Scent diffusers and systems therefor

Abstract

This application discloses a diffuser comprising a base liquid tank and a receiving seat for an essential oil container. A base liquid valve dispenses base liquid from the base liquid tank into a mixing chamber, and an essential oil valve dispenses essential oil from an essential oil container into the mixing chamber. An atomizer of the diffuser atomizes the liquid in the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser. In one aspect, the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve dispense liquid while the atomizer is operating. In another aspect, the atomizer atomizes the liquid in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity acting on the diffuser when it is in the operating orientation. In yet another aspect, the atomizer includes a mesh element at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element for vibrating the mesh element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application discloses a diffuser comprising a base liquid tank and a receiving seat for an essential oil container. A base liquid valve dispenses base liquid from the base liquid tank into a mixing chamber, and an essential oil valve dispenses essential oil from an essential oil container into the mixing chamber. An atomizer of the diffuser atomizes the liquid in the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser. In one aspect, the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve dispense liquid while the atomizer is operating. In another aspect, the atomizer atomizes the liquid in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity acting on the diffuser when it is in the operating orientation. In yet another aspect, the atomizer includes a mesh element at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element for vibrating the mesh element. Prior Technology

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 575,491, entitled “Scent Diffusors and Refill Systems,” filed April 5, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Fragrance diffusers, such as ultrasonic essential oil diffusers, typically require the user to add a few drops of aromatic oil, such as essential oil, to the reservoir. After the diffuser is activated, a small piezoelectric disc vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency, disturbing the essential oil floating on the surface of the liquid, thus causing the diffuser to emit a fragrant mist.

[0004] However, in many cases, essential oils evaporate from the liquid surface after the initial period of use. Therefore, while the initial aroma may be strong, it can become very faint after a while. Furthermore, traditional ultrasonic essential oil diffusers are less effective in confined spaces (such as in a shower) for short periods or when the user is close to the diffuser, as they are typically designed to operate for longer periods (e.g., several hours) in larger spaces.

[0005] Users of traditional essential oil diffusers may struggle with how much essential oil to add and when to add it to achieve the desired scent intensity without wasting oil or diluting the solution too much. This is especially true after several hours of use or during intermittent use. Many aroma diffusers require users to add a certain amount of essential oil (e.g., a few drops) to the water. Because the mixing and diffusion of essential oils is not precise enough, users cannot effectively control the scent intensity. Besides the inconvenience of having to add essential oil drops to the reservoir, users may also accidentally add the wrong amount or spill either essential oil or water.

[0006] In some traditional systems, essential oils are premixed with solvents before atomization to control the liquid concentration or prevent damage to the ultrasonic components. However, this method compromises the natural properties and therapeutic benefits of the essential oils, often resulting in a less refreshing and less intense diffused fragrance.

[0007] Other types of diffusers, such as those that use fans to diffuse scents, also have similar problems to the traditional ultrasonic essential oil diffusers mentioned above. Furthermore, the fan noise creates a constant disturbance, which is not conducive to relaxation, especially in smaller spaces or when the user is close to the diffuser.

[0008] Furthermore, traditional diffusers lack user interaction features. Current diffusers do not integrate information on user scent preferences, personalized recommendations for different scents, or connectivity to health apps and / or scent refill ordering options. Current diffusers also lack interactive features for lighting, sound effects, and user interaction for health, wellness, or mindfulness applications.

[0009] Traditional essential oil diffusers require users to spend time and effort cleaning them, such as cleaning the reservoir, clogged pipes, or hard-to-clean oil guides. The amount of cleaning needed also varies depending on the user's water quality and / or the diffuser's usage, and users are unaware of specific cleaning recommendations based on their own usage and / or water quality. Failure to clean the diffuser or its components will eventually damage the diffuser and reduce its efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention is a diffuser comprising: a base liquid tank configured to contain a base liquid; a receiving seat configured to receive an essential oil container; a mixing chamber; an atomizer configured to atomize liquid from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser; a base liquid valve configured to dispense the base liquid from the base liquid tank into the mixing chamber while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber; and an essential oil valve configured to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber.

[0011] A diffuser includes: a base liquid tank; a receiving seat configured to receive an essential oil container; a mixing chamber; a base liquid valve configured to dispense base liquid from the base liquid tank into the mixing chamber; an essential oil valve configured to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber; and an atomizer configured to atomize the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the mixing chamber toward the outside of the diffuser in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the direction of gravity being the direction in which gravity acts on the diffuser when the diffuser is in an operating orientation.

[0012] A diffuser includes: a base liquid container; a receiving seat configured to receive an essential oil container; a mixing chamber; a base liquid valve configured to dispense base liquid from the base liquid container into the mixing chamber; an essential oil valve configured to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber; and an atomizer configured to atomize a mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh member at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate the mesh member. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0013] The features and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings and related descriptions are provided to illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Figure 1 shows a diffuser in a shower room according to one or more embodiments. Figure 2 is a close-up view of the diffuser of Figure 1 according to one or more embodiments. Figure 3 is a front view of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 4 is a rear view of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 6 is a side view of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 7 is a front view of a diffuser with the panel removed according to one or more embodiments. Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the atomizer of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the base liquid tank of a diffuser according to one or more embodiments. Figure 10 is a front view of a basic liquid tank including an atomizer according to one or more embodiments. Figure 11 is a side view of a basic liquid tank according to one or more embodiments. Figure 12 is a transparent top perspective view of a base liquid tank including a base liquid connector and a receiving seat for receiving essential oil containers, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 13 is a close-up view of a container for an essential oil container according to one or more embodiments. Figure 14 is a transparent close-up view of the receiver according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal components of the receiver and its essential oil valve. Figure 15 is a front view of an actuator according to one or more embodiments. Figure 16 is a perspective view of an actuator according to one or more embodiments. Figure 17 is a transparent front view of a base liquid tank according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal components of the base liquid tank, including actuators for contact oil valves and base liquid valves. Figure 18 illustrates the actuation of the actuator of Figure 17 according to one or more embodiments between the contact oil valve and the contact base liquid valve. Figure 19 is a transparent bottom perspective view of a basic liquid tank according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal arrangement of actuator and motor components. Figure 20 is a separate perspective view of the actuator and motor assembly shown in Figure 19. Figure 21 illustrates a network environment including a diffuser, a remote device, and a server according to one or more embodiments. Figure 22 illustrates an example device status graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 23 illustrates an example fragrance information graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 24 illustrates a sample session details graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 25 illustrates an example session history graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 26 illustrates an example device setup graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 27 illustrates an example user settings graphical user interface displayed on a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 28 is a flowchart of a controlled mixing process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 29 is a flowchart of the controlled dosage calculation process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 30 is a flowchart of an operation cycle process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 31 is a flowchart of an operation cycle process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 32 is a flowchart of a diffusion distance control process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 33 is a flowchart of a valve control process in progress according to one or more embodiments. Figure 34 is a flowchart of a rinsing process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 35 is a flowchart of the process for determining the remaining liquid according to one or more embodiments. Figure 36 is a flowchart of a diffuser control process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 37 is a flowchart of a process for indicating the state or condition of a diffuser using one or more lights according to one or more embodiments. Figure 38 is a flowchart of an essential oil container information collection process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 39 is a flowchart of a process for controlling a diffuser via a remote device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 40 is a flowchart of an essential oil recommendation process according to one or more embodiments. Figure 41 is a flowchart of a user setting up a communication process according to one or more embodiments. Implementation

[0014] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed embodiments to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various embodiments disclosed may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments. Example diffuser

[0015] Figure 1 depicts a diffuser 100 in a shower room 10 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 1, the diffuser 100 diffuses aromatic mist or steam into the shower room 10 adjacent to the user 12. The user 12 quickly perceives the aromatic mist or steam, and the aromatic mist or steam rapidly diffuses throughout the shower room 10.

[0016] The diffuser 100 in the example of Figure 1 is waterproof, and its electronics are sealed to isolate it from water, liquids, and vapors or mists from both inside and outside the diffuser 100. In some embodiments, the diffuser 100 is battery powered, so it does not require an external power source to operate. Furthermore, water or other base liquid is contained inside the diffuser 100, so the diffuser does not need to be connected to a water source via external piping.

[0017] In some embodiments, the diffuser 100 may be mounted on the wall of the shower enclosure 10 at head height near the user 12. The diffuser 100 may be detachably mounted on the wall of the shower enclosure 10, allowing the user to add an essential oil container and water or another base liquid to the diffuser. Furthermore, the diffuser 100 may also be detachably mounted on the wall of the shower enclosure 10 to facilitate charging of the diffuser 100's battery. In some embodiments, the diffuser 100 may be compatible with or include a stand that makes the diffuser portable or allows it to be taken to other locations, such as being supported in an operating orientation on a table or bedside table.

[0018] The orientation of the diffuser 100 shown in Figure 1 is referred to herein as the operating orientation. As shown in Figure 1, the diffuser 100 differs from conventional diffusers in that the aromatic mist or vapor diffuses horizontally toward the user 12, rather than vertically. As discussed in more detail below, the diffuser 100 diffuses a mixture of essential oil and base liquid (e.g., water or some type of hydrosol) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, which is the direction in which gravity acts when the diffuser 100 is in the operating orientation. Compared to conventional diffusers that diffuse mist or vapor vertically against gravity from a lower position, this method provides a denser aromatic mist or vapor, allowing it to reach the user's head more directly, resulting in a faster and more intense aroma perception. In this respect, the diffuser 100 can be positioned slightly above the user's head to allow gravity to cause the diffused mist or vapor to fall onto the user's head.

[0019] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the diffuser 100 are possible. For example, the diffuser 100 can be used in locations other than shower rooms, such as offices, bedrooms, or commercial spaces (e.g., shops).

[0020] Figure 2 is a close-up view of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 2, the diffuser 100 includes a housing 110, a removable panel 1081, an illumination ring 106, a central button 104, and an atomizer 102. The housing 110 provides an outer casing for the internal components of the diffuser 100. In this respect, the housing can form a seal with the edges of other components (such as the removable panel 1081) to prevent unwanted moisture from entering the diffuser 100.

[0021] A removable panel 1081 is located on the surface side of the diffuser 100 from which mist or vapor 14 diffuses, and, as discussed in more detail below, the removable panel 1081 can be used to access internal components of the diffuser 100, such as a removable base liquid tank (e.g., base liquid tank 126 in FIG. 7), a battery housing (e.g., battery housing or battery compartment 134 in FIG. 7), an electronics housing (e.g., electronics housing 136 in FIG. 7), and a removable atomizer (e.g., atomizer 102). In some embodiments, the removable panel 1081 can be used interchangeably with one or more other removable panels (e.g., panel 1082 in FIG. 5 and 6) that have different appearances and / or different lighting arrangements. Differences in appearance may include, for example, different colors, patterns, and / or materials, thereby providing a customizable appearance for the diffuser 100. Differences in lighting arrangements may include, for example, different numbers and / or arrangements of lighting elements (e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs)), directional focusing of the lighting elements, and / or the colors of the lighting elements.

[0022] Unlike traditional diffusers, diffuser 100 differs in that, due to its operating orientation, the mist or vapor 14 can diffuse more directly toward the user, resulting in a more horizontal diffusion pattern. As mentioned above, the diffusion of the mist or vapor 14 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity can help to diffuse more specifically toward the user's head, in which the diffused fragrance can be perceived by the user more quickly and with greater intensity.

[0023] As shown in the side view of Figure 2, the front of the atomizer 102, which diffuses the mist or vapor 14, is slightly tilted, such that the top of the housing 110 is wider than the bottom of the housing 110. This results in a slightly angled diffusion of the mist or vapor 14, a configuration that can be considered when the diffuser 100 is mounted on a wall or a separate stand. By tilting the center of the atomizer 102 slightly (e.g., tilting it downwards at less than twenty degrees relative to the horizontal), the diffusion pattern of the mist or vapor 14 can be even more concentrated toward the user's nose in enclosed spaces (e.g., shower rooms). However, in some embodiments, the center of the atomizer 102 may not be tilted slightly when in the operating position.

[0024] The central button 104 provides a user interface for the diffuser 100. In some embodiments, pressing the central button 104 can turn the diffuser 100 on or off. In other embodiments, pressing the central button 104 can provide other user input, such as confirming the lighting mode of the illumination ring 106, initiating a wireless pairing mode with a remote device (e.g., via Bluetooth), or joining a network (e.g., Wi-Fi). In this regard, in some embodiments, different types of pressing the central button 104 can provide different types of user input, such as providing different types of user input by using a long press, a short press, or a double press of the central button 104.

[0025] The illumination ring 106 can provide indications of the condition or status of the diffuser 100, such as the performance of the diffuser's operating cycle, the battery charge level of the diffuser's battery, the essential oil level in the essential oil container connected to the diffuser, the base liquid level in the diffuser's base liquid container, and / or the type of essential oil used by the diffuser. In some embodiments, the illumination ring 106 can interact with the user, for example by providing breathing guidance. This functionality can be connected to health apps, health management apps, or mindfulness apps (e.g., meditation apps), which can be run via remote devices (e.g., smartphones or tablets) that wirelessly communicate with the diffuser 100. As another example, the illumination ring 106 can provide color light therapy or can be associated with a user's specific emotions or goals, which can be achieved through health apps or mindfulness apps.

[0026] The illumination ring 106 may include illumination elements (e.g., LEDs) arranged circumferentially spaced within the illumination ring 106. In some embodiments, the illumination elements of the illumination ring 106 may face the rear side of the diffuser 100 or in other directions to provide a backlighting effect for the ring, thereby achieving a more consistent or continuous lighting effect around the illumination ring 106. In this regard, the illumination ring 106 may form part of a removable panel 1081, such that changing the panel may include changing the illumination arrangement of the diffuser 100, for example, by changing the color, filtering, focusing, or reflection of the illumination elements or the light emitted from these illumination elements. In such embodiments, one or more electrical contacts of the diffuser 100 may provide one or more electrical connections to the circuitry of the diffuser 100 (e.g., circuitry 131 shown in FIG. 7) for powering and controlling the illumination ring 106.

[0027] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the diffuser 100 may differ from the example shown in FIG2. For example, the diffuser 100 may include a panel 1081 with a different design, may not include the illumination ring 106, or may have a more rectangular shape than a circular shape.

