Passive emanation diffuser systems

Abstract

A passive emanation diffuser includes a first chamber configured to house a volatile material and a coupling configured to fluidly couple the first chamber to a second chamber. The second chamber is disposed opposite the first chamber. The diffuser includes a porous flow limiter disposed in an inside surface of the coupling and a porous diffuser coupled to an outside surface of the coupling. The porous flow limiter is configured to receive a portion of the volatile material as the volatile material flows between the first chamber and the second chamber. Further, the coupling includes a fluid channel to fluidly couple the inside surface of the coupling to the outside surface of the coupling. The fluid channel is configured to transfer at least some of the portion of volatile material to the porous diffuser. The porous diffuser is configured to evaporate the volatile material.

Description

PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)PASSIVE EMANATION DIFFUSER SYSTEMSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 764,931, filed on February 28, 2025, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.SEQUENTIAL LISTING

[0003] Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to systems for dispensing volatile materials, and more particularly, to passive emanation diffuser systems.2. Description of the Background of the Invention

[0005] Volatile material dispensers generally include a housing with a refill inserted therein. The refill is typically formed as a container that holds a volatile material and includes a transmission element (e.g., a wick, capillary tube, etc.) that transfers fragrance outwardly from the container for volatilization. In some dispensers, the volatile material is passively ( / .< ., without heat or electricity) emitted from a refill. Once the volatile material has been expended from the refill, the refill is removed by a user and can be replaced with a new refill.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0006] According to one embodiment, a passive emanation diffuser includes a first chamber and a second chamber disposed opposite the first chamber, each chamber being configured to house a volatile material. The passive emanation diffuser includes a coupling configured to fluidly couple the first chamber to the second chamber. A porous flow limiter is disposed in an inside surface of the coupling, and a porous diffuser is coupled to an outside surface of the coupling. The porous flow limiter is configured to receive a portion of the volatile material as the volatile material flows between the first chamber and the second chamber. Further, the coupling includes a fluid channel to fluidly couple the inside surface of the coupling to the outside surface of the coupling. The fluid channel is configured to transfer at least some of the portion of volatile material to the porous diffuser. The porous diffuser is configured to evaporate the volatile material.

[0007] In some embodiments, the fluid channel is a plurality of fluid channels. In some embodiments, the plurality of fluid channels is at least two fluid channels, at least four fluid channels, or at least six fluid channels. In some embodiments, the fluid channel is a cylindrical channel with a diameter of between about 0.8 millimeters (mm) and about 4.8 mm. In some embodiments, the porous flow limiter includes one or more holes configured to increase a flow rate between the first chamber and the second chamber. In some embodiments the one or more holes are a plurality of holes. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes includes three holes. In some embodiments, the hole is a cylindrical hole with a diameter of between about 3.2 mm and about 6.4 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of a width (or diameter) of the hole to a width (or diameter) of the porous flow limiter is between about 1:2 and about 1:5. In some embodiments, the porous flow limiter comprises a porous plastic material. In some embodiments, the porous flow limiter has a density of between about 50 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm3) and about 150 g / cm3. In some embodiments, the porous diffuser comprises a porous plastic material. In some embodiments, the porous diffuser has a density of between about 100 g / cm3and about 250 g / cm3. In some embodiments, a ratio of a density of the porous diffuser to a density of the porous flow limiter is at least about 1.1:1.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a closed loop passive emanation diffuser includes a first interior cavity fluidly coupled to a second interior cavity via a union. The first interior cavity and the second interior cavity are configured to exchange a volatile liquid. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser additionally includes a baffle disposed in the union. The baffle includes a first fluid flow path between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser includes an outlet to fluidly couplePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) an interior surface of the union to a first exterior surface of the union. The outlet is fluidly coupled to the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity via a second fluid flow path of the baffle. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser includes a diffuser coupled to the first exterior surface of the union to at least partially cover the outlet. The diffuser fluidly couples the outlet to a second exterior surface of the diffuser via a third fluid flow path. The baffle is further configured to divert at least a portion of the volatile liquid to the second exterior surface of the diffuser via the second fluid flow path, the outlet, and the third fluid flow path when the volatile liquid exchanges between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity.

