Volatile substance dispenser

Abstract

The volatile material dispenser includes a base that houses a printed circuit board, a stand assembly coupled to the base and including a platform and a stand extending from the platform, and a manifold extending from the stand and including a circular piezoelectric element. The dispenser further includes a shroud coupled to the stand assembly and defining a stack, and a refill that includes a wick and is removably coupled to the manifold. The manifold includes a cylindrical wall extending upward from the manifold, and a spring is disposed within the manifold and coaxial with the cylindrical wall, an upper end of the spring covering the cylindrical wall, and a lower end of the spring applying a force to the piezoelectric element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Application No. 16 / 579,489, filed on September 23, 2019, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to volatile substance dispensers for releasing volatile substances, and more particularly to volatile substance dispensers having piezoelectric elements and light-emitting assemblies.

[0003] Various volatile substance dispensers are known in the art, and most of them transmit scents to the surrounding environment by various different mechanisms. For example, some dispensers spray volatile substances containing scents into the surrounding environment, while other dispensers can evaporate volatile substances containing scents into the surrounding environment. Such volatile substance dispensers generally include a housing into which a refill is inserted. The refill generally includes a container for containing volatile substances, and the volatile substances can include various components such as fragrance chemicals, water, solvents, surfactants, alcohols, and / or other components. Some refills include a wick that extends outside the refill to contact the volatile substances and carry the volatile substances outside the refill. Other refills include a gel-like substance that is released through a semi-permeable membrane. Regardless of the type of refill, the refill may be inserted into a volatile substance dispenser having a heater, a piezoelectric element, an aerosol actuating device, and / or any other diffusion element that can assist in the transmission of volatile substances.

[0004] However, many conventional dispensers do not dispense volatile substances in a uniform or precise manner. Furthermore, many dispensers do not provide visual feedback to the user regarding the amount or quantity of volatile substances released or dispensed by the dispenser. Thus, there is a need for a volatile substance dispenser that accurately dispenses volatile substances while providing the user with adjustable visual feedback. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first embodiment, a volatile substance dispenser includes a base housing a printed circuit board and a stand assembly coupled to the base via one or more fixing mechanisms. The stand assembly includes a platform, a stand extending from the platform, and a manifold extending from the stand. A refill is detachably coupled to the manifold and includes a core defining a core diameter DW. The manifold houses piezoelectric elements defining an array of apertures, the array defining an array diameter DA. The ratio of the core diameter to the array diameter (DW / DA) is greater than 1.0.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the base further includes a low-voltage port that can be electrically coupled to a low-voltage power supply. According to some embodiments, a plurality of LEDs are coupled to a printed circuit board. According to some embodiments, the plurality of LEDs are configured to display a first color and a second color. According to some embodiments, the manifold includes a chassis and a crown, the crown includes a cylindrical wall defining a channel, and a shroud (cover) defines an exhaust pipe that is coupled to a stand assembly and is coaxial with the channel. According to some embodiments, the piezoelectric element includes a piezoelectric plate, the piezoelectric plate includes a dome, and an array of openings is arranged overall along the dome. According to some embodiments, the array of openings is arranged in a circular array. According to some embodiments, the dispenser further includes a limiting switch arranged along a printed circuit board (PCB), the limiting switch preventing the piezoelectric element from operating if the shroud is not coupled to the stand assembly.

[0007] In another embodiment, the volatile substance dispenser includes a base including a printed circuit board and a stand assembly coupled to the base. The stand assembly includes a platform, a stand extending from the platform, and a manifold extending from the stand, the manifold including a circular piezoelectric element. The dispenser further includes a shroud coupled to the stand assembly to define an exhaust pipe, and a refill including a wick that is detachably coupled to the manifold. The manifold includes a cylindrical wall extending from the manifold. A spring is located within the manifold and is coaxial with the cylindrical wall. The upper end of the spring covers the cylindrical wall, and the lower end of the spring applies force to the piezoelectric element.

[0008] In some embodiments, the spring has a spring wire with a diameter between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 0.6 mm. In some embodiments, first and second tabs are suspended from the manifold to accommodate the refill. In some embodiments, the first and second tabs include first and second locking portions that extend inward and can engage with the rim of the refill. In some embodiments, the spring ensures that force is applied to the head of the refill when the refill is inserted into the manifold. In some embodiments, a piezoelectric element defines an array of openings, the array defines the diameter DA of the array, and the ratio of the core diameter DW to the array diameter DA (DW / DA) is approximately 1.1. In some embodiments, the manifold defines a head cavity, and a plurality of ribs extend from the manifold to the head cavity. In some embodiments, the manifold includes a chassis and a crown that snaps to the chassis. In some embodiments, a plurality of ribs extend along the sides of the crown that physically engage with the bottom surface of the shroud.

[0009] In another embodiment, the volatile substance dispenser includes a base housing a printed circuit board, which defines a side wall and includes at least one button and a low-voltage port protruding from the side wall. The dispenser further includes a stand assembly coupled to the base. The shroud has a frustoconical side wall, which includes a lower end extending from the upper end of the base, and defines an exhaust pipe. The refill includes a wick and is detachably coupled to the stand assembly. At least one button is positioned 180 degrees offset from the low-voltage port.