[0028] Figure 3 is a front view of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in the example of Figure 3, the diffuser 100 includes side buttons 112 and 114, which can be used to increase or decrease the aroma or fragrance intensity, or to perform other control operations on the diffuser 100, such as increasing the duration of a diffusion cycle or ending a diffusion cycle earlier. When controlling the fragrance intensity, the input received via side buttons 112 and 114 may correspond to the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil valve of the diffuser 100 or the ratio of essential oil to base liquid (i.e., the concentration of essential oil). In some embodiments, the input received via side buttons 112 and 114 may be confirmed using an illumination ring 106. Side buttons 112 and 114 are connected to the circuitry of the diffuser 100 (e.g., circuitry 131 shown in Figure 7), which executes firmware of the diffuser to control the actuation of at least one actuator for dispensing controlled amounts of essential oil and / or base liquid.

[0029] As described above, the central button 104 can be used to turn the diffuser 100 on or off and / or provide user input for other operations. In this regard, the inner surface of the central button 104 can activate or contact a switch of the circuitry of the diffuser 100 behind the panel 1081 (e.g., central button contact 151 in FIG. 7). In some embodiments, the central button 104 may be part of a removable panel 1081.

[0030] Atomizer 102 includes a mesh element 116 at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element that causes the mesh element 116 to vibrate, thereby diffusing the atomized liquid from atomizer 102. As discussed in more detail below, the mesh element 116 may be removable for replacement, cleaning, and / or exchange with different mesh elements that may have different characteristics for diffusing the atomized mixture of base liquid and essential oil with different diffusion ranges, distances, or patterns. Different mesh element properties include, for example, the number, size, and / or arrangement of orifices (e.g., the size of the surface area of ​​the mesh element 116 covering the orifices), the material stiffness of the mesh element, and / or the resonant frequency of the mesh element. These different mesh element properties affect the vibration mode of the mesh element when receiving different signals provided by the piezoelectric element. The different properties of the mesh element can be used to modulate the diffusion range through power modulation and interaction with the mesh element properties. Therefore, the first mesh element may differ from the second mesh element in terms of material hardness and / or the number, size and / or arrangement of pores, in order to change the diffusion range or distance of the atomized mixture of base liquid and essential oil.

[0031] In some embodiments, the mesh element 116 may include an electronically readable identifier, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, near field communication (NFC) tag, barcode, or quick response (QR) code. This electronically readable identifier allows the diffuser's circuitry or an application executed by a remote device (e.g., a smartphone) to identify the mesh element used or to be used in the atomizer. In response to input indicating the use of a mesh element (e.g., via the diffuser's radio or optical sensors or via wireless communication with a remote device), the diffuser's circuitry can adjust the diffuser's operation, for example, by adjusting the signal sent to the piezoelectric element to achieve a target diffusion distance, by adjusting the concentration of essential oils added to the mixture, or by adjusting the duration of a rinse cycle for a specific pore pattern or material hardness of the mesh element. In such embodiments, the diffuser's circuitry's memory may store different settings associated with different mesh elements, or an application executed by a remote device may provide the diffuser with inputs having settings associated with the mesh element being used.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the outer surface of the mesh element 116 forms part of the outer surface of the diffuser 100, from which mist or vapor diffuses directly into the air outside the diffuser 100. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the mesh element 116 forms part of a mixing chamber in which essential oils and base liquids are mixed or interact behind the atomizer 102. As used herein, references to “mixing” or “mixture” can include non-uniform or uniform mixing of liquids, such as the non-uniform mixing of essential oils and water.

[0033] The essential oil container or bottle 161 may include, for example, an essential oil bottle, which may be provided by the user, the essential oil manufacturer, or the manufacturer of the diffuser 100. As discussed in more detail below, the diffuser 100 includes a housing for removably securing or replacing one or more essential oil containers for containing aromatic essential oils. In some embodiments, the housing may include threads for one or more standard threads for the essential oil container. In this embodiment, the user can screw the essential oil container 161 into the housing of the diffuser 100.

[0034] Because the essential oil container 161 is inverted relative to the direction of gravity acting when the diffuser 100 is in the operating position, the essential oil valve of the diffuser 100 can control the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container 161. In some embodiments, the diffuser 100 can be removed from a holding structure or bracket used to hold the diffuser 100 in an upright or operating position, allowing the user to remove or insert the essential oil container, add base liquid to the diffuser's base liquid tank, remove or change the mesh element 116, remove or change the removable panel 1081, and / or otherwise clean or transport the diffuser 100. In this respect, the diffuser 100 can be portable and does not need to be fixed to a specific location, such as the shower wall discussed above with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0035] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other arrangements of the diffuser 100 are also possible, such as different positions or styles of the side buttons 112 and 114, or a specific position of the essential oil container 161 when the diffuser 100 is inserted. For example, in other embodiments, the essential oil container 161 may alternatively be inserted into the opposite side of the housing 110, or may be inserted into the top portion of the housing 110.

[0036] Figure 4 is a rear view of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 4, the diffuser 100 includes a rear surface 118, which in some embodiments may be a flat surface to facilitate mounting to a wall. In the example of Figure 4, the rear surface 118 includes an attachment element 119 configured to detachably attach or mount the diffuser 100 to a mounting bracket (not shown), which may be fixed to a wall or other surface, or may form part of, for example, a support. In some embodiments, the diffuser 100 can be removed from the support by a user and carried to different locations or attached to the mounting bracket without the use of tools. In some embodiments, the attachment element 119 may be omitted or may be formed in a different configuration, such as forming a rectangular flange across the rear surface 118 for mounting the diffuser 100 to a wall or bracket.

[0037] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 5, the diffuser 100 includes a removable panel 1082 that differs in appearance from the removable panel 1081 shown in Figures 2 and 3. For example, the color, material, and / or surface texture pattern of panel 1081 may differ from that of panel 1082. This can help the diffuser 100 to be customized or personalized to some extent, such as better suited to a color scheme for a particular shower room or room. In some embodiments, an illumination ring 106 may be formed part of the removable panel 1082.

[0038] The example in Figure 5 also includes an essential oil container or bottle 162, which differs from the essential oil container 161 shown in Figures 3 and 4. As described above, the diffuser 100 includes a housing for removably receiving or replacing one or more essential oil containers for containing aromatic essential oils. In some embodiments, the container may include threads for one or more standard threads for the essential oil container. The user can screw the essential oil container 162 into the diffuser 100, and because the essential oil container 162 is inverted relative to the direction of gravity acting when the diffuser 100 is in the operating orientation, the essential oil valve of the diffuser 100 can control the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container 162.

[0039] In some embodiments, the reservoir of diffuser 100 can be removed from the diffuser to facilitate attachment of the essential oil container to the reservoir without inverting the container. The combination of the essential oil container and the reservoir can then be inserted into the diffuser in an inverted orientation, while the reservoir provides a seal for the essential oil in the container.

[0040] As shown on the side of housing 110, side lights 113 and 115 can be used to notify the user, for example, to provide information about operating cycles, rinsing cycles, or other states or conditions of the diffuser. For example, side lights 113 and 115 can respond to user input received from buttons 112 and 114, respectively, to indicate to the user that user input to increase or decrease fragrance intensity or diffusion distance has been received. As another example, one or both of side lights 113 and 115 can emit red light to indicate an error state (e.g., low oil level, low base level, or low battery power) or the last minute of a preset operating cycle. In some embodiments, side lights 113 and / or 115 can be used without the diffuser excluding the illumination ring 106, or with the diffuser including the illumination ring 106. Side lights 113 and 115 may include, for example, LEDs.

[0041] In some embodiments, the connection interface 120 shown in FIG5 can be used for battery charging of the diffuser 100 or for power supply of the diffuser 100. Optionally or additionally, the connection interface 120 can provide a communication interface between a remote device (e.g., a computer, smartphone, or tablet computer) and the circuitry of the diffuser 100. In some embodiments, for example, the connection interface 120 may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection.

[0042] Figure 6 is a side view of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 6, the diffuser 100 includes a housing aperture 122 in a housing 110 and a housing opening 124 located in the top portion of the housing 110. The housing aperture 122 allows a user to remove and insert an essential oil container, such as removing and inserting an essential oil container 162, or removing and inserting a holder already secured to an essential oil container. The housing opening 124 allows a user to add a base liquid (e.g., water) to an internal base liquid container (e.g., base liquid container 126 in Figure 7).

[0043] Furthermore, in the example of Figure 6, the side view of diffuser 100 shows the rear surface 118 tilted or angled relative to the direction of gravity acting on diffuser 100. When diffuser 100 is mounted on a flat wall, this angle or tilt can provide slightly angled diffusion of the atomized mixture of base liquid and essential oil. In other cases, the diffuser can be mounted on an adjustable stand that allows the user to adjust the angle of diffusion. As discussed above with reference to Figure 1, angled diffusion (e.g., downward or upward toward the user's head) can provide more targeted diffusion of mist or vapor toward the user's face. Unlike some atomized mixtures that diffuse upward and away from the user's head, this angled diffusion helps to keep most of the atomized mixture near the user's head. In some embodiments, the adjustable spray direction can be achieved, for example, by a rotatable or adjustable nozzle, to direct the diffused vapor toward the user's face. In some cases, the positioning of the diffuser or the angle of the nozzle can take into account the direction of the primary airflow, such as an updraft from a shower fan, so that the diffused vapor reaches the user's head.

[0044] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that, in addition to the arrangements shown in Figures 1 through 6, the exterior of the diffuser 100 may have other arrangements. For example, referring to Figure 6, other embodiments of the diffuser 100 may position buttons 112 and 114 on opposite sides, or buttons 112 and 114 may be omitted and replaced with an alternative user interface. As another example variation, in other embodiments, the rear surface 118 may not be angled or inclined.

[0045] Figure 7 is a front view of the diffuser 100 with the panel removed according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 7, the panel can be detachably secured to the body of the diffuser 100 via connectors 1501, 1502, 1503, and 1504 of the base liquid tank 126, and via connectors 1521, 1522, and 1523 of the lower part of the body of the diffuser 100. The example in Figure 7 also includes a rocker bar 138, which serves as a fulcrum, allowing the panel to detach from the connectors above the rocker bar 138 when the user presses the panel portion below the rocker bar 138, thereby enabling convenient removal of the panel.

[0046] As discussed in more detail below, the base liquid tank 126 can be removed from the body of the diffuser 100 for purposes such as cleaning or refilling. In the example of FIG. 7, the base liquid tank 126 includes recesses 128a and 128b for a user to grasp the base liquid tank 126 and pull it out of the body of the diffuser 100. In some embodiments, the atomizer 102 can also be removed as part of the base liquid tank 126. Furthermore, the latch 148 can be pressed down to release the atomizer 102 from the base liquid tank 126 for purposes such as cleaning or replacing the mesh element 1161.

[0047] As shown in the example of Figure 7, the atomizer 102 includes an external structure 147, a nozzle 130, a piezoelectric element 132, and a mesh element 1161. During operation, the circuit system 131 can control the vibration of the piezoelectric element 132, which at least partially surrounds the mesh element 1161. In some embodiments, the circuit system 131 can vary the voltage supplied to the piezoelectric element 132 to cause the piezoelectric element to vibrate at different frequencies, thereby causing the mesh element 1161 to vibrate at different frequencies. Different vibration frequencies allow the atomizer 102 to diffuse the atomized liquid (e.g., a mixture of base liquid and essential oil) to different diffusion distances.

[0048] The circuit system 131 is shown in dashed lines to indicate that it is contained within the electronic housing 136, making it invisible when the diffuser 100 panel is removed. In the example of FIG. 7, the circuit system 131 includes one or more processors 133, at least one memory 135, and a wireless interface 137 for wireless communication with a remote device. The wireless interface 137 may provide, for example, Bluetooth connectivity and / or Wi-Fi connectivity for communication with one or more remote devices (e.g., smartphones or tablets). Furthermore, other elements of the wireless interface 137 or the circuit system 131 may include NFC communication circuitry for wireless communication with a remote device upon proximity. This wireless communication may facilitate, for example, launching an application on a remote device, initiating a preset aromatherapy program, or initiating the playback of audio (e.g., music or guided meditation) on a remote device.

[0049] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, in some embodiments, circuit system 131 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) that may include, for example, one or more processors for executing instructions, such as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), hard-wired logic, analog circuitry, and / or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, circuit system 131 may include a system-on-a-chip (SoC), which may also include memory 135.

[0050] Furthermore, in some embodiments, circuitry 131 may include an instantaneous clock (RTC). The RTC of circuitry 131 may, for example, facilitate session timing, indicating the duration of a particular diffusion operation cycle and / or when a session occurs (e.g., the time of day and which day). In some cases, this information may be transmitted, along with other session information, via the wireless interface 137 of diffuser 100 or other wireless communication circuitry (e.g., sensor 141 in FIG. 9) to a remote device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet) to provide session information to an application running on the remote device.

[0051] The time information provided by RTC can help track usage patterns by time of day (e.g., morning and evening), enabling features such as: personalized scent recommendations based on specific time preferences (e.g., lavender in the evening, citrus in the morning), generating meaningful analyses (e.g., weekly morning routine patterns), syncing with health or wellness apps that analyze behavior in chronological order, and supporting automatic cleaning reminders based on elapsed calendar time.

[0052] In itself, one or more memory cells 135 of circuit system 131 may include, for example, one or more dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and / or various types of memory devices, such as flash memory bulk circuits, NAND memory, NOR memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and / or other discrete non-volatile memory (NVM) chips, or any combination thereof.

[0053] As discussed in more detail below with reference to Figures 28 through 40, the processor 133 of the circuit system 131 can execute firmware stored in one or more memories 135 to control the operation of the diffuser 100. The circuit system 131 is electrically connected to the side buttons 112 and 114 to receive user input (e.g., to increase or decrease fragrance intensity). The central button contact 151 is also electrically connected to the circuit system 131 and functions as a contact switch for receiving input from the central button 104 shown in Figures 3 and 5.

[0054] The circuit system 131 is powered by one or more batteries located in the battery compartment 134, which provides additional liquid and / or moisture protection. In some embodiments, the one or more batteries in the battery compartment 134 may be rechargeable batteries, such as rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. In such embodiments, the connection interface 120 may be electrically connected to a charging device of the battery compartment 134 to charge the batteries in the battery compartment 134. In other embodiments, the one or more batteries located in the battery compartment 134 may be charged wirelessly, for example, by using inductive charging.

[0055] Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of an atomizer 102 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 8, the atomizer 102 includes an external structure 147 surrounding a nozzle 130, which in turn surrounds a piezoelectric element 132, which in turn surrounds a mesh element 1161. In some embodiments, a locking recess 154 in the external structure 147 engages with a locking latch 148 of Figure 7 to keep the atomizer 102 in contact with the wall of a mixing chamber (e.g., the wall of a mixing chamber body 144 shown in Figure 9), which contains a mixture of base liquid and essential oil during operation of the diffuser 100. In this respect, the inward-facing surface of the mesh element 1161 forms part of the mixing chamber, such that the mixture of base liquid and oil contacts the inward-facing surface of the mesh element 1161. As shown in Figure 8, the rear wall of the external structure 147 may include a tapered structure and / or a seal for press-fitting the atomizer 102 into the mixing chamber 144, thereby further securing the atomizer 102 into the mixing chamber 144. In other embodiments, the latch 148 may be omitted, and the atomizer 102 may be sufficiently secured by press-fitting into place.