[0009] In some embodiments, the closed loop passive emanation diffuser further includes a first vessel defining the first interior cavity and a second vessel defining the second interior cavity. The first vessel and the second vessel are removably coupled to the union. In some embodiments, the first vessel and the second vessel are removably coupled to the union via a threaded joint. In some embodiments, the first vessel includes a first support surface, and the second vessel includes a second support surface. The first support surface is substantially parallel to the second support surface, and the volatile liquid flows in a substantially vertical direction when the first support surface or the second support surface is substantially parallel to the ground. In some embodiments, the volatile liquid is exchanged between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity based on a user reorienting the closed loop passive emanation diffuser to be supported by the opposite of the first support surface or the second support surface. In other embodiments, the closed loop passive emanation diffuser further includes a screen surrounding the diffuser. In some embodiments, the screen is configured to contact the first vessel and the second vessel. In some embodiments, the screen includes a plurality of openings. In some embodiments, the first vessel and the second vessel are substantially radially symmetric about a shared axis. In some embodiments, the baffle has a cylindrical shape that has a diameter larger than a height. In some embodiments, the first exterior surface of the union has a cylindrical shape, and the diffuser has a cylindrical shape. The diffuser shares an axis with the exterior surface of the union.

[0010] According to still another embodiment, a passive diffuser includes a wick including a passage. The passive diffuser includes a housing at least partially surrounding the wick. The passive diffuser includes a pore disposed in the housing to fluidly couple the wick to an evaporator. The wick is further configured to transfer a portion of a volatile liquid to the evaporator via the pore when the volatile liquid flows between a first side of the wick and a second side of the wick via the passage.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0011] In some embodiments, the passive diffuser further includes a first reservoir coupled to the housing and a second reservoir coupled to the housing. The second reservoir is disposed opposite the first reservoir relative to the wick. The first reservoir is disposed closer to the first side of the wick than the second reservoir is disposed to the wick. In some embodiments, the second reservoir is configured to receive the volatile liquid when the volatile liquid flows from the first side of the wick to the second side of the wick. Additionally, the first reservoir is configured to receive the volatile liquid when the volatile liquid flows from the second side of the wick to the first side of the wick. In some embodiments, the wick comprises a porous material. In some embodiments, the evaporator comprises a porous material. In some embodiments, the wick and the evaporator comprise the same material. In some embodiments, the wick and the evaporator comprise different materials. In some embodiments, the evaporator surrounds the housing proximate the wick. In some embodiments, the passage is a plurality of passages. In some embodiments, the pore is a plurality of pores.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1A is a front elevational view of a passive volatile material diffuser system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. IB is a top plan view of the diffuser system of FIG. 1 A;

[0014] FIG. 2 is front elevational, exploded view of the diffuser system of FIG. 1A;

[0015] FIG. 3 is a front, bottom right, perspective view of the diffuser system of FIG. 1A;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a front, bottom right, perspective exploded view of the diffuser system of FIG. 1A;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser system of FIG. IB taken across line 5-5 of FIG. IB;

[0018] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the diffuser system of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser system of FIG. 1 A taken across line 7-7 of FIG. 1A;

[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the diffuser system of FIG. 7 with alternative volatile material flow paths;

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of the diffuser system of FIG. 7 with additional alternative volatile material flow paths;PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0022] FIG. 10 is a graph of the mean intensity of design factors of the volatile material flow paths according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 11 is a graph of the mean intensity signal -to-noise ratio of design factors of the volatile material flow paths according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the diffuser system of FIG. 7 with additional alternative volatile material flow paths;

[0025] FIG. 13 is a graph of flow time versus number of flips of a diffuser system according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 14 is a graph of weight loss versus number of flips of a diffuser system according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 15 is a graph of flow time versus number of flips of a diffuser system according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 16 is a graph of weight loss versus number of flips of a diffuser system according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 17 is a graph of weight loss versus number of flips of a diffuser system according to further embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0030] FIGS. 18A-18G are front perspective views of alternative embodiments of a screen and fluid vessels of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of a passive emanation diffuser system to dispense a variety of volatile materials to an ambient atmosphere.