[0010] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes a spring in the manifold of the stand assembly, which acts to engage with the piezoelectric element to maintain continuous contact between the core and the piezoelectric element. The spring has a spring wire having a diameter between 0.5 mm and 0.6 mm. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric element defines an array of apertures having an array diameter DA. The core defines a core diameter DW, and the ratio of the core diameter to the array diameter (DA / DW) is greater than 1.0. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] These are front, top, and right-side isometric views of the volatile substance dispenser according to this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a front view of the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a rear view of the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a left side view of the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a top view of the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a bottom view of the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 7] Figure 1 shows front, top, and right-side isometric views of the internal stand and base of the volatile substance dispenser, with the shroud removed for clarity. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a right side view of the stand and base. [Figure 9] Figure 7 is a front view of the stand and base. [Figure 10] Figure 1 shows front, top, and right-side isometric views of the refill used with the volatile substance dispenser. [Figure 11] Figure 10 shows the refill with the cap removed, along with front, top, and right-side isometric views. [Figure 12] This is a side cross-sectional view of the refill along line 12-12 in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a volatile substance dispenser along line 13-13. [Figure 14] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a volatile substance dispenser along line 14-14. [Figure 15] Figure 1 shows front, top, and left side isometric views of various electronic components of the volatile substance dispenser, including the piezoelectric element. [Figure 16] This is a top view of a printed circuit board and some of the electronic components shown in Figure 15. [Figure 17] It is a front view, top view, and right isometric view of the piezoelectric element shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 18A] It is a cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric element along line 18-18 of FIG. 17. [Figure 18B] It is a schematic diagram of a circular array of openings formed along the piezoelectric element of FIG. 17. [Figure 18C] It is a schematic diagram of an elliptical array of openings formed along the piezoelectric element of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] It is a detailed view of the upper part of the internal stand in FIG. 14. [Figure 20] It is a detailed view of the upper part of the internal stand in FIG. 19 where the refill of FIG. 10 is inserted into the manifold of the stand. [Figure 21] It is a line graph showing various test results of springs having various thicknesses. [Figure 22] It is a line graph showing various test results comparing the spring force with respect to the piezoelectric element and the resulting fragrance output. [Figure 23] It is a front view, right side view, and top view of the stand and base of FIG. 7 showing the state where the refill of FIG. 10 is inserted into the head cavity of the stand and base of FIG. 7. [Figure 24] It is a front view, right side view, and top view of the stand and base of FIG. 23 showing the state where the refill is inserted into the engaging arrangement. [Figure 25] It is a front view, right side view, and top view of the stand and base of FIG. 23 showing the state where the shroud is engaged with the base.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] The present disclosure relates to volatile substance dispensers or diffusers and methods of releasing volatile substances therefrom. The present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms, but some specific embodiments are merely illustrative of the disclosed principles and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to the illustrated embodiments. Throughout this specification, the terms "about" and "substantially" refer to a range of ±5% of the value preceding each term.

[0013] The volatile substance dispenser or diffuser disclosed herein is a multisensory device that uses a piezoelectric engine to generate microdroplets of liquid fragrance and release them into the surrounding environment. The volatile substance dispenser is configured to house a replaceable fragrance oil bottle or refill. The dispenser is further configured to operate at low voltage and features a fragrance intensity selector that provides visual feedback to the user in the form of emitting light. The dispenser includes a shroud, a stand assembly, and a base that houses control buttons, a power connector, a light, and the piezoelectric engine. The shroud is primarily decorative and provides a light transmission shade. Before first use of the volatile substance dispenser, the shroud is removed to insert the fragrance oil bottle or refill into the stand assembly.

[0014] Furthermore, the volatile substance dispensers disclosed herein include improvements to the piezoelectric plate-to-wick interface, which have been found through testing to improve system performance and consistency. Specifically, testing revealed changes in sensitivity and consistency based on the downward contact force at the upper end of the piezoelectric plate and the wick. For example, a constant force provides a more consistent output and minimized fluctuations. Through testing, it was also confirmed that variations in force can result in fluctuations in output velocity as a result of changes in the load conditions of the piezoelectric plate. An excessively high downward load on the piezoelectric plate can dampen the amplitude of mechanical vibrations of the piezoelectric plate and minimize droplet output. Conversely, it was confirmed that an excessively light downward force restricts contact at the piezoelectric plate-to-wick interface, leading to an undamped high output. This is thought to be because contact between the piezoelectric plate and the wick may be completely lost in such situations.

[0015] Referring to the figures, Figures 1 to 7 show a volatile substance dispenser 50 embodying an aspect of the present disclosure. The dispenser 50 may be configured to house a refill 52 (see Figures 10 to 12) and to dispense volatile substances from the refill 52 in the form of water and / or fragrance oil. In particular, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dispenser 50 includes a shroud or cover 54 and a base 56. The shroud 54 defines a lower end 58 that is in contact with the upper end 60 of the base 56. The sidewall 62 of the shroud 54 extends upward from the lower end 58 toward the lip 64 to the upper end 66 of the shroud 54. The sidewall 62 of the shroud 54 defines a frustoconical lower portion 68 and a spline-shaped upper portion 70 when viewed in cross-section. A number of protrusions or design features 72 are provided along the outer surface 74 of the shroud 54. Any number of design feature portions 72 may be provided along the outer surface 74 of the shroud 54. The lower portion 68 and upper portion 70 of the shroud 54 intersect at a rounded shoulder portion 76, from which the upper portion 70 extends toward an exhaust pipe 78 centered on the central longitudinal axis 80 (Figure 2) of the dispenser 50. The exhaust pipe 78 is defined as a portion within the lip 64. In some embodiments, the shroud 54 and base 56 include polypropylene (PP), but the shroud 54 and base 56 may include a wide variety of polymer materials.

[0016] Referring further to Figures 1 and 2, the side wall 62 along the upper portion 70 extends from the shoulder portion 76 toward the lip 64. Referring to Figure 1, the flange 84 of the shroud 54 extends downward from the lip 64 toward the longitudinal axis toward the exhaust pipe 78. The angle at which the flange 84 extends downward from the lip 64 is best shown in the cross-sectional views of Figures 13 and 14. Referring particularly to Figure 2, the exhaust pipe 78 can define various diameters, but it is shown that the exhaust pipe 78 has a diameter D1 which is about 30% of the widest diameter D2 of the shroud 54 taken at the lower end 58. In some embodiments, the diameter D1 may be between about 5% and about 60% of the diameter D2, or between about 10% and about 45% of the diameter D2, or between about 15% and about 35% of the diameter D2. In some embodiments, the diameter D1 is about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the diameter D2.

