Rotary atomizer having a modified resin plate and cone assembly

Abstract

An atomizer for spraying materials is described. The atomizer includes a housing and a resin plate that is releasably engaged with the housing, the resin plate includes a body having a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough. At least one non-contact seal is disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. A disc is rotatably mounted within the housing adjacent to the second segment of the resin plate. A cone assembly is rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly includes a dispersion surface having at least one aperture, a first section extending in a first direction and a second subsection having a nonuniform diameter.

Description

PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-1-ROTARY ATOMIZER HAVING A MODIFIED RESIN PLATE AND CONE ASSEMBLY

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 726,972 entitled “Rotary Atomizer Having A Modified Resin Plate and Cone Assembly,” filed December 2, 2024, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND1. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to an improvement in the methods of applying the components used in manufacturing wood-based composites. Particularly, this disclosure relates to rotary atomizers, particularly the components of rotary atomizers useful in the manufacture of wood-based composites.2. Background Information

[0003] Wood-based composites are generally manufactured by binding strands, particles, fibers, or furnish of one or more types of wood together with adhesive. Wood-based composites may include, but are not limited to, oriented strand board (OSB), particle board, plywood, waferboard, chipboard, medium-density fiberboard, parallel strand lumber, oriented strand lumber (OSL), and laminated strand lumber.

[0004] Moisture durability is important for the performance of products made from woodbased composites. For example, moisture durability is important in densified panel products, including particleboard, fiber board products, and oriented strand board, where product strength is highly dependent on panel density. As a hygroscopic material, wood absorbs moisture and swells. In densified wood-based composites, this swelling can result in decreased mechanical integrity. For products made from wood-based composites, moisture-induced cyclic swelling and shrinkage can cause internal stress and potentially failure of the bonds between the wood strands, particles, or fibers and the adhesive holding the composite together. Wax can be helpful in reducing the intrinsic hygroscopicity of the wood-based composite panel, thereby reducing the extent of water absorption and moisture-induced swelling. The wax component is often referred to as a sizing agent.

[0005] Slack waxes and water-based wax emulsions have conventionally been added to wood-based composite panels to improve moisture durability and to help lubricate wood fiber material for greater efficiency during manufacturing.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-2-

[0006] Much of the wax used for production of wood-based composites is a byproduct of oil refining and is thus a non-renewable resource. As such, it is desirable to reduce the amount of wax used in wood-based composites without sacrificing moisture durability, dimensional stability or mechanical performance.

[0007] Conventionally, wax sizing agents are sprayed or atomized into particle blenders in a similar manner as liquid adhesive resins to aid with moisture performance of the wood-based composite being manufactured. One method of spraying the materials is by atomization. Rotary atomizers are commonly used in this method and employ centrifugal forces generated by rotating a plate or disc to atomize the materials supplied thereto. One issue that may arise in using a rotary atomizer to apply a wax emulsion, adhesive resin, or the combination thereof is that the materials may agglomerate within the parts of the rotary atomizer, such as the dispersion surface and the cone, during application to the to the wood particle materials.

[0008] It would be highly desirable to have a device suitable for use during such procedures to improve efficiency.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0009] In one aspect, an atomizer for spraying materials, includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. A resin plate is releasably engaged with the housing, the resin plate includes a body having a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having an outer diameter, the second segment having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment. At least one non-contact seal is disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A disc is rotatably mounted within the housing adjacent to the second segment of the resin plate. A cone assembly is rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly includes a dispersion surface having at least one aperture, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface and defining a first interior volume, the first section comprising a first subsection having a uniform diameter and a second subsection having a nonuniform diameter, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. ThePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-3- second section of the resin plate and the disc extend through the first section of the cone assembly. At least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In a feature of the first aspect, the angle of the one or more first fluid passageways is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In another feature of the first aspect, the one or more first fluid passageways has an outlet positioned on the second segment of the resin plate.

[0010] In another aspect, a rotary atomizer for spraying materials, includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. A resin plate is engaged with the housing, the resin plate includes a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having a diameter, the second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A cone assembly is rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly including a cone body having a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. The cone assembly also includes a cone cover releasably mounted to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover including a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration. The second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover.

[0011] In yet another aspect, a rotary atomizer for spraying materials, includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. A resin plate is engaged with the housing, the resin plate includes a body comprising a first segment having a diameter and bottom surface, a plurality of projections disposed on the bottom surface of the first segment,PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-4- a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having a diameter, the second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A third fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment of the resin plate, the third fluid passageway having an inlet and at least one outlet. A cone assembly is rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly including a cone body having a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. The cone assembly also includes a cone cover releasably mounted to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover including a first segment having an outer diameter and a top surface, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on the top surface of the first segment. The second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover.

[0012] In a further aspect, a resin plate for a rotary atomizer, the resin plate includes a body having a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having an outer diameter, the second segment having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment. At least one noncontact seal is disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment.

[0013] In still another aspect, cone assembly for a rotary atomizer, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body including a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a firstPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-5- direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. The cone assembly also includes a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover including a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rotary atomizer.

[0015] Figure IB illustrates a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a rotary atomizer.

[0016] Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the first fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a second fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 1.

[0019] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an embodiment of a disc of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 1.

[0020] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a rotary atomizer having a modified resin plate and cone assembly.

[0021] Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0022] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the first fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0023] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0024] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of the second fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0025] Figures 11 A and 1 IB illustrate a perspective view of the first fluid passageways and the second fluid passageways of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-6-

[0026] Figure 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0027] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of a third fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0028] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a cone body of a cone assembly for a rotary atomizer.

[0029] Figure 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cone body of a cone assembly of Figure 14.

[0030] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate an embodiment of a cone cover of a cone assembly for a rotary atomizer.

[0031] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate an embodiment of a resin plate for a rotary atomizer.

[0032] Figures 18A and 18B illustrate an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a rotary atomizer having a modified resin plate and cone assembly.

[0033] Figure 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figures 18A and 18B.

[0034] Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of the first fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figure 6.

[0035] Figure 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figures 18A and 18B.

[0036] Figures 22 A and 22B illustrate a perspective view of the first fluid passageways and the second fluid passageways of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figures 18A and 18B.

[0037] Figure 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third fluid path of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figures 18A and 18B.

[0038] Figure 24 illustrates a perspective view of a third fluid passageway of the embodiment of the rotary atomizer of Figures 18A and 18B.

[0039] Figure 25 illustrates an embodiment of a cone cover of a cone assembly for a rotary atomizer.

[0040] Figure 26 illustrates an embodiment of a cone cover for a rotary atomizer.

[0041] Figure 27 illustrates an embodiment of a resin plate for a rotary atomizer.

[0042] Figure 28 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment Figure 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first fluid path of an alternative embodiment of a rotary atomizer.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-7-

[0043] Figures 29A and 29B illustrate radial plots of normalized purge air velocity in Example 2.

[0044] Figures 30A and 30B illustrates angular representations of spray patterns observed from atomizer configurations in Example 3.

[0045] Figures 31 A - 3 ID illustrate radial plots of fluid discharge per degree of rotation in the Prophetic Example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Example embodiments are disclosed herein. It is understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative and may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some figures may be configured to show the details of a particular component. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a representative basis for the claims and / or teaching one skilled in the art to practice the embodiments.

[0047] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0048] The term “wood” should be understood to refer to pieces of timber, lumber, logs, flitches, cants, beams, posts, studs, boards, veneer, strands, particles, fibers and / or any other pieces of wood smaller than the whole tree and larger than sawdust.

[0049] The term “wood product” should be understood to cover engineered wood products made from pieces of wood that are secured together using adhesives and / or binders to produce a composite wood product. Different types of engineered wood products can be manufactured from different wood-based feedstocks, such as strands, fibers, chips or thin layers (plies). Common engineered wood products include oriented strand board, particleboard, fiberboard, and plywood, e.g., medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Engineered wood products can vary in their structural and / or non-structural properties and find a variety of uses such as in furniture and construction.

[0050] The term “petroleum-based wax” refers to any wax derived from oil refining that is suitable for use as a sizing agent for wood-based composites. Petroleum-based waxes can be defined by the amount of oil, microcrystalline wax and paraffinic wax that they contain. In an embodiment, the petroleum wax may be a petroleum slack wax. Slack wax is the crude wax produced by chilling and solvent filter-pressing wax distillate. An example slack wax may comprise between 5 wt %-30 wt % oil, have a melting point below 170° F., and a flash pointPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-8- below 600° F. Blends of different slack waxes, along with oil, petrolatum, pure paraffinic, and scale waxes can be emulsified for use as sizing agents.

[0051] The term “biowax” refers to a broad category of animal- or plant-derived waxes made of unhydrogenated, partially hydrogenated and fully hydrogenated fats and oils. Examples include partially or fully saturated beef tallow, vegetable fats and oils, or oils derived from a variety of other plant-based sources (for example, nuts, soy, sunflower, palm, com, seeds, castor oil, or palm oil). The term “synthetic wax” generally refers to alpha olefins that are derived from polymerized ethylene or propylene.

[0052] An atomizer for use in the manufacture of wood-based composites is described herein. In one embodiment, the atomizer includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. The atomizer also includes a resin plate that is releasably engaged with the housing. The resin plate includes a body having a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening. The first segment of the resin plate has an outer diameter. The second segment of the resin plate has an outer diameter less than the first diameter of the first segment of the resin plate. A non-contact seal is disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment of the resin plate. The resin plate includes a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The first fluid passageway includes an inlet and at least one outlet. The resin plate further includes a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The second fluid passageway includes an inlet and at least one outlet. The atomizer further includes a disc rotatably mounted within the housing. The disc may be positioned adjacent to the second segment of the resin plate. The atomizer even further includes a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing. The cone assembly includes a central dispersion surface, first section extending in a first direction and disposed about the dispersion surface having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume. The cone assembly also includes a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction and having a nonuniform diameter. The second section of the resin plate and the disc may extend through the first section of the cone assembly to reduce the interior volume of the cone assembly. The at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway of the resin plate may be angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of an interior surface of the first section of the cone assembly.

[0053] In another embodiment, the atomizer includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. The atomizer also includes a resin plate that is releasably engaged with the housing. The resin plate includes a body comprising a first segment, a secondPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-9- segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough. The first segment has a diameter. The second segment is releasably engaged to the first segment. The second segment includes an outer surface and has a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The first fluid passageway has an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The second fluid passageway has an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. The atomizer includes a cone assembly. The cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing. The cone assembly includes a cone body. The cone body includes a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. The cone assembly also includes a cone cover secured to the first section of the cone body. The cone cover includes a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration. The second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover to reduce the interior volume of the first section of the cone body.

[0054] In still another embodiment, the atomizer includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening. The atomizer also includes a resin plate that is releasably engaged with the housing. The resin plate includes a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough. The first segment has a diameter. A plurality of projections are disposed on a bottom surface of the first segment. The second segment is releasably engaged to the first segment. The second segment includes an outer surface and has a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment. A first fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The first fluid passageway has an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment. A second fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment and the second segment. The second fluid passageway has an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-10-The atomizer includes a cone assembly. The cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing. The cone assembly includes a cone body. The cone body includes a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter. The cone assembly also includes a cone cover secured to the first section of the cone body. The cone cover includes a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough. The first segment of the cone cover may include a plurality of projections on a top surface of the cone cover. The second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cover and within the second segment of the cone cover to reduce the interior volume of the first section of the cone body. In addition, the plurality of projections of the resin plate and the plurality of projections of the cone cover form a non-contact seal

[0055] That atomizer may be used to apply a first fluid, a second fluid, a third fluid, or a combination of thereof during the manufacture of wood-based composites. Suitable fluids for the first fluid, second fluid, and third fluid may include, but are not limited to, air, water, wax materials (including wax-based emulsions), liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in any of the listed fluids, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the mixtures may participate in a chemical reaction with each other. The wax materials may comprise a broad range of petroleum-based wax, bio-based, wax, synthetic wax, polymer-based wax (such as maleic anhydride) and additional waxes known to the relevant art or mixtures thereof. For example, the wax component may comprise a blend of two or more petroleum-based waxes, a blend of petroleum-based wax and bio-based wax, or a blend of petroleum-based wax and synthetic wax. One of ordinary skill in the art would be able to identify and produce blends of waxes having the desired physical properties using any of the petroleum-based waxes, bio-based waxes, synthetic waxes, and other suitable waxes thereof.

[0056] Example adhesive resins suitable for use with the atomizer may include, but not limited to, phenol formaldehyde (such as resol or novolac types), amino resins (such as urea formaldehyde, melamine formaldehyde, melamine / urea formaldehyde), isocyanate resins (pMDI, emulsion polymer isocyanates (EPI)), polyurethane and epoxy.

[0057] A wax-organic extender emulsion may comprise a wax-organic extender complex suspended in water. A wax-organic extender complex may comprise a wax component, anPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-11- organic extender component and a surfactant that surrounds and stabilizes the wax component and the organic extender component collectively to form the wax-organic extender complex. The wax component and the organic extender component may be closely associated with one another and may be stabilized by the surfactant to form the wax-organic extender complex. In the wax-organic extender emulsion, the wax component may comprise a variety of different wax materials. Any wax material suitable for creating a water-based emulsion can be used. The wax component can comprise a broad range of petroleum-based wax, bio-based wax, synthetic wax, additional waxes known to the relevant art or mixtures thereof. The organic extender may comprise a natural biopolymer typically insoluble in water. In some embodiments, the organic extender comprises lignocelluloses, lignocellulosic agricultural residue, lignin materials, lignin derivatives or mixtures thereof. In alternative embodiments, the organic extender can be introduced to the emulsion vessel in the form of a dry powder, an agglomerated material, an organic extender slurry, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, a slurry of the organic extender may comprise water, organic extender, and defoamer. U.S. Patent No. 11,591,472, entitled “WAX-ORGANIC EXTENDER EMULSION AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURE THEREOF”, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference, discloses a wax-organic extender emulsion and a process of preparing a wax-organic extender emulsion comprising an organic extender component.