[0032] The term “about,” as used herein, refers to variation in the numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for diffuser systems or other articles of manufacture that may include embodiments of the disclosure herein; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or mixtures or carry out the methods; and the like. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of values ± 5% of the numeric value that the term precedes. Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially parallel” indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of a reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees or ± 3 degrees), inclusive. Similarly, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially perpendicular” similarly indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of perpendicular aPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees or ± 3 degrees), inclusive. Correspondingly, “substantially vertical” indicates a direction that is substantially parallel to the vertical direction, as defined relative to the reference system (e.g., a local direction of gravity, by default), with a similarly derived meaning for “substantially horizontal” (relative to the horizontal direction). Similarly, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially symmetrical” similarly indicates a curvature or a line that is within ± 12 degrees of a reference axis or an axis of symmetry (e.g., within ± 6 degrees or ± 3 degrees), inclusive.

[0033] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “or” indicates a nonexclusive list of components or operations that can be present in any variety of combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can be present only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of “A, B, or C” indicates options of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term “or” as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives only when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” For example, a list of “one of A, B, or C” indicates options of: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list preceded by “one or more” (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “one or more of A, B, or C” and “at least one of A, B, or C” indicate options of: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more of A, one or more of B, and one or more of C. Similarly, a list preceded by “a plurality of’ (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “a plurality of A, B, or C” and “two or more of A, B, or C” indicate options of: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0034] Further, as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used for convenience of reference for discussion of particular figures or examples. For example, references to “downward,” or other directions, or “lower” or other positions, may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or figure, but do not necessarily require similar orientation or geometry in all installations or configurations.

[0035] The terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply a sequencePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0036] The present disclosure is directed to passive emanation diffuser systems that facilitate the diffusion of volatile materials, such as scented oils or insect repellants, in a controlled and aesthetically pleasing manner. Passive emanation diffuser systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure diffuse volatile materials when the volatile materials are passed from a first vessel to a second vessel through a porous material disposed between the vessels. The porous material includes a narrow passage that chokes or restricts the flow of volatile liquid between the vessels and permits the passage of some volatile liquid from the first vessel to the second vessel while absorbing a portion of the volatile liquid. The porous material is fluidly coupled to a diffuser and directs the absorbed portion of the volatile material outward (e.g., by wicking) toward the diffuser as the volatile material passes between the two vessels. The diffuser is wetted by the volatile material that is received from the porous material, and releases this volatile material outward, to the external environment. Because only a portion of the volatile material is captured by the porous material as the volatile liquid passes between vessels, the volatile material is only diffused for a period of time following a user flipping or otherwise reorienting the passive emanation diffuser. The volatile material flows between the first and second vessels due to the force of gravity after being reoriented. Thus, passive emanation diffuser systems disclosed herein dispense volatile materials without additional heaters, fans, or other powered components. The diffuser systems disclosed herein are closed loop passive emanation diffuser systems that do not need additional inputs to release volatile materials.

[0037] Passive emanation diffuser systems described herein include fluid flow paths configured to control (e.g., by metering) the movement of the volatile material between the vessels and the diffuser. Embodiments of the flow limiters disclosed herein include fluid flow paths between the first vessel and the second vessel that vary in size and number. Similarly, embodiments of passive emanation diffuser systems disclosed herein include fluid flow paths between the diffuser and the flow limiters that vary in size and number. In this way, the flow characteristics of the volatile material between the vessels and the diffuser can be configured to obtain a desired time and intensity of diffusion of the volatile material when the passive emanation diffuser is flipped. Many known passive volatile material dispensers do not control the diffusion of the volatile materials and continuously diffuse the volatile material into the ambient environment. Passive emanation diffuser systems described herein limit the diffusionPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) of the volatile material to when the diffusion is desired, as the volatile material only wets the diffuser while the volatile material flows past the flow limiter, which only occurs for a short period of time after the device has been inverted. Thus, passive emanation diffuser systems described herein advantageously allow the user to determine when the diffusion occurs and to limit diffusion at other times. Additionally, passive emanation diffuser systems described herein include a screen to prevent accidental user contact with the wetted surfaces. While the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms, the present disclosure is to be considered only as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosure, and it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the embodiments illustrated.