[0056] The vibration of the piezoelectric element 132 causes the mixture in the mixing chamber to atomize and be propelled through the holes in the mesh element 1161, ultimately exiting from the nozzle 130. As described above, the circuit system 131 can control the vibration frequency of the mesh element 1161 (e.g., by changing the voltage supplied to the piezoelectric element 132). For example, the circuit system 131 can increase the voltage supplied to the piezoelectric element 132 to increase the diffusion distance of the atomized vapor or mist exiting from the nozzle 130.

[0057] In some embodiments, the external structure 147 includes contacts for the circuit system 131 to provide control signals (e.g., voltage) for controlling the vibration of the piezoelectric element 132. In other embodiments, the atomizer 102 may include a waterproof receptacle connector that can be disconnected to remove the atomizer 102 from the base liquid tank 126 and can be reconnected when the atomizer 102 is reattached to the base liquid tank 126.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, when the atomizer 102 is removed from the diffuser 100, the mesh element 1161 can be removed from the nozzle 130 and the outer structure 147. In some embodiments, the user can push the mesh element 1161 from the front through the nozzle 130 to release the mesh element 1161 from the rear. The mesh element 1161 can be repositioned from the rear of the atomizer 102, or a different mesh element (such as the mesh element 1162 shown in Figure 10) can be repositioned in the position of the mesh element 1161.

[0059] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the base liquid container 126 of a diffuser 100 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 9, the base liquid container 126 includes recesses 128a and 128b to facilitate insertion and removal of the base liquid container 126 from the diffuser 100. The base liquid container 126 also includes a container opening 142 for filling the base liquid container 126 with a base liquid, and a container hole 140 for inserting or removing an essential oil container. When the base liquid container 126 is inserted into the diffuser 100, the container hole 140 is aligned with the housing hole 122 shown in Figure 6, and the container opening 142 is aligned with the housing opening 124 shown in Figure 6.

[0060] The mixing chamber 144 provides a space for mixing the base liquid dispensed from the main portion of the base liquid tank 126 and the essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container inserted into the diffuser 100 via the outer shell hole 122 and the base liquid tank hole 140. As described above, when the latch 148 engages with the latch recess 154 of the atomizer 102 (as shown in FIG. 8), the entire mixing chamber includes a front surface provided by the mesh element of the atomizer 102. At this point, the leading edge of the mixing chamber 144 may include a seal for sealing the rear surface of the atomizer 102 to the mixing chamber 144 and preventing leakage from the mixing chamber.

[0061] The volume of the mixing chamber, primarily defined by the volume of the mixing chamber body 144, is significantly smaller than the volume of the main internal portion of the base liquid tank 126 containing the base liquid. In some embodiments, the volume of the base liquid tank 126 is at least 20 times larger than the volume of the mixing chamber. In some embodiments, the volume of the mixing chamber can be in the range of 4 to 11 ml.

[0062] In addition to facilitating atomization of the liquid in a near-horizontal direction relative to gravity, the relatively small volume of the mixing chamber (preferably in the range of 4 to 11 ml) allows for better conservation of the amount of essential oil dispensed. In this respect, a smaller amount of essential oil can be added to achieve the desired aroma intensity compared to diffusers with larger reservoirs from which the liquid evaporates. Furthermore, as needed, the essential oil and base liquid can be periodically added to the mixing chamber 144 in a controlled manner throughout the entire operating cycle of the diffuser, allowing the dispensed amount of essential oil to better match the operating duration of the diffuser 100 (e.g., 5 minutes or 8 minutes). This results in fresher essential oils added to the mixing chamber and a stronger aroma to the atomized mixture, whereas prolonged retention of essential oils in their mixture with the base liquid leads to a weaker aroma in the atomized mixture.

[0063] Compared to conventional essential oil diffusers that use larger reservoirs, the smaller volume of the mixing chamber 144 (preferably in the range of 4 to 11 ml) allows for a more concentrated amount of essential oil in the mixture. This results in a stronger aroma diffused from the diffuser 100. Furthermore, the relatively small volume of the mixing chamber 144 (preferably in the range of 4 to 11 ml) allows for rinsing or flushing the mixing chamber between uses with a base liquid, keeping the mixing chamber and mesh element cleaner. During such a rinsing or flushing cycle, the base liquid can be dispensed into the mixing chamber 144 without dispensing essential oil, and the atomizer 102 can continue to diffuse mist or vapor from the mixing chamber for a period of time to clean the mixing chamber and mesh element.

[0064] In the example of Figure 9, the base liquid tank 126 includes a vent 146 that connects at least one fluid within the mixing chamber and the main portion of the base liquid tank 126 to the outside of the diffuser 100. The vent 146 releases air pressure located within at least one of the mixing chamber and the main portion of the base liquid tank 126. By releasing air pressure, the inflow of base liquid from the interior of the base liquid tank 126 into the mixing chamber can generally be improved or increased. In this respect, the vent facilitates the use of a relatively small mixing chamber, which might otherwise receive insufficient base liquid flow from the base liquid tank 126 due to pressure buildup.

[0065] As shown in Figure 9, the vent may include a pipe disposed within the base liquid tank 126, which passes through the interior of the base liquid tank 126 from the top of the mixing chamber cavity 144 and exits at the top of the base liquid tank 126 to connect the mixing chamber fluid to air outside the diffuser. In some embodiments, the vent may further include a gap or perforation at the top of the pipe within the base liquid tank 126 to connect the internal fluid of the main portion of the base liquid tank 126 above the liquid level of the base liquid to external air and the top of the mixing chamber cavity 144.

[0066] Figure 10 is a front view of a base liquid tank 126 according to one or more embodiments, including an atomizer 102 inserted into a base liquid tank 126. As shown in Figure 10, the atomizer 102 seals the mixing chamber 144 shown in Figure 9. As described above, the latch 148 of the atomizer 102 secures the atomizer 102 in contact with the wall of the mixing chamber 144.

[0067] The atomizer 102 in the example of Figure 10 includes a mesh element 1162 that is different from the mesh element 1161 shown in Figure 7. As described above, different mesh elements can provide different diffusion ranges or diffusion patterns by varying at least one of the number, size, and / or arrangement of the holes. In some embodiments, the mesh element may include an electronically readable identifier that allows the diffuser's circuitry or an application executed by a remote device to identify the mesh element used or to be used in the atomizer. In response to an input indicating the use of a mesh element (e.g., a specific mesh pattern), the diffuser's circuitry can adjust the diffuser's operation to accommodate different mesh patterns, for example, by adjusting the diffuser's operation through different essential oil concentration settings, voltage supplied to the atomizer, and / or rinse cycle duration or the amount of base liquid used for the rinse cycle.

[0068] Figure 11 is a side view of the base liquid container 126 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 11, the outer structure 147 of the atomizer 102 protrudes from the base liquid container 126. At this point, the outer structure 147 protrudes from the housing 110 of the diffuser 100, such that when the base liquid container 126 is inserted into the diffuser, the surface of the atomizer 102 forms part of the outer surface of the diffuser. At least a portion of the surface of the atomizer or mesh element diffuses the atomized liquid from the mixing chamber directly into the air outside the diffuser. This allows liquid (e.g., a mixture of base liquid and essential oil or a base liquid without essential oil) to diffuse directly from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser via the mesh element 1162. Compared to medical inhalers or nebulizers that may use a mask or nasal interface (e.g., a nasal cannula) to diffuse the atomized liquid without direct diffusion into the surrounding air, the diffuser 100 does not require physical contact with the user, e.g., through a mask or nasal interface that would interfere with the user's enjoyment of an immersive aromatherapy experience. In this respect, the arrangement of the mixing chamber and the atomizer 102 can directly diffuse the scented mist or vapor into the surrounding air, for example, to a configurable diffusion distance of 20 to 100 centimeters from the diffuser.

[0069] In the example of Figure 11, the base liquid canister 140 includes a sensor 141. In some embodiments, the sensor 141 may include an optical sensor or a radio sensor. As a radio sensor, the sensor 141 may include, for example, an NFC sensor or an RFID sensor, configured to receive information from a tag on the essential oil container, which can provide information about the essential oil container inserted into the diffuser's circuitry 131 via the sensor 141. This information may include, for example, the type of essential oil, the manufacturer of the essential oil, the expiration date or manufacturing date of the essential oil, and / or the volume of essential oil supplied in the essential oil container.

[0070] In some implementations, sensor 141, acting as an NFC sensor, can operate as an NFC transceiver capable of bidirectional communication. In addition to reading NFC tags (e.g., NFC tags from or on essential oil containers), sensor 141 can communicate with or otherwise interact with nearby remote devices (e.g., smartphones). Interaction with sensor 141 can trigger, for example, launching an application on the remote device, providing usage suggestions, initiating audio playback via the remote device, or transmitting data to the remote device, such as session information (e.g., session time or duration).

[0071] As an optical sensor, sensor 141 can be used to read a barcode or QR code from the essential oil container to obtain information, such as information about the circuitry 131 of the essential oil container provided above for insertion into the can opening 140. The circumferential position of sensor 141 may correspond to the location of the barcode or QR code on the essential oil container after it has been screwed into the container (e.g., the receiving seat 156 in FIG. 12). In other embodiments, sensor 141 may be omitted. In such embodiments, sensor 141 may be omitted to facilitate obtaining information about the essential oil container from another source (e.g., via an application running on a remote device communicating with diffuser 100) and to be able to retrieve information from the essential oil container (e.g., via a camera or NFC receiver of the remote device).

[0072] Figure 11 also depicts a contact sensor 139, which can facilitate user input by using the essential oil container as a joystick. During operation, the contact sensor 139 receives mechanical input from the movement of the essential oil container and provides one or more electrical signals to the circuit system 131, indicating the movement of the essential oil container in one or more directions. The circuit system 131 can then control the operation of the diffuser 100 based on the electrical signals.

[0073] In some embodiments, the contact sensor 139 may include a gimbal element with a potentiometer for detecting movement of the essential oil container and providing an electrical signal to the circuitry 131. The user can then provide instructions regarding the movement of the essential oil container, such as by increasing or decreasing the fragrance intensity or duration of the current operating cycle. In some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may also use the contact sensor 139 to detect the insertion of the essential oil container. In some embodiments, pressing the essential oil container may also provide confirmation selection input. In other embodiments, the contact sensor 139 may be omitted, allowing user input to be provided by other buttons, such as the central button 104 and / or buttons 112 and 114.

[0074] Figure 12 is a transparent top perspective view of a base liquid container 126 including a base liquid connector 158 and a receiver 156 for receiving an essential oil container, according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 12, the base liquid connector 158 and the receiver 156 are respectively connected to a mixing chamber to dispense base liquid and essential oil into the mixing chamber. In the example of Figure 12, the interior of the receiver 156 includes threads for screwing the essential oil container into the container. In other embodiments, the essential oil container may employ different attachment structures, such as a latch on the receiver 156 that engages with a ridge on the essential oil container to secure the essential oil container to the receiver 156.

[0075] As discussed in more detail below, motor 190 controls an actuator (e.g., actuator 174 in Figures 15 and 16) that contacts a base liquid valve (e.g., base liquid valve 159 in Figure 17) at the end of the base liquid connector 158 closest to the mixing chamber to control the amount of base liquid dispensed into the mixing chamber. Additionally, the actuator can be actuated to contact an essential oil valve (e.g., essential oil valve 164 in Figure 17) to control the amount of essential oil dispensed into the mixing chamber. In the example of Figure 12, the flow of essential oil and base liquid can be achieved by opening the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve to allow flow of either the base liquid or essential oil under the influence of gravity. In some embodiments, the angle or tilt of the housing 156 and the base liquid connector 158 relative to the direction of gravity can be set at least in part based on the desired flow rates of the base liquid and essential oil. In this respect, because the viscosity of the essential oil is higher than that of the base liquid (which has greater fluidity), the longitudinal centerline of the receiver 156 is more perpendicular to or more aligned with the direction of gravity than the longitudinal centerline of the base liquid connector 158. For example, the channels within the base liquid connector 158 can be angled to achieve a specific discharge rate of the base liquid from the main body of the base liquid container.

[0076] While the angled arrangement of channels within the housing 156 or base liquid connector 158 facilitates flow, the actual flow rate may not be determined solely by gravity. In addition to the channel angle, the flow of the base liquid or essential oil can also be controlled by, for example, the combination of the opening size of the base liquid or essential oil valve with the actuation duration (i.e., the time the actuator presses the valve), and / or the fluid pressure within the mixing chamber, base liquid tank, and / or essential oil container.

[0077] The aforementioned arrangement of the mixing chamber, base liquid tank 126, receiving seat 156, and base liquid connector 158 facilitates the use of gravity to provide a consistent liquid flow without the need for an active pumping mechanism, thereby reducing the complexity, cost, and power consumption of the diffuser. This arrangement also simplifies the cleaning and maintenance process, as there is no need to flush internal pump bodies, piping, or wicks that might be used in a pump-based system. However, other implementations may include additional actuators or motors that control the flow of liquid from different sources, which may include the pump-based system.

[0078] As will be understood by those skilled in the art with reference to this disclosure, different arrangements of the base liquid tank 126 may differ from those shown in Figures 9 to 12. For example, other embodiments of the base liquid tank 126 may include a base liquid tank 126 having, for example, a cylindrical shape (rather than a shape closer to a semicircle), or may include two motors, one for actuating the base liquid valve and the other for actuating the essential oil valve. In this respect, the base liquid tank is not limited to a specific tank shape. For example, if a non-gravity supply system is used (e.g., a system using a pump or pressurized delivery), the base liquid tank may be positioned in different orientations, and the shape or structure of the base liquid tank may vary significantly.

[0079] Figure 13 is a close-up view of the reservoir 156 and its essential oil valve 164 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 13, the essential oil container 16 is inserted into the reservoir 156 by screwing it into the collar 160 of the reservoir 156. In the example of Figure 13, the essential oil container 16 includes a barcode or QR code 20 and a tag 18 for providing information about the essential oil container to the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100 via a sensor 141.

[0080] The essential oil valve 164 of the reservoir 156 includes a ball 166, which is spring-actuated by an actuator that contacts the ball 166. When the ball 166 is pushed into the valve by the actuator, a space 167 is created between the opening of the valve 164 and the ball 166. As discussed in more detail below with reference to Figures 17 and 18, the actuator can contact the ball 166 for a predetermined time to allow a controlled amount of essential oil to flow from the essential oil container 16 through the space 167. When the actuator is removed and no longer in contact with the ball 166, the ball 166 moves to its default position, the space 167 closes, and the flow of essential oil stops.