[0017] Continuing to refer to Figures 1 and 2, the base 56 also defines side walls 90 extending downward from the upper end 60 of the base 56 toward the bottom wall 92. Multiple legs 94 extend downward from the bottom wall 92 and are provided to allow the dispenser 50 to be placed on a flat surface (not shown). The side walls 90 of the base 56 are generally curved and extend downward and inward from the upper end 60 toward the longitudinal axis 80. The side walls 90 of the base 56 can define a radius of curvature along a portion of the side walls 90. The first button 96, the second button 98, and the third button 100 also extend outward from the base 56 toward the longitudinal axis 80. The first button 96, the second button 98, and the third button 100 can be used for a variety of purposes and can have a variety of different functions, as will be described below.

[0018] Referring to Figure 2, a first button 96, a second button 98, and a third button 100 may be provided along the base 56 of the dispenser 50. The first button 96 may be a power button that allows the user to turn the dispenser 50 on / off. The second button 98 may be a fragrance intensity adjustment button that allows the user to cycle through the settings of the dispenser 50. For example, the user may switch between low, medium, and high settings. Multiple light indicators 102 may be visible via the base 56 adjacent to or below the second button 98. The light indicators 102 may provide the user with visual feedback regarding the intensity of the selected setting. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three light indicators 102. When a low setting is selected, one of the light indicators 102 may illuminate; when a medium setting is selected, two of the light indicators 102 may illuminate; and when a high setting is selected, all three light indicators 102 may illuminate. The third button 100 may be a light adjustment button that, when pressed by the user, cycles through various brightness and color settings.

[0019] The user can select light and / or color options based on their personal preference. Furthermore, in some embodiments, after being turned on via the first button 96, the dispenser 50 may operate for a predetermined time, for example, 8 hours, and then enter a sleep mode for a predetermined time, for example, 16 hours. The dispenser 50 can repeat this cycle every 24 hours unless manually turned off by the user via the first button 96. In some embodiments, the dispenser 50 includes an automatic shut-off function that deactivates the dispenser 50 after a certain period, for example, after 7 24-hour cycles, i.e., 1 week. In some embodiments, a limiting switch (not shown) may be provided along the base 56 so that the dispenser 50 is activated only when the shroud 54 engages with the base 56.

[0020] Referring here to Figure 3, the rear view of the dispenser 50 is shown. As shown in the rear view, the dispenser 50 further includes a low-voltage socket or port 104 for housing a low-voltage electrical connector for a low-voltage wire, such as a USB cord (not shown). In some embodiments, an electrical prong, cord, or other suitable electrical connector may be electrically coupled to the dispenser 50 so that power is supplied to the dispenser 50. Figure 4 shows the left side view of the dispenser 50. The buttons 96, 98, 100 and port 104 extend outward from the side wall 90 of the base 56, resulting in a break in the side wall 90. As a result, the side wall 90 of the base is rotationally symmetric, but the entire base 56 is symmetric with respect to a plane 13-13 (see Figure 5) that bisects the second button 98 and port 104. Additional features may be provided in or along the shroud 54 and / or the base 56. Furthermore, additional bodies defining one or more side walls (not shown) may be provided between, above, or below the base 56 and the shroud 54.

[0021] Referring here to Figure 5, a top view of the dispenser 50 is shown. The exhaust pipe 78, located centrally along the longitudinal axis 80, is shown in more detail. The piezoelectric assembly 110 is shown within the exhaust pipe 78, located centrally along the longitudinal axis 80. The annular piezoelectric element 112 can also be seen through the exhaust pipe 78, and the piezoelectric element 112 defines the circular rim of the piezoelectric assembly 110. The piezoelectric element 112 includes a central opening 114 from which the volatile liquid in the refill is released when the dispenser 50 is operated. When the dispenser 50 is operated, the flow of volatile material is released from the dispenser 50 to the outside through the exhaust pipe 78 of the shroud 54, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0022] Referring here to Figure 6, the bottom wall 92 of the base 56 is shown in more detail. Multiple legs 94 extend from the bottom wall 92. The multiple legs 94 are provided in a substantially circular shape with alternating circular and elongated legs. Alternative configurations or shapes of the legs 94 can be considered, and in some embodiments, additional structures may be included in addition to the legs 94. Also, in some embodiments, the dispenser 50 does not have the legs 94 or other types of stabilizing mechanisms to hold it in an upright configuration. As further shown in Figure 6, the second button 98 and port 104 are provided offset from each other by 180 degrees around the longitudinal axis 80. Also, the first button 96, the second button 98, and the third button 100 are also arranged at equal intervals from each other. Alternative configurations of port 104 and buttons 96, 98, 100 are also contemplated.

[0023] Referring to Figures 7–9, the stand assembly 116 of the dispenser 50 with the shroud 54 removed is shown for clarity. The stand assembly 116 includes a platform 118, a stand 120, a refill chassis 122, and a crown 124. The refill chassis 122 and the crown 124 define the manifold 126 that holds the refill 52 and the piezoelectric assembly 110. The platform 118 extends upward from the base 56 and is fitted into the side wall 90 of the base 56. A number of retaining protrusions 128 extend outward from the platform 118 and operate to engage with the shroud 54 when coupled with the base 56. The retaining protrusions 128 are a form of retaining mechanism that couples the shroud 54 with the base 56. Alternative retaining mechanisms may include elements that provide a snap fit, friction fit, or interference fit. The platform 118 is permanently coupled to the base 56 via a number of fasteners 130 (see Figure 13), the channels of which are covered by the legs 94 after assembly. The fasteners 130 are a form of fastening mechanism, additional examples of which include rivets, nails, bolts, or cables.

[0024] The platform 118 defines an outer cylindrical surface 132 that extends upward to a corner 134. An inclined surface 136 extends inward and downward from the corner 134 toward a well 138 defined within the central portion 140 of the platform 118. A slot 142 is defined within the inclined surface 136 along the front portion 144 of the platform 118. The slot 142 may be included to help insert the refill 52 into the operable configuration. The well 138 may include additional features to help hold the refill 52 or other components. For example, the well 138 of the platform 118 may be sized and shaped to hold the cap 146 (see Figure 10) of the refill 52 after the cap 146 has been removed from the refill 52.