[0058] Figures 1A and IB illustrate an example embodiment of an atomizer 10. The atomizer 10 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 includes a body 14 having a generally cylindrical configuration with a first end 16 and a second end 18. The body 14 of the housing 12 has includes a wall 19 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 14 of the housing 12 is divided into a plurality of cavities or wells that contain the operational components of the atomizer 10. One of the cavities is a motor well 24 within the interior of the body 14 of the housing 12 serves as a point of attachment for a drive motor 20 and a drive shaft 22 extending from the drive motor 20. This attachment is accomplished by placing the drive motor 20 inside of the motor well 24 in a manner such that the drive motor 20 and the drive shaft 22 extends from the first end 16 through the body 14 to a point just beyond the second end 18. A first well 26 and a second well 28 are positioned about the periphery of the body 14 of the housing 12 where a first fluid and a second fluid, respectively, may be introduced into the atomizer. A first cavity inlet is positioned within the first cavity 26 and may be connected to a first fluid source (not shown). A second cavity inlet is positioned within the second cavity 28 and may be connected to a second fluid source (not shown). In alternative embodiments, the atomizer 10 may include additional wells for providing fluids for use in thePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-12- manufacture of wood-based composites. The housing 12 may include passages 13 for the introduction of ambient fluid (such as air) into the atomizer 10.

[0059] The atomizer 10 also includes a resin plate 30. The resin plate 30 includes a plurality of mounting holes 31 disposed about the periphery of the resin plate. The resin plate 30 may be secured to the body 14 of the housing 12 of the atomizer 10 by way of the mounting holes using materials known to one of ordinary skill in the art including, but not limited to, screws, nuts, and bolts. The resin plate 30 includes a central opening 32. As shown in this embodiment, the drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 may disposed through the central opening 32 of the resin plate 30. A cone assembly 70 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 30 in close proximity. The cone assembly 70 comprises cone body 72 having a first section 74 and a second section 76. The cone assembly 70 includes a central opening through which the drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 is disposed. The cone assembly is rotatably mounted within the drive shaft 22 in order to allow the cone assembly 70 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 20. A rotating disc 90 (as shown in Figure IB) is positioned between the resin plate 30 and the cone assembly 70. The rotating disc 90 includes a central opening 98 that may be secured to the drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 to facilitate rotation.

[0060] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the atomizer 10 of Figures 1A and IB. As shown, the atomizer 10 includes a housing 12, a drive motor 20, drive shaft 22, resin plate 30, a cone assembly 70, and a rotating disc 90. The housing 12 includes a body 14 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 14 of the housing 12 includes a wall 19 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 14 of the housing 12 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 10. The drive motor 20 is disposed in a motor well 24 within the interior of the body 14 of the housing 12. A drive shaft 22 extends from the drive motor 20. A first well 26 and a second well 28 are positioned about the periphery of the body 14 of the housing 12. Extending from the first well 26 is a first fluid port 27. Similarly, extending from the second fluid container 28 is a second fluid port 29. The resin plate 30 is disposed beneath the drive motor 20 within the body 14 of the housing 12. As shown, the resin plate 30 includes a central opening 32 disposed therethrough. The drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 is secured to the resin plate 30. The resin plate 30 further includes a first segment 34 and a second segment 36. The first segment 34 has a generally circular configuration with a diameter and a length. The outer diameter and the length of the second segment 36 may be modified by one of skill in the art based on the dimensions needed for operation. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first segment may range from 4 in. to 7 in. The length of the first segment may range from 0.5 in. to 1.5 in. The first segment 34PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-13- and the second segment 36 may include inner diameters that are substantially similar. In some embodiments, the inner diameters may be sized to form a close fit around the drive shaft column 21 of the housing.

[0061] The first segment 34 includes a first fluid passageway 44 and second fluid passageway 48. In this embodiment, the first fluid port 27 is in fluid communication with the inlet 40 of the first fluid passageway 44 and the second fluid port 29 is in fluid communication with the inlet 42 of the second fluid passageway 48. The inlet 40 of the first fluid passageway 44 and the inlet 42 of the second fluid passageway 48 may be surrounded by grooves 33 that allow for the introduction of O-rings, which may aid in maintaining a seal when the resin plate is in use. The first fluid passageway 44 is disposed through the first segment 34 and the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 70. The first fluid passageway 44 may comprise one or more sections within the resin plate 30. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway includes a first section, a secondary section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the first fluid. In some embodiments, the number of discharge sections may range in number from two to twelve. The second fluid passageway 48 is disposed through the first segment 34 and the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 to provide the second fluid into the cone assembly 70. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 48 may include one or more sections within the resin plate 30. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 48 includes a first section, a second section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the second fluid. In some embodiments, the number of discharge sections may range from six to sixty.

[0062] The second segment 36 has a generally cylindrical configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The outer diameter and the length of the second segment 36 may be modified by one of skill in the art based on the dimensions of needed for operation and the dimensions of the interior of the cone assembly 70. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 36 may range from 2 in. to 4 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second segment may range from 0.5 in. to 4 in.

[0063] The second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 may further include non-contact seals 52. The non-contact seals 52 create a tortuous path for fluid flow to prevent fluid (e.g., liquid) from exiting out of the cone assembly 70 in a direction opposite of the intended fluid discharge, which may minimize contamination. In the embodiment shown, the non-contacts seals 52 comprise a labyrinth seal that has at least one projection or fin 54 separated by a predetermined distance to create grooves 56. The number of fins 54 and their geometry may be optimized according to implementation. In some embodiments, the number of fins 54 of the labyrinthPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-14- seal may range from 3 to 7. The non-contact seals 52 are positioned on an exterior surface of the second segment and on a bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. The fins 54 of the labyrinth seal may have a predetermined (constant) length such that they are in close proximity to the surface of the cone assembly 70 and the rotating disc 90. In operation, the fins 54 and grooves 56 of the non-contact seals 52 provide multiple chambers that impede the flow of fluids through the seal by creating a complex path. A pressure drop may also be created across the chambers to help disrupt the trajectory of fluid that may want pass through the labyrinth seal.

[0064] The resin plate 30 may be manufactured from suitable materials known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, the resin plate 30 may be manufactured by suitable means including, but not limited to, casting, injection molding, blow molding, extrusion molding, cutting, machining, or three-dimensional printing.

[0065] A cone assembly 70 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 30 in close proximity. The cone assembly 70 comprises a cone body 72 having a first section 74 and a second section 76. The first section 74 of the cone body 72 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 75 disposed about a dispersion surface 77. The wall 75 of the first section 74 of the cone body 72 and the dispersion surface 77 define a first interior volume for the receipt of the first fluid and / or the second fluid. The cone assembly 70 includes a central opening 80 disposed through the dispersion surface 77. As shown, the drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 is positioned within the central opening 80 and upon which the cone assembly 70 is rotatably mounted in order to allow the cone assembly 70 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 20. The second section 76 of the cone body 72 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 86 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 76.

[0066] The dispersion surface 77 serves as a forward barrier to the interior volume of the first section 74 and also provides a mechanism for the first fluid to be atomized and dispersed out the second section 76 of the cone assembly 70. A plurality of dispersion holes 78 located about the periphery of the dispersion surface 77 and provide a route for the first fluid to pass through into the interior of the second section 76 of the cone assembly 70. A first flange 81 is disposed about the central opening 80 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 74 of the cone assembly 70 from the dispersion surface 77. A second flange 83 is disposed about the central opening 80 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 76 of the cone assembly 70 from the dispersion surface 77.

[0067] A rotating disc 90 is positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. The rotating disc 90 has a generally circular configurationPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-15- and has a first surface 92, a second surface 94, and a flange 96 extending from the second surface 94. The first surface 92 is positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. The first surface 92 includes a first diameter. The second surface 94 of the rotating disc 90 is positioned facing the dispersion surface 77 of the cone assembly 70 and has a second diameter. As shown, the second diameter of the second surface 94 of the rotating disc 90 is greater than the first diameter of the first surface 92 of the rotating disc 90. The rotating disc 90 may include a central opening 98. A groove 95 is provided proximate to the central opening 98. The groove 95 is provided to provide space or clearance between the rotating disc 90 and static components of the housing 12. A beveled transition section 99 is provided between the first surface 92 and the second surface 94. This beveled transition section 99 assists in preventing splattered fluid from entering the non-contact seal 52 on the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. The drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20 is positioned within the central opening 98 and upon which the rotating disc 90 is rotatably mounted in order to allow the rotating disc 90 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 20.

[0068] As shown in Figure 2, the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 is positioned within the interior volume of the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70. In addition, the rotating disc 90 is positioned within the interior volume of the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70. In combination, the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 and the rotating disc 90 reduce the total free volume or open space within the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70. Accordingly, the reduced volume within the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70 helps improve the distribution of fluid (e.g. a liquid) by containing and directing the fluid more efficiently to the dispersion disk 77 and the dispersion holes 78 of the cone assembly 70 when the atomizer 10 is in use. This reduction in volume helps minimize the opportunity for spattering within the cone assembly 70. Furthermore, non-contact seals 52 of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 are provided adjacent to the wall 67 of the first subsection 82 of the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70, as well as, adjacent to the first surface 92 of the rotating disc. These non-contact seals 52 function as a restriction to backflow of fluid within the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70. Furthermore, the non-contact seals 52 prevent escapement of fluids towards the drive shaft 22 of the drive motor 20.

[0069] In addition, the non-contact seals 52 assist with directing the fluid more effectively between the first section 74 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70 and the second section 76 of the cone body 72 of the cone assembly 70 through the plurality of dispersion holes 78 ofPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-16- the dispersion surface 77. In use, the rotating disc 90 assists with keeping the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30 free of fluid when both the rotating disc 90 and the cone assembly 70 are rotated. The cone assembly 70 and the rotating disc 90 rotate in the motor rotation direction. In some embodiments, the cone assembly 70 and the rotating disc 90 may rotate in a clockwise direction. In alternative embodiments, the cone assembly 70 and the rotating disc 90 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0070] Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of a resin plate 30 of the atomizer 10 showing an example embodiment of the first fluid passageway 44. As shown, the resin plate 30 includes a central opening 32 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 30 further includes a first segment 34 and a second segment 36. The first segment 34 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The first segment 34 includes an inlet 40 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 44 and an inlet 42 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway (not shown). The first fluid passageway 44 is disposed through the first segment 34 and the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. The first fluid passageway 44 may comprise a first section 45, a second section 47, and a plurality of third discharge sections 55 having a compound angle. As shown in Figure 3, the first section 45 of the first fluid passageway 44 is angled in fluid communication with the inlet 40. In some embodiments, the first section 45 of the first fluid passageway 44 may have an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 30. The second section 47 of the first fluid passageway 44 has a circular configuration and is engaged with the angled first section 45. Disposed about the second section 47 of the first fluid passageway 44 at predetermined spaces are the plurality of third discharge sections 55, each including an outlet 46. As shown, the discharge sections 55 are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 30. The angle of each discharge section 55 is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In some embodiments, the angle of the discharge sections 55 may be 45 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. The outlet 46 may also be angled in the direction of rotation of the cone assembly 70. The outlet 46 may have an angle that is less than 90 degrees with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate 30. In alternative embodiments, the outlet 46 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate 30.

[0071] When the resin plate 30 is positioned within the cone assembly 70, the discharge sections 55 are angled in the direction of the interior of the wall 75 of the first section 74 of the cone body 72. The angled discharge sections 55 allow better control of the delivery of the first fluid into the cone assembly 70 through the outlet 46, and thus, increases the distribution efficiency of the first fluid from the first section 74 of the cone assembly 70 through thePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-17- dispersion holes 78 and into the second section 76. The fluid is delivered close to the wall 75 of the first section 74 of the cone assembly 70, which avoids splattering and directs fluid into the space between the dispersion surface 77 and the rotating disc 90. The angled outlet 46 helps to provide a smooth delivery of the first fluid into the interior volume of the cone assembly 70 in order to reduce splatter.

[0072] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a resin plate 30 of the atomizer 10 showing an example embodiment of the second fluid passageway 48. As shown, the resin plate 30 includes a central opening 32 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 30 further includes a first segment 34 and a second segment 36. The first segment 34 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The first segment 34 includes an inlet 40 in fluid communication with a first fluid passageway (not shown) and an inlet 42 in fluid communication with a second fluid passageway 48. The second fluid passageway 48 may comprise a first section 49, a circular second section 57, and a plurality of third sections 58 for discharge of the second fluid. As shown in Figure 4, the first section 49 of the second fluid passageway 48 is in fluid communication with the inlet 40. Disposed about the second section 57 of the second fluid passageway 48 at predetermined spaces are the discharge sections 58, each having an outlet 50. As shown, the discharge sections 58 include straight segment 59 and a curved segment 60 to provide an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 30 for the delivery of the second fluid. The curved segment 60, may have an angle of equal to or less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In this embodiment, the curved segment 60 has an angle of less than 90 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the angle of the curved segment 60 may be equal to or greater than 90 degrees. The outlet 50 may also be angled with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate 30. The outlet 50 may have an angle that is less than 90 degrees with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate 30. In alternative embodiments, the outlet 50 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate 30. When the resin plate 30 is positioned within the cone assembly 70, the discharge sections 55 are angled in the direction of the interior of the wall 75 of the first section 74 of the cone body 72 in the region of the non-contact seals 52 on the exterior surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. Thus, in use, the user may introduce a second fluid into the cone assembly 70 to purge or clean the non-contact seals 52 from the accumulation of debris.

[0073] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an embodiment of the rotating disc 90. The rotating disc 90 has a generally circular configuration and has a first surface 92, a second surface 94, a central opening 98, and a flange 96 extending from the second surface. The first surface 92PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-18- includes a first diameter. The second surface 94 of the rotating disc 90 has a second diameter. A beveled transition section 99 is provided between the first surface 92 and the second surface 94. This beveled transition section 99 assists in preventing splattered fluid from entering the non-contact seal 52 on the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. Thus, in combination, the beveled transition section 99 and the labyrinth seal 52 assist to minimize against fluid coming into contact with the motor shaft 22. As shown, the diameter of the second surface 94 is greater than diameter of the first surface. The first surface 92 is configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the second segment 36 of the resin plate 30. Conversely, the flange 96 on the second surface 94 is configured to be positioned adjacent to the first flange of the dispersion surface 77. A groove 95 is provided proximate to the central opening 98. The groove 95 is provided to provide space or clearance between the rotating disc 90 and static components of the housing 12.

[0074] Figure 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of an atomizer 110. The atomizer 110 includes a housing 112. The housing 112 includes a body 114 having a generally cylindrical configuration, having a first end 116 and a second end 118. The body 114 of the housing 112 has includes a wall 119 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body114 of the housing 112 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 110. One of the cavities is a motor well 124 within the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112 serves as a point of attachment for a drive motor 120 and a drive shaft (not shown) extending from the drive motor 120. This attachment is accomplished by placing the drive motor 120 inside of the motor well 124 in a manner such that the drive motor 120 and the drive shaft extends from the first end 116 through the body 114 to a point just beyond the second end 118. A first well 125, a second well 126, and a third well 127 are positioned about the periphery of the body 114 of the housing 112 to serve as a supply source of the first fluid, second fluid, and the third fluid, respectively. A first well inlet is positioned within the first well 125 and may be connected to a first fluid source (not shown). A second well inlet is positioned within the second well 126 and may be connected to a second fluid source (not shown). A third well inlet is positioned within the third well 127 and may be connected to a third fluid source (not shown). In alternative embodiments, the atomizer 110 may include additional wells for providing fluids for use in the manufacture of wood-based composites. The atomizer 110 includes pair of nozzles 128 attached to the housing 112 of the atomizer 110 that may be connected to a fourth fluid source via the tubing 113 and connector115 shown. A fourth fluid may be introduced through nozzles 128 about the external surface of the atomizer, which may act as an external fluid source to control the direction the spray ofPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-19- the mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid from second section of the cone assembly 170 and may reduce the agglomeration of material on the external surface of the atomizer 110. In this embodiment, the external nozzles are attached to an external surface of the housing of the atomizer. In alternative embodiments, the nozzles may be positioned separate from the external surface of the housing of the atomizer.

[0075] The atomizer 110 also includes a resin plate 130 secured to the interior of body 114 of the housing 112 of the atomizer 110. The resin plate 130 may be secured to the body 114 of the housing 112 of the atomizer 110 by way of the mounting holes through the use of materials known to one of ordinary skill in the art including, but not limited to, screws, nuts, and bolts. The resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132. The resin plate 130 includes a first segment 134 and a releasable second segment 136. A cone assembly 170 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 130 in close proximity. The cone assembly 170 comprises cone body 172 having a first section 174 and a second section 176 and a cone cover 188 that is releasably mounted to the cone body 172. The cone assembly 170 includes a central opening 180. As will be discussed below, the cone assembly 170 is rotatably mounted to the drive shaft 122 in order to allow the cone assembly 70 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 120. The cone cover 188 includes a first segment 192, a second segment 194. The first segment 192 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 194 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. Disposed within an interior surface of the second segment 194 is a non-contact seal 196. In this embodiment, the non-contact seal 196 comprises a plurality of fins 198 spaced apart by a predetermined distance to create grooves 199 (as shown in Figure 16A). The plurality of fins 198 have a helical configuration. As will be discussed below, when the atomizer 110 is in use, the plurality of fins 198 and the grooves 199 act to force or pump fluid back down into the cone to prevent fluid from escaping the cone assembly 170, thus acting as a dynamic wet seal.

[0076] Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the atomizer 110 of Figure 6. As shown, the atomizer 110 includes a housing 112, a drive motor 120, drive shaft 122, resin plate 130, a cone assembly 170, and a cone cover 188. The housing 112 includes a body 114 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 114 of the housing 112 includes a wall 119 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 110. The drive motor 120 is disposed in a motor well 124 within the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112. A drive shaft 122 extends from the drive motor 120. The resin plate 130 is disposed adjacent to the drive motor 120 within the body 114 of the housing 112. As shown, the resinPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-20- plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 130 further includes a first segment 134 and a second segment 136. The first segment 134 may include a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and a base 141. The first subsegment 135 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first subsegment 135 may range from 4 in. to 7 in. In some embodiments, the length of the first subsegment 135 may range from 0.5 in. to 2 in. A groove 133 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 135. The groove 133 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 130 from the housing 112 of the atomizer 110. The second subsegment 137 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second subsegment 137 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second subsegment 137 may range from 0.25 in. to 1 in.

[0077] The second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 136 may be at least 1.5 in. or greater. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 136 may range from 1.5 in. to 4 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second segment may range from 0.5 in. to 1.5 in. As shown, the second segment 136 includes a tapered section 143 that reduces the outer diameter of the second segment between the first end and the second end. The second segment 136 is releasably attached to the base 141 of the second subsegment 137 of the first segment 134. The base 141 extends from the second subsegment 137 of the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130. The base 141 has an outer diameter that approximates the outer diameter of the second segment 136 of the resin plate. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the base 141 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. The first segment 134 and the second segment 136 may include inner diameters that are substantially similar. In some embodiments, the inner diameters may be sized to form a close fit around the drive shaft column 121 of the housing. For example, the inner diameter of the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 may range from 1 in. to 2 in.

[0078] The resin plate 130 includes a first fluid passageway 144, a second fluid passageway 148 and a third fluid passageway 152. The first fluid passageway 144 is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 170, where a first outlet 160, a second outlet 161, and a third outlet 162 are provided. The first fluid passageway 144 may comprise one or more sections within the resin plate 130. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway 144 includes a first section, a secondary section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the first fluid. The number of discharge sections may range in number from three to six. The second fluid passageway 148PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-21- is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 (as shown in Figure 10). The third fluid passageway 152 is disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 (as shown in Figure 12).

[0079] A cone assembly 170 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 130 in close proximity. The cone assembly 170 comprises cone body 172 and a cone cover 188. The cone body 172 includes a first section 174 and a second section 176 and a cone cover 188. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 175 disposed about a dispersion surface 177. The wall 175 of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 and the dispersion surface 177 define a first interior volume. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 170 includes a central opening 180 disposed through the dispersion surface 177. As shown, the drive shaft 122 of the drive motor 120 is positioned within the central opening 180 and upon which the cone assembly 170 is rotatably mounted in order to allow the cone assembly 170 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 120. The second section 176 of the cone body 170 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 186 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 176.

[0080] The dispersion surface 177 serves as a forward barrier to the interior volume of the first section 174 and also provides a mechanism for the first fluid to be atomized and dispersed out the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170. A plurality of dispersion holes 178 located about the periphery of the dispersion surface 177 and provide a route for the first fluid to pass through into the interior of the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170. A first flange 181 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A second flange 183 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A washer 185 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 181 to help secure the cone assembly 170 to the drive shaft 122. In use, the cone body 172 rotates in the motor rotation direction. In some embodiments, the cone body 172 may rotate in a clockwise direction. In alternative embodiments, the cone body 172 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0081] The cone cover 188 includes a central opening 190 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 188 further includes a first segment 192 and a second segment 194. The first segment 192 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 194 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 194 also includes a tapered region 195. As discussed below, the tapered sectionPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-22-143 of the second segment 136 and the tapered region 195 of the cone cover 188 contribute to forming a mixing space when the cone cover 188 is mounted to the first section 174 of the cone body 172 between the second segment 194 of the cone cover 188 and the dispersion surface 177. Disposed within an interior surface of the second segment 194 is a non-contact seal 196. In this embodiment, the non-contact seal 196 comprises a plurality of fins 198 spaced apart by a predetermined distance to create grooves 199. As will be discussed below, the plurality of fins 198 are disposed in a helical configuration about the central opening 190. The non-contact seals 196 create a tortuous path for fluid flow to prevent leakage and contamination. In operation, the fins 198 and grooves 199 of the non-contact seal 196 provide multiple chambers that impede the flow of fluids through the seal by creating a complex path. A pressure drop is created across the chambers to prevent the flow of the fluid through the non-contact seal 196, thereby reducing leakage. Furthermore, the plurality of fins 198 and the grooves 199 act to force or pump fluid back down into the cone to prevent fluid from escaping the cone assembly 170.

[0082] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment of the first fluid passageway 144 disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 of the atomizer 110. As shown, the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The first segment 134 resin plate 130 includes a plurality of mounting holes 131 disposed about the periphery. The first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a groove 133, a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and a base 141. The first subsegment 135 includes an inlet 140 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 144, an inlet 142 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway (not shown), and an inlet 168 in fluid communication with a third fluid passageway (not shown). The first fluid passageway 144 may comprise a first section 147, a circular second section 150, and a plurality of third discharge sections passageways 151 disposed about the circumference of the resin plate 130. As shown in Figure 8, the first section 147 of the first fluid passageway 144 is in fluid communication with an inlet 140. In this embodiment, the first section 147 of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In some embodiments, the first section 147 may have an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. Disposed about the second section 150 of the first fluid passageway 144 at predetermined spaces are third discharge sections 151. The discharge passageways 151 extend through the first segment 134 and into the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 (as shown in Figure 11 A).PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-23-

[0083] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the atomizer 110 of Figure 6. As described, the atomizer 110 includes a housing 112, a drive motor 120, drive shaft 122, resin plate 130, a cone assembly 170, and a cone cover 188. The housing 112 includes a body 114 having a cylindrical configuration. The body 114 of the housing 112 includes a wall 119 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 110. The drive motor 120 is disposed in a motor well 124 within the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112. A drive shaft 122 extends from the drive motor 120. The resin plate 130 is disposed adjacent to the drive motor 120 within the body 114 of the housing 112. As shown, the resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 130 further includes a first segment 134 and a second segment 136. The first segment 134 has a generally cylindrical configuration. The first segment 134 may include a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and a base 141. A groove 133 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 135. The groove 133 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 130 from the housing 112 of the atomizer 110.

[0084] The resin plate 130 includes a first fluid passageway 144, a second fluid passageway 148, and a third fluid passageway 152. The first fluid passageway 144 is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 170, where a first outlet 160, a second outlet 161, and a third outlet 162 are provided (as shown in Figure 7). The second fluid passageway 148 is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 in fluid communication with an outlet 146. In this embodiment, the outlet 146 is positioned to provide the second fluid into cone assembly 170. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 148 may include one or more sections within the resin plate 30. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 148 includes a first section, a second section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the second fluid. The third fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 (as shown in Figure 12).

[0085] A cone assembly 170 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 130 in close proximity. The cone assembly 170 comprises cone body 172 having a first section 174 and a second section 176 and a cone cover 188. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 175 disposed about a dispersion surface 177 having a plurality of dispersion holes 178. The wall 175 of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 and the dispersion surface 177 define a first interior volume. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assemblyPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-24-170 includes a central opening 180 disposed through the dispersion surface 177. The second section 176 of the cone body 170 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 186 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 176. A first flange 181 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A second flange 183 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A washer 185 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 181 to help secure the cone assembly 170 to the drive shaft 122. The cone covers 188 is positioned between the resin plate 130 and the cone assembly 170. As shown, cone cover 188 includes a central opening 190 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 188 further includes a first segment 192 and a second segment 194. Disposed within an interior surface of the second segment 194 is a non-contact seal 196. In this embodiment, the non-contact seal 196 comprises a plurality of fins 198 spaced apart by a predetermined distance to create grooves 199. The plurality of fins 198 are disposed in a helical configuration about the central opening 190.

[0086] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of the second fluid passageway 148 disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 of the atomizer 110. As shown, the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a plurality of mounting holes 131 disposed about the periphery. The resin plate 130 further includes a first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a groove 133, a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and a base 141. The first subsegment 135 includes an inlet 140 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 144 (not shown), an inlet 142 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway 148, and an inlet in fluid communication with a third fluid passageway (not shown). As shown, the second fluid passageway 148 includes a first section 153, a second circular section 155, and a plurality of third discharge sections 157. In this embodiment, the first section 153 of the second fluid passageway 148 is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In some embodiments, the first section 153 may have an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. Disposed about the second section 155 of the second fluid passageway 148 at predetermined spaces are third discharge sections 157, which extend through the first segment 134 and into the second segment of the resin plate 130 (as shown in Figures 11A and 1 IB).

[0087] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate an embodiment of the first fluid passageway 144 and the second fluid passageway 148 disposed through the second segment 136 of the resinPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-25- plate 130 of the atomizer 110. The second segment 136 includes a central opening 132 and a tapered section 143 that reduces the outer diameter of the second segment between the first end and the second end. The second segment 136 of resin plate 130 includes a plurality of mounting holes 169 disposed about the periphery. The discharge sections 151 of the first fluid passageway 144 includes a straight section 167, a first outlet 160, a second outlet 161, and a third outlet 162. The first outlet 160 is positioned above the second outlet 161 and the third outlet 162. As shown, the first outlet 160 is an angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In this embodiment, the first outlet 160 is angled equal to 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. The second outlet 161 is positioned between the first outlet 160 the third outlet 162. As shown, the second outlet 161 is an angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In this embodiment, the angle of the second outlet 161 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. The third outlet 162 is positioned beneath the first outlet 160 and the second outlet 161. As shown, the third outlet 162 is about 0 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130.

[0088] The first outlet 160, the second outlet 161, and the third outlet 162 allow for introduction of the first fluid into the cone assembly 170 in three areas. The first fluid delivered through the first outlet 160 engages the plurality of fins 198 and grooves 199 positioned in the interior surface of the cone cover 188. The first fluid delivered through the third outlet 162 allows for introduction of the first fluid in the direction of the dispersion surface 177 of the cone assembly 170. Thus, the introduction of the first fluid through the first outlet 160 and the third outlet 162 helps to form a wet seal in the cone assembly 170 by priming the surfaces of the plurality of fins of the non-contact seal 196 and the dispersion surface 177. The first fluid delivered through the second outlet 161 allows for the first fluid to be introduced into the interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone assembly 170. Accordingly, the surfaces of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 of the cone assembly 170 are wetted during use of the atomizer 110.

[0089] The discharge sections 157 of the one or more second fluid passageways 148 are spaced apart for the discharge sections 151 of the first fluid passageways 144. This allows for separate introduction of the first fluid and the second fluid into the cone assembly 170. As shown, the discharge sections 157 of the second fluid passageway extend through the second segment to an outlet 146. The discharge sections 157 of the second fluid passageways 148 include a straight section 165 and a curved segment 166 to provide an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130 for the delivery of the second fluid. The curved segmentPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-26-166, may have an angle of equal to or less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In this embodiment, the curved segment 166 has an angle has of less than 90 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the angle of the curved segment 166 may be equal to or greater than 90 degrees.

[0090] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the cone cover 188 is mounted to the first section of 174 of the cone body 172. In this position, the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 and the second segment 194 of the cone cover 188 are positioned within the interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone body 172. In combination, the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 and the second segment 194 of the cone cover 188 reduce the total volume of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 of the cone assembly 170. Accordingly, the reduced volume within the first section 174 of the cone body 172 of the cone assembly 170 helps improve the distribution of fluid (e.g., a liquid) by containing and directing the fluid more efficiently to the dispersion surface 177 and the dispersion holes 178 of the cone assembly 170 when the atomizer 110 is in use. This reduction in volume helps minimize the opportunity for spattering within the cone assembly 170. The first fluid is introduced through the first fluid passageway 144 into the cone assembly 170 and leads the direction of rotation of the cone assembly 170 prior to introducing the second fluid into the cone assembly 170. The first fluid pre-coats the cone assembly 170 and prevents the second fluid from adhering to the surface of the cone assembly 170. In addition, the first fluid pre-coats the non-contact seal 196 of the cone cover 188, which helps to prevent build-up of fluids within the cone assembly 170.

[0091] Furthermore, as discussed above, the reduced interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 of the cone assembly 170 allows for a constant wetting of the surfaces when the atomizer 110 is in use. The tapered section 143 of the second segment 136 and the tapered region 195 of the cone cover 188 contribute to forming a mixing space when the cone cover 188 is mounted to the first section 174 of the cone body 172 between the second segment 194 of the cone cover 188 and the dispersion surface 177. In use, the mixing space tapers down until the fluids reach the dispersion holes 178 of the dispersion surface 177. At the edge of the tapered region 195 the furthest distance away from the central opening 190, a pinch point is formed that creates a flood zone that prevents splatter reacting back towards the resin point. Thus, the mixing space limits the surface area within the cone assembly 170 to create fully wetted surfaces.

[0092] In addition, as discussed above, the first fluid and the second fluid are introduced separately. The separate delivery of the first fluid and the second fluid at their respective angles allow for the fluids to be mixed within the mixing space due to the centrifugal force createdPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-27- when the atomizer 110 is in use. Furthermore, the first fluid passageway 144 and the second fluid passageway 148 allows the user to control the flow of the first fluid and the second fluid into the cone assembly, which helps to reduce agglomeration of the materials within the cone assembly 170. The distribution efficiency of the mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid from the first section 174 of the cone assembly 170 through the dispersion holes 178 and into the second section 176 is improved.

[0093] Figure 12 illustrates an alternative cross-sectional view of the atomizer 110 of Figure 6. As described, the atomizer 110 includes a housing 112, a drive motor 120, drive shaft 122, resin plate 130, a cone assembly 170, and a cone cover 188. The housing 112 includes a body 114 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 114 of the housing 112 includes a wall 119 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 110. The drive motor 120 is disposed in a motor well 124 within the interior of the body 114 of the housing 112. A drive shaft 122 extends from the drive motor 120. The resin plate 130 is disposed beneath the drive motor 120 within the body 114 of the housing 112. As shown, the resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 130 further includes a first segment 134 and a second segment 136. The first segment 134 has a generally cylindrical configuration. The first segment 134 may include a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and abase 141. A groove 133 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 135. The groove 133 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 130 from the housing 112 of the atomizer 110. A positional pin 111 is disposed on the surface of first segment 134 of the resin plate. The positional pin 111 is provided such that the resin plate 130 may be assembled in a desired configuration to avoid misalignment.

[0094] The resin plate 130 includes a first fluid passageway 144, a second fluid passageway 148, and a third fluid passageway 152. The first fluid passageway 144 is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 170, where a first outlet 160, a second outlet 161, and a third outlet 162 are provided (as shown in Figure 7). The second fluid passageway 148 is disposed through the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 of the resin plate 130 in fluid communication with an outlet 146 (as shown in Figure 9). The third fluid passageway 152 is disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130. In some embodiments, the third fluid passageway 152 may include one or more sections within the resin plate 130. In some embodiments, the third fluid passageway 152 includes a first section, a second section, and aPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-28- plurality of third sections for discharge of the third fluid (as shown in Figure 13). In some embodiments, the number of discharge sections may range from 8 to 32.

[0095] A cone assembly 170 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 130 in close proximity. The cone assembly 170 comprises cone body 172 having a first section 174 and a second section 176 and a cone cover 188. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 175 disposed about a dispersion surface 177 having a plurality of dispersion holes 178. The wall 175 of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 and the dispersion surface 177 define a first interior volume. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 170 includes a central opening 180 disposed through the dispersion surface 177. The second section 176 of the cone body 170 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 186 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 176. A first flange 181 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 74 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A second flange 183 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A washer 185 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 181 to help secure the cone assembly 170 to the drive shaft 122. The cone cover 188 is positioned between the resin plate 130 and the cone assembly 170. As shown, cone cover 188 includes a central opening 190 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 188 further includes a first segment 192 and a second segment 194. Disposed within an interior surface of the second segment 194 is a non-contact seal 196. In this embodiment, the non-contact seal 196 comprises a plurality of fins 198 spaced apart by a predetermined distance to create grooves 199. The plurality of fins 198 are disposed in a helical configuration about the central opening 190.

[0096] Figure 13 illustrates an embodiment of the third fluid passageway 152 disposed through the first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 of the atomizer 110. As shown, the resin plate 130 includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 130 includes a plurality of mounting holes 131 disposed about the periphery of the resin plate. The resin plate 130 further includes a first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 includes a groove 133, a first subsegment 135, a second subsegment 137, and a base 141. The first subsegment 135 includes an inlet 140 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 144, an inlet 142 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway (not shown), and an inlet in fluid communication with a third fluid passageway 152. The third fluid passageway 152 may include a first section 154, a second circular section 156 and a plurality of third dischargePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-29- sections 158 disposed at predetermined spaces about the circumference of the resin plate 130, where an outlet 159 is provided. In this embodiment, there are 16 discharge sections 158 disposed about the circumference of the resin plate 130. As shown, the discharge sections 158 are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In this embodiment, the angle of discharge sections 158 is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130. In use, when the third fluid is introduced, the third fluid is distributed axially and circumferentially about the cone assembly 170. This helps to maintain a positive fluid pressure exiting the housing 112 of the atomizer 110 and around the spinning cone assembly 170. This positive fluid pressure is intended to prevent (or purge) debris, such as wood dust and strands, from being pulled into the cavity behind the cone assembly 170 during use.

[0097] Figures 14 and 15 illustrate an embodiment of a cone body 172 for use with the atomizer. The cone body 172 comprises a first section 174 and a second section 176. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 175 disposed about a dispersion surface 177. The wall 175 of the first section 174 of the cone body 172 and the dispersion surface 177 define a first interior volume. The dispersion surface includes a tapered region 179, upon which dispersion holes 178 are present. As shown, the tapered region 179 is positioned adjacent and in contact with the first section 174. The first section 174 of the cone body 172 includes mounting holes 182 for attaching a cone cover 188 to the cone body 172. The cone assembly 170 includes a central opening 180 disposed through the dispersion surface 177. The second section 176 of the cone body 172 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 186 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 176. The cone body 172 includes a plurality of mounting holes 182 disposed about the periphery of the cone body 172. A first flange 181 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 174 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177. A second flange 183 is disposed about the central opening 180 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 176 of the cone assembly 170 from the dispersion surface 177.

[0098] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate an embodiment of a cone cover 188 for use with the atomizer 110. As shown, cone cover 188 includes a central opening 190 disposed therethrough. Cone cover 188 further includes a first segment 192 and a second segment 194. The first segment 192 has a generally circular configuration. The second segment 194 also includes a tapered region 195. Disposed within an interior surface of the second segment 194 is a noncontact seal 196. In this embodiment, the non-contact seal 196 comprises a plurality of fins 198PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-30- spaced apart by a predetermined distance forming grooves 199. The plurality of fins 198 are disposed in a helical configuration about the central opening 190 to create a seal when the atomizer 110 is in use. As discussed above, the first fluid may be introduced into the noncontact seal 196 to create a wet seal between the cone assembly 170 and the resin plate 130 by forcing or pumping fluid back down into the cone to prevent fluid from escaping the cone assembly 170 in any direction other than the intended path through the dispersion holes 178 on the dispersion surface by means of centrifugal force when the cone assembly 170 is rotating. The non-contact seal 196 acts as a restriction to backflow of fluid within the first section 174 of the cone body 172 of the cone assembly 170. Furthermore, the first fluid flowing into the non-contact seal 196 cleans or purges the non-contact seal 196 from the accumulation of debris during use of the atomizer 110. The cone cover 188 includes a plurality of mounting holes 193 disposed about the periphery.

[0099] Figure 17 A and Figure 17B illustrate a top view and a bottom view of an embodiment of a first segment 134 of the resin plate 130 for use with the atomizer 110. The resin plate 130 has a generally circular configuration and includes a central opening 132 disposed therethrough. The first segment 134 includes an inlet 140 for a first fluid, an inlet 142 for a second fluid, and an inlet 168 for a third fluid. The first inlet 140 is in fluid communication with the one or more first fluid passageways. The one or more first fluid passageways 144 are disposed through the first segment 134. The second inlet is in fluid communication with one or more second fluid passageways 148. The third inlet 168 is in fluid communication with the one or more third fluid passageways. The resin plate 130 includes a plurality of mounting holes 131 disposed about the periphery of the resin plate 130 and a plurality of mounting holes 139 disposed about the central opening 132. As shown in Figure 17B, outlets 159 for a third fluid and communication joints 163 for connecting the first segment 134 and the second segment 136 are provided. Seals 184, such as O-rings, may be provided surrounding the inlet 140 for the first fluid, the inlet 142 for the second fluid, the inlet 168 for the third fluid. In addition, seals 184 may be provided on the base 141 about the central opening 132 around the communication joints 163 to help for ease of maintenance and removal of a second segment 136 from the first segment 134.

[0100] Figures 18A and 18B illustrates an alternative embodiment of an atomizer 210. The atomizer 210 includes a housing 212. The housing 212 includes a body 214 having a generally cylindrical configuration, having a first end 216 and a second end 218. The body 214 of the housing 212 includes a wall 219 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational componentsPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-31- of the atomizer 210. One of the cavities is a motor well 224 within the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212 serves as a point of attachment for a drive motor 220 and a drive shaft 222 extending from the drive motor 220. This attachment is accomplished by placing the drive motor 220 inside of the motor well 224 in a manner such that the drive motor 220 and the drive shaft extends from the first end 216 through the body 214 to a point just beyond the second end 218. A first well 225, a second well 226, and a third well 227 are positioned about the periphery of the body 214 of the housing 212 to serve as a supply source of the first fluid, second fluid, and the third fluid, respectively. A first well inlet is positioned within the first well 225 and may be connected to a first fluid source (not shown). A second well inlet is positioned within the second well 226 and may be connected to a second fluid source (not shown). A third well inlet is positioned within the third well 227 and may be connected to a third fluid source (not shown). In alternative embodiments, the atomizer 210 may include additional wells for providing fluids for use in the manufacture of wood-based composites.

[0101] The atomizer 210 also includes a resin plate 230 secured to the interior of body 214 of the housing 212 of the atomizer 210. The resin plate 230 may be secured to the body 214 of the housing 212 of the atomizer 210 by way of the mounting holes through the use of materials known to one of ordinary skill in the art including, but not limited to, screws, nuts, and bolts. The resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232. The resin plate 230 includes a first segment 234 and a releasable second segment 236. A cone assembly 270 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 230 in close proximity. The cone assembly 270 comprises cone body 272 having a first section 274 and a second section 276 and a cone cover 288 that is releasably mounted to the cone body 272. The cone assembly 270 includes a central opening 280. The cone assembly 270 is rotatably mounted to the drive shaft 222 in order to allow the cone assembly 270 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 220. The cone cover 288 includes a first segment 292 and a second segment 294. The first segment 292 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 294 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length.

[0102] A bottom surface of the resin plate 230 includes fins 299 separated by a predetermined distance to create grooves. Similarly, a top surface of the cone cover 288 of the cone assembly 270 includes fins 298 separated by a predetermined distance to create grooves. When the bottom surface of the resin plate 230 and the top surface of the cone assembly 270 are engaged, a non-contact seal (e.g., labyrinth seal) is created by the fins 298 and grooves of the resin plate 230 and the fins 299 and groves of the top surface of the cone assembly 270. The non-contact seal creates a tortuous path for fluid flow to prevent fluid (e.g., liquid) fromPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-32- exiting out of the cone assembly 270 in a direction opposite of the direction of intended fluid discharge, which may minimize contamination. The number of fins 299 of the resin plate 230 and the number of fins 298 of the cover assembly 288 of the cone assembly 270 and their geometry may be optimized according to implementation. In some embodiments, the number of fins 299 of the resin plate 230 and the number of fins 298 of the cover assembly 288 of the cone assembly 270 may range from 3 to 7. The fins 299 of the resin plate 230 and the number of fins 298 of the cover assembly 288 of the cone assembly 270 may have a predetermined (constant) length. In some embodiments, the fins 298 of the cover assembly 288 and fins 299 of the resin plate 230 may have a generally circular configuration. In alternative embodiments, the fins 299 of the resin plate 230 and the fins 298 of the cover assembly may have different geometric configurations in order to provide an adequate labyrinth seal for the atomizer 210. In operation, the fins 298 and grooves of the resin plate 230 and the fins 299 and groves of the top surface of the cone assembly 270 provide multiple chambers that impede the flow of fluids through the seal by creating a complex path. A pressure drop may also be created across the chambers to help disrupt the trajectory of fluid that may want pass through the non-contact seal.

[0103] Figure 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the atomizer 210 of Figures 18A and 18B. As shown, the atomizer 210 includes a housing 212, a drive motor 220, drive shaft 222, resin plate 230, a cone assembly 270, and a cone cover 288. The housing 212 includes a body 214 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 214 of the housing 212 includes a wall 219 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 210. The drive motor 220 is disposed in a motor well 224 within the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212. A drive shaft 222 extends from the drive motor 220. The resin plate 230 is disposed adjacent to the drive motor 220 within the body 214 of the housing 212. As shown, the resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 230 further includes a first segment 234 and a second segment 236. The first segment 234 may include a first subsegment 235, a second subsegment 237, and a base 241. The first subsegment 235 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first subsegment 235 may range from 4 in. to 7 in. In some embodiments, the length of the first subsegment 235 may range from 0.5 in. to 2 in. A groove 233 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 235. The groove 233 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 230 from the housing 212 of the atomizer 210. The second subsegment 237 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outerPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-33- diameter of the second subsegment 237 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second subsegment 237 may range from 0.25 in. to 1 in. Disposed on a bottom surface of the second subsegment 237 of the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 are fins 298 spaced apart by predetermined distance to create grooves.

[0104] The second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 236 may be at least 1.5 in. or greater. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 236 may range from 1.5 in. to 4 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second segment may range from 0.5 in. to 1.5 in. As shown, the second segment 236 includes a tapered section 243 that reduces the outer diameter of the second segment between the first end and the second end. The second segment 236 is releasably attached to the base 241 of the second subsegment 237 of the first segment 234. The base 241 extends from the second subsegment 237 of the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230. The base 241 has an outer diameter that approximates the outer diameter of the second segment 236 of the resin plate. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the base 241 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. The first segment 234 and the second segment 236 may include inner diameters that are substantially similar. In some embodiments, the inner diameters may be sized to form a close fit around the drive shaft column 221 of the housing. For example, the inner diameter of the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 may range from 1 in. to 2 in.

[0105] The resin plate 230 includes a first fluid passageway 244, a second fluid passageway 248 and a third fluid passageway 252. The first fluid passageway 244 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 270, where an outlet 260 is provided. The first fluid passageway 244 may comprise one or more sections within the resin plate 230. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway 244 includes a first section, a secondary section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the first fluid. The number of discharge sections may range in number from three to six. The second fluid passageway 248 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 (same as Figure 10). The third fluid passageway 252 is disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 (as shown in Figure 24).

[0106] A cone assembly 270 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 230 in close proximity. The cone assembly 270 comprises cone body 272 and a cone cover 288. The cone body 272 includes a first section 274 and a second section 276 and a cone cover 288. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 275 disposedPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-34- about a dispersion surface 277. The wall 275 of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 and the dispersion surface 277 define a first interior volume. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 270 includes a central opening 280 disposed through the dispersion surface 277. As shown, the drive shaft 222 of the drive motor 220 is positioned within the central opening 280 and upon which the cone assembly 270 is rotatably mounted in order to allow the cone assembly 270 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 220. The second section 276 of the cone body 270 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 286 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 276. A channel 262 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the channel 262 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporary contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 270 through any space between the cone cover 288 and cone body 272.

[0107] The dispersion surface 277 serves as a forward barrier to the interior volume of the first section 274 and also provides a mechanism for the first fluid to be atomized and dispersed out the second section 276 of the cone assembly 270. A plurality of dispersion holes 278 located about the periphery of the dispersion surface 277 and provide a route for the first fluid to pass through into the interior of the second section 276 of the cone assembly 270. A first flange 281 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 274 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A second flange 283 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 276 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A washer 285 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 281 to help secure the cone assembly 270 to the drive shaft 222. In use, the cone body 272 rotates in the motor rotation direction. In some embodiments, the cone body 272 may rotate in a clockwise direction. In alternative embodiments, the cone body 272 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0108] The cone cover 288 includes a central opening 290 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 288 further includes a first segment 292 and a second segment 294. The first segment 292 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 294 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 294 also includes a tapered region 295. As discussed below, the tapered section 243 of the second segment and the tapered region 295 of the cone cover 288 contribute to forming a mixing space when the cone cover 288 is mounted to the first section 274 of the conePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-35- body 272 between the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and the dispersion surface 277. Disposed on an upper surface of the first segment 292 of the cone cover 288 of the cone assembly 270 are fins spaced apart by predetermined distance to create grooves. A channel 262 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the channel 262 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporary contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 270 through any space between the cone cover 288 and cone body 272.

[0109] In this embodiment, a non-contact seal 296 is formed by the plurality of fins 298 of the resin plate 230 and the plurality of fins 299 of the cone cover 288 of the cone assembly. The non-contact seals 296 create a tortuous path for fluid flow to prevent leakage and contamination. In operation, the fins 298 of the resin plate and the fins 299 of the cone cover 288, and their corresponding grooves, of the non-contact seal 296 provide multiple chambers that impede the flow of fluids through the seal by creating a complex path. A pressure drop is created across the chambers to prevent the flow of the fluid through the non-contact seal 296, thereby reducing leakage.

[0110] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of the first fluid passageway 244 disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 of the atomizer 210. As shown, the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. The first segment 234 resin plate 230 includes a plurality of mounting holes 231 disposed about the periphery. The first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 includes a groove 233, a first subsegment 235, a second subsegment 237, and a base 241. The first subsegment 235 includes an inlet 240 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 244, an inlet 242 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway (not shown), and an inlet 268 in fluid communication with a third fluid passageway (not shown). The first fluid passageway 244 may comprise a first section 247, a circular second section 250, and a plurality of third discharge sections passageways 251 disposed about the circumference of the resin plate 230. As shown in Figure 19, the first section 247 of the first fluid passageway 244 is in fluid communication with an inlet 240. In this embodiment, the first section 247 of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230. In some embodiments, the first section 247 may have an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230. Disposed about the second section 250 of the first fluid passageway 244 at predetermined spaces are third discharge sections 251. The discharge passageways 251 extendPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-36- through the first segment 234 and into the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 (as shown in Figure 22A).

[0111] Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional view of the atomizer 210 of Figures 18A and 18B. As described, the atomizer 210 includes a housing 212, a drive motor 220, drive shaft 222, resin plate 230, a cone assembly 270, and a cone cover 288. The housing 212 includes a body 214 having a cylindrical configuration. The body 214 of the housing 212 includes a wall 219 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 210. The drive motor 220 is disposed in a motor well 224 within the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212. A drive shaft 222 extends from the drive motor 220. The resin plate 230 is disposed adjacent to the drive motor 220 within the body 214 of the housing 212. As shown, the resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 230 further includes a first segment 234 and a second segment 236. The first segment 234 has a generally cylindrical configuration. The first segment 234 may include a first subsegment 235, a second subsegment 237, and a base 241. A groove 233 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 235. The groove 233 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 230 from the housing 212 of the atomizer 210.

[0112] The resin plate 230 includes a first fluid passageway 244, a second fluid passageway 248, and a third fluid passageway 252. The first fluid passageway 244 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 270, where an outlet 260 is provided (as shown in Figure 19). The second fluid passageway 248 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 in fluid communication with an outlet 246. In this embodiment, the outlet 246 is positioned to provide the second fluid into cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 248 may include one or more sections within the resin plate 30. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway 248 includes a first section, a second section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the second fluid. The third fluid passageway is disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 (as shown in Figure 24).

[0113] A cone assembly 270 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 230 in close proximity. The cone assembly 270 comprises cone body 272 having a first section 274 and a second section 276 and a cone cover 288. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 275 disposed about a dispersion surface 277 having a plurality of dispersion holes 278. The wall 275 of the first section 274 of the cone body 272PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-37- and the dispersion surface 277 define a first interior volume. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 270 includes a central opening 280 disposed through the dispersion surface 277. The second section 276 of the cone body 270 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 286 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 276. A first flange 281 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 274 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A second flange 283 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 276 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A washer 285 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 281 to help secure the cone assembly 270 to the drive shaft 222. The cone covers 288 is positioned between the resin plate 230 and the cone assembly 270. As shown, cone cover 288 includes a central opening 290 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 288 further includes a first segment 292 and a second segment 294. A non-contact seal 296 is present and comprising a plurality of fins 299 on the resin plate 230, fins 298 on the cone cover 288, and corresponding grooves. A channel 262 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the channel 262 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporary contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 270 through any space between the cone cover 288 and cone body 272.

[0114] Figures 22A and 22B illustrate an embodiment of the first fluid passageway 244 and the second fluid passageway 248 disposed through the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 of the atomizer 210. The second segment 236 includes a central opening 232 and a tapered section 243 that reduces the outer diameter of the second segment between the first end and the second end. The second segment 236 of resin plate 230 includes a plurality of mounting holes 269 disposed about the periphery. The discharge sections 251 of the first fluid passageway 244 includes a straight section 267 and an outlet 260. As shown, the outlet 260 is an angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230. In this embodiment, the angle of the outlet 260 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 130.

[0115] The outlet 260 allows for introduction of the first fluid into the cone assembly 270. The first fluid delivered through the outlet 260 engages the interior surface of the cone cover 288. The outlet 260 may have an elliptical configuration, which may help to form the first fluid into a vertical fan pattern. As shown, the first fluid pathway 244 efficiently distributesPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-38- the first fluid evenly into the interior of the cone assembly 270 and reduces the potential for the first fluid from exiting out of the cone assembly 270 in a direction opposite of the intended fluid discharge. Thus, the introduction of the first fluid through the outlet 260 helps to form a wet seal in the cone assembly 270 by priming the dispersion surface 277. In addition, the outlet 260 allows for the first fluid to be introduced into the interior volume of the first section of the cone assembly 270. Accordingly, the surfaces of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270 are wetted during use of the atomizer 210.

[0116] The discharge sections 257 of the one or more second fluid passageways 248 are spaced apart for the discharge sections 251 of the first fluid passageways 244. This allows for separate introduction of the first fluid and the second fluid into the cone assembly 270. As shown, the discharge sections 257 of the second fluid passageway extend through the second segment to an outlet 246. The discharge sections 257 of the second fluid passageways 248 include a straight section 265 and a curved segment 266 to provide an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230 for the delivery of the second fluid. The curved segment 266 may have an angle of equal to or less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate. In this embodiment, the curved segment 266 has an angle of less than 90 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the angle of the curved segment 266 may be equal to or greater than 90 degrees. The curved segment 266 may terminate with an elliptical shape, which may help to form the first fluid into a horizontal fan pattern. As shown, the second fluid pathway 244 efficiently distributes the second fluid evenly into the interior of the cone assembly 270.

[0117] As shown in Figures 19 and 21, the cone cover 288 is mounted to the first section of 274 of the cone body 272. In this position, the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 and the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 are positioned within the interior volume of the first section 274 of the cone body 272. In combination, the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 and the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 reduce the total volume of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. Accordingly, the reduced volume within the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270 helps improve the distribution of fluid (e.g., a liquid) by containing and directing the fluid more efficiently to the dispersion surface 277 and the dispersion holes 278 of the cone assembly 270 when the atomizer 210 is in use. This reduction in volume helps minimize the opportunity for spattering within the cone assembly 270. The first fluid is introduced through the first fluid passageway 244 into the cone assembly 270 and leads the direction of rotation of the cone assembly 270 prior to introducing the second fluid into the cone assembly 270. The first fluid pre-coats thePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-39- cone assembly 270 and prevents the second fluid from adhering to the surface of the cone assembly 270. In addition, the first fluid pre-coats the non-contact seal 296 of the cone cover 288, which helps to prevent build-up of fluids within the cone assembly 270. The combination of vertical fan pattern formed by the first fluid with the horizontal fan pattern formed second fluid helps to facilitate the injection of the second fluid into an envelope of the first fluid, which promotes cleanliness of the interior of the cone assembly 270.

[0118] Furthermore, as discussed above, the reduced interior volume of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270 allows for a constant wetting of the surfaces when the atomizer 210 is in use. The tapered section 243 of the second segment and the tapered region 295 of the cone cover 288 contribute to forming a mixing space when the cone cover 288 is mounted to the first section 274 of the cone body 272 between the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and the dispersion surface 277. In use, the mixing space tapers down until the fluids reach the dispersion holes 278 of the dispersion surface 277. At the edge of the tapered region 295, the furthest distance away from the central opening 290, a pinch point is formed that creates a flood zone that prevents splatter reacting back towards the resin point. Thus, the mixing space limits the surface area within the cone assembly 270 to create fully wetted surfaces.

[0119] In addition, as discussed above, the first fluid and the second fluid are introduced separately. The separate delivery of the first fluid and the second fluid at their respective angles allow for the fluids to be mixed within the mixing space due to the centrifugal force created when the atomizer 210 is in use. Furthermore, the first fluid passageway 244 and the second fluid passageway 248 allows the user to control the flow of the first fluid and the second fluid into the cone assembly, which helps to reduce agglomeration of the materials within the cone assembly 270. The distribution efficiency of the mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid from the first section 274 of the cone assembly 270 through the dispersion holes 278 and into the second section 276 is improved.

[0120] Figure 23 illustrates an alternative cross-sectional view of the atomizer 210 of Figure 6. As described, the atomizer 210 includes a housing 212, a drive motor 220, drive shaft 222, resin plate 230, a cone assembly 270, and a cone cover 288. The housing 212 includes a body 214 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 214 of the housing 212 includes a wall 219 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 210. The drive motor 220 is disposed in a motor well 224 within the interior of the body 214 of the housing 212. A drive shaft 222 extends from the drive motor 220. The resinPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-40- plate 230 is disposed beneath the drive motor 220 within the body 214 of the housing 212. As shown, the resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 230 further includes a first segment 234 and a second segment 236. The first segment 234 has a generally cylindrical configuration. The first segment 234 may include a first subsegment 235, a second subsegment 237, and a base 241. A groove 233 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 235. The groove 233 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 230 from the housing 212 of the atomizer 210. A positional pin 211 is disposed on the surface of first segment 234 of the resin plate. The positional pin 211 is provided such that the resin plate 230 may be assembled in a desired configuration to avoid misalignment.

[0121] The resin plate 230 includes a first fluid passageway 244, a second fluid passageway 248, and a third fluid passageway 252. The first fluid passageway 244 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 270, where an outlet 260 is provided (as shown in Figure 19). The second fluid passageway 248 is disposed through the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230 in fluid communication with an outlet 246 (as shown in Figure 21). The third fluid passageway 252 is disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230. In some embodiments, the third fluid passageway 252 may include one or more sections within the resin plate 230. In some embodiments, the third fluid passageway 252 includes a first section, a second section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the third fluid about the periphery of the resin plate (as shown in Figure 24). In some embodiments, the number of discharge sections may range from 8 to 32. The third fluid passageway includes a plurality of fourth sections 261. The fourth section 261 is disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230. The fourth section 261 discharges the third fluid into a location adjacent to the second segment 236 of the resin plate 230.

[0122] A cone assembly 270 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 230 in close proximity. The cone assembly 270 comprises cone body 272 having a first section 274 and a second section 276 and a cone cover 288. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 275 disposed about a dispersion surface 277 having a plurality of dispersion holes 278. The wall 275 of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 and the dispersion surface 277 define a first interior volume. The first section 274 of the cone body 272 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 270 includes a central opening 280 disposed through the dispersion surface 277. The second section 276 of the cone body 270 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 286PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-41- that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 276. A first flange 281 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 274 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A second flange 283 is disposed about the central opening 280 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 276 of the cone assembly 270 from the dispersion surface 277. A washer 285 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 281 to help secure the cone assembly 270 to the drive shaft 222. The cone cover 288 is positioned between the resin plate 230 and the cone assembly 270. As shown, cone cover 288 includes a central opening 290 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 288 further includes a first segment 292 and a second segment 294. A non-contact seal 296 is present and comprising a plurality of fins 298 on the resin plate 230, fins 299 on the cone cover 288, and corresponding grooves. A channel 262 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the channel 262 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporary contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 270 through any space between the cone cover 288 and cone body 272.

[0123] Figure 24 illustrates an embodiment of the third fluid passageway 252 disposed through the first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 of the atomizer 210. As shown, the resin plate 230 includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 230 includes a plurality of mounting holes 231 disposed about the periphery of the resin plate. The resin plate 230 further includes a first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 includes a groove 233, a first subsegment 235, a second subsegment 237, and a base 241. The first subsegment 235 includes an inlet 240 in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway 244, an inlet 242 in fluid communication with the second fluid passageway (not shown), and an inlet in fluid communication with a third fluid passageway 252. The third fluid passageway 252 may include a first section 254, a second circular section 256, a plurality of third discharge sections 258 and fourth sections 261 disposed at predetermined spaces about the circumference of the resin plate 230, where an outlet 259 is provided. In this embodiment, there are 16 discharge sections 258 disposed about the circumference of the resin plate 230 and 4 fourth sections 261. As shown, the discharge sections 258 are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230. In this embodiment, the angle of discharge sections 258 is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 230. In use, when the third fluid is introduced, the third fluid is distributed axially and circumferentially about the cone assembly 270. This helps to maintain a positive fluid pressure exiting the housing 212 of the atomizerPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-42-210 and around the spinning cone assembly 270. This positive fluid pressure is intended to prevent (or purge) debris, such as wood dust and strands, from being pulled into the cavity behind the cone assembly 270 during use. The fourth section 261 includes an outlet 263 to discharge the third fluid adjacent to the second segment 236 of the resin plate. This discharge of the third fluid in this location acts to balance any negative air pressure generated by the high velocity of any ambient air within the atomizer 210 behind the spinning cone assembly 270.

[0124] Figures 25 and 26 illustrate an embodiment of a cone cover 288 for use with the atomizer 210. As shown, cone cover 288 includes a central opening 290 disposed therethrough. Cone cover 288 further includes a first segment 292 and a second segment 294. The first segment 292 has a generally circular configuration. The second segment 294 also includes as tapered region 295. In this embodiment, a top surface of the cone cover 288 includes a plurality of fins 298 spaced apart by a predetermined distance forming grooves. The plurality of fins 298 are disposed in a circular configuration about the central opening 290 to create a seal with corresponding fins 299 on the resin plate 230 when the atomizer 210 is in use. The number of fins 298 of the cover assembly 288 of the cone assembly 270 and their geometry may be optimized according to implementation. The cone cover 288 includes a plurality of mounting holes 293 disposed about the periphery. A channel 262 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 294 of the cone cover 288 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 274 of the cone body 272 of the cone assembly 270. In some embodiments, the channel 262 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporary contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 270 through any space between the cone cover 288 and cone body 272.

[0125] Figure 27 illustrate a bottom view of an embodiment of a first segment 234 of the resin plate 230 for use with the atomizer 210. The resin plate 230 has a generally circular configuration and includes a central opening 232 disposed therethrough. Outlets 259 for a third fluid and communication joints 263 for connecting the first segment 234 and the second segment 236 are provided. Seals 284, such as O-rings, may be provided surrounding the inlet 240 for the first fluid, the inlet 242 for the second fluid, the inlet 268 for the third fluid. In addition, seals 284 may be provided on the base 241 about the central opening 232 around the communication joints 263 to help for ease of maintenance and removal of a second segment 236 from the first segment 234. In this embodiment, the resin plate 230 includes a plurality of fins 299 spaced apart by a predetermined distance forming grooves. The plurality of fins 299 are disposed in a circular configuration about the central opening 232 to create a seal with corresponding fins 298 on the cone cover 288 when the atomizer 210 is in use. The number ofPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-43- fins 299 of the resin plate 230 and their geometry may be optimized according to implementation. In some embodiments, the resin plate 230 may include a notch 238 to facilitate the inclusion of additional components, such as, but not limited to, a camera (e.g., endoscope); RPM sensor; and temperature sensor.

[0126] Figure 28 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an atomizer 310. As shown, the atomizer 310 includes a housing 312, a drive motor 320, drive shaft 322, resin plate 330, a cone assembly 370, and a cone cover 388. The housing 312 includes a body 314 having a generally cylindrical configuration. The body 314 of the housing 312 includes a wall 319 defining an interior. A portion of the interior of the body 314 of the housing 312 is divided into a plurality of cavities that contain the operational components of the atomizer 310. The drive motor 320 is disposed in a motor well 324 within the interior of the body 314 of the housing 312. A drive shaft 322 extends from the drive motor 320. The resin plate 330 is disposed adjacent to the drive motor 320 within the body 314 of the housing 312. As shown, the resin plate 330 includes a central opening 332 disposed therethrough. The resin plate 330 further includes a first segment 334 and a second segment 336. The first segment 334 may include a first subsegment 335, a second subsegment 337, and a base 341. The first subsegment 335 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first subsegment 335 may range from 4 in. to 7 in. In some embodiments, the length of the first subsegment 335 may range from 0.5 in. to 2 in. A groove 333 is disposed about an outer surface of the first subsegment 335. The groove 333 may help facilitate disassembly by providing increased grip for removing the resin plate 330 from the housing 312 of the atomizer 310. The second subsegment 337 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second subsegment 337 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second subsegment 337 may range from 0.25 in. to 1 in. Disposed on a bottom surface of the second subsegment 337 of the first segment 334 of the resin plate 330 are fins 398 spaced apart by predetermined distance to create grooves.

[0127] The second segment 336 of the resin plate 330 has an outer diameter and a length. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 336 may be at least 1.5 in. or greater. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second segment 336 may range from 1.5 in. to 4 in. In some embodiments, the length of the second segment may range from 0.5 in. to 1.5 in. As shown, the second segment 336 includes a tapered section 343 that reduces the outer diameter of the second segment between the first end and the second end. The second segment 336 is releasably attached to the base 341 of the second subsegment 337 of the first segment 334. The base 341 extends from the second subsegment 337 of the first segment 334PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-44- of the resin plate 330. The base 341 has an outer diameter that approximates the outer diameter of the second segment 336 of the resin plate. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the base 341 may range from 2 in. to 3 in. The first segment 334 and the second segment 336 may include inner diameters that are substantially similar. In some embodiments, the inner diameters may be sized to form a close fit around the drive shaft column 321 of the housing. For example, the inner diameter of the first segment 334 and the second segment 336 may range from 1 in. to 2 in.

[0128] The resin plate 330 includes a first fluid passageway 344, a second fluid passageway 348 and a third fluid passageway 352. The first fluid passageway 344 is disposed through the first segment 334 and the second segment 336 of the resin plate 330 to provide the first fluid into the cone assembly 370, where an outlet 360 is provided. The first fluid passageway 344 may comprise one or more sections within the resin plate 330. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway 344 includes a first section, a secondary section, and a plurality of third sections for discharge of the first fluid. The number of discharge sections may range in number from three to six. The second fluid passageway 348 is disposed through the first segment 334 and the second segment 336 of the resin plate 330 (same as Figure 10). The third fluid passageway 352 is disposed through the first segment 334 of the resin plate 330 (as shown in Figure 24).

[0129] A cone assembly 370 is positioned adjacent to the resin plate 330 in close proximity. The cone assembly 370 comprises cone body 372 and a cone cover 388. The cone body 372 includes a first section 374 and a second section 376 and a cone cover 388. The first section 374 of the cone body 372 has a generally cylindrical configuration with a wall 375 disposed about a dispersion surface 377. The wall 375 of the first section 374 of the cone body 372 and the dispersion surface 377 define a first interior volume. The first section 374 of the cone body 372 may have a uniform inner diameter and a uniform outer diameter. The cone assembly 370 includes a central opening 380 disposed through the dispersion surface 377. As shown, the drive shaft 322 of the drive motor 320 is positioned within the central opening 380 and upon which the cone assembly 370 is rotatably mounted in order to allow the cone assembly 370 to rotate when driven by the drive motor 320. The second section 376 of the cone body 370 has a generally conical configuration and includes a wall 386 that defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the second section 376. A channel 362 is provided about the circumference of the second segment 394 of the cone cover 388 and configured to be positioned adjacent to the interior wall of the first section 374 of the cone body 372 of the cone assembly 370. In some embodiments, the channel 362 may include an O-ring, which provides and temporaryPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-45- contact seal to prevent fluid, under high centrifugal force, from exiting the cone assembly 370 through any space between the cone cover 388 and cone body 372.

[0130] The dispersion surface 377 serves as a forward barrier to the interior volume of the first section 374 and also provides a mechanism for the first fluid to be atomized and dispersed out the second section 376 of the cone assembly 370. A plurality of dispersion holes 378 located about the periphery of the dispersion surface 377 and provide a route for the first fluid to pass through into the interior of the second section 376 of the cone assembly 380. A first flange 381 is disposed about the central opening 380 and extending into the interior volume of the first section 374 of the cone assembly 370 from the dispersion surface 377. A second flange 383 is disposed about the central opening 380 and extending into the interior volume of the second section 376 of the cone assembly 370 from the dispersion surface 377. A washer 385 may be placed adjacent to the first flange 381 to help secure the cone assembly 370 to the drive shaft 322. In use, the cone body 372 rotates in the motor rotation direction. In some embodiments, the cone body 372 may rotate in a clockwise direction. In alternative embodiments, the cone body 372 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0131] The cone cover 388 includes a central opening 390 disposed therethrough. The cone cover 388 further includes a first segment 392 and a second segment 394. The first segment 392 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 394 has a generally circular configuration with an outer diameter and a length. The second segment 394 also includes a tapered region 395. As discussed below, the tapered section 343 of the second segment and the tapered region 395 of the cone cover 388 contribute to forming a mixing space when the cone cover 388 is mounted to the first section 374 of the cone body 372 between the second segment 394 of the cone cover 388 and the dispersion surface 377. Disposed on an upper surface of the first segment 392 of the cone cover 388 of the cone assembly 370 are fins spaced apart by predetermined distance to create grooves.

[0132] In this embodiment, a non-contact seal 396 is formed by the plurality of fins 398 of the resin plate 330 and the plurality of fins 399 of the cone cover 388 of the cone assembly. The non-contact seals 396 create a tortuous path for fluid flow to prevent leakage and contamination. In operation, the fins 399 of the resin plate 330 and the fins 398 of the cone cover 388, and their corresponding grooves, of the non-contact seal 396 provide multiple chambers that impede the flow of fluids through the seal by creating a complex path. A pressure drop is created across the chambers to prevent the flow of the fluid through the non-contact seal 396, thereby reducing leakage. As shown, the non-contact seal 396 has an angled configuration. The angle of the non-contact seal 296 may be greater than 0 degrees and lessPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-46- than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate 330 and the cone assembly 370.EXAMPLES

[0133] The invention can be further understood by reference to the following examples:

[0134] Example #1 - Decreased Internal Build

[0135] In this example, two atomizer configurations were qualitatively compared as to the degree of fluid build-up that exited the cone assembly during operation. As a control, a closeclearance cone assembly with single row of 3 / 16-inch holes, an open cone assembly cavity, and no sealing mechanisms to prevent back splatter or splashing into the atomizer housing and a plane resin plate with a single fluid inlet into the cone assembly were used. In the trial condition, an embodiment of an atomizer according to an aspect of the present invention having cone assembly including a cone cover comprising a non-contact seal comprising a plurality of fins and grooves in a helical configuration, and a resin plate with 4 fluid discharge points into the cone assembly through the cone cover to minimize volume in the cone assembly cavity was used. The resin plate in this embodiment also had fluid injection points to pump a portion of the primary fluid directly into the non-contact seal to create a fluid barrier to back splashing.

[0136] In both scenarios, a wax extender emulsion as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,591,472, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference, and pMDI were pumped in and through the atomizer at room temperature at a combined flow of 0.25 gpm (i.e., 0.125 gpm per fluid) for 30 minutes. In the embodiment, the pMDI was considered the leading and primary fluid to create the fluid barrier.

[0137] The atomizer was on during this test at a cone assembly rotation speed of 9600 rpm (160 hertz), and the housing was mounted at a 30-degree angle off vertical. A pipe inspection video camera (~l / 4-inch diameter) was mounted through the hole in the atomizer that is designed to hold the atomizer rpm sensor. This camera was focused on the interior atomizer housing wall outside of the cone assembly.

[0138] As a result, the control configuration immediately began to show small droplets of fluid accumulating on the atomizer wall. These droplets started simultaneous to starting fluid flow and continued to deposit and contribute to build-up on the wall throughout the duration of the experiment. With the embodiment condition, there was no fluid escape observed during the 30 minutes of observation. Furthermore, upon disassembly of the embodiment condition, no fluid was observed on other surfaces outside the cone assembly beyond the field-of-viewPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-47- from the inspection camera during the experiment. This indicates that the embodiment comprising the cone assembly and resin plate as described above effectively kept all fluid in and moving through the cone assembly, as intended.

[0139] Example #2 - Panel Study Data

[0140] Traditionally, wax emulsions and pMDI adhesive resin are applied as separate fluids to OSB strands. In this example, two embodiments were compared relative to a control system. The present example utilizes a wax extender emulsion as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,591,472. Specifically, this example compares the quality of mixing of the two fluids and defines that quality by the panel performance and free-isocyanate content in the blender after blending.

[0141] The control (A) utilized an atomizer cone assembly and resin plate set-up with a single fluid entry point. Furthermore, in the control system, the wax extender emulsion and an adhesive resin were separately applied, one after the other.

[0142] The second system (B) utilized an embodiment of an atomizer comprising a resin plate according to an aspect of the present invention having four fluid entry points and a control conventional cone assembly. Additionally, in system (B), the wax extender emulsion and the adhesive resin were mixed in-line in a static mix-tube external from the atomizer, thus it is already mixed when it is dispensed by the atomizer.

[0143] The third condition (C) utilized an embodiment of an atomizer comprising a resin plate according to an aspect of the present invention where a first fluid and a second fluid can be received and an embodiment of a cone assembly including a cone cover having a noncontact seal comprising a plurality of fins and grooves in a helical configuration. The first fluid (an adhesive resin) and the second fluid (the wax emulsion) are each dispensed through four separate entry points into the cone assembly, and the fluids are mixed in the cone assembly due to the centrifugal forces created by rotation of the cone assembly.

[0144] OSB panels were prepared using a rotary drum blender (6’ diameter; 3’ deep) using the various atomizer configurations to dispense the wax and resin onto the strands. Southern yellow pine OSB strands, at 13% moisture, were loaded into the blender (13 kg) and tumbled at 23 rpm for a total of 3 minutes during fluid application. Resin (pMDI) and wax loading were 4.5% and 1.5%, respectively, on an active solid relative to dry wood basis. The same atomizer settings were used for each condition (3 / 16” single row hole pattern; 9600 rpm, 30 psi cone assembly and motor air). Three panels were made from each blender run (18” x 18” x 0.57” thick at 39.5 pounds per cubic foot density). From each panel, 10 internal bond (IB) specimensPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-48- were excised and evaluated according to ASTM D 1037. The comparative IB results are provided in Table 1. The panel data shows that the two mixed conditions (B and C) showed a greater bond strength than the control (separate application) condition. Furthermore, the two methods of mixing (Mix-tube vs. cone assembly mix) were nearly identical to each other. Thus, it is concluded that the in-cone mixing embodiment (condition C) does an adequate job of mixing the two fluids by comparison with the in-line static mix-tube method.Table 1 - IB results for panel study with different atomizer configurations (UCI and LCI = 95% confidence bounds; n = 30)

[0145] In addition, mix quality was assessed a second way during this same panel study. After each blend, a measure was taken of the amount of free aerosolized isocyanate in the blender using the IsoSense MDI Detection Kit by DOD Technologies. A mixture of pMDI and the wax extender emulsion have a significantly different rheology profile than pure pMDI. It has been observed through previous experiments that the mixture of pMDI and the wax extender after mixing in a static mix-tube dramatically reduces the fog, or amount of aerosolized pMDI in the airspace in the blender after blending. This experiment was repeated here in the example panel study. After each blend, the IsoSense tool sampled the air at 1500 mL volume per minute for 2 minutes. The tool utilizes test strip papers that change darker shades of red depending on the pMDI concentration in the air. As expected after the control condition (A) blend, a fog could be seen inside the blender. The IsoSense detection paper strip showed a red dot indicating a measured quantity of pMDI in the air. The color value indicated between 20 - 40 PPB of pMDI in the air. With both the mixed material conditions (B & C), no fog was observed, and neither was a color value indicating any pMDI present in the air sampled with the IsoSense tool. If the in-cone mixing embodiment, condition C, had resulted in poor mixing, one would expect some level of free pMDI detected similar to that for the control condition. Instead, both mixing conditions showed nearly equal, zero-detect levels.

[0146] Example #3 - Cone Purge Air DataPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-49-

[0147] This example demonstrates an improvement in air balance and efficiency for cone assembly-purge air intended to fill the cone assembly cavity between the rotating cone assembly and the atomizer housing.

[0148] In this example, as a control, an atomizer with a single cone assembly-purge air entry point (A) is compared relative to an embodiment of a resin plate according to an aspect of the present invention where the air is directed through multiple (16x) discharge sections of a fluid passageway. (B). In the control, the single air entry point enters the cavity between the cone assembly and the atomizer housing laterally through the housing wall and pointing at the cone assembly wall on one side. The embodiment directs the purge air forward from the resin plate, and around the spinning cone assembly, exiting through the gap between the atomizer interior and the cone assembly exterior. In both scenarios, this purge air is intended to exit around the entire 360-degree circumference of the cone assembly.

[0149] To demonstrate this purge air behavior, air velocity measurements were taken directly at the interface between cone assembly edge and atomizer housing every 30-degrees about the 360-degree cone assembly face. A 1-inch diameter tube was shaped at one end to fit snug against the interface of the cone assembly and atomizer housing. A layer of soft foam was fixed to this shaped end of the tube to create a tight seal between the tube and the atomizer and cone assembly. The other end of the tube was attached to a Kestrel 3000 Wind Meter to directly measure air speed and volume at each angular increment. Figure 29A shows the results of the wind speed measurements about the cone assembly from both the control and the embodiment with 16 air discharge locations through the resin plate. The data shown in Figure 29B has been normalized to the same air pressure and air volume.

[0150] It is apparent that the control system does not distribute the purge air behind the cone assembly evenly across the 360-degree perimeter. The air shape exiting the control system perimeter appears as a mushroom-like shape, where most of the air exits forward away from the single-entry point where the air enters the cavity between the cone assembly and housing. Some of the control air bounces backward and exits back toward the same direction from which it was supplied. In the embodiment with multiple air discharge points, air is supplied in a uniform radial array around the perimeter of the resin plate. Consequently, the data from the radial plot for this system shows a more uniform air discharge about the full 360-degree cone assembly perimeter. Furthermore, the air velocity is also greater at each location, indicating a more efficient air delivery outward from the housing-cone assembly interface. With the purpose of this air being to prevent debris from entering the cavity between the cone assembly and atomizer housing, it is apparent that the embodiment with the distributed air through thePCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-50- resin plate would create a more effective barrier about the entire perimeter of the cone assembly than the control.

[0151] Example #4 - External Air Nozzle Effect on Over spray

[0152] The spinning disk atomizer is designed to atomize and spray fluid in 360-degrees. The fluid follows centrifugal force and exit from the cone assembly interior through the cone assembly holes. The fluid travels along the cone assembly face and is atomized when it flies off the cone assembly exterior surface. As the fluid disconnects from the cone assembly surface it breaks apart from a fluid stream to atomized fluid droplets the size and quantity of which are governed by centrifugal forces and fluid surface tension properties. This fluid spray, however, is intended to exit from the cone assembly face in the same plane as the cone assembly face. Through testing, it has been determined with certain fluids and atomizer settings (speeds, flow rates, etc.), that spray behavior can rise above and below the plane of the atomizer cone assembly.

[0153] In this example a spinning disk atomizer was mounted in a dark room, and the spray was imaged as it was discharged from the atomizer cone assembly. A series of lights and lasers were employed to isolate and visualize a single plane through the spray pattern, and thus allow for 2-dimensional quantification of the spray behavior. Image analysis of these spray observations clearly indicated a narrow band of spray, referred to as the primary spray, predominately exiting the cone assembly with a low angle above and below the plane of the cone assembly. However, there was also a fainter band of secondary spray, also called overspray, which migrated above and below the primary spray path.

[0154] Figure 30A shows the angles of spray from a control system (A), and Figure 30B shows the angles of spray from an embodiment according to an aspect of the present invention including an external air nozzle, 2 inches wide, and fixed to the side of the atomizer, adjacent to the cone assembly. In this example, water was sprayed through the atomizer at 0.5 gpm, and the atomizer was spinning at 9600 rpm. The air nozzle discharged air, straight down, perpendicular to the cone assembly plane, at 20 pounds per square inch (psi), and 10 cubic feet per minute (cfm).

[0155] The spray angle data extracted from the images shows that in the control system (A), a primary spray path came off the atomizer and occupied a space plus or minus 4 - 6 degrees off the planar axis of the cone assembly. However, a broader secondary, or overspray, region spans between 45 - 52 degrees off the cone assembly planar axis. In the embodiment with the external air nozzle pointing down, the upper secondary spray region is eliminated.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-51-This upper overspray elimination would be preferable in a scenario where overspray back on to the body of the atomizer housing was problematic and wanted to be avoided.Prophetic Example

[0156] The invention can be further understood by reference to the following prophetic example:

[0157] Prophetic Example - Uniform Fluid Discharge

[0158] The cone assembly on the spinning disk atomizer is designed to rotate at high speed, or RPMs, and distribute fluid dispensed into the cone assembly interior through the cone assembly, expelling it as atomized fluid droplets. When used for OSB production (or other wood composite products), the atomizer sprays adhesives or other fluids into a blender while strands (or other wood particles) move around the atomizer in the path of the spray. This spray is intended to be cast uniformly in 360-degrees parallel to the rotating cone assembly outer planar- surface.

[0159] A control atomizer has a fluid entry at a single location, off center into the cone assembly. With a single-entry point, the fluid exiting the cone assembly will inevitably be non- uniform, as fluid will be exiting with differential and decreasing flow as the cone assembly rotates. Embodiments of the atomizer as described above includes two or more fluid discharge points of entry into the cone assembly. The amount of fluid that will be expelled from each hole can be calculated based on fluid flow rate, viscosity and density, cone assembly rotation speed and diameter, and hole count and geometry. This example demonstrates that the fluid discharge pattern from the cone assembly increases in uniformity with the increasing number of discharge points into the cone assembly.

[0160] In this example, pMDI is used as a fluid, with a density of 10.26 LB / gal, and a dynamic viscosity of 100 cP. A cone assembly with a total of 40 discharge holes equally spaced about the cone assembly face. Each hole had a diameter of 0.1875 inches, and length, or depth of 0.211 inches. The cone assembly itself was assigned an interior diameter (between the holes) of 3.65 inches. A total fluid flow rate of 0.5 gpm and a cone assembly rotation speed of 10,000 RPM were used in this example. All these parameters are reasonable, and in the realm, of commonly observed values in OSB production operations.

[0161] Figure 31A shows the solved differential equation for the above scenario of pMDI dispensed into a control cone assembly with a single fluid entry point into the cone assembly. Figures 31B-D also show three other solutions representing embodiments with 2, 4 and 8 fluid discharge points, evenly distributed about the 360-degree cone assembly, (B, C & D,PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-52- respectively). In each plot, the total fluid mass is the same at 5.81 mg of pMDI, but in the embodiments with multiple discharge points, that value is divided evenly amongst each fluid entry point. Radial increments are 9-degrees apart representing the spacing between 40 holes equidistant across the full 360-degree cone assembly surface. The dark line indicates the full liquid discharge path. The dashed line indicates the flow path of the first liquid entry point if it were to completely discharge. Each graph is to the same liquid mass radial scale at 6E-6 kg.

[0162] It can be seen that when multiple discharge points are used, more fluid is added at the next sequential entry point before the first has been completely discharged. That additive effect is accounted for in the differential solutions.

[0163] Various aspects are contemplated herein, several of which are set forth in the paragraphs below. It is explicitly contemplated that any aspect or portion thereof may be combined to form a combination.

[0164] A first aspect relates to a rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising: a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate releasably engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having an outer diameter, the second segment having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, at least one non-contact seal disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment, a disc rotatably mounted within the housing and adjacent to the second segment of the resin plate; and a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a dispersion surface having at least one aperture, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface and defining a first interior volume, the first section comprising a first subsection having a uniform diameter and a second subsection having a nonuniform diameter, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; wherein the second section of the resin plate and the disc extend through the first section of the cone assembly and wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-53-

[0165] A second aspect relates to rotary atomizer of aspect 1, wherein the angle of the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0166] A third aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 1 or 2, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate.

[0167] A fourth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is less than 90 degrees with respect to the radial axis of the resin plate.

[0168] A fifth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is positioned in an area of the second segment of the resin plate separate from the non-contact seal.

[0169] A sixth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the at least one outlet of the second fluid passageway is positioned in an area of the second segment that includes the at least one non-contact seal.

[0170] A seventh aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the first fluid passageway comprises at least three outlets.

[0171] A eighth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the second fluid passageway comprises at least six outlets.

[0172] A ninth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 8, further comprising a first supply source of a first fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the first fluid passageway.

[0173] A tenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 9, where the first fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

[0174] An eleventh aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 1 to 8, further comprising a second supply source of a second fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the second fluid passageway.

[0175] A twelfth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 11 , wherein the second fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

[0176] The thirteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the at least one non-contact seal is a labyrinth seal having one or more fins.

[0177] The fourteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 13, wherein the labyrinth seal is adjacent to a bottom surface of the disc.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-54-

[0178] The fifteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 14, wherein the at least one non-contact seal is adjacent to an interior surface of the first section of the cone assembly.

[0179] The sixteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 1 to 14, wherein the disc comprises a first surface, a second surface, and a beveled transition section disposed between the first surface and the second surface.

[0180] A seventeenth aspect relates to a rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough; the first segment having a diameter; the second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body comprising, a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; and a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover comprising, a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration; wherein the second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover.

[0181] An eighteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 17, wherein the second segment of the resin plate includes a bottom surface with a tapered region.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-55-

[0182] A nineteenth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 and 18, further comprising a first supply source of a first fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the first fluid passageway.

[0183] A twentieth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 19, wherein the first fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

[0184] A twenty-first aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 20, wherein the first fluid passageway has a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet.

[0185] A twenty-second aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 21, wherein the first outlet, second outlet, and third outlet are positioned on the second segment of the resin plate.

[0186] A twenty-third aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 21 and 22, wherein the first outlet and the second outlet are angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0187] A twenty-fourth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 23, wherein the angle of the first outlet is 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0188] A twenty-fifth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 23 and 24, wherein the angle of the second outlet is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0189] A twenty-sixth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 23 to 25, wherein the third outlet is at a 0-degree angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of the dispersion surface of the cone body.

[0190] A twenty- seventh aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 21 to 26, wherein a wet seal is formed by a flow of the first fluid through the first outlet and the third outlet into the cone body and the plurality of projections on the cone cover.

[0191] A twenty-eighth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 27, further comprising a second supply source of a second fluid in fluid communication to the inlet of the second fluid passageway.

[0192] A twentieth-ninth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 28, wherein the second fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

[0193] A thirtieth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 29, wherein the at least one outlet of the second fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of the interior surface of the second segment of the cone cover.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-56-

[0194] A thirty-first aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 30, wherein the angle of the outlet is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0195] A thirty-second relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 30, wherein the resin plate further comprises a third fluid passageway disposed through the first segment of the resin plate, the third fluid passageway having an inlet and at least one outlet.

[0196] A thirty-third relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 32, further comprising a third supply source of a third fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the third fluid passageway.

[0197] A thirty-fourth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 33, wherein the third fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

[0198] A thirty-fifth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 32 and 33, wherein the outlet of the third fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of an exterior surface the cone assembly.

[0199] A thirty-sixth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 35, wherein the outlet is less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

[0200] A thirty- seventh aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 36, wherein the helical configuration of the plurality of projections is in a direction of rotation of the cone assembly.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-57-

[0201] A thirty eighth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspects 17 to 37, further comprising a pair of nozzles surrounding an external surface of the housing.

[0202] A thirty-ninth aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 38, further comprising a fourth supply source of a fourth fluid in fluid communication with the pair of nozzles.

[0203] A fortieth aspect relates to a rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a first segment having a diameter and bottom surface, a plurality of projections disposed on the bottom surface of the first segment; a second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment, and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a third fluid passageway disposed through the first segment of the resin plate, the third fluid passageway having an inlet and at least one outlet; a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body comprising a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover comprising, a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on a top surface of the first segment, wherein the second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover; and wherein the plurality of projections of the resin plate and the plurality of projection of the cone cover form a noncontact seal.

[0204] A forty-first aspect relates to the rotary atomizer of aspect 40, further comprising a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment of the cone cover, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-58-

[0205] A forty- second aspect relates to a resin plate for a rotary atomizer, the resin plate comprising, a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having an outer diameter, the second segment having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, at least one non-contact seal disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment.

[0206] A forty-third aspect relates to a resin plate of aspect 42, further comprising a third fluid passageway disposed through the first segment, the third fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the first segment.

[0207] A forty-fourth aspect relates to a cone assembly for a rotary atomizer, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body comprising, a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; and a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover comprising, a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration.

[0208] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the claims.

[0209] One skilled in the art will realize that a virtually unlimited number of variations to the above descriptions are possible, and that the examples and the accompanying figures are merely to illustrate one or more examples of implementations.

[0210] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various other modifications can be made, and equivalents can be substituted, without departing from claimed subject matter. Additionally, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation to the teachingsPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-59- of claimed subject matter without departing from the central concept described herein. Therefore, it is intended that claimed subject matter not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that such claimed subject matter can also include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, and equivalents thereof.

[0211] In the detailed description above, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subject matter. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, devices, or systems that would be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described in detail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter.

[0212] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” can mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with a particular embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of claimed subject matter. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not intended to refer to the same embodiment or to any one particular embodiment described. Furthermore, it is to be understood that particular features, structures, or characteristics described can be combined in various ways in one or more embodiments. In general, of course, these and other issues can vary with the particular context of usage. Therefore, the particular context of the description or the usage of these terms can provide helpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn for that context.

Claims

PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-60-CLAIMS1. A rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising: a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate releasably engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough, the first segment having an outer diameter, the second segment having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, at least one non-contact seal disposed at least partially about an exterior surface of the second segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment, a disc rotatably mounted within the housing and adjacent to the second segment of the resin plate; and a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a dispersion surface having at least one aperture, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface and defining a first interior volume, the first section comprising a first subsection having a uniform diameter and a second subsection having a nonuniform diameter, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; wherein the second section of the resin plate and the disc extend through the first section of the cone assembly and wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

2. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the angle of the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-61-3. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is angled with respect to a radial axis of the resin plate.

4. The rotary atomizer of claim 3, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is less than 90 degrees with respect to the radial axis of the resin plate.

5. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet of the first fluid passageway is positioned in an area of the second segment of the resin plate separate from the non-contact seal.

6. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet of the second fluid passageway is positioned in an area of the second segment that includes the at least one noncontact seal.

7. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the first fluid passageway comprises at least three outlets.

8. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the second fluid passageway comprises at least six outlets.

9. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, further comprising a first supply source of a first fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the first fluid passageway.

10. The rotary atomizer of claim 9, where the first fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

11. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, further comprising a second supply source of a second fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the second fluid passageway.

12. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the at least one non-contact seal is a labyrinth seal having one or more fins.

13. The rotary atomizer of claim 11, wherein the second fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-62-14. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the at least one non-contact seal is adjacent to an interior surface of the first section of the cone assembly.

15. The rotary atomizer of claim 13, wherein the labyrinth seal is adjacent to a bottom surface of the disc.

16. The rotary atomizer of claim 1, wherein the disc comprises a first surface, a second surface, and a beveled transition section disposed between the first surface and the second surface.

17. A rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a body comprising a first segment, a second segment extending from the first segment, and a central opening disposed therethrough; the first segment having a diameter; the second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body comprising, a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; andPCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-63- a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover comprising, a first segment having an outer diameter, a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration; wherein the second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover.

18. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, wherein the second segment of the resin plate includes a bottom surface with a tapered region.

19. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, further comprising a first supply source of a first fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the first fluid passageway.

20. The rotary atomizer of claim 19, wherein the first fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

21. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, wherein the first fluid passageway has a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet.

22. The rotary atomizer of claim 21, wherein the first outlet, second outlet, and third outlet are positioned on the second segment of the resin plate.

23. The rotary atomizer of claim 21, wherein the first outlet and the second outlet are angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

24. The rotary atomizer of claim 23, wherein the angle of the first outlet is 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

25. The rotary atomizer of claim 23, wherein the angle of the second outlet is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-64-26. The rotary atomizer of claim 21, wherein the third outlet is at a 0-degree angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of the dispersion surface of the cone body.

27. The rotary atomizer of claim 21, wherein a wet seal is formed by a flow of the first fluid through the first outlet and the third outlet into the cone body and the plurality of projections on the cone cover.

28. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, further comprising a second supply source of a second fluid in fluid communication to the inlet of the second fluid passageway.

29. The rotary atomizer of claim 28, wherein the second fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

30. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, wherein the at least one outlet of the second fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of the interior surface of the second segment of the cone cover.

31. The rotary atomizer of claim 30, wherein the angle of the outlet is less than 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

32. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, wherein the resin plate further comprises a third fluid passageway disposed through the first segment of the resin plate, the third fluid passageway having an inlet and at least one outlet.

33. The rotary atomizer of claim 32, further comprising a third supply source of a third fluid in fluid communication with the inlet of the third fluid passageway.

34. The rotary atomizer of claim 33, wherein the third fluid is air, water, wax materials, liquid adhesive resins, oils, suspensions or slurries of solid filler materials dispersed in a fluid, or a mixture thereof.

35. The rotary atomizer of claim 32, wherein the outlet of the third fluid passageway is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate in the direction of an exterior surface the cone assembly.PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-65-36. The rotary atomizer of claim 35, wherein the outlet is less than 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

37. The rotary atomizer of claim 17, wherein the helical configuration of the plurality of projections is in a direction of rotation of the cone assembly.

38. A rotary atomizer for spraying materials, comprising a housing comprising a first end, a second end, and at least one opening; a resin plate engaged with the housing, the resin plate comprising, a first segment having a diameter and bottom surface, a plurality of projections disposed on the bottom surface of the first segment; a second segment releasably engaged to the first segment, the second segment having an outer surface and a diameter less than the diameter of the first segment; a first fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the first fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment, and a second fluid passageway disposed through the first segment and the second segment, the second fluid passageway having an inlet positioned on the first segment and at least one outlet positioned on the second segment; and a third fluid passageway disposed through the first segment of the resin plate, the third fluid passageway having an inlet and at least one outlet; a cone assembly rotatably mounted within the housing, the cone assembly comprising, a cone body comprising a dispersion surface, a first section extending in a first direction from the dispersion surface, the first section having a uniform diameter and defining a first interior volume, and a second section extending in a second direction opposite the first direction from the dispersion surface, the second section having a nonuniform diameter; a cone cover releasably connected to the first section of the cone body, the cone cover comprising, a first segment having an outer diameter and a top surface,PCT / US25 / 57595 02 December 2025 (02.12.2025)-66- a second segment extending from the first segment and having an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first segment, a central opening disposed therethrough, and a plurality of projections disposed on the top surface of the first segment, wherein the second segment of the cone cover extends within the first section of the cone body and the second segment of the resin plate extends through the central opening of the cone cover and within the second segment of the cone cover; and wherein the plurality of projections of the resin plate and the plurality of projections of the cone cover form a noncontact seal.

39. The rotary atomizer of claim 38, further comprising a plurality of projections disposed on an interior surface of the first segment and the second segment of the cone cover, the plurality of projections having a helical configuration.

40. The rotary atomizer of claim 38, where the non-contact seal is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the resin plate.

41. The rotary atomizer of claim 38, wherein the at least one outlet of the second fluid passageway has an oval configuration.

42. The rotary atomizer of claim 38, wherein the at least one outlet of the third fluid passageway is positioned in close proximity to the non-contact seal.

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