[0081] In some embodiments, the receiver 156 is removable from the base liquid container 126. In this embodiment, the user can screw the receiver 156 onto or otherwise attach it to the essential oil container 16 after removing the cap from the essential oil container. This allows the essential oil container to remain upright during cap removal to prevent essential oil spillage. Subsequently, when the assembly of the receiver 156 and the essential oil container 16 is inverted and inserted into the housing hole 122 and the can hole 140 to engage with the mixing chamber within the base liquid container 126, the receiver 156 provides a seal to prevent essential oil leakage from the essential oil container 16. In some embodiments, the receiver 156 can be engaged and secured to the mixing chamber, for example, by means of a reverse thread, bayonet locking, or clip.

[0082] In some embodiments, the receiver 156 includes a receiver tag 163, which includes memory 171 and communication circuitry 173. In such embodiments, one or more user settings or preferences associated with a user may be stored in memory 171. The user settings may then be transmitted to circuitry 131 via communication circuitry 173, for example, via sensor 141. At this point, receiver tag 163 may include, for example, an NFC tag or an RFID tag to provide the circuitry 131 of diffuser 100 with the user settings and / or preferences of a particular user of diffuser 100.

[0083] For example, the container label 163 may store preferences or user settings, such as: a personalized default operating cycle time (e.g., 8 minutes), a personalized aroma intensity indicator (e.g., level 3 out of 5) corresponding to the controlled amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container during use, personalized lighting settings for the lighting ring 106 (e.g., enabling breath-guided lighting), and / or a preferred diffusion distance or range (e.g., 40 cm).

[0084] In some implementations, users can set their own settings or preferences using an application running on a remote device such as a smartphone or tablet. The remote device can wirelessly transmit these user settings to the circuitry 131 via the wireless interface 137 shown in FIG. 7. The user settings can be stored in the memory 171 of the receiver tag 163 from the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100 via the sensor 141 or the wireless interface 137 of the circuitry 131. In other cases, the remote device can wirelessly transmit user settings directly to the receiver tag 163 via the communication circuitry 173, without involving the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100. In this respect, communication between the receiver tag 163 and the circuitry 131 or the remote device can be bidirectional, for example, if the communication circuitry 173 of the receiver tag 163 uses NFC for communication. In some implementations, whether the circuitry system 131 imports user settings from the container label can be enabled or disabled, for example, via a remote device or by the central button 104 and / or the side buttons 112 and 114.

[0085] In embodiments where the reservoir 156 includes a reservoir label 163, different users of the diffuser 100 can have different reservoirs that store the user's own preferences or user settings, which the user can use to attach the reservoir to the essential oil container. Furthermore, the reservoirs can include visual indicators, such as different colors of their collars, to visually indicate the user associated with the reservoir and distinguish the user's own reservoir from other reservoirs. The circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100 can differentiate between different users based on information read from different container labels, for example, by using sensor 141 or wireless interface 137. The different reservoirs can then be used to set different user settings for operating the diffuser 100 based on the user's preferences or settings.

[0086] Figure 14 is a transparent close-up view of the reservoir 156 according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal components of the reservoir and its essential oil valve. As shown in Figure 14, the collar 160 includes internal threads 168 for securing the essential oil container 16, and a reservoir label 163 for communicating with the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100. The example in Figure 14 also shows the internal space of the essential oil container 16. In some embodiments, the volume of essential oil contained in the essential oil container 16 may include 10 ml or 15 ml.

[0087] As shown in the example of Figure 14, the collar 160 of the receiver 156 includes an internal channel 172 for conveying essential oil from the container 16 to the essential oil valve 164. The ball 166 of the essential oil valve 164 is biased toward the opening 167 of the receiver 156 by a spring 170, such that the ball 166 seals or otherwise prevents essential oil in the internal channel 172 from flowing out of the receiver 156. The stiffness or spring constant of the spring 170 can be selected based on the resistance required to release essential oil from the essential oil valve 164, provided by the actuator of the diffuser 100 (e.g., actuator 174 in Figure 15). In operation, the actuator can contact the ball 166 and press the ball 166 at least partially into the receiver 156, thereby allowing essential oil to flow out or be released from the opening 167.

[0088] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other arrangements of the reservoir 156 are also possible. For example, other embodiments of the reservoir 156 may not include the reservoir label 163, different methods may be used to secure the essential oil container 16, and / or different types of valves may be used instead of the essential oil valve 164.

[0089] Figure 15 is a front view of an actuator 174 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 15, the actuator 174 includes a contact surface 176, a front face 180, and an outer ring 178. The contact surface 176 provides a surface for contacting the essential oil valve 164 and a base liquid valve (e.g., base liquid valve 159 shown in Figure 17) of the base liquid connector 158. In the example of Figure 15, the contact surface 176 includes two halves configured to apply progressively increasing pressure to the balls of each of the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve 164. In some embodiments, the balls may initially be pressed down by contacting the edge of the contact surface 176, and the balls may be further pressed down with greater pressure as the actuator moves to near the apex of the contact surface 176 and contacts the balls. The greater pressure on the balls increases the valve opening size, thereby allowing more liquid to be dispensed.

[0090] It should be understood that the shape or profile of the contact surface 176 is not limited to the example shown. By changing the profile or geometry of the contact surface 176, the flow rate of the essential oil or base liquid can be adjusted when the actuator engages with the corresponding valve. Different shapes can produce different pressure distributions or contact durations, thereby affecting the amount or rate of liquid dispensing.

[0091] In the example of Figure 15, the front 180 is recessed to provide additional space behind the atomizer 102 when it is inserted into the center of the mixing chamber 144. At this point, the mixture of base liquid and essential oil behind the atomizer 102 is evaporated or atomized by the mesh element 116 to diffuse from the nozzle 130 of the atomizer 102. In other embodiments, the front 180 may differ, but still create or retain sufficient space behind the atomizer for the evaporation of the liquid mixture. Therefore, the shape of the front 180 can be planar, recessed, sloping, or have other contour forms.

[0092] As discussed in more detail below, actuator 174 is arranged within diffuser 100 to dispense controlled amounts of essential oil and controlled amounts of base liquid using a single actuator and motor element. In other embodiments, diffuser 100 may have separate actuators for each of the essential oil valve and base liquid valve, or more than two actuators may be used to independently control additional valves from additional liquid sources (e.g., additional essential oil containers). This configuration enables more complex fluid control scenarios, such as instantaneous mixing of different essential oils or individual control of functional additives with essential oils. Each actuator can be calibrated according to specific time, volume, and proportion requirements, thereby enabling dynamic fragrance mixing and highly personalized diffusion programs.

[0093] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an actuator 174 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 16, the actuator 174 also includes a seal 182 configured to provide a liquid seal to retain liquid in the mixing chamber. In operation, the actuator 174 rotates between at least a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a contact point with the base liquid valve and the second position is a contact point with the essential oil valve 164. In some embodiments, additional positions may be defined within the rotational range of the actuator 174, for example, defining an initial position between the first and second positions or defining an venting position to release pressure in the mixing chamber.

[0094] Figure 17 is a transparent front view of a base liquid container 126 according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal components of the base liquid container, including an actuator 174 that contacts the essential oil valve 164 and the base liquid valve 159. As shown in Figure 17, the actuator 174 is inserted into the center of the mixing chamber cavity 144. In operation, the actuator 174 is rotated to contact the ball 166 of the essential oil valve 164 for a period corresponding to the target aroma intensity, and rotated to contact the ball 186 of the base liquid valve 159 for a period corresponding to the base liquid volume, which can be determined based on, for example, the volume of the mixing chamber, the duration of the operation cycle, the target concentration or ratio of the essential oil to the base liquid, and / or the viscosity of the essential oil and base liquid mixture.

[0095] In some embodiments, both actuator 174 and atomizer 102 can be removed from the base liquid tank 126 for cleaning. In this regard, actuator 174 may include a hollow space opposite the front side 180, centered on the centerline of seal 182 and / or outer ring 178, for detachably connecting actuator 174 to a motor shaft for rotating actuator 174.

[0096] The base liquid tank 126 in Figure 17 also includes a base liquid level sensor 145 and a mixing chamber level sensor 149 to detect the liquid level in the main portion of the base liquid tank 126 and each interior of the mixing chamber 144, respectively. In some embodiments, the base liquid level sensor 145 and the mixing chamber level sensor 149 may include, for example, floating contacts that indicate the liquid level by means of a change in relative resistance or a change in an electrical signal. In other embodiments, the base liquid level sensor 145 and the mixing chamber level sensor 149 may use light reflection or other methods to detect the liquid level.

[0097] The vent 127 in Figure 17 is used to release pressure to facilitate the distribution of the base liquid and essential oil into the mixing chamber 144. In the example of Figure 17, the vent mixing chamber opening 143 in the top portion of the mixing chamber 144 is fluidly connected via vent 127 to vent 146, which opens to external air pressure outside the diffuser 100. Vent 127 may include, for example, a cylindrical tube passing through the interior of the main portion of the base liquid tank 126.

[0098] Figure 18 illustrates the actuation process of an actuator 174 between the contact ball 166 of the essential oil valve 164 and the contact ball 186 of the base liquid valve 159 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 18, the actuator 174 rotates in the radial direction 188 and can move back and forth between positions where the apex of the contact surface 176 of the actuator 174 contacts the ball 166 of the essential oil valve 164 and the ball 186 of the base liquid valve 159. In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 18, the actuator 174 may be arranged to rotate in a horizontal plane rather than a vertical plane.

[0099] In the example of Figure 18, the apex of contact surface 176 can also be moved to position 169, which can be used as the original or default position when base liquid or essential oil is not dispensed into mixing chamber cavity 144. In other instances, position 169 can be used as a flushing position to allow base liquid to be dispensed from the body portion of base liquid tank 126 more quickly than a controlled release via base liquid valve 159. In yet another example, position 169 can provide a seal or opening for vent 127 to control the pressure in the mixing chamber. In some embodiments, in addition to moving to the essential oil dispensing position and the base liquid dispensing position, actuation of actuator 174 can be moved to multiple positions, such as a discharge position, an original position, and / or a flushing position.

[0100] In other embodiments, as described above, the diffuser may include multiple actuators to independently control multiple essential oil valves connected to different essential oil containers. This configuration enables the instantaneous mixing of multiple essential oils to generate personalized blends based on user preferences or dynamic formulas stored in memory (e.g., memory 135 of circuit system 131). Each actuator can be controlled via specific time and dosage parameters to achieve precise multi-essential oil diffusion, thereby enabling advanced fragrance layering and aromatherapy procedures.

[0101] Figure 19 is a transparent bottom perspective view of the base liquid tank 126 according to one or more embodiments, showing the internal arrangement of the actuator 174 and the motor element 189. Figure 20 is a perspective view of the internal arrangement of the actuator 174 and the motor element 189 separated from the base liquid tank 126.

[0102] As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the motor assembly 189 includes a motor 190, a motor shaft 194, and a position sensor 192. An actuator 174 is attached to the motor shaft 194 and is driven to rotate by the motor element 189, which may be powered by a battery of the diffuser 100 and controlled by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100. The position sensor 192 can provide feedback on the position of the motor shaft 194 to control the rotation of the motor shaft 194 via the motor 190 of the motor element 189. In some embodiments, the position sensor 192 may include a Hall effect sensor.

[0103] In some embodiments, the rotation of the motor shaft 194 can be controlled to provide different levels of pressure to the ball 166 of the essential oil valve 164 and the ball 186 of the base liquid valve 159. In addition to controlling the time of liquid release from the valves (e.g., a total contact time of 2 seconds with the essential oil valve and a total contact time of 4 seconds with the base liquid valve), providing different amounts of pressure allows for more precise control of the liquid dispensed from the valves, thus providing a calculated or estimated volume for the two liquids with a specific essential oil concentration. As described above, the relatively small size of the mixing chamber 144 saves on essential oil usage and, in addition to facilitating more efficient rinsing of the mixing chamber 144 between uses, allows for better diffusion of vapor or mist from the atomizer 102 towards the user in a generally horizontal direction, thereby preventing cross-contamination of essential oils.

[0104] In some implementations, actuator control and motor operation can be controlled by commands issued from a remote device (such as a smartphone or tablet) running an application. This application can wirelessly communicate with the circuitry 131 via a wireless interface 137 to adjust the actuator's position, initiate preset diffusion programs, or transmit user-specific mixed preferences. This functionality enables a more personalized and remotely controlled user experience and allows firmware logic to dynamically respond to immediate input from the remote device.

[0105] This disclosure may include a mobile device interface as part of the diffusion system and should not be limited to physical buttons on the diffuser's board. As mentioned above, the diffusion system may support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC-based command paths. Example network environment

[0106] Figure 21 illustrates an example network environment including a diffuser 100, a remote device 22, and a server 26 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 21, the diffuser 1002 and remote devices 221 and 223 communicate via a network 24, which may include, for example, a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet. Each of the remote devices 221 and 223 includes user interfaces 281 and 283, respectively, for displaying information to a user and receiving user input from the user, for example, in the case that user interface 28 is a touch screen. In the example of Figure 21, remote device 22 is shown as a smartphone, but one or both of the remote devices 22 may include, for example, a tablet or other type of computing device, such as a laptop, desktop computer, or wearable device (e.g., a virtual reality (VR) headset or smartwatch).

[0107] As discussed in more detail below with reference to Figures 22 through 27, each of the remote devices 221 and 223 can execute an application that enables communication with each of the diffusers 1001 and 1003, respectively, and enables configuration or control of the diffusers. Each remote device 22 can communicate wirelessly with its corresponding diffuser 100 via the wireless interface 137 of the diffuser's circuitry 131, and / or via a wired interface 120 connected to the diffuser. In this respect, each pair of remote devices 22 and diffusers 100 can be geographically located close to each other when the remote devices are communicating with the diffusers. However, the use of the application executed by the remote device can also enable offline configuration of diffuser operation without the need for communication with the diffuser.

[0108] In some implementations, applications on remote devices can communicate not only directly with the diffuser but also with cloud-based services or platforms (such as server 26 in the example of Figure 21). In such implementations, server 26 can manage synchronized user profiles, enable cross-device control, and support remote scheduling or environment automation based on user location and / or preferences. For example, a user's diffuser settings can be saved from remote device 22 to server 26 and can be invoked when the user logs into the platform from a different remote device or when using a different diffuser in another location.

[0109] Furthermore, the platform supports firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates via server 26, allowing the deployment of new features, bug fixes, and / or fragrance blending settings without requiring physical access to the diffuser. These features provide a scalable architecture for managing multiple diffusers in a home or commercial environment.

[0110] In the example of Figure 21, diffuser 1002 communicates directly via network 24, for example, via a Wi-Fi connection provided by the wireless interface 137 of diffuser 1002. In this respect, each diffuser 100 in the example of Figure 21 can communicate directly via network 24, or indirectly via remote device 22.

[0111] As shown in Figure 21, the diffuser 1001 includes a central button 1041, and buttons 1121 and 1141 for receiving user input on the diffuser 1001. In some embodiments, the diffuser 1001 can transmit the received user input back to the remote device 221 to provide bidirectional communication between the diffuser 1001 and the remote device 221. Furthermore, the diffuser 1001 includes an illumination ring 1061 to provide feedback and / or other information, such as breathing guidance, or to synchronize with audio (e.g., music, guided meditation, or ambient sounds such as thunder, waves, or birdsong) played or otherwise activated on the remote device 221.

[0112] In the example of Figure 21, diffusers 1002 and 1003 provide functions similar to those of diffuser 1001. In the example of Figure 21, each of diffusers 1001, 1002, and 1003 has different essential oil containers 161, 162, and 163, which are inserted into an essential oil reservoir of the diffuser. This reservoir can contain different types of essential oils to provide different scents for diffusion.

[0113] Server 26 communicates via network 24 to obtain information provided by remote device 22 and diffuser 1002, such as user preferences, settings, purchases of essential oils or accessories, and / or the usage history of diffuser 100 by different users. Furthermore, server 26 can communicate with remote device 22 and diffuser 1002 via network 24 to provide updates to applications running on the remote devices and / or firmware of diffuser 100.

[0114] As discussed in more detail with reference to the recommendation process in Figure 39, server 26 can collect information about essential oil usage history from multiple users of diffuser 100 and, based on a specific user's usage history and / or other information provided by the user (e.g., desired goals (e.g., relaxation, increased alertness) and / or user-provided ratings of one or more essential oils used by the user in diffuser 100), send recommendations for essential oils tried by a specific user to an application executed on remote device 22. In some embodiments, server 26 may use machine learning techniques to train (e.g., fine-tune) an artificial intelligence (AI) model using information collected from remote devices and / or diffusers from a large number of users to generate recommendations.

[0115] Server 26 can also coordinate AI-enhanced personalization across devices, allowing user diffuser preferences to evolve based on accumulated feedback and usage patterns across time and location. For example, if a user consistently rates citrus oil highly in the morning, the app or platform can prioritize similar essential oils in future morning routines. Data from multiple users can be anonymized and used for collaborative learning to improve the recommendation engine across the platform.

[0116] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the network environment of FIG21 is for illustrative purposes only, and in practice, there may be more remote devices communicating with each other and with the network 24. In some embodiments, the diffuser (e.g., diffuser 1001) may communicate with multiple remote devices 22 for the same user or different users of diffuser 1001. Example of a graphical user interface

[0117] Figure 22 illustrates an example device status graphical user interface displayed on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 22, the top menu bar 30 facilitates selection among the following information: information about the diffuser (e.g., diffuser 100) communicating with the remote device 22 (i.e., “My Devices”), and information about one or more essential oils used in the diffuser and / or another diffuser, or information about one or more essential oils otherwise associated with the user (i.e., “My Scents”). As mentioned above, the remote device 22 can communicate with the diffuser wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) or via a wired connection (e.g., via USB).

[0118] The device status under “My Devices” includes: essential oil information 32 indicating the scent and amount of essential oil remaining in the essential oil container inserted into the diffuser; basic liquid level information 34 indicating the amount of basic liquid remaining in the base liquid tank of the diffuser; and battery charge information 36 indicating the charge level of the diffuser's battery. Additionally, the device status includes a communication connection status 38 to indicate whether the remote device 22 is communicatively connected to the diffuser. When the communication link between the remote device 22 and the diffuser is interrupted (e.g., when the diffuser is outside wireless communication range, or when the remote device is in flight mode), the communication connection status 38 can change to “Disconnected”.

[0119] In the example of Figure 22, the bottom menu bar 40 facilitates selection between different graphical user interfaces displayed on the user interface 28. As shown in Figure 22, the bottom menu bar 40 may allow the user to switch between: a main page (e.g., the device status page shown in Figure 22), the user's personalized session history page (i.e., "My Journey" in Figure 22), a shop page for ordering diffuser accessories and / or different essential oils to be used with the diffuser, an instruction page for providing information or troubleshooting on the application running on the remote device 22, and one or more settings pages (e.g., the settings pages shown in Figures 24 and 25 discussed below).

[0120] Figure 23 illustrates an example graphical user interface for fragrance information displayed on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 23, the selection of the top menu bar 30 has been changed from "My Devices" to "My Scents", and the user interface 28 displays information about the essential oil container related to the user.

[0121] In some cases, the essential oil container may have already been purchased by the user from a store accessed via an application providing a graphical user interface, and information about the container is provided for display on user interface 28. In other cases, the container may be identified by the diffuser, for example, via sensor 141 discussed above with reference to Figure 11. For example, when the container is inserted into the diffuser, the diffuser may read data from the container optically or receive data wirelessly. In other cases, the user may initiate the collection of information about the container by selecting scan button 42 and reading data optically or wirelessly from the container (e.g., by scanning a QR code using the camera of remote device 22). The various methods of obtaining information about the container may overlap, such as providing information on the container purchased by the user, and updating or supplementing this information with data received via the diffuser when the container is used in the diffuser.

[0122] The fragrance information in Figure 23 includes: essential oil container details 44 (including the brand of the essential oil, the fragrance of the essential oil (e.g., "Bergamot" in Figure 23)), the production date of the essential oil, and the expiration date of the essential oil. Additionally, the fragrance information includes a remaining quantity indicator 46. As discussed in more detail below with reference to the remaining liquid determination process in Figure 34, the diffuser can track the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container and calculate or estimate the amount of essential oil remaining in the container. This estimate or calculation can be provided from the diffuser to a remote device 22. In other embodiments, the diffuser may only provide the dispensed amount of essential oil to the remote device 22, and an application running on the remote device 22 can perform the remaining quantity calculation.

[0123] In embodiments where the diffuser can uniquely identify different essential oil containers, the application running on remote device 22 can update the remaining quantity indicator 46 even if other essential oil containers are used in the middle of the diffuser. In such embodiments, the use of essential oil containers can be tracked in multiple diffusers, allowing the remaining quantity indicator 46 to indicate use from more than one diffuser. In other embodiments, the remaining quantity indicator 46 may simply provide an indication of the volume of the essential oil container, such as 10 ml or 15 ml, without calculating or estimating the amount of essential oil remaining.

[0124] Figure 24 illustrates an example graphical user interface displaying session details on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. Session details may include information about the diffuser's current operating cycle and / or session history selected from previous operating cycles of the diffuser. In some implementations, session details can be accessed, for example, by selecting button 48 on the top menu.

[0125] As shown in the example of Figure 24, session details may include: duration control 50, fragrance information 52, fragrance intensity control 54, diffuser diffusion control 56, session rating 58, and session remarks 60. Duration control 50 may include a time setting for an upcoming session, which can be configured for the length of time a session or operation cycle will last, or it may indicate the remaining time of the current session. As described above, in some embodiments, the user can set the session time and then use buttons on the diffuser to increase or decrease the duration of the current session. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 24, duration control 50 may also include the date and time the session occurred. Fragrance information 52 can provide the brand name and fragrance of the essential oil used in the session.

[0126] Fragrance intensity control 54 allows the user to increase or decrease the controlled amount of essential oil added to the mixture of base liquid and essential oil to alter the fragrance intensity diffused from the diffuser. In some embodiments, fragrance intensity control 54 may include a drop-down menu or slider to increase or decrease the fragrance intensity for the upcoming or current session / operation cycle of the diffuser.

[0127] The diffuser diffusion control 56 can provide the user with the option to increase or decrease the diffusion distance or range of the mist or vapor diffused from the diffuser. In some embodiments, the fragrance intensity control 54 may include, for example, a drop-down menu or slider to increase or decrease the diffusion distance. As mentioned above, the diffusion distance can be controlled by the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric element of the diffuser's atomizer.

[0128] Session rating 58 can provide user feedback ratings provided by the user. In some implementations, the session rating can be associated with fragrance information 52 via an application running on remote device 22 and / or server (e.g., server 26 in FIG. 21) to generate recommendations for a particular user to try other essential oils.

[0129] The Session Notes 60 feature allows users to add information about the session, such as notes about how different essential oils affected the user's experience during the session. Users can add other notes, such as the music listened to during the session or specific meditation or breathing exercises used.

[0130] Figure 25 illustrates an example graphical user interface for session history displayed on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 25, the session trend selection 62 allows the user to select different time periods, such as weekly, monthly, or yearly, to display information about sessions during that period. In the example of Figure 25, the user has selected "Week" as their session trend, and the user interface 28 displays the number of sessions per week.

[0131] Recent Sessions selection 64 allows the user to view information about recent sessions with one or more diffusers. Session Information 65 provides examples of information that can be displayed for recent sessions, such as the scent of the essential oil used, the time the session occurred, and the duration of the session.

[0132] Figure 26 illustrates an example device settings graphical user interface displayed on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 26, device settings may include wireless interface control 66, device information 67, device status 68, and lighting control 70. Wireless interface control 66 can enable or disable wireless communication of the diffuser, for example, using a toggle switch shown in Figure 26. Device information 67 may include information about the diffuser, such as its serial number and firmware version.

[0133] Device status 68 can indicate the current status or operating cycle of the diffuser. In the example of Figure 26, device status can indicate whether the diffuser is currently diffusing scented vapor, is operational, is performing a cleaning cycle, or is performing a rinsing cycle (e.g., a rinsing at the end of a diffusion cycle). In some implementations, separate cleaning or descaling cycles can be initiated from an application. This application can provide users with instructions to add cleaning or descaling materials to the diffuser's base liquid tank, causing the diffuser to perform a cleaning cycle to flush the mixing chamber and diffuse through the atomizer. In some cases, users can use the application to set a water hardness level, and the application can notify users when to perform a cleaning or descaling cycle after a specific diffuser's usage has reached a threshold amount.

[0134] The lighting control 70 can provide options for different lighting effects, such as for the lighting ring 106 and / or the side lights 113 and 115. In the example of Figure 26, the user can select the color of the light on a color chart and can use a slider to set the brightness of the light. Additionally, light modes that provide optical motion characteristics can be selected, such as a rotation mode, in which the light-emitting LEDs surrounding the lighting ring 106 light up sequentially to provide a rotating light effect, or a pulse mode, in which the intensity of the light changes in pulses. In some embodiments, the pulsed light mode can be used to provide visual breathing instructions to the user, or it can be coordinated with meditation or health applications executed by the remote device 22. In other examples, the optical motion characteristics can be coordinated with audio (e.g., music or ambient sound) played by the remote device to synchronize the lighting effect with the rhythm or beat per minute of the audio.

[0135] Figure 27 illustrates an example user settings graphical user interface displayed on a user interface 28 of a remote device 22 according to one or more embodiments. As shown in Figure 27, user settings may include account information 72, user preferences 74, store interface 76, and device information 78. Account information 72 may include user information (e.g., the user's email address) and user account settings (e.g., password).

[0136] User preferences 74 may include recommendations for trying other scents based on past scent usage history, user feedback on scents, and / or other user feedback (such as reviews). Additionally, user preferences 74 may include application notification settings and user privacy settings.

[0137] The store interface 76 may include, for example, essential oil subscription services, the user's order history, and the user's billing and shipping information. In some implementations, the store interface 76 may open a browser window for an online store.

[0138] Device information 78 may include information about one or more devices used or owned by the user. This may include the diffuser's serial number, the firmware version currently installed on the diffuser, and its connection status. Device information 78 may also provide options for obtaining technical support for the diffuser or application.

[0139] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that different information may be displayed or in other graphical user interfaces with configurations different from those shown in Figures 22 to 27. For example, in some embodiments, session notes 60, the amount of essential oil remaining in a particular essential oil container, and / or fragrance recommendations may be omitted. Example Process

[0140] Figure 28 is a flowchart of a controlled mixing process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 28 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the controlled mixing process of Figure 28.

[0141] In step 2802, input to begin an operating cycle is received. This input can be received, for example, from a user pressing a button on the diffuser (e.g., center button 104), or wirelessly from a remote device running an application. In the example of Figure 28, an operating cycle can refer to a session in which scented mist or vapor diffuses from the diffuser.

[0142] In step 2804, the circuitry actuates a base liquid valve (e.g., base liquid valve 159 in FIG. 17) to dispense a controlled amount of base liquid from a base liquid tank (e.g., from inside base liquid tank 126) into a mixing chamber (e.g., mixing chamber cavity 144). The controlled amount of base liquid can be determined or calculated based on, for example, a duration set for the operating cycle, an aroma intensity set for the operating cycle, the volume of the mixing chamber, and / or the desired viscosity of the mixture of essential oil and base liquid. In some embodiments, the passage between the base liquid valve and the mixing chamber is set at least in part based on the rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank. For example, the length of time the base liquid valve is open or in contact with the diffuser actuator can be controlled based on a predetermined rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank.

[0143] In step 2806, the circuitry actuates an essential oil valve (e.g., essential oil valve 164) to dispense a controlled amount of essential oil from an essential oil container (e.g., essential oil container 16) already inserted into the diffuser. In some embodiments, the duration of the diffuser's actuator or the contact time can be set based on the controlled amount of essential oil to be dispensed. Similar to the base liquid, the controlled amount of essential oil can be determined or calculated based on, for example, the duration set for the operating cycle, the aroma intensity set for the operating cycle, the volume of the mixing chamber (e.g., preferably between 4 and 11 ml), and / or the desired viscosity of the mixture of essential oil and base liquid.

[0144] In step 2808, the diffuser's atomizer (e.g., atomizer 102) is activated to atomize the mixture of base liquid and essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser. The circuitry can activate the atomizer, for example, by providing a voltage signal to the atomizer's piezoelectric element, which vibrates the atomizer's mesh element and propels vapor or mist from the mesh element to the outside of the diffuser.

[0145] It is noteworthy that the atomized mixture diffuses in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity acting on the diffuser when it is in its operating orientation. Unlike conventional diffusers that may diffuse vapor in a more vertical direction, the diffuser in step 2808 can provide a more direct diffusion toward the user's face or upper body, enhancing the sensory experience by concentrating the aroma in areas of greater sensory sensitivity. This directional delivery offers a unique user experience advantage in personal care environments, such as during a shower or meditation. As mentioned above, the relatively small mixing chamber and the substantially horizontal arrangement of the atomizer (including a mesh element that allows the mixture to pass through) facilitate substantially horizontal diffusion of the mixture.

[0146] Furthermore, the use of ultrasonic mesh atomizers introduces a visual atomization effect, adding a multi-sensory dimension to the user experience. Unlike traditional atomizer-based diffusers (which produce very little or no visible vapor), this method creates a more immersive feedback loop between fragrance and sight, thereby enhancing the perceived effect of the diffusion process.

[0147] Furthermore, the relatively small mixing chamber and the controlled distribution of essential oils and base liquids prevent premature mixing. By distributing each liquid into a smaller mixing chamber as needed, the resulting vapors are fresher and more aromatic, thus enhancing fragrance intensity and conserving essential oil usage.

[0148] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the process of FIG. 28 may differ. For example, in other embodiments, the order of steps 2804 and 2806 may be interchanged, such that the essential oil is added to the mixing chamber before the base liquid. As another exemplary variation, the execution of steps 2804 and 2806 may be alternated at a specific frequency to dispense controlled amounts of essential oil and base liquid into the mixing chamber throughout the session.

[0149] Figure 29 is a flowchart of a controlled dosage calculation process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 29, as shown in Figure 31, can be executed by the circuitry 131 of diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In other embodiments, the controlled dosage calculation process of Figure 29 can be partially executed by a processor that executes a stored application at a remote device to calculate an indication of the controlled dosage of essential oil and / or base liquid to be dispensed, and then transmits the calculated indication to the circuitry of the diffuser. In this respect, in some embodiments, the processor and memory of the circuitry 131 and / or the remote device may include devices for performing the functions of the controlled dosage calculation process of Figure 29.

[0150] In some implementations, the process of Figure 29 can be used to calculate a default indication of the amount of essential oil and / or base liquid to be dispensed for a session, unless otherwise instructed by the user. Furthermore, the process of Figure 29 can be used to change the controlled amount of essential oil and / or base liquid to be dispensed during a session or before the start of one or more sessions.

[0151] In step 2902, the circuitry or processor calculates at least one of the following based on at least one of the following: an indication of the controlled amount of essential oil to be dispensed and an indication of the controlled amount of base liquid to be dispensed. For example, a user may use an application running on a remote device to provide a desired fragrance intensity, and the processor on the remote device may use, for example, a lookup table to calculate indications of the opening times of the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve. As another example, the diffuser may receive user input from the user pressing a button on the diffuser (e.g., side button 112) to increase the fragrance intensity for the current session. The diffuser's circuitry can then respond to the user input by calculating an indication of the controlled amount of essential oil to be dispensed.

[0152] In step 2904, the diffuser's circuitry dispenses at least one of a controlled amount of essential oil and a controlled amount of base liquid based on one or more calculated instructions for controlled quantities. In some cases, the circuitry may receive the calculated instructions wirelessly from a remote device. In other cases, the circuitry may calculate the instructions. As discussed above with respect to the controlled mixing process of FIG28, the diffuser's circuitry may control one or more actuators (e.g., actuator 174 via motor element 189) to dispense the controlled amounts of essential oil and / or base liquid.

[0153] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the process of FIG. 29 may differ. For example, the process of FIG. 29 may be repeated throughout the entire operating cycle, for example, during the operating cycle, the user provides one or more inputs to increase or decrease the fragrance intensity.

[0154] Figure 30 is a flowchart of an operation cycle process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 30 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 shown in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this regard, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the operation cycle process of Figure 30.

[0155] In step 3002, the circuit system receives an input to begin the operating cycle. This input may include, for example, user input from a button on the diffuser, or input received wirelessly (e.g., input from a remote device).

[0156] In step 3004, the circuitry determines the desired fragrance intensity indication based on user input or preset settings. User input may include, for example, a user pressing a button on the diffuser to increase or decrease the fragrance intensity, or it may include a user setting the fragrance intensity via a graphical user interface of an application executed by a remote device. In some cases, the diffuser may have a default fragrance intensity setting that will be used unless the user input changes the default setting.

[0157] In step 3006, the circuitry rotates the actuator (e.g., actuator 174) to a first position to contact the base liquid valve, thereby dispensing the base liquid from the base liquid tank of the diffuser into the mixing chamber of the diffuser. In some embodiments, the circuitry can rotate the actuator via a circuit-controlled motor element (e.g., motor element 189). As described above with reference to Figures 19 and 20, the circuitry can use a feedback sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) to position the actuator in contact with the base liquid valve, for example by contacting the ball or other seal of the base liquid valve (e.g., ball 186 of base liquid valve 159 in Figure 17).

[0158] In step 3008, the circuitry rotates the actuator to a second position to contact the essential oil valve, thereby dispensing the essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber of the diffuser. In step 3008, the contact time between the actuator and the essential oil valve is based on a fragrance intensity indication determined from step 3004. In some embodiments, for example, the indication of the desired fragrance intensity determined from step 3004 may correspond to a ratio or concentration setting of the amount of essential oil dispensed for a given amount of dispensed base liquid.

[0159] In some embodiments, the circuitry can rotate the actuator via a circuit-controlled motor element (e.g., motor element 189). This circuitry can use a feedback sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) to position the actuator in contact with the essential oil valve, for example, by contacting a ball or other seal of the essential oil valve (e.g., ball 166 of the base liquid valve 159 in FIG. 17). In the example of FIG. 30, using a single actuator allows for more efficient diffuser operation and structural design, eliminating the need for separate actuators for the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve.

[0160] In step 3010, the diffuser's atomizer (e.g., atomizer 102) is activated to atomize the mixture of base liquid and essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser. The circuitry can activate the atomizer, for example, by providing a voltage signal to a piezoelectric element that vibrates the atomizer's mesh element and propels vapor or mist from the mesh element to the outside of the diffuser.

[0161] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the process in FIG30 may differ. For example, in some embodiments, the order in which the base liquid valve and the essential oil valve are contacted may be interchanged, such that step 3008 is performed before step 3006. As another exemplary variation, step 3006 or step 3008 may be performed simultaneously with step 3010 to release more base liquid or more essential oil while the atomizer is operating in step 3010. Furthermore, the actuator may rotate back and forth between a first position and a second position at a determined frequency during a single session, or may rotate to a third position (e.g., the original position or the exhaust position).

[0162] Figure 31 is a flowchart of an operation cycle process according to one or more embodiments. The process shown in Figure 31 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the operation cycle process of Figure 31.

[0163] In step 3102, the circuit system receives an input to begin the operating cycle. This input may include, for example, user input from a button on the diffuser or input received wirelessly (e.g., input from a remote device).

[0164] In step 3104, the circuitry actuates a base liquid valve (e.g., base liquid valve 159 in FIG. 17) to dispense a controlled amount of base liquid from a base liquid tank (e.g., base liquid tank 126) into a mixing chamber (e.g., mixing chamber cavity 144). The controlled amount of base liquid can be determined or calculated based on, for example, a duration set for the operating cycle, an aroma intensity set for the operating cycle, the volume of the mixing chamber, and / or the desired viscosity of the essential oil and base liquid mixture. In some embodiments, the passage between the base liquid valve and the mixing chamber is set at least in part based on the rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank. For example, the length of time the base liquid valve is open or in contact with the diffuser actuator can be controlled based on a predetermined rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank.

[0165] In step 3106, the circuitry drives an essential oil valve (e.g., essential oil valve 164) to dispense a controlled amount of essential oil into the mixing chamber at a predetermined viscosity, at least in part, based on the mixture of base liquid and essential oil. The predetermined viscosity is at least in part based on a predetermined distance for diffusing the mixture of base liquid and essential oil. For example, a user can increase the target diffusing distance via an application executed on a remote device. The remote device can provide this setting to the diffuser's circuitry, which can reduce the amount of essential oil to be diffused during a session, thus providing a lower viscosity mixture that will diffuse further than a higher viscosity mixture containing more essential oil. The circuitry can take into account, for example, the type of base liquid used (e.g., a specific floral water versus water) and / or the type of essential oil used, as different types of base liquids and / or essential oils may have different effects on the viscosity of the mixture.

[0166] In step 3108, the diffuser's atomizer (e.g., atomizer 102) is activated to atomize the mixture of base liquid and essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser. The circuitry can activate the atomizer, for example, by providing a voltage signal to a piezoelectric element that vibrates the atomizer's mesh element and propels vapor or mist from the mesh element to the outside of the diffuser.

[0167] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the process in FIG31 may differ. For example, in some embodiments, the order in which the base liquid and essential oil are dispensed may be interchanged, such that step 3106 is performed before step 3104. As another exemplary variation, step 3104 or step 3106 may be performed simultaneously with step 3108 to release more base liquid or more essential oil while the atomizer is operating in step 3108. Furthermore, the actuation of the essential oil valve and the base liquid valve may alternate with each other multiple times during a single session, for example, alternating with each other multiple times at a specific time frequency during a session to maintain a sufficient mixture in the mixing chamber during the session.

[0168] Figure 32 is a flowchart of a diffusion distance control process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 32 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the diffusion distance control process of Figure 32.

[0169] In step 3202, the circuitry receives input associated with the target diffusion distance. For example, an application executed by a remote device may receive input via diffuser diffusion control (e.g., diffuser diffusion control 56 in Figure 24), which may correspond to a specific target diffusion distance, such as 50 cm from the diffuser. This input can be transmitted wirelessly to the diffuser's circuitry. In another example, a user may press one of the buttons on the diffuser (e.g., side buttons 112 or 114) to increase or decrease the target diffusion distance.

[0170] In step 3204, the circuit controls the vibration of the piezoelectric element (e.g., piezoelectric element 132 in FIG. 10) of the diffuser's atomizer based on the target diffusion distance. In some embodiments, the circuit system may be configured to supply a voltage or power to the piezoelectric element that corresponds to a specific vibration frequency applied to the mesh element (e.g., mesh element 116) of the atomizer. At this point, the higher the vibration frequency of the mesh element, the farther the mixture diffuses from the diffuser.

[0171] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the process in FIG32 may differ. For example, the diffuser may use a default diffusion distance, such that the vibration of the piezoelectric element in step 3204 may be based not on the received input, but on a predetermined setting stored in the memory of the circuit system.

[0172] Figure 33 is a flowchart of a valve control process in progress according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 33 can be executed after the operation cycle of the diffuser has begun. For example, the valve control process in progress of Figure 33 can be executed in conjunction with any of the processes described in Figures 28 to 32. The process of Figure 33 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the valve control process in progress of Figure 33.

[0173] In step 3302, the circuitry controls the base liquid valve to dispense base liquid from the base liquid reservoir into the mixing chamber while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber. In some cases, the liquid atomized when the base liquid valve is controlled may be a mixture generated at the start of a diffusion operation cycle using default or user-provided settings that indicate the concentration of essential oil and base liquid (i.e., fragrance intensity setting). In other cases, the liquid atomized when the base liquid valve is controlled may primarily be the base liquid after a rinse cycle or operation cycle has begun. In some embodiments, after the liquid has diffused through the atomizer, the base liquid valve may be controlled to refill the mixing chamber or maintain a baseline liquid level in the mixing chamber. For example, the base liquid valve may be controlled using an actuator or motor. In some embodiments, the control of the base liquid valve may be based on the valve's opening time.

[0174] In step 3304, the circuitry controls one or more essential oil valves to dispense essential oils from one or more corresponding essential oil containers while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber. As described above, some embodiments may include mixing different essential oils at specific ratios or concentrations, and thus may include individually controlling the amount of each essential oil dispensed.

[0175] In some cases, the liquid atomized when the essential oil valve is controlled may be a mixture generated at the start of a diffusion operation cycle using default or user-provided settings that indicate the concentration of essential oil and base liquid (i.e., fragrance intensity setting). In other cases, the liquid atomized when the essential oil valve is controlled may primarily be the base liquid after the start of a rinsing cycle or operation cycle. In some embodiments, one or more essential oil valves may be controlled to maintain the essential oil concentration in the mixture of base liquid and essential oil in the mixing chamber. For example, the essential oil valves may be controlled using one or more actuators or motors. In some embodiments, the control of the essential oil valve may be based on the valve's opening time.

[0176] As shown in Figure 33, continuous valve control allows for controlled, on-demand mixing of essential oils and base liquids, ensuring fragrance freshness during use and preventing premature evaporation or degradation of the essential oils. In this respect, due to the small size of the mixing chamber and the continuous control of the base liquid and essential oil valves, user input (e.g., from a button on the diffuser) can dynamically change the intensity of the diffused fragrance almost instantaneously. In contrast, traditional ultrasonic diffusers typically require users to pour out large quantities of essential oil and base liquid from the container, manually refill the base liquid, and carefully add drops of essential oil to alter the concentration, or imprecisely add a few more drops to an existing mixture of unknown concentration.

[0177] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the valve control process in Figure 33 may differ. For example, the order of steps 3302 and 3304 may be interchanged. Furthermore, referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the execution of steps 3302 and 3304 may be repeated multiple times in a single operating cycle or session.

[0178] Figure 34 is a flowchart of a rinsing process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 34 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the rinsing process of Figure 34.

[0179] In step 3402, the circuit system determines the end of an operating cycle or session for using the diffuser to diffuse scented vapor or mist. In some cases, the end of the operating cycle can be determined by the expiration of a duration received from a remote device. The duration of the operating cycle can be set for the session via a graphical user interface of an application executed by the remote device (e.g., via duration control 50 in Figure 24). In other cases, the end of the operating cycle can be determined by input received via a button on the diffuser (e.g., central button 104). In still other cases, the end of the operating cycle can be determined by the expiration of a preset session time (e.g., 8 minutes) stored in the memory of the circuit system.

[0180] In step 3404, the circuitry activates the diffuser's base liquid valve to flush the diffuser's mixing chamber with a predetermined amount of base liquid for a predetermined period of time. For example, the circuitry can actuate the valve (e.g., base liquid valve 159 in Figure 17) for a predetermined ten seconds via actuator 174 and motor element 189, or provide a predetermined amount of base liquid (e.g., 100 ml). The atomizer can continue to diffuse mist or vapor even without essential oils to clean the mesh element and mixing chamber. This reduces cross-contamination of essential oils between sessions and prevents essential oils from clogging the pores in the mesh element, thus preventing them from reducing the efficiency of elements such as the atomizer. During the flushing cycle, the diffuser can also provide indications, such as by changing the color of the illumination or using a rotating effect through the lighting sequence.

[0181] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the rinsing process in FIG34 may differ. For example, other embodiments may perform the rinsing process before initiating the operating cycle.

[0182] Figure 35 is a flowchart of a residual liquid determination process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 35 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In other embodiments, the residual liquid determination process of Figure 35 can be performed in part by a processor executing a stored application at a remote device to determine the amount of residual liquid and then transmit the determined amount to the circuitry of the diffuser. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 and / or the remote device processor and memory may include means for performing the functions of the residual liquid determination process of Figure 35.