[0038] The diffuser systems described herein are used as hand operated devices configured to dispense volatile materials for consumer uses. Alternatively, embodiments disclosed herein may be used in alternative dispensers of different sizes to suit the particular volatile material and its usage. FIGS. 1A-7 illustrate one particular embodiment of a diffuser system 100 according to the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1 A, the diffuser system 100 includes a first vessel 102 (e.g., a first reservoir) and a second vessel 104 (e.g., a second reservoir) to contain a volatile material 106 (described below in reference to FIG. 5). The vessels 102, 104 of FIG. 1A are substantially symmetric about a midpoint of the diffuser system 100 (e.g., the line 7-7 of FIG. 1A) and radially symmetric about a central axis 108. In some embodiments, the vessels 102, 104 are asymmetric or otherwise irregularly shaped. The first vessel 102 includes a first support surface 110 and the second vessel 104 includes a second support surface 112. The first support surface 110 and the second support surface 112 are substantially flat and substantially parallel to each other. The first support surface 110 and the second support surface 112 are substantially perpendicular to the central axis 108. In this way, the diffuser system 100 is configured to exchange the volatile material 106 (e.g., a volatile liquid) between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 in a direction parallel to the force of gravity (e.g., a vertical direction). The diffuser system 100 is configured to rest on a surface parallel to the ground and maintain a stable position because its center of gravity is approximately positioned along the central axis 108.

[0039] The volatile material 106 moves between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 based on a user input (e.g., reorienting the diffuser system 100 or flipping the diffuser system 100). For example, rotating the diffuser system 100 such that the second vessel 104 is positioned above the first vessel 102 (e.g., inverting the diffuser system 100 relative to the orientation shown in FIG. 1A) will cause the volatile material 106 currently contained within the second vessel 104 to move from the second vessel 104 into the first vessel 102. Likewise,PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) rotating the diffuser system 100 such that the first vessel 102 is positioned above the second vessel 104 (as shown in FIG. 1A) will cause the volatile material 106 within the first vessel 102 to travel downward, into the second vessel 104. In other embodiments, the first support surface 110 and the second support surface 112 are configured such that the volatile material 106 travels at an angle relative to the force of gravity.

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 2, the diffuser system 100 includes a coupling 114 (e.g., a union, a wick housing, a connector, etc.) that is positioned between and fluidly couples the first vessel 102 to the second vessel 104. In some embodiments, the coupling 114 physically or mechanically couples the first vessel 102 to the second vessel 104 in addition to fluidly coupling the vessels 102, 104. In some embodiments, the coupling 114 is removably coupled (e.g, coupled via a threaded joint) to the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 so that the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 can be decoupled to add or remove the volatile material 106 or a component of the diffuser system 100. In some examples, the first vessel 102 and / or the second vessel 104 are refills that are prefilled with the volatile material 106. In this way, the diffuser system 100 can be easily refilled by replacing just one of the two vessels 102, 104 and attaching it to the coupling 114.

[0041] The diffuser system 100 includes a flow limiter 116 (e.g, a baffle, an inner wick, an absorbent ring, etc.) disposed within the coupling 114. The flow limiter 116 reduces or otherwise restricts a flow rate of the volatile material 106 as the volatile material 106 moves between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. While a portion of the volatile material 106 passes through the coupling 114 between the vessels 102, 104, the flow limiter 116 absorbs or otherwise diverts at least a portion of the volatile material 106 when the volatile material 106 moves between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. A diffuser 118 (e.g., an evaporator, an outer wick) is fluidly coupled to the flow limiter 116 via one or more pores 120 (e.g., fluid channels, outlets, openings, etc.) disposed on the coupling 114, and is configured to release volatile material 106 captured by the flow limiter 116 to the external environment. In operation, a portion of the volatile material 106 that flows from the first vessel 102 and / or the second vessel 104 is absorbed by the flow limiter 116 and flows outward from the flow limiter 116, through the pores 120, and to the diffuser 118 to be evaporated to the external environment. In some embodiments, the diffuser 118 is coupled to an exterior surface 122 (e.g., an outside surface) of the coupling 114 via a friction or interference fit. In some embodiments, the diffuser 118 at least partially covers the pores 120. In some embodiments, the pores 120 are cylindrical holes (e.g., cylindrical channels) that extend entirely through a section of the wall of the coupling 114. In other embodiments, the pores 120 have a differentPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) shape (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, etc.) that still allows the volatile material 106 to flow outwardly from the flow limiter 116, through the coupling 114, to the diffuser 118.

[0042] A screen 124 (e.g., a mesh or a barrier) at least partially surrounds the diffuser 118 to prevent accidental contact by a user with the diffuser 118 and the volatile material 106 wetting the surface of the diffuser 118. The screen 124 includes vents 126 (e.g., openings or holes) to allow the evaporated volatile material 106 to exit the diffuser system 100. For clarity, not all vents 126 are labelled. In some examples, the screen 124, the first vessel 102, and the second vessel 104 are configured to nest together so that the diffuser 118 is completely enclosed by the screen 124, the first vessel 102, and the second vessel 104 when the first vessel 102 is coupled to the second vessel 104 via the coupling 114.

[0043] Referring now to FIG. 4, the flow limiter 116, the coupling 114, the diffuser 118, and the screen 124 have generally cylindrical shapes. In other embodiments, the flow limiter 116, the coupling 114, the diffuser 118, and the screen 124 have different shapes (e.g., a square shape or an elliptical shape) that couple or align together to form a continuous fluid flow path from the flow limiter 116, through the coupling 114, and to the diffuser 118. As shown in FIG.5, the common cylindrical shape allows the flow limiter 116 to couple to an interior surface 128 (e.g., an inside surface) of the coupling 114. Similarly, the cylindrical shape of the diffuser 118 allows the diffuser 118 to couple to the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 114. In some embodiments, the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 are disposed vertically along the central axis 108 (e.g., a shared axis) to align with the pores 120. In some embodiments, the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 114 has a cylindrical shape and the diffuser 118 has a cylindrical shape, the diffuser 118 sharing the central axis 108 with the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 114. In some embodiments the diffuser 118 is disposed proximate the flow limiter 116. In some embodiments, the flow limiter 116 has a cylindrical shape having a diameter larger than a height.

[0044] Still referring to FIG. 5, the volatile material 106 flows between a first inner cavity 130 (e.g., a first chamber or a first interior cavity) of the first vessel 102 and a second inner cavity 132 (e.g., a second chamber or a second interior cavity) of the second vessel 104. The first inner cavity 130 is disposed in the diffuser system 100 opposite the second inner cavity 132. In other words, the first inner cavity 130 is disposed closer to a first side 133 of the flow limiter 116 than the second inner cavity 132 is disposed to the first side 133 of the flow limiter 116. The flow limiter 116 includes a hole 134 (e.g., a fluid passage, a fluid flow path, a channel, etc.) that allows the volatile material 106 to flow between the first inner cavity 130 and the second inner cavity 132 (e.g., when the user reorients the diffuser system 100). The hole 134PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) creates a first, or primary fluid flow path 136 (e.g., a first fluid channel) as the volatile material 106 is exchanged or transferred between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. In some embodiments, the hole 134 is a cylindrical hole that extends between the first side 133 of the flow limiter 116 and a second side 135 of the flow limiter 116. In other embodiments, the hole 134 has a different shape that allows the volatile material 106 to flow between the first side 133 of the flow limiter 116 and the second side 135 of the flow limiter 116.

[0045] The flow limiter 116 comprises a porous material (e.g, a fluid permeable material), such as a porous plastic material, a plant or cellulosic material, or a natural fiber material, that absorbs or otherwise saturates with the volatile material 106 when the volatile material 106 moves from the first vessel 102 to the second vessel 104. The volatile material 106 flows (e.g, moves via capillary action) through the flow limiter 116 toward one or more of the pores 120. The internal structure of the flow limiter 116 creates a secondary fluid flow path 138 from the first vessel 102 or the second vessel 104, through the flow limiter 116, and to at least one of the pores 120. