Dry fog generation device

Abstract

A dry fog generation system for applying anti-sprout agents, such as essential oils, to harvested tuberous crops, comprising: s) a chamber having a first input, a second input, and an output; b) at least one nozzle associated with the first input, configured to introduce a liquid material into the chamber as a fine mist; and c) a blower associated with the second input, configured to introduce an airflow into the chamber. The airflow induces a swirling motion within the chamber, causing the fine mist to mix and exit through the output in a controlled manner, wherein the swirling motion within the chamber is directed by an internal structure to control the filtration / limitation of droplet sizes that allowed to be applied as anti-sprout agents through the output.

Description

[0001] DRY FOG GENERATION DEVICE

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of aerosol technology. More specifically, the invention relates to a system capable of generating "dry fog" with controlled droplet size distribution for various industrial and agricultural applications. In particular, the invention focuses on a fogging system that applies disinfection agents to agricultural produce to increase its shelf life, and also as an application method of anti-sprout agents to harvested tuberous crops to inhibit sprouting during storage.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] The storage of tuberous crops like potatoes presents a challenge due to the natural tendency of these crops to sprout, leading to a loss of quality and market value. Traditional methods of applying anti-sprout agents can be insufficient, wasteful, or potentially harm the potatoes.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a precise, efficient, and eco-friendly method to apply these agents, minimizing waste and ensuring the safety of the produce.

[0007] It is another object of the invention to provide a fogging solution that can deliver fine mist across extensive areas.

[0008] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

[0009] Summary of the Invention

[0010] The dry fog generation system is designed to atomize anti-sprout agents, such as, but not limited to, essential oils, into a fine mist that envelops stored crops, providing uniform coverage without excess oil. The system features a pneumatic atomizing unit, consisting of: a nozzle, an advanced airflow management system, and an electronic control unit for precise operation.

[0011] In one aspect, the dry fog generation system is characterized by its ability to atomize liquids into a fine mist and to output droplets smaller than 10 microns. In one aspect, the invention is a dry fog generation system for applying anti-sprout agents to harvested tuberous crops, comprising: a chamber having a first input, a second input, and an output; at least one nozzle associated with the first input, configured to introduce a liquid material into the chamber as a fine mist; a blower associated with the second input, configured to introduce an air flow into the chamber;

[0012] In this system, air flow creates a swirling motion within the chamber, effectively mixing a fine mist. The mist then exits through an output in a controlled manner. An internal structure guides the swirling motion, allowing for precise filtration and control of droplet sizes. These controlled droplets are guided through the output and can be applied as anti-sprout agents.

[0013] In one aspect, the at least one nozzle is designed to atomize the liquid material into particles of a specific size range to optimize surface area for interaction within the chamber.

[0014] In one aspect, the chamber is geometrically shaped to enhance the swirling motion induced by the airflow introduced through the second input.

[0015] In one aspect, the internal structure within the chamber is a partition that acts as a baffle or vane to direct the swirling motion and control the filtration / limitation of the droplet sizes of the fine mist that exits the system.

[0016] In one aspect, the output is positioned to utilize centrifugal forces generated by the swirling motion to facilitate the egress of the processed mist.

[0017] In yet another aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for enhancing the interaction between a liquid material and an airflow, comprising: means for atomizing a liquid material into a fine mist; means for introducing an air flow to induce a swirling motion of the fine mist within a chamber; means for directing the mixed fine mist and airflow towards an output based on centrifugal forces generated by the swirling motion, wherein the swirling motion within the chamber is directed by an internal structure to control the filtration / limitation of droplet sizes that allowed to exit said chamber.

[0018] In one aspect, the means for atomizing includes at least one nozzle designed to produce fine mist particles within a predetermined size range, and the means for introducing an air flow includes a blower configured to provide a controlled flow rate and direction to induce the swirling motion within the chamber, as well as the control the filtration / limitation of droplet sizes that allowed to exit said chamber.