[0183] In step 3502, the circuitry estimates at least one of the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container and the amount of base liquid dispensed from the base liquid container. In some embodiments, the circuitry can estimate the amount of essential oil or base liquid dispensed using the duration for which the actuator is in a position corresponding to the opening of a valve for the essential oil or base liquid (e.g., the first or second position discussed above with respect to Figures 16-18). In some embodiments, each of the essential oil valve and the base liquid valve can be associated with a predetermined flow rate, which can be multiplied by the valve opening time to estimate the amount of liquid dispensed.

[0184] In step 3504, at least one of the remaining amount of essential oil and the remaining amount of base liquid is calculated based at least in part on the amount estimated in step 3502. In some embodiments, the current volume of essential oil in the essential oil container may be stored in the memory of the diffuser's circuitry (e.g., memory 135 of circuitry 131 in FIG. 17), the memory of a remote device (e.g., the remaining amount indicator 46 shown in FIG. 23 or essential oil information 32 in FIG. 22), or the memory of the container (e.g., memory 171 of container label 163 in FIG. 13). The estimated amount of essential oil allocated in step 3502 can then be subtracted from the stored current amount of essential oil to arrive at a new current amount of essential oil, which can then replace the old current amount of essential oil stored in the memory. As described above, the essential oil container may include a unique identifier, such as a QR code or label (e.g., QR code 20 or label 18 in FIG. 13), which enables the circuitry or remote device to update the current amount of essential oil in a particular essential oil container.

[0185] As another example, the base liquid tank of the diffuser can have a level sensor that indicates when the base liquid tank is full of liquid or at a specific level, such as an increment of 10% of the total capacity. Similar calculations can be performed via the diffuser's circuitry or remote devices to determine the remaining amount of base liquid in the base liquid tank more accurately.

[0186] When the liquid level has reached a low point, insufficient to provide for operation and / or rinsing cycles, the remaining amount can be used to warn the user, for example, by illuminating the diffuser or by a notification on a graphical user interface executed on a remote device. An indication of the remaining amount (e.g., remaining percentage) can also be displayed in the graphical user interface of the remote device to indicate the status of the base liquid tank or essential oil container.

[0187] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the remaining liquid determination process in FIG35 may differ. For example, other embodiments may determine only the remaining essential oil and may alternatively rely on a level sensor in the base liquid tank (e.g., base liquid level sensor 145 in FIG17) to determine the remaining amount of base liquid.

[0188] Figure 36 is a flowchart of a diffuser control process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 36 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this regard, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the diffuser control process of Figure 36.

[0189] In step 3602, the circuit system receives one or more electrical signals from at least one sensor, which indicate movement of the essential oil container in one or more directions. Referring to Figure 11 discussed above, the essential oil container inserted into the receiver 156 can be moved by the user as a joystick to contact a sensor, such as a contact sensor 139. The contact sensor can use, for example, a gimbal element to convert the detected movement into one or more electrical signals provided to the circuit system.

[0190] In step 3604, the circuit system controls the operation of the diffuser based on one or more electrical signals received in step 3602. For example, movement of the essential oil container in one direction may cause the circuit system to increase the concentration of essential oil dispensed into the mixing chamber, or may increase the remaining time of the current period. Movement of the essential oil container in the opposite direction may cause the circuit system to decrease the concentration of essential oil dispensed into the mixing chamber, or may decrease the remaining time of the current period.

[0191] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments may differ. For example, in an embodiment where the diffuser can be controlled by buttons on the diffuser (e.g., side buttons 112 and 114), the diffuser control process of FIG36 may be omitted.

[0192] Figure 37 is a flowchart of a diffuser status or condition indication process using one or more lamps according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 37 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the diffuser status or condition indication process of Figure 37.

[0193] In step 3702, the circuitry determines the state or condition of the diffuser. This state or condition may include: providing breathing guidance to the user, performing a cleaning or rinsing cycle of the diffuser, performing a diffuser operation cycle, estimating the essential oil level in the essential oil container, the base liquid level in the base liquid tank, or the type of essential oil used in the diffuser. In the breathing guidance example, a remote device may transmit one or more settings to the diffuser's circuitry, such as a target breathing rate, which the circuitry can use to activate or adjust the brightness pulses of one or more lights on the diffuser.

[0194] In step 3704, the circuitry activates one or more lights of the diffuser (e.g., illumination ring 106 and / or side lights 113 and 115) to indicate a defined state or condition. This activation may include, for example, changing the color of the lights or sequencing the activation of the lights to produce an effect (e.g., a flashing effect or a rotating effect). In some embodiments, the defined state or condition may also be indicated as a notification on a remote device or other visual or auditory notification.

[0195] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other implementations may differ. For example, different conditions or states can trigger the activation of the diffuser's lights; for instance, playing music via an application executed by a remote device can trigger the activation of the diffuser's lights, which can instruct the diffuser's circuitry to control the lighting operation based on the rhythm of the playing music.

[0196] Figure 38 is a flowchart of an essential oil container information collection process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 38 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example, by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this regard, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the essential oil container information collection process of Figure 38.

[0197] In step 3802, the diffuser's circuitry obtains information about the essential oil in the essential oil container from the container. In some embodiments, this may include reading information from the essential oil container using a sensor of the diffuser (e.g., sensor 141 in FIG. 11), such as from a QR code or radio tag on the container. Information about the essential oil may include, for example, the brand or manufacturer of the essential oil, its fragrance, its expiration date, or its manufacturing date.

[0198] In step 3804, the information obtained by the diffuser's circuitry is transmitted to a remote device, for example, via a wireless interface (e.g., wireless interface 137 in FIG. 7). The information about the essential oil can then be used by an application running on the remote device to display the information on a graphical user interface, as illustrated in the examples of essential oil information 32, essential oil container details 44, and fragrance information 52 discussed in FIGS. 22-24. Using the diffuser's circuitry (e.g., sensors 141 and circuitry 131 of diffuser 100) to obtain information from the essential oil container allows the application running on the remote device to provide the user with information about the currently used or inserted essential oil container.

[0199] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other implementations may differ. For example, in some implementations, the remote device may read a QR code or radio tag without involving the diffuser's circuitry.

[0200] Figure 39 is a flowchart of a diffuser control process via a remote device according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 39 can be executed by the circuitry 131 of the diffuser 100, for example by the processor 133 in Figure 7 executing firmware stored in memory 135. In this respect, in some embodiments, the circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the diffuser control process of Figure 39.

[0201] In step 3902, the circuit system receives information wirelessly from a remote device. This information may be received via a wireless interface of the circuit (e.g., wireless interface 137 in the example of Figure 7), which may include a Wi-Fi interface or a Bluetooth interface. In some embodiments, the information may be provided by a mindfulness application (e.g., a meditation application) or a health application running on the remote device. This information may include, for example, the user's target breathing rate, the user's heart rate variability (HRV), the user's pulse, and / or the user's desired goals (e.g., relaxation before a specific bedtime or refreshment upon waking).

[0202] In step 3904, the circuit system controls the operation of the diffuser based on information received wirelessly from step 3902. For example, the diffuser's light, fragrance intensity (e.g., the concentration of oil added to the mixing chamber), session duration, start of an operating cycle or cleaning cycle, or vibration frequency of the atomizer's piezoelectric element (e.g., based on the received target diffusion distance) can be controlled based on information received from a remote device.

[0203] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other implementations may differ. For example, some implementations of the diffuser may not have wireless communication capabilities, but instead communicate with remote devices via a wired connection, or may not communicate with remote devices at all.

[0204] Figure 40 is a flowchart of an essential oil recommendation process according to one or more embodiments. The process of Figure 40 can be executed by one or more processors and memories, such as a server (e.g., server 26 in Figure 21). In this regard, in some embodiments, server 26 may include devices for performing the functions of the essential oil recommendation process of Figure 40.

[0205] In step 4002, the server receives information about the essential oils used by the diffuser from the diffuser or from a remote device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, or laptop). This information may include, for example, a fragrance or session rating provided by the user in an application executed by the remote device (e.g., via session rating 58 or session notes 60 in Figure 24). In another example, the diffuser may use its sensors (e.g., sensor 141 in Figure 11 or receiver tag 163 in Figure 13) to collect information about the essential oils used by the diffuser (e.g., the fragrance or brand of the essential oil). This information may be received by the server via a network (e.g., network 24), such as via the Internet.

[0206] In step 4004, the server recommends one or more essential oils to the user on the remote device, based at least in part on essential oil usage data obtained from a group of devices, including at least one remote device and a diffuser. In some embodiments, the server may collect essential oil usage data, including ratings of different essential oils, and recommend specific categories of essential oils (e.g., relaxing or invigorating oils). In some embodiments, the server may use an AI model trained using information collected from the remote device 22 for a number of users, such as the user's geographic location, age or gender, and / or ratings provided by the user and other users for various scents. This recommendation may be sent back by the server to the remote device associated with the user via a network. In some cases, the recommendation may appear in the store access section of the graphical user interface of an application executed by the user's remote device (e.g., store interface 76 in FIG. 27). In other cases, the recommendation may appear as a notification in the graphical user interface of the application.

[0207] Referring to this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments of the essential oil recommendation process in Figure 40 may differ. For example, an application executed by a remote device may replace a server to provide the recommendation in step 4004. In this case, the application may be pre-configured or updated via a network to provide recommendations without involving a separate server, such as recommending other essential oils belonging to the same category as those used in the diffuser currently communicating via the remote device.

[0208] Figure 41 is a flowchart of a user setup communication process according to one or more embodiments. The first portion of the process, including steps 4102 and 4104 above the dashed line in Figure 41, can be performed by the circuitry of the receiver (e.g., the circuitry of receiver tag 163 in Figure 13), and the second portion of the process, including steps 4106 and 4108 below the dashed line, can be performed by other circuitry of the diffuser (e.g., circuitry 131 in Figure 7). In this respect, in some embodiments, receiver tag 163 and circuitry 131 may include devices for performing the functions of the user setup communication process of Figure 41.

[0209] In step 4102, at least one user setting is stored in the memory of the container. The container can be removed from the diffuser such that when the container is removed from the diffuser, the user can secure the essential oil container in the container. Referring to FIG13, the user settings can be stored in the memory 171 of the container tag 163. In some embodiments, the user settings can be provided via wireless communication with a remote device of the application using communication circuitry using the container tag (e.g., communication circuitry 173 in FIG13). The user settings may include, for example, the user's preferred session duration, the user's preferred diffusion distance, and / or the user's preferred lighting configuration.

[0210] In step 4104, at least one user setting is transmitted from the receiver to the diffuser's circuitry. In some embodiments, this transmission may be performed by the receiver tag's communication circuitry communicating wirelessly with the diffuser's wireless interface circuitry (e.g., wireless interface 137 in FIG. 7). In other embodiments, at least one user setting may be transmitted via an electrical connection between the diffuser's circuitry and the receiver tag, for example, through physical contact with the removable receiver when it is inserted into the diffuser.

[0211] In step 4106, the at least one user setting is received by the diffuser's circuitry (e.g., circuitry 131 in FIG. 7) from the receiver's communication circuitry. The diffuser's circuitry can store the received user setting in the circuitry's memory for use during a session when the receiver is inserted into the diffuser.

[0212] In step 4108, the operation of the diffuser is controlled at least in part based on the received user settings. This approach provides a relatively seamless way to transmit user-specific settings to the diffuser, as the receptacle can be associated with a specific user. At this point, different users of the same diffuser may have different user settings, and their receptacles may cause the diffuser to operate differently depending on which receptacle is inserted (e.g., different default session durations, different default diffusion distances, and / or different default lighting schemes). In some implementations, the user settings transmitted to the diffuser's circuitry can be overridden by user input to the diffuser (e.g., central button 104 and / or side buttons 112 and 114) and / or settings provided by applications on remote devices communicating with the diffuser.

[0213] The aforementioned diffuser and process offer numerous advantages over traditional diffusers. For example, the ongoing essential oil dispensing maintains a stronger aroma throughout the session compared to a user manually adding drops to the reservoir. In this respect, the disclosed diffuser and process provide an instant, controlled ratio of essential oil to base liquid to deliver a specific aroma intensity that can be dynamically adjusted by the user during the session. Furthermore, the horizontal diffusion of the disclosed diffuser can diffuse a stronger aroma toward the user's head in smaller spaces (e.g., in a shower). Controlled dispensing of essential oil into smaller mixing chambers also conserves typically expensive essential oils and avoids waste due to overfilling or accidental spillage.

[0214] Other advantages of the disclosed diffuser and method compared to conventional diffusers include: automatic rinsing or guided cleaning of the mixing chamber and atomizer, thereby improving the long-term effectiveness of the diffuser and reducing cross-contamination of essential oils between consecutive sessions. Furthermore, the disclosed diffuser provides quieter operation by eliminating the need for a fan, which is particularly noticeable in small spaces or when the user is very close to the diffuser. The disclosed diffuser and process also provide improved user interaction with the diffuser via remote devices such as smartphones. Other embodiments

[0215] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various illustrative logic modules, module units, and processes involved in the examples disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, the aforementioned processes can also be embodied in a computer-readable medium that, when read by a processor or controller circuit system, enables it to perform a specific function.

[0216] To clearly illustrate the substitutability between hardware and software, the various illustrative elements, modules, and units described above are generally based on their functionality. Whether this functionality is implemented through hardware or software will depend on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functions in different ways according to their specific application requirements, but these differences in implementation should not be construed as departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0217] The various illustrative logic modules, units, modular elements, processor circuits, and controller circuits described in this specification may be implemented or performed by a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination of these designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or alternatively, any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. Processor or controller circuits may also be implemented by a combination of multiple computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, a SoC, a combination of one or more microprocessor and DSP cores, or any other similar configuration.

[0218] The operational steps in the described method or process can be implemented directly in hardware, by a software module executed by processor or controller circuitry, or by a combination of both. The steps of the method or algorithm may also be executed in a different sequence than in the example. The software module can be stored in RAM, flash memory, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, registers, hard disks, removable media, optical media, or any other known form of storage medium. An exemplary storage medium can be connected to the processor or controller circuitry, allowing the processor or controller circuitry to read information from and write information to it. Alternatively, the storage medium can be integrated therein as part of the processor or controller circuitry. The processor or controller circuitry and the storage medium can also be integrated into an ASIC or SoC.

[0219] The foregoing description of the disclosed exemplary embodiments is intended to enable those skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of this disclosure. Various modifications to these examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles disclosed herein can be applied to other examples without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The described embodiments are to be considered illustrative in all respects only and not restrictive. Furthermore, the language used in the following claims in the form of "at least one of A and B" should be understood to mean "only A, only B, or both A and B".

[0220] 10: Shower Room 12: User 14: Mist or steam 16: Essential oil container 161: Essential oil container 162: Essential oil container 163: Essential oil containers 18: Tags 20: QR code 22: Remote devices 221: Remote device 223: Remote device 24: Internet 26: Server 28: User Interface 281: User Interface 283: User Interface 30: Top menu bar 32: Essential Oil Information 34: Basic Liquid Level Element Information 36: Battery Charge Information 38: Communication Connection Status 40: Bottom menu bar 42: Scan button 44: Essential Oil Container Details 46: Remaining quantity indicator 48: Button 50: Duration Control 52: Fragrance Information 54: Fragrance Intensity Control 56: Diffuser Diffusion Control 58: Session Rating 60: Conversation Notes 62: Conversation Trend Selection 64: Session Selection 65: Conversation Information 66: Wireless Interface Control 67: Equipment Information 68: Equipment Status 70: Lighting Control 72: Account Information 74: User Preferences 76: Store Interface 78: Equipment Information 100: Diffuser 1001: Diffuser 1002: Diffuser 1003: Diffuser 102: Atomizer 104: Central Button 1041: Central Button 106: Illumination Ring 1081: Removable panel 1082: Detachable panel 110: Outer shell 112: Side button 1121: Button 113: Side lights 114: Side button Button 1141 115: Side lights 116: Mesh element 1161: Mesh element 1162: Mesh element 118: Rear Surface 119: Attachment Components 120: Connection Interface 122: Outer shell hole 124: Outer shell opening 126: Basic Liquid Tank 127: Vent 128a: Groove 128b: Groove 130: Nozzle 131: Circuit System 132: Piezoelectric element 133: Processor 134: Battery compartment 135: Memory 136: Electronic casing 137: Wireless Interface 138: Joystick Bar 139: Contact Sensor 140: Jar Hole 141: Sensor 142: Can opening 143: Mixing chamber opening 144: Mixed Chamber Body 145: Basic Liquid Level Sensor 146: Vent 147: External Structure 148: Lock 149: Mixing Chamber Level Sensor 1501: Connector 1502: Connector 1503: Connector 1504 connector 151: Central button contact 1521: Lower connector 1522: Lower connector 1523: Lower connector 154: Locking notch 156: Seating 158: Basic Liquid Connector 159: Basic Liquid Valve 160: Ring 163: Seat Label 164: Essential Oil Valve 166:Sphere 167: Space 168: Internal thread 169: Location 170: Spring 171: Memory 172: Internal passageway 173: Communication Circuits 174: Actuator 176: Contact Surface 178: Outer Ring Road 180: Front 182: Seals 186:Sphere 188: along the radial direction 189: Motor Components 190: Electric motor 192: Position sensor 194: Motor Shaft 2802: Steps 2804: Steps 2806: Steps 2808: Steps 2902: Steps 2904: Steps 3002: Steps 3004: Steps 3006: Steps 3008: Steps 3010: Steps 3102: Steps 3104: Steps 3106: Steps 3108: Steps 3202: Steps 3204: Steps 3302: Steps 3304: Steps 3402: Steps 3404: Steps 3502: Steps 3504: Steps 3602: Steps 3604: Steps 3702: Steps 3704: Steps 3802: Steps 3804: Steps 3902: Steps 3904: Steps 4002: Steps 4004: Steps 4102: Steps 4104: Steps 4106: Steps 4108: Steps

Claims

1. A diffuser, comprising: A base liquid container configured to contain a base liquid; and a receiving seat configured to receive an essential oil container. Mixing chamber; Atomizer configured to atomize liquid from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser; base liquid valve configured to dispense base liquid from the base liquid reservoir into the mixing chamber while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber; essential oil valve configured to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber while the atomizer atomizes the liquid from the mixing chamber. And an actuator configured to be rotatably movable between at least a first position and a second position; Furthermore, in the first position, the actuator contacts the base liquid valve to dispense base liquid from the base liquid tank, and in the second position, the actuator contacts the essential oil valve to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container.

2. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the surface of the atomizer forms part of the outer surface of the diffuser, and wherein the atomizer is further configured to diffuse at least a portion of the atomized liquid from the surface directly into the air outside the diffuser.

3. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atomizer is further configured to diffuse the atomized liquid in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the direction in which gravity acts on the diffuser when the diffuser is in the operating position.

4. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh member at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate the mesh member.

5. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atomizer includes a first removable mesh member having a first mesh pattern, the first removable mesh member being interchangeable with a second removable mesh member having a second mesh pattern, and wherein the first mesh pattern and the second mesh pattern are configured to diffuse the atomized liquid with different diffusion ranges during operation of the atomizer.

6. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atomizer further includes a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate a mesh component; and wherein the diffuser further includes a circuit system configured to control the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric element based on a target diffusion distance of the atomized liquid.

7. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A vent that fluidly connects at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank to the outside of the diffuser, wherein the vent releases air pressure in at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank.

8. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the volume of the mixing chamber is in the range of 4 ml to 11 ml.

9. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh component forming part of the mixing chamber.

10. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a circuit system configured to control the operation of the diffuser; And the accommodating seat includes: A memory, configured to store at least one user setting associated with the user of the diffuser; The system also includes a communication circuit configured to transmit the at least one user setting to the circuit system; and the circuit system is further configured to: receive the at least one user setting from the communication circuit of the housing; and control the operation of the diffuser based at least in part on the received at least one user setting.

11. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuator is configured to dispense a controlled amount of the base liquid from the base liquid valve and a controlled amount of the essential oil from the essential oil valve.

12. The diffuser as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The actuator is also configured to dispense a controlled amount of base liquid and a controlled amount of essential oil by alternating back and forth between a contact base liquid valve and a contact essential oil valve at a specific frequency.

13. The diffuser of claim 1, wherein the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil valve is determined at least in part based on a predetermined viscosity of the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil, and wherein the predetermined viscosity is at least in part based on at least one of the following: a predetermined distance for diffusing the atomized mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the atomizer, and the volume of the mixing chamber.

14. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A channel located between the base liquid valve and the mixing chamber, wherein the angle of the channel relative to the direction of gravity is based at least in part on the rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank.

15. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The container includes at least one sensor configured to receive mechanical input from the movement of the essential oil container; and wherein the diffuser further includes a circuit system configured to: receive one or more electrical signals from the at least one sensor indicating movement of the essential oil container in one or more directions; and control the operation of the diffuser based on the received one or more electrical signals.

16. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: The circuit system is configured to: determine the end of the operating cycle of the diffuser; In response to the end of a defined operating cycle, the actuation of the base liquid valve is controlled to flush the mixing chamber with a predetermined amount of the base liquid within a predetermined time period.

17. The diffuser of claim 1, further comprising a first removable panel located on the front of the diffuser, the first removable panel being interchangeable with a second removable panel, wherein the atomizer is also configured to atomize liquid from the front, and wherein at least one of the appearance and lighting arrangement of the first removable panel differs from the second removable panel.

18. The diffuser as claimed in claim 1 further includes one or more level sensors configured to provide one or more corresponding electrical signals indicating a corresponding level in at least one of the base liquid tank and the mixing chamber.

19. A diffuser, comprising: Basic liquid tank; A container, configured to receive an essential oil container; Mixing chamber; A base liquid valve configured to dispense base liquid from the base liquid container into the mixing chamber; an essential oil valve configured to dispense essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber; an actuator configured to dispense a controlled amount of base liquid from the base liquid valve and a controlled amount of essential oil from the essential oil valve by alternating between contacting the base liquid valve and contacting the essential oil valve; and an atomizer configured to atomize the mixture of base liquid and essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser.

20. The diffuser of claim 19, wherein the surface of the atomizer forms part of the outer surface of the diffuser, and wherein the atomizer is further configured to diffuse atomized liquid directly from at least a portion of the surface into the air outside the diffuser.

21. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh component, and wherein the inner surface of the mesh component forms part of the mixing chamber.

22. The diffuser of claim 20, wherein the surface of the atomizer is formed by a first removable mesh member having a first mesh pattern, the first removable mesh member being interchangeable with a second removable mesh member having a second mesh pattern, and wherein the first mesh pattern and the second mesh pattern are configured to diffuse the atomized mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil at different diffusion ranges during operation of the atomizer.

23. The diffuser as claimed in claim 22, wherein each of the first mesh component and the second mesh component includes an electronically readable identifier, and wherein the diffuser further includes a circuit system configured to: receive an input indicating the use of the first mesh component or the second mesh component in the atomizer; and change the operation of the diffuser based on the received input.

24. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh member at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate the mesh member.

25. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising a circuit system configured to control the operation of the diffuser; And the accommodating seat includes: Memory, configured to store at least one user setting associated with the user of the diffuser; The system also includes a communication circuit configured to transmit the at least one user setting to the circuit system; and the circuit system is further configured to: receive at least one user setting from the communication circuit of the housing; and control the operation of the diffuser based at least in part on the received at least one user setting.

26. The diffuser of claim 19, wherein the atomizer includes a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate a mesh component; and wherein the diffuser further includes a circuit system configured to control the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric element based on a target diffusion distance of the atomized mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil.

27. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: A vent that fluidly connects at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank to the outside of the diffuser, wherein the vent releases air pressure in at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank.

28. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, wherein the volume of the mixing chamber is in the range of 4 ml to 11 ml.

29. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, wherein, The atomizer is configured to atomize a mixture of base liquid and essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, which is the direction in which gravity acts on the diffuser when the diffuser is in the operating position.

30. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: A circuit system configured to dispense a controlled amount of base liquid and a controlled amount of essential oil by moving the actuator between a contact base liquid valve and a contact essential oil valve at a specific frequency.

31. The diffuser of claim 19, wherein the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil valve is based at least in part on a predetermined viscosity of the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil, and wherein the predetermined viscosity is based at least in part on at least one of: a predetermined distance for diffusing the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the atomizer, and the volume of the mixing chamber.

32. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: A channel located between the base liquid valve and the mixing chamber, wherein the angle of the channel relative to the direction of gravity is at least partially based on the rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank.

33. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: A circuit system configured to: determine the end of the operating cycle of the diffuser; In response to the end of a defined operating cycle, the actuator of the base liquid valve is controlled to flush the mixing chamber with a predetermined amount of the base liquid within a predetermined time period.

34. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19 further includes a first removable panel located on the front of the diffuser, the first removable panel being interchangeable with a second removable panel, wherein the atomizer is also configured to atomize the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the front, and wherein at least one of the appearance and lighting arrangement of the first removable panel differs from that of the second removable panel.

35. The diffuser as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: A circuit system configured to: estimate at least one of the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil container and the amount of base liquid dispensed from the base liquid container; and calculate at least one of the following: calculating the remaining amount of essential oil in the essential oil container based at least in part on the estimated amount of essential oil dispensed, and calculating the remaining amount of base liquid in the base liquid container based at least in part on the estimated amount of water dispensed.

36. A diffuser, comprising: Basic liquid tank; A container, configured to receive an essential oil container; Mixing chamber; A base liquid valve configured to dispense a base liquid from the base liquid container into the mixing chamber; an essential oil valve configured to dispense an essential oil from the essential oil container into the mixing chamber; an atomizer configured to atomize the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the mixing chamber to the outside of the diffuser, wherein the atomizer includes a mesh member at least partially surrounded by a piezoelectric element configured to vibrate the mesh member; and a circuit system configured to receive an input related to a target diffusion distance during operation of the diffuser. In response to the input, the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric element is changed to adjust the diffusion distance of the atomized mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil.

37. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, wherein the atomizer is further configured to diffuse the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the direction in which gravity acts on the diffuser when the diffuser is in the operating orientation.

38. The diffuser of claim 36, wherein the surface of the mesh member forms part of the outer surface of the diffuser, and wherein the atomizer is further configured to diffuse atomized liquid directly from at least a portion of the surface into the air outside the diffuser.

39. The diffuser of claim 36, wherein the mesh component of the atomizer is a detachable mesh component, and the mesh component includes a first mesh pattern, and wherein the mesh component is interchangeable with a second mesh component having a second mesh pattern, wherein, during operation of the atomizer, the second mesh pattern diffuses the atomized mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil with a diffusion range different from that of the first mesh pattern.

40. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, further comprising an actuator configured to: contact the base liquid valve to dispense a base liquid; and contact the essential oil valve to dispense an essential oil; and wherein, The circuit system is also configured to control the actuator to alternate between contacting the base liquid valve and contacting the essential oil valve at a specific frequency.

41. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, further comprising: A vent that fluidly connects at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank to the outside of the diffuser, wherein the vent releases air pressure in at least one of the mixing chamber and the base liquid tank.

42. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, wherein the volume of the mixing chamber is in the range of 4 ml to 11 ml.

43. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, wherein the inner surface of the mesh member forms part of the mixing chamber.

44. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, wherein the receiving seat comprises: A memory, configured to store at least one user setting associated with the user of the diffuser; The diffuser also includes a communication circuit configured to transmit the at least one user setting to the circuit system; and the circuit system of the diffuser is further configured to: receive at least one user setting from the communication circuit of the housing; and control the operation of the diffuser based at least in part on the received at least one user setting.

45. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, further comprising: At least one actuator is configured to dispense a controlled amount of the base liquid from the base liquid valve and a controlled amount of the essential oil from the essential oil valve.

46. ​​The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, further comprising: An actuator configured to be rotatably movable between at least a first position and a second position; In the first position, the actuator contacts the base liquid valve to dispense the base liquid from the base liquid tank, and in the second position, the actuator contacts the essential oil valve to dispense the essential oil from the essential oil container.

47. The diffuser of claim 36, wherein the amount of essential oil dispensed from the essential oil valve is based at least in part on a predetermined viscosity of the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil, and wherein the predetermined viscosity is based at least in part on at least one of: a predetermined distance for diffusing the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the atomizer, and the volume of the mixing chamber.

48. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, further comprising: A channel located between the base liquid valve and the mixing chamber, wherein the angle of the channel is based at least in part on the rate at which the base liquid is discharged from the base liquid tank.

49. The diffuser as claimed in claim 36, wherein, The circuit system is further configured to: determine the end of the operating cycle of the diffuser; and in response to the end of the determined operating cycle, actuate the base liquid valve to flush the mixing chamber with a predetermined amount of base liquid for a predetermined time period.

50. The diffuser of claim 36 further includes a first removable panel located on the front of the diffuser, the first removable panel being interchangeable with a second removable panel, wherein the atomizer is also configured to atomize the mixture of the base liquid and the essential oil from the front, and wherein at least one of the appearance and lighting arrangement of the first removable panel differs from that of the second removable panel.

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