[0025] Furthermore, referring to Figures 7-9, the stand assembly 116 includes a stand 120 extending upward from the platform 118 along the rear portion 148 of the platform 118. The stand assembly 116 includes a one-piece component extending upward from the platform 118 toward the manifold 126, which extends inward and aligns with the longitudinal axis 80. The elements of the stand assembly 116 may also include polypropylene or other types of polymer material. As described above, the manifold 126 includes a crown 124 and a refill or chassis 122 extending downward from the crown 124. The chassis 122 includes first and second tabs 150 that suspend downward to hold the annular rim 152 of the refill 52 (see Figure 11). As will be discussed in more detail below, the first and second tabs 150 may be formed to bend outward until the rim 152 of the refill engages with the tabs 150 when the refill 52 is inserted laterally into the chassis 122.

[0026] The refill 52 can be removed from the tab 150 by the user grasping the refill 52 and pulling the refill laterally downward. In some embodiments, the force required to insert and remove the refill 52 is small enough to simply allow lateral insertion and removal. However, in some embodiments, the refill 52 may be removed by compressing the tab 150 and deflecting the tab 150 outward, thereby releasing its engagement with the rim 152. In some embodiments, the refill 52 may be released from the manifold 126 by rotating the refill so that the threads 154 (see Figure 11) rotate and translate downward and away from the crown 124. An alternative removal mechanism, such as one or more buttons (not shown) that can be pressed to release the refill 52 from the chassis 122, may be implemented.

[0027] Continuing to refer to Figures 7-9, the crown 124 extends upward from the chassis 122 and defines a substantially frustoconical side surface 156 terminating at the top surface 158. Multiple ribs 160 are arranged radially along the side surface 156, which may be formed to facilitate physical coupling with the bottom surface 162 of the shroud 54 (see Figure 13). The ribs 160 are spaced apart about the longitudinal axis 80. The cylindrical wall 164 extends upward from the top surface 158 of the crown 124 and has a center coaxial with the longitudinal axis 80. The cylindrical wall 164 is also coaxial with the exhaust pipe 78 defined by the shroud 54. The cylindrical wall 164 is aligned with the second button 98 and the port 104, i.e., the plane 13-13 (see Figure 5) extends through the cylindrical wall 164, the second button 98, and the port 104. The shroud 54 generally includes radial symmetry regardless of the design feature 72, however the platform 118, stand 120, and manifold 126 may be characterized by symmetry with respect to a plane 13-13 that intersects the second button 98 and extends through the longitudinal axis 80.

[0028] Referring here to Figures 10 to 12, the refill 52 is shown in more detail. The refill 52 includes a cap 146 and a container 170 defining a body 172, a shoulder 174, and a head 176. The body 172 includes a cylindrical outer wall 178 extending upward from its bottom wall 180 to the shoulder 174. The head 176 extends upward from the shoulder 174 and defines an edge 182. The head 176 is coupled to the body 172 at the shoulder 174. The refill 52 further includes a cap 146 which is screw-connected to a thread 154 (see Figures 11 and 12) located along the neck 184 of the refill 52. Referring to Figure 12, the container 170 holds a volatile substance inside and is configured to be held within the dispenser 50. The core holder or plug 186 is positioned within the neck portion 184 to support the core 188, with a first end of the core 188 in contact with the volatile substance and a second end of the core 188 extending outside the container 170 through the neck portion 184. In exemplary embodiments, the core 188 may be formed in the form of fibers bundled into a rod shape and extruded.

[0029] Continuing to refer to Figure 12, the core 188 may be formed of rope or one or more cotton cords. The core 188 includes an upper core 192 and a lower core 194. The upper core 192 has different properties from the lower core 194, although in some embodiments the upper core 192 and the lower core 194 have identical properties. In preferred embodiments, the upper core 192 is flexible and / or fibrous, while the lower core 194 may be sintered or more rigid than the upper core 192. The upper core 192 may have properties that allow the upper core 192 to deform within the piezoelectric assembly 110. The lower core 194 includes a lower end 196 positioned adjacent to and spaced apart from the bottom wall 180 and has an upper end 198 that engages with the upper core 192. The upper core 192 is contained within a core cavity 200 located at the upper end 198 of the lower core 194. The upper curved or inclined surface 202 surrounds the inner circumference of the core cavity 200. The upper inclined surface 202 can assist in aligning the upper core 192 within the core cavity 200 during the assembly of the refill 52. The upper core 192 is held tightly by the plug 186 and has a distal end 204 that extends upward outside the container 170. The core 188 may be formed of any suitable shape or material, but the upper core 192 is preferably more flexible than the lower core 194. The plug 186 is held within the neck 184 of the refill 52 by a press fit, friction fit, or other suitable means by which the plug 186 is held in place within the neck 184.

[0030] Continuing to refer to Figure 12, the shoulder portion 174 of the container 170 extends upward to the rim 182 and neck portion 184 of the head portion 176. The threads 154 surround the neck portion 184 and extend outward from there. The annular rim 152 also surrounds the rim 182 and may be used to engage the refill 52 with the dependent tab 150 of the chassis 122. The bottom wall 180 of the refill 52 is generally concave and extends upward toward the wick 188. An air hole 208 (see Figure 11) is provided within the plug 186 to allow air to enter the cavity 210 of the refill 52 when liquid (not shown) is released from the refill 52 into the ambient atmosphere. Although the refill 52 is shown in detail, it is intended that any type of refill may be used with the variations of the dispenser described herein. For example, a refill with a flexible container may be available. Furthermore, the transmission systems (e.g., cores) may differ from each other, and / or the size and / or shape of the container 170 may differ from those described herein.

[0031] The volatile substances placed in container 170 may be any type of volatile substance configured to be released into the surroundings. For example, substances in container 170 include cleaning agents, insecticides, insect repellents, insect attractants, disinfectants, mold or mold inhibitors, fragrances, air purifiers, aromatherapy fragrances, deodorizers, positively aromatic volatile substances, fragrances, deodorizers, and combinations thereof. Additives, such as fragrances and / or preservatives, may be included in the volatile substances. In fact, any fluid may be provided in container 170.

[0032] Referring here to the cross-sectional views in Figures 13 and 14, the internal components of the dispenser 50 are shown in more detail. Referring to Figure 13, it is shown that the base 56 is connected to the stand assembly 116 via one of the fasteners 130. The fastener 130 is located within a fastener channel 214, which is obscured from view by one of the legs 94, after the stand assembly 116 has been secured. In this embodiment, there are three fasteners 130 securing the base 56 to the stand assembly 116, but only a single fastener 130 is shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 13.

[0033] The printed circuit board (PCB) 216 is shown midway between the base 56 and the stand assembly 116. Multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 218 ​​are shown electrically coupled to the PCB 216, and the multiple LEDs 218 are arranged on top of the PCB 216. In some embodiments, the multiple LEDs 218 are arranged above and below the PCB 216. In some embodiments, some of the multiple LEDs 218 are arranged adjacent to the front, rear, and sides of the dispenser 50. As described above, the LEDs 218 are intended to be used to emit light through the shroud 54 depending on the selected setting and may vary based on user preference. The LEDs 218 may alternatively be placed anywhere in the dispenser 50. One or more LEDs 218 may indicate that the dispenser 50 is on or off, provide a warning, and / or provide the user with any other suitable indicator. As described above, the color and / or brightness of the LEDs 218 may be adjusted according to the desired brightness and / or color of the light emitted through the shroud 54.

[0034] For example, the first LED218 may emit a first color when the dispenser 50 is set to "low," the second LED218 may emit a second color when the dispenser is set to "medium," and the third LED218 may emit a third color when the dispenser is set to "high." The third LED218 may emit light on its own at the high setting, and additional light may be added so that the first, second, and third LED218s all emit light at the high setting, and these may have the same or different colors and / or intensities. Alternatively, the first LED218 may emit light when the dispenser 50 is connected but not turned on, and the second LED218 may emit light when the dispenser 50 is connected and turned on. The dispenser 50 includes one or more separate openings in the shroud 54 or the translucent portion of the shroud 54 to allow light irradiated by each LED218 to pass through.

[0035] Continuing to refer to Figure 13, it is shown that the second button 98 protrudes through the base 56. The second button 98 is shown and referred to below, but the first button 96 and the third button 100 have the same settings and functions. The second button 98 is shown adjacent to a switch 220, which is actuated to adjust between various settings of the dispenser 50. The switch 220 may be a push button that, when pressed, can initiate functions such as turning the dispenser 50 on or off, adjusting the amount of fragrance released, or adjusting the color or brightness of one or more LEDs 218. The switch 220 shown in Figure 13 is one of several switches 220 shown in Figure 16. The switches 220 may be the same switch or different switches.

[0036] Although dispenser 50 is disclosed as having a specific switch, those skilled in the art will understand that the dispenser may include any number of switches and / or any suitable type of switch, such as timing switches, on / off switches, setting switches, switches for controlling other components in the assembly, such as heaters or fans, and / or any other suitable switches.

[0037] Continuing to refer to Figure 13, the stand assembly 116 is shown in cross-section, with its components shown. A wire tube 222 is shown extending from terminals 224 positioned along the PCB 216 through the stand 120 into the chassis 122. First and second wires 226, electrically connected to terminals 224 and a piezoelectric assembly 110 located within the crown 124 of the stand assembly 116, are located within the wire tube 222. The stand 120 is fixedly coupled to the chassis 122, which is fixedly coupled to the crown 124. The stand 120, chassis 122, and crown 124 are all separate components and can be coupled to each other by snap-fit, friction-fit, interlock, adhesive, or other bonding methods. As described above, the stand 120, chassis 122, and crown 124 may include polypropylene or other polymer materials. The wires 226 are electrically coupled to the piezoelectric assembly 110 located within the crown 124. The wire tube guide 228 is further positioned within the stand 120 and is configured to hold the wire tube 222 within the stand 120. The wire tube guide 228 may include a horizontal portion with a cutout for holding the wire tube 222 in a static configuration. As further shown in Figure 13, the piezoelectric assembly 110 is centrally positioned along the longitudinal axis 80. The stand 120, chassis 122, platform 118, base 56, and shroud 54 are shown as containing polymer, but other types of materials are intended.

[0038] Continuing to refer to Figure 13, multiple refill-holding ribs 230 are positioned along the chassis 122 until the tab 150 is secured in place with the rim 152 along the refill 52, and can be used to guide the neck 184 of the refill 52 upward to its position within the chassis 122. A spring 232 used to apply force to the piezoelectric assembly 110 is shown. The spring 232 applies a constant force to the piezoelectric assembly 110, holding it in a static configuration until the refill 52 is placed within the chassis 122 by the user. When the user inserts the refill 52 into the dispenser 50, the piezoelectric assembly 110 moves upward and the spring 232 is compressed. The spring 232 defines a spring wire 234 having a wire diameter, which will be described in more detail below. One of the tabs 150 is also shown, and the tab 150 includes an inwardly-depending catch 236 (see Figure 20) configured to move outward away from the longitudinal axis 80 when the refill 52 is inserted into the chassis 122, and to snap back inward to engage with the rim 152 when the refill 52 is secured in place inside the chassis 122. The piezoelectric assembly 110 is positioned above the refill cavity and is configured to accommodate the distal end 204 of the wick 188 when the refill 52 is inserted into the chassis 122.

[0039] Referring now to Figure 14, another cross-sectional view of the dispenser 50 is shown. The wire guide 228 and wire 226 are shown in cross-section, and multiple LEDs 218 are shown positioned on the PCB 216. Furthermore, an additional refill guide rib 230 is shown, which partially defines the profile of the head 176 of the refill 52 and is configured to snugly accommodate the refill 52 within the chassis 122. The spring 232 includes an upper end 242 and a lower end 244. The piezoelectric assembly 110 is also shown in Figure 14 and is positioned below the lower end 244 of the spring 232. The lower end of the spring 232 may be fixedly attached to the piezoelectric assembly 110, or it may be separated and positioned to be in physical contact with each other.

[0040] The lower end 244 of the spring 232 is formed to house the piezoelectric assembly 110, which is then molded to house the upper core 194 when the refill 52 engages with it. The upper end 242 of the spring 232 covers and secures the cylindrical wall 164 of the crown 124. The chassis 122 includes an external ledge 250 that engages with an internal ledge 252 of the crown 124. The chassis 122 and the crown 124 snap-fit ​​together, but the chassis 122 and the crown 124 may be joined together in other ways, such as by adhesive, fasteners, press-fits or friction fits. A fastener wall 254 defining two of the fastener channels 214 is also clearly shown in Figure 14, and the fastener wall 254 extends between the bottom wall 92 of the base 56 and the platform 118.

[0041] Referring to Figure 15, the printed circuit board (PCB) 216, wire guide 222, and piezoelectric assembly 110 are shown in isometric view. The controller 246 and timer 248 are schematically shown along the PCB 216. The controller 246 may be a microcontroller and may be located within or along the PCB 216. The controller 246 may also be a separate component electrically coupled to the PCB 216. The timer 248 may be located within or along the PCB 216, or may be a separate component. The timer 248 is used to measure time when the dispenser 50 is activated, while the controller 246 is operable to receive commands from buttons 96, 98, 100 to activate the piezoelectric assembly 110, timer 248, and / or LED 218. As described above, the PCB 216 is located between the base 56 and platform 118, which have been removed in Figure 15 for clarity.

[0042] LED 218, buttons 96, 98, 100, switch 220, and wire 226 are clearly shown in Figure 15. A limiting switch 256 is further shown, which provides a signal to controller 246 that the shroud 54 is secured to the base 56 and prevents the dispenser 50 from operating until the shroud 54 is secured to the base 56. In some embodiments, the limiting switch 256 may be omitted. Terminal 224 is further shown to be located along PCB 216. Other electrical components such as resistors, transistors, capacitors, processors, controllers, and relays may be further located along or inside PCB 216. In some embodiments, multiple batteries (not shown) may be enclosed in a casing (not shown) and electrically connected to PCB 216 to provide power to PCB 216 and other electrical components of the dispenser 50.

[0043] Referring to Figure 16, a top view of PCB 216 is shown with the wire guide 222 and piezoelectric assembly 110 removed for clarity. Switch 220 is shown in more detail, and is shown to be located adjacent to the first button 96, the second button 98, and the third button 100, respectively. Furthermore, three sets of three LEDs 218 are shown in detail, each forming a triangular configuration along PCB 216. Different sets of LEDs 218 may emit light of different colors or the same color. Also, the LEDs 218 may have the same or different intensities to each other. Port 104 is further shown along PCB 216 at the opposite end from the second button 98. PCB 216 generally has a circular profile, but PCB 216 may have any profile that allows it to be securely held within the profile of the shroud 54.

[0044] Referring here to Figure 17, the piezoelectric assembly 110 is shown in detail along with the wire 226 and the upper end of the wire guide 222. The piezoelectric assembly 110 includes a piezoelectric plate 260 and a piezoelectric element 112 surrounding the upper surface 262. The piezoelectric plate may include stainless steel, which may be SUS316L steel. When the piezoelectric element 112 is energized, the piezoelectric plate 260 expands and contracts, thereby releasing volatile substances into the surrounding environment. The piezoelectric plate 260 further includes a central dome 264, which is generally concave and circular in shape. The piezoelectric assembly 110 includes an opening 266, at least a portion of which extends along the central dome 264. In exemplary embodiments, the opening 266 of the piezoelectric plate 260 includes a plurality of orifices 268 having a diameter between about 3 microns and about 9 microns, or between about 5 and 7 microns, or about 6.5 microns, or at least one width dimension. In other exemplary embodiments, the piezoelectric plate 260 includes a plurality of orifices having a diameter between about 3 microns and about 5 microns.

[0045] Referring to Figures 17–18A, the piezoelectric assembly 110 is positioned adjacent to the core 188 during use. In exemplary embodiments, the piezoelectric element 112 may be formed in a ring and may be made of ceramic. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the piezoelectric assembly 110 may be formed in any suitable shape and / or may be made of any suitable material having piezoelectric properties and changing dimensionally in response to an applied electric field. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, lead zirconate titanate (PZT) or lead metaniobate (PN). Although specific piezoelectric elements have been described, any actuator, e.g., a piezoelectric vibrating mesh actuator, a piezoelectric standing wave actuator, a piezoelectric vibrating needle, or any suitable piezoelectric actuator may be used.

[0046] Referring to Figures 18B and 18C, multiple orifices 268 along the piezoelectric plate 260 may define an essentially circular array 269. The array of orifices 269 may be defined along the entire dome 264, as shown in Figure 266. Alternatively, the array 269 may be located along only a portion of the dome 264, as shown in Figure 18C, or it may extend beyond the dome 264. The array 269 may have alternative configurations and may be triangular, quadrilateral, elliptical, or polygonal in shape. Also, the orifices 268 may be circular (Figure 18B), rectangular or square (Figure 18C), or other shapes. Note that the orifices 268 schematically shown in Figures 18B and 18C do not represent the actual size or number of orifices 268, but rather the orifices 268 may define the dimensions described herein.