[0019] In still another aspect, the invention relates to a method of applying anti-sprout agents to harvested tuberous crops using the dry fog generation system, ensuring uniform coverage and minimal waste.

[0020] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] The above and other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limitative detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0022] Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a dry fog generation device, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates an atomizing unit of the dry fog generation device of Fig. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a perspective transparent view of a dry fog generation system, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Fig. 4 shows a front view of an implementation of the dry fog generation system of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Fig. 5 shows a rear view of the implementation of the dry fog generation system of Fig. 4;

[0027] Fig. 6 shows a side view of the implementation of the dry fog generation system of Fig. 4; and Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a control system adapted to control the generation of dry fog, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0028] A detailed description of the Invention

[0029] A dry fog generation device specifically designed for various industrial and agricultural applications. In particular, the invention focuses on a fogging system that applies disinfection agents to agricultural produce to increase its shelf life, and also as an application of anti-sprout agents on harvested tuberous crop products such as potatoes, yams, and similar root vegetables. The device produces an ultrafine mist with droplet sizes predominantly under 10 microns, ensuring extensive coverage without wetting or damaging the stored crops. This innovative system allows for the effective and uniform distribution of disinfection agents and / or essential oils, extending the shelf life of stored agricultural products while maintaining their quality and safety.

[0030] Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a dry fog generation device 100, according to an embodiment of the invention. Device 100 comprises an atomizing unit 11, nozzle assembly 12 that may include one or more nozzles, an airflow management system 13, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) 14, and a liquid source of disinfection agents and / or essential oils 15 (herein also refers to the Agent Source container 15).

[0031] Atomizing unit 11 utilizes pneumatic pressure to convert liquid (e.g., anti-sprout agents from anti-sprout agent source 15) into a dry fog composed of droplets smaller than 10 microns, ideal for enveloping the surface of tuberous crops without causing dampness. Airflow management system 13 causes the dispersion and filtration of the dry fog droplets and enables them to flow out of the device. ECU 14 starts / stops system activity according to the time programming (timer). The time setting controls the amount of material that enters the storage space. The amount of material entering the storage space is calculated as a result of the type of material (the source) and the amount of material required in the storage room space.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, the conversion of the liquid (e.g., the anti-sprout agents) into a fog, is done by nozzle assembly 12 that atomizes the liquid into droplets (e.g., ranging from 1 to 50 microns) and introduces the droplets into a controlled environment where the fog / mist is formed within atomizing unit 11 (e.g., a specialized chamber as will be described in further details with respect to Fig. 2). Atomizing unit 11 is constructed to facilitate an optimal interaction between the droplets and airflow provided by the airflow management system 13 to distribute droplets smaller than 10 microns.

[0033] Referring now to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 schematically illustrates atomizing unit 11, according to an embodiment of the invention. Atomizing unit 11 comprises a specialized chamber 2 designed for the integration and manipulation of liquid material (such as antisprout agents) and airflow. The chamber is configured with two distinct input ports 21, 22 and an output port 23, facilitating a controlled environment for the interaction of the introduced substances.

[0034] The first input 21 is specifically tailored to accommodate the introduction of a liquid material (e.g., from anti-sprout agent source 15 of Fig. 1). This is achieved via nozzle assembly 12 capable of atomizing the liquid into fog (with droplets ranging from 1 to 50 microns). The fog is then exposed to the subsequent air flow, enhancing the intended interactions within chamber 2.

[0035] Adjacent to the liquid introduction system, the second input 22 is designated for airflow entry. This input is typically connected to a blower 5 or similar air-moving device, configured to provide a consistent and controlled flow of air into chamber 2. The primary function of this airflow is to induce a swirling motion within chamber 2, engaging with the fog particles introduced from the first input 21. The dynamics of this air flow are crucial, as they must be precisely calibrated to ensure the effective swirling and mixing of the fog in order to effectively filter out the smaller droplets and allow them to exit via output port 23 (also referred herein interchangeably to outlet 23 or output 23).

[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, chamber 2 is constructed to facilitate the optimal interaction between the fine mist and the swirling airflow. Its geometry, dimensions, and internal structures are designed to enhance the swirling motion, ensuring that the mist is thoroughly exposed to the airflow, thereby promoting the desired process (e.g., applying anti-sprout agents to harvested tuberous crops to inhibit sprouting during storage). This might involve specific features such as baffles or vanes to direct flow, or a particular shape or element that naturally encourages a vortex-like motion, as indicated by element 24.

[0037] Output 23 of chamber 2 is strategically positioned to harness the swirling motion's centrifugal forces, guiding the now-processed mist towards egress. The design of the output is adapted to ensure that the desired end-product (i.e., droplet sizes predominantly under 10 microns) is efficiently removed from chamber 2 and directed to their destination (e.g., applied to harvested tuberous crops) while preventing droplets above 10 microns from returning into chamber 2 (i.e., filtering or forcing backflow of droplets above 10 microns to remain in chamber 2). Chamber 2 may also comprise a drainage arrangement 8 to enable the reuse of excess material. For example, chamber 2 comprises an excess pipe located at the bottom of chamber 2 (or the lowest area of chamber 2) throughout which the material (i.e., the filtered droplets above 10 microns) returns to the Agent Source container 15 (as in Fig. 1) or other storage units or container(s) suitable to collect the material.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the invention, pipe 4 allows the continued flow of air with the mist out of chamber 2 through outlet 23, and is adapted to enable the output of droplets less than 10 microns, and to prevent the output of droplets above 10 microns. This can be obtained by providing a pipe with an angled portion (as indicated by numeral 41) that is designed in such a way that angled portion 41 prevents droplets larger than 10 microns from passing the angled portion 41, while droplets less than 10 microns pass the angled portion 41 and continue to flow toward an output 6 of pipe 4.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the invention, device 100 is designed to ensure that all stored crops receive equal treatment as well as ensure an even distribution of the dry fog within a storage facility (e.g., via output 6 of pipe 4).

[0040] Such atomizing unit 11 can be utilized in various industrial and scientific applications, including but not limited to spray drying, humidity chambers, coating processes, or even combustion systems. The precise control over the introduction of material and airflow, coupled with the engineered internal dynamics of chamber 2 of atomizing unit 11, allows for a high degree of process optimization. Key considerations in the design and operation of such a chamber include the properties of the liquid material (viscosity, volatility, etc.), the desired characteristics of the end product (e.g., filter droplet above 10 microns), and the efficiency of air and material integration within chamber 2.

[0041] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a transparent perspective of a dry fog generation system 200, according to an embodiment of the invention. System 200 may operate as follows:

[0042] At a pressure range of 4 to 5 atmospheres, the air is propelled through nozzle assembly 12 (i.e., through at least one or more nozzles, depending on the configuration of the nozzle assembly 12). This nozzle assembly 12 is designed to intake the material required for fogging or misting (e.g., in this case, the material can be anti-sprout agents provided in a liquid form and stored in at least one container, such as container 9), utilizing the air pressure to draw it in. Once inside nozzle 12, the material undergoes a process where it is atomized into droplets. These droplets vary in size, typically ranging from 1 to 50 microns. The atomized droplets are then introduced into the inner space of chamber 2. This chamber 2 serves as the environment where the fog / mist is formed.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, within this confined space (i.e., inner space of chamber 2), the atomized droplets disperse and are forced to flow in a swirl motion towards pipe 4 via output 23, as will be described in further detail hereinafter.

[0044] In this embodiment, the material intended for fogging or misting is stored within a container 9, serving as the source for the mist, i.e., anti-sprout agent (generally designated as source 15 in Fig. 1).

[0045] During the process, as the material undergoes the fragmentation effect within chamber 2, it experiences a cooling effect. Consequently, the droplets formed within the confined space of chamber 2 end up being cooler than the initial material intended for atomization. The cooling effect occurs as the material undergoes fragmentation or atomization within chamber 2. This process involves the conversion of kinetic energy into thermal energy, leading to a decrease in temperature. As the material breaks down into smaller droplets, it loses energy, resulting in a cooling effect on the material and the surrounding environment.

