air outlets 99, with one or more fans 90 driving air flows F towards each of the multiple air outlets 99.

[0120] The air inlet 98 and one or more air outlets or air outlets 99 may be formed in any suitable manner. Furthermore, the orientation and / or location of the air inlet 98 and / or one or more air outlets 99 may differ from that shown in the figures. In particular, the air inlet 98 is not necessarily defined by an opening at one end of the wall 25, and the air outlet 99 is not necessarily defined by an opening at the other end of the wall 25.

[0121] In a variant not shown, it is possible that the air flow F does not circulate along the longitudinal direction QQ, for example, the air flow F can circulate in a direction oblique or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction QQ, in which case the geometry of the wall 25 and / or the geometry of the other air guides ensures that the air flow F circulates in said direction.

[0122] While the above describes embodiments in which the substance is in a liquid state at ambient temperature, the substance may alternatively be in a solid state at ambient temperature. For example, the substance may have a melting point above 30°C, e.g., 30°C-40°C, at atmospheric pressure. In this case, reservoir 60 contains a substance that is in a solid state at ambient temperature. Heating of wick 70 by heating element 110 causes localized melting of the substance near proximal portion 71. The substance, now in a liquid state, permeates wick 70 and is dispersed into the surrounding air as described above.

[0123] Although the present invention has been described with reference to several specific embodiments, it is clear that the present invention is in no way limited to these embodiments, and that the present invention encompasses all techniques equivalent to the means described herein and combinations thereof, insofar as they fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0124] Use of the verbs "comprise", "include" or "have" and their conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim.

[0125] In the claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

Claims

1. A diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) for dispersing a substance in a liquid or solid state at room temperature into the air in a vapor state, a storage container (60) having an interior volume (69) for containing a substance; a porous body (70) extending in a longitudinal direction (Q-Q), the porous body (70) having a proximal portion (71) and a distal portion (72) opposite the proximal portion (71) in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q), the proximal portion (71) being disposed within an internal volume (69) of the storage container (60), and the distal portion (72) being disposed outside the storage container (60); a heating element (110); It is equipped with The storage vessel (60) has a bottom wall (68) that partially defines the interior volume (69); the proximal portion (71) of the porous body (70) is in contact with the bottom wall (68) or is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom wall (68); the predetermined distance is set so that the porous body (70) comes into contact with the substance when the internal volume (69) is filled with the substance by 50%; The distal portion (72) of the porous body (70) has a peripheral surface (73) that serves as an evaporation surface for the substance and a central hole (74) spaced apart from the peripheral surface (73); the heating element (110) is received in the bore (74) and contacts the inner wall of the distal portion (72) that defines the bore (74); The diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) further comprises an air guide configured to direct an air flow (F) around the peripheral surface (73). Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) characterized in that

2. The hole (74) extends from the distal portion (72) to the proximal portion (71); Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to claim 1.

3. The porous body (70) has a constant cross-sectional shape from the distal portion (72) to the proximal portion (71). Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The hole (74) opens at the end surface (72A) of the distal portion (72). Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. It further comprises a thermal insulation element (51), The insulating element (51) closes the hole (74), Diffusing device (3) according to claim 4.

6. the distal portion (72) of the porous body (70) has an end wall (75) that closes the pores (74); Diffusing device (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. Further comprising a support element (105) for said heating element (110), the support element (105) is fixed to the diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4), Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The storage container (60) has an opening (65), and the porous body (70) penetrates the opening (65); the proximal portion (71) is located below the opening (65) in a downward direction (D) along the longitudinal axis (Q-Q), and the distal portion (72) is located above the opening (65) in an upward direction (A) opposite to the downward direction (D) along the longitudinal axis (Q-Q); The diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) is used in a use position in which the downward direction (D) is downward with respect to the gravitational acceleration (G) and the upward direction (A) is upward with respect to the gravitational acceleration (G). Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the air guide comprises a housing (25) surrounding the distal portion (72) of the porous body (70); The housing (25) extends in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q) so as to be able to guide an air flow (F) along the circumferential surface (73) in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q). Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. an air inlet (98), at least one air outlet (99), and at least one fan (90) for driving an air flow (F) from the air inlet (98) towards the at least one air outlet (99) such that the air flow (F) moves along the circumferential surface (73) in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q), Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to claim 9.

11. the air inlet (98) is arranged above the at least one air outlet (99) in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q) so that an air flow (F) moves along the peripheral surface (73) in the downward direction (D); Diffusing device (1) according to claim 10, which recites claim 8.

12. the air inlet (98) is arranged below the at least one air outlet (99) in the longitudinal direction (Q-Q) so that an air flow (F) moves along the peripheral surface (73) in the upward direction (A); Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to claim 10, which is dependent on claim 8.

13. further comprising an inner separator wall (49) disposed within the housing (25); the inner separator wall (49) at least partially, preferably completely, surrounds the storage vessel (60) so that an air flow (F) circulates around the inner separator wall (49); Diffusing device (1; 2; 3; 4) according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

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