[0047] In some embodiments, the array 269 has a diameter or at least one width dimension between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 10.0 mm, or between approximately 1.0 mm and approximately 9.0 mm, or between approximately 2.0 mm and approximately 8.0 mm, or between approximately 3.0 mm and approximately 7.0 mm. Referring again to Figure 12, the core diameter DW and the array diameter DA (see Figure 18) can define a DA / DW ratio between approximately 1.0 and approximately 3.0. In some embodiments, the ratio is approximately 1.1. In some embodiments, the core diameter DW is between approximately 3.0 mm and approximately 5.5 mm, or between approximately 3.5 mm and approximately 4.0 mm, or approximately 3.8 mm. In some embodiments, the array diameter DA is between approximately 3.0 mm and approximately 6.0 mm, or between approximately 4.0 mm and approximately 5.0 mm, or approximately 4.5 mm. The ratio of the wick diameters can affect the precision and consistency of the plume of volatile substances released by the dispenser 50. For example, a DW / DA ratio of about 1.1 has been found to produce a reproducible and precise release of volatile substances from the dispenser 50. In some embodiments, the array 269 may include about 100 to about 400 orifices, or about 150 to about 350 orifices, or about 316 orifices, or about 200 orifices.

[0048] Referring to Figures 19 and 20, detailed views of the upper end of the stand assembly 116 are shown with and without a refill inserted, respectively. Referring to Figure 19, the piezoelectric assembly 110 is shown in more detail. In some embodiments, a soft material such as loading foam may be provided along the bottom surface of the piezoelectric assembly 110. Additional material may be provided along the bottom surface of the piezoelectric assembly 110 to help with the accuracy or consistency of the plume of volatile substances generated when the dispenser 50 is in operation. Additional material may also be provided to enhance or reduce damping effects that may be caused by the spring 232, wick 188, and / or piezoelectric plate 260.

[0049] The upper end 242 of the spring 232 is shown to cover the cylindrical wall 164, and the lower end 244 of the spring 232 is shown to be in contact with the piezoelectric assembly 110 and applying force. The chassis 122 is integral with the chassis 122 and further includes a piezoelectric platform 270 that defines the surface on which the piezoelectric assembly 110 is fixed. The piezoelectric platform 270 holds the piezoelectric assembly 110 in place and prevents the piezoelectric assembly 110 from being displaced beyond the piezoelectric platform 270. The piezoelectric platform 270 is generally circular and includes an opening 272 in its center, so that the distal end 204 of the core 188 physically contacts and engages with the piezoelectric assembly 110 when it is inserted into the chassis 122. The spring 232 is positioned to provide an opposing force to the refill 52 when the refill 52 is inserted into the chassis 122. As described below, when the core 188 engages with the piezoelectric assembly 110, the spring 232 is compressed, and the piezoelectric assembly 110 is displaced by a distance X above the piezoelectric platform 270. This displacement will be explained in detail below.

[0050] Referring to Figure 20, the refill 52 is shown inserted into the manifold 126. Because the refill 52 is inserted into the refill cavity 240 of the chassis 122, the spring 232 is compressed, and therefore the spring 232 is shown in a compressed configuration. Further referring to Figure 20, the rim 152 of the refill 52 is also shown engaged with the locking portion 236 of the tab 150, and the distal end 204 of the wick 188 is shown in physical contact with the lower surface 276 of the piezoelectric assembly 110 (see Figure 18). The compression of the spring 232 shown in Figure 20 is a result of the size and type of spring used in the dispenser 50, which may be selected based on various factors, as will be discussed below. When the refill 52 is inserted into the manifold 126, no other elements of the manifold 126 are moved or operated, except that the spring 232 is compressed and the piezoelectric assembly 110 is translated upward due to the force applied by the core 232, and the locking portion 236 of the tab 150 engages with the rim 152 of the refill 52. Figure 20 shows the refill 52 in operation, and by providing an electrical pulse to the piezoelectric assembly 110, the dispenser 50 can be activated to release a volatile substance.

[0051] In exemplary embodiments, as described above, an absorbent material (not shown) may be included between the core 188 and the piezoelectric assembly 110. The absorbent material may be a felt pad and / or cotton wool. In other exemplary embodiments, the absorbent material may be formed from a velour pad, cotton cloth, chenille yarn, chenille fabric, polyester cloth, paper towel, synthetic cloth, synthetic nonwoven material, cotton ball or cotton swab, a combination thereof, or other suitable absorbent material. The absorbent material may also be a component of the nebulizer assembly, attached to or communicating with the core 188 of the refill 52.

[0052] During operation, the piezoelectric assembly 110 operates continuously or intermittently to release volatile substances. More specifically, an oscillating electric field is applied to the piezoelectric element 112, causing the piezoelectric plate 260 to expand and contract radially. Due to the expansion and contraction, the piezoelectric plate 260 vibrates axially (along the longitudinal axis of the dispenser 50), forcing the volatile substances held within the orifice of the piezoelectric plate 260 to leave the piezoelectric assembly 110 through the channel 280 defined by the cylindrical wall 164 and the exhaust pipe 78 of the shroud 54.

[0053] Referring to the graph in Figure 21, three separate groups of springs were tested as springs 232 of the dispenser 50 described above, and the results are shown in the figure. The three groups of springs include a spring wire 226 with a diameter of 0.50 mm, a spring with a diameter of 0.55 mm, and a spring with a diameter of 0.60 mm. The graph shows the spring force measured in Newtons (N) against the spring compression distance measured in millimeters (mm). The spring compression distance is the distance X described above, i.e., the distance between the piezoelectric platform 270 and the piezoelectric assembly 110 after the core 188 has translated the piezoelectric assembly 110 upward. The graph further shows the minimum, average, and maximum values ​​for each of the three springs. In the test, the springs were repeatedly compressed from 1.0 mm to 8.0 mm while recording the resulting force output (N). Three different spring diameters, 0.50 mm, 0.55 mm, and 0.60 mm, yielded different results from each other, suggesting that each of the three springs exhibited a nonlinear increase in the measured spring force at a compression of 7.0 mm.

[0054] In some embodiments, the spring 232 may have an uncompressed height between about 7 mm and about 20 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 17 mm, or about 13 mm. Also in some embodiments, the spring 232 may have between about 2 turns and about 10 turns, or between about 3 turns and about 7 turns, or about 4.5 turns. In a preferred embodiment, the spring 232 has a spring wire diameter of about 0.6 mm, an uncompressed height of about 13 mm, and includes about 4.5 turns.

[0055] Referring to the graph in Figure 22, the spring force measured in Newtons (N) is shown for the fragrance output measured in milligrams per cycle (mg / cycle). The graph shows the results of the test shown in Figure 21. The test results suggest that the dispenser 50 releases a larger amount of fragrance when the spring induces a lower compressive force on the piezoelectric plate 260. The fragrance release pattern can be simplified into a first linear region 284 and a second linear region 286. The first region 284 occurs between 0.6N and 0.9N and has a slope of approximately -25 mg / cycle / N. The second region 286 occurs between 0.9N and 2.0N and has a slope of approximately -8.33 mg / cycle / N. The results suggest that the fragrance device releases a larger amount of fragrance when subjected to a lower spring force. Consequently, a specific spring for use in the dispenser 50 can be identified depending on the desired output range. Therefore, if the desired output of the fragrance is to be achieved within the first linear region 284, a 0.50 mm or 0.55 mm spring is likely to be used, and if the desired output of the fragrance is to be achieved within the second linear region 286, a 0.60 mm spring is likely to be used.

[0056] Based on testing, having an upper core 192 made of a more flexible material reduces the displacement of the spring 232 that applies force to the piezoelectric assembly 110, resulting in more predictable release of volatile substances. When operating within a linear region, the variability of the released plume is predictable, but when the force displacement of the spring 232 is nonlinear, the variability of the release velocity increases significantly. It was also confirmed that the amount of force applied to the piezoelectric assembly 110 by the spring 232 is directly related to the release velocity of volatile substances. The lower the force, the more the piezoelectric assembly 110 can bounce within the channel 280.

[0057] Referring to Figures 23 to 25, a method for inserting the refill 52 into the stand assembly 116 and assembling the dispenser 50 is shown. Referring to Figure 23, the refill 52 is positioned so that its head 176 is inserted into the manifold 126. The bottom wall 180 of the refill 52 slides through the slot 142 of the platform 118, allowing the head 176 to be inserted into the manifold 126 as the refill 52 moves upward. Referring to Figure 24, it can be characterized that the refill 52 is secured within the manifold 126 when the rim 152 of the refill 52 engages with the locking portion 236 of the tab 150. The cap 146 of the refill 52 may be inserted into the well 138 to firmly hold the cap 146 while the refill 52 is in use. Referring to Figure 25, the shroud 54 is aligned with the base 56 and rotated until a projection 128 relating to the base 56 engages with a feature along the bottom surface 162 of the shroud 54. The shroud 54 can alternatively engage with the base 56 in another manner. Once the shroud 54 is coupled with the base 56, one end of a power cord (not shown) is connected to the port 104 and the other end is connected to a power source such as a power adapter, laptop, or other low-voltage output terminal.

[0058] Continuing to refer to Figure 25, the first button 96 is the power button, the second button 98 is the fragrance intensity button, and the third button 100 is the light button. The first button 96 may be pressed once to turn on the dispenser. When the first button 96 is pressed, the dispenser 50 begins to release the fragrance. The fragrance intensity and / or light setting can be customized by pressing the second button 98 and the third button 100. While the dispenser 50 is operating, it is preferable that the wick 188 is in contact with the piezoelectric plate 260. If the wick 188 is not in contact with the piezoelectric plate 260, the dispenser 50 may not function properly and / or may not release any volatile substances at all, especially with aqueous aromatic volatile substances.

[0059] Any embodiment described herein may be modified to include any structure or methodology disclosed in connection with other embodiments. Furthermore, while directional terms such as front, rear, top, bottom, vertical, and horizontal may be used throughout this specification, it should be understood that such terms are not limiting and are used herein to convey the relative orientation of elements that are different from one another. [Industrial applicability]

[0060] Dispensers are typically used to release various volatile substances stored in refill containers, such as air fresheners, deodorizers, insecticides, disinfectants, and perfumes. Piezoelectric engines volatilize the volatile substances and release them into the surrounding environment, allowing for the release of contents, for example, continuously or according to a predetermined schedule, without human intervention.

Claims

1. A volatile substance dispenser, A base for housing a printed circuit board, A stand assembly comprising a platform, a stand extending from the platform, and a manifold extending from the stand, coupled to the base via one or more fixing mechanisms, A refill that is detachably connected to the manifold and includes a core that defines the core diameter DW, Includes, The manifold includes a piezoelectric assembly comprising a piezoelectric element and a piezoelectric plate defining an array of apertures, The manifold defines a piezoelectric platform for holding the piezoelectric plate and has an upper surface configured to contact the lower surface of the piezoelectric plate. The piezoelectric platform has a circular outer edge, The piezoelectric platform is configured to prevent the piezoelectric plate from being displaced further than the piezoelectric platform in the axial direction. The outermost opening of the array of openings defines the diameter DA of the array. The ratio of the diameter of the core to the diameter of the array (DW / DA) is greater than 1.

0. Volatile substance dispenser.

2. The volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the base further includes a port that can be electrically coupled to a power source.

3. A volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of light-emitting diodes are coupled to the printed circuit board.

4. The volatile substance dispenser according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of light-emitting diodes are configured to display a first color and a second color.

5. The manifold includes a chassis and a crown, the crown includes a cylindrical wall defining a channel, A shroud coupled to the stand assembly, the shroud defining an exhaust pipe coaxial with the channel, A volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1.

6. The volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric plate includes a dome, and the array of openings is arranged overall along the dome.

7. The volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the array of openings is arranged in a circular array.

8. The system further includes limiting switches arranged along the printed circuit board, The volatile substance dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the limiting switch prevents the operation of the piezoelectric element when the shroud is not coupled to the stand assembly.

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