[0046] In this embodiment, chamber 2 is situated inside an outer casing 3 of device 100. Pipe 4 is introduced from above into the confined space of chamber 2 (i.e., via output 23, which is located at the top of chamber 2), where the distal end 6 of pipe 4 is adapted to deliver fine mist formed by droplet sizes less than 10 microns. Chamber 2 may adopt a rectangular-like shape or any other shape suitable to accommodate the process effectively. In this embodiment, nozzle 12 enters from one of the sides of chamber 2 (i.e., from input 21) in a way that only the front part of it is located inside chamber 2 (i.e., partially penetrates chamber 2). At the top of chamber 2 there is another opening (i.e., input 22) for the entrance of controlled airflow. According to some embodiments of the invention, chamber 2 and the outer casing 3 are resistant to corrosive substances.

[0047] Blower 5 introduces external air into chamber 2 through input 22 on top of chamber 2, via a pipe 7. Inside chamber 2, the introduced air is deflected with the help of element 24, which is a sort of partition installed at an angle of about 45 degrees towards nozzle 12 to create swirling air in the inner space of chamber 2. As a result of this configuration, the air exits from above through pipe 4 only with droplets of 1- 7 microns in diameter. The speed of the air entering chamber 2 by blower 5 in conjunction with the shape and size of chamber 2 is what determines the size of the drops that come out of chamber 2 through output 23 where pipe 4 is connected in a flow communication with chamber 2.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the invention, the incoming air, which can be supplied at constant pressure (e.g., 5 atmospheres) and at a constant flow rate through nozzle 12, generates a distribution of droplets ranging from 1 to 50 microns in diameter. The air entering through blower 5 has an adjustable velocity, enabling control over the size of the droplets exiting device 100. Consequently, the droplet size distribution can be adjusted to suit different materials with varying specific gravities.

[0049] The exit of the mist from device 100 is through pipe 4, which is angled, where the angled portion causes drops larger than 7 microns to condense and return to chamber 2. The excess material that did not exit with the air stream or returned from pipe 4, is returned to container 9 through excess pipe 8 located at the bottom of chamber 2 for reuse, so that there is no waste of material.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, since the materials intended for use by system 200 are corrosive, then all the parts of device 100 that are in contact with the material (pipes, excess pipe, connectors, nozzle, chamber 2, etc.) are made of materials resistant to the corrosion of these materials.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the invention, to replace the anti-sprout agent in container 9, one must first remove pipes 8 and 13, then replace container 9 entirely, and finally reinsert both pipes 8 and 13 into the new container. It's important to note that the process of changing or replacing the anti-sprout agent can vary depending on the configuration of the system.

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a front view of an implementation of the dry fog generation system 200, according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 4 provides a realistic view of system 200 of Fig. 3.

[0053] All the operations of system 200, such as activation, control of the activation timing, air pressure control, electrical sockets, electrical panel, and electrical wires, can be done by a dedicated control system 10 (in Fig. 5). For example, control system 10 can be located at an additional sealed casing 50 installed adjacent to the outer casing 3 of device 100 to prevent corrosion damage from the material intended for fogging. Fig. 5 shows a rear view of the dry fog generation system 200 of Fig. 4, in which the control system 10 is shown installed within sealed casing 50. Sealed casing 50 is opened for enabling to view control system 10.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the invention, system 200 may be located and operated outside a storage room for which the fogging is intended, so that all the maintenance activities of system 200, as well as the replacement of the fogging material (e.g., anti-sprout agent containers), are done outside the storage room in a secure manner, so that there is no interruption to the activity inside the storage room, and there is no damage to the atmosphere of the storage room, there is no risk to the workers, and changing the fogging material is simple and easy. For example, Fig. 6 shows a side view of the implementation of system 200 of Fig. 4, located outside a storage room. The side view enables the view of a control interface 60 of control system 10 of system 200.

[0055] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a block diagram of control system 10, according to an embodiment of the invention. Control unit 10 comprises of a droplet size regulator 71, an air pressure indicator 72, electric connectors 73, a main switch 74, an air inlet 75 (to nozzle 12 of Figs. 1 and 2), an electric faucet 76, an Air Pressure Maintaining Unit (APMU) 77, and an Air Pressure Controller (APC) 78.

[0056] Droplet size regulator 71 is used to ensure that the liquid material introduced into chamber 2 via nozzle 12 is atomized into droplets of a consistent and optimal size. The regulator can adjust the nozzle's parameters or the liquid's pressure to control the droplet size, affecting the surface area for the mist's interaction with the airflow and the efficiency of the process within chamber 2.

[0057] Air pressure indicator 72 provides real-time feedback on the air pressure within chamber 2 and possibly at the air inlet 75. This information is used to monitor the status of system 200 and ensure that the airflow is within the desired parameters for optimal swirling motion and mixing.

[0058] Electric connectors 73 are used to supply power to various components of the system, including the main switch 74, electric faucet 76, and APC 78. They ensure a reliable and safe electrical connection, allowing for the integration of control system 10 with external power sources 61 and control interface 60 (see Fig. 6).

[0059] The main switch 74 acts as the central control point for powering the entire system 200. It enables the operator to initiate or halt the operation of the system, providing a means for safe startup and shutdown procedures.

[0060] The air inlet 75 to the nozzle 12 is designed to supply air directly to the nozzle mechanism, which can be used to assist in the atomization of the liquid material, ensuring the generation of a fine mist. The air supply to this inlet is regulated by the APMU 77 and the APC 78 to achieve the desired droplet size and mist formation.

[0061] Electric faucet 76 controls the flow of air to the nozzle 12. APMU 77 is responsible for maintaining a consistent air pressure at the air inlet 75 and throughout system 200. It compensates for any pressure fluctuations, ensuring stable conditions for the airflow that induces the swirling motion within chamber 2.

[0062] Control system 10 integrates these components to regulate the process efficiently. The droplet size regulator ensures optimal mist formation, while the APMU 77 maintains the desired airflow conditions. The electric faucet 76 controls the air input (via input 21), and the main switch 74 provides a central control point for operation. Electric connectors 73 ensure reliable power supply to all electrically powered components.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the invention, control system 10 may further comprise of a timer 79, manual or automatic via Wi-Fi connection, for providing better control over the process, ensuring that each phase is conducted with precision and consistency. This not only enhances the efficiency and safety of the apparatus but also contributes to the repeatability and quality of the final product.

[0064] Control system 10 provides precise control over the operation of system 200, ensuring safety, reliability, and optimal performance in processing the liquid material by creating a controlled swirling motion of fine mist and airflow within chamber 2.

[0065] The dry fog generation system 200 represents a significant advancement in fogging technology, offering a versatile and efficient solution for delivering ultrafine mist across a variety of applications. Its innovative design and precise control mechanisms make it an invaluable tool for industries requiring meticulous humidity and environmental control.

[0066] This device is particularly suited for agricultural producers, storage facility operators, and agribusinesses seeking an efficient, environmentally friendly method to extend the storage life of tuberous crops and others. Its precise application minimizes the use of chemicals, reduces waste, and maintains the quality of the crops, providing significant benefits to both producers and consumers.

[0067] The storage of harvested crops in a cooled environment (optionally with careful management of temperature, humidity, light exposure, and air circulation) is essential for preserving their quality and safety. The application of anti-sprout treatments, as well as disinfection agents, in such controlled conditions further enhances the effectiveness of storage, ensuring that these valuable food resources remain in optimal condition for as long as possible.

[0068] This section relates to the formation of an atomizable medium designed for use in the dry fog generation system 200, specifically targeting the inhibition of sprout growth in stored tuberous crops such as potatoes, yams, and other root vegetables. The medium's composition is optimized for effective sprout suppression while ensuring safety, stability, and environmental compatibility.

[0069] According to an embodiment of the invention, the atomizable medium comprises an active anti-sprout compound or a blend thereof, dissolved or suspended in an appropriate carrier liquid. The formulation is engineered to maintain the efficacy of the active ingredients when atomized into ultrafine droplets, ensuring uniform application without detrimental effects on crop quality or consumer safety.

[0070] According to an embodiment of the invention, the active ingredients of the atomizable medium can be essential oils. For example, essential oils with sproutinhibiting properties, including but not limited to clove oil, peppermint oil, and carvone, derived from caraway and dill seeds, can be incorporated. According to some embodiments, the active ingredients of the atomizable medium can be natural compounds (e.g., utilization of naturally occurring substances such as 1,4- Dimethylnaphthalene (1,4-DMN), which is found in tuberous crops and known to suppress sprout growth), ethylene-based solutions (e.g., formulations containing ethylene, a plant hormone that regulates sprouting, dissolved under pressure in a suitable liquid carrier), biological agents (e.g., deployment of biologically derived agents, including specific plant extracts or microbial by-products, demonstrating sprout inhibition capabilities), etc.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the invention, the carrier liquid of the atomizable medium is compatible with the active ingredients and the atomization technology, ensuring a stable solution or suspension that can be effectively atomized. In addition, the carrier's volatility, toxicity, and impact on the environment should be considered, with a preference for water or food-grade solvents that are safe for use in agricultural applications. The carrier liquid serves as the solvent or base in which the active anti-sprout compounds are dissolved or suspended. The choice of carrier liquid is important for ensuring the effectiveness of the atomization process, the stability of the solution or suspension, and the safety of the application. The selection of the carrier liquid depends on the specific active ingredients used in the anti-sprout formulation, the desired properties of the atomized mist, and the safety and regulatory requirements for the intended application. For example, the carrier liquid can be distilled water, food-grade mineral oil, etc.

[0072] Although embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, it will be understood that the invention may be carried out with many variations, modifications, and adaptations, without exceeding the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claims1. A dry fog generation system for applying anti-sprout agents, such as essential oils, to harvested tuberous crops, comprising: a) a chamber having a first input, a second input, and an output; b) at least one nozzle associated with the first input, configured to introduce a liquid material into the chamber as a fine mist; c) a blower associated with the second input, configured to introduce an airflow into the chamber; wherein the airflow induces a swirling motion within the chamber, causing the fine mist to mix and exit through the output in a controlled manner, wherein the swirling motion within the chamber is directed by an internal structure to control the filtration / limitation of droplet sizes that allowed to be applied as anti-sprout agents through the output.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one nozzle is designed to atomize the liquid material into particles of a specific size range to optimize surface area for interaction within the chamber.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the chamber is geometrically shaped to enhance the swirling motion induced by the airflow introduced through the second input.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the internal structure within the chamber is a partition that acts as a baffle or vane to direct the swirling motion and control the filtration / limitation of the droplet sizes of the fine mist that exit the system.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the output is positioned to utilize centrifugal forces generated by the swirling motion to facilitate the egress of the processed mist.

6. An apparatus for enhancing the interaction between a liquid material and an airflow, comprising: a) means for atomizing a liquid material into a fine mist;b) means for introducing an air flow to induce a swirling motion of the fine mist within a chamber; c) means for directing the mixed fine mist and airflow towards an output based on centrifugal forces generated by the swirling motion, wherein the swirling motion within the chamber is directed by an internal structure to control the filtration / limitation of droplet sizes that allowed to exit said chamber.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the means for atomizing includes at least one nozzle designed to produce fine mist particles within a predetermined size range, and the means for introducing an air flow includes a blower configured to provide a controlled flow rate and direction to induce the swirling motion within the chamber.

8. A method of applying anti-sprout agents to harvested tuberous crops using the dry fog generation system of claim 1, ensuring uniform coverage and minimal waste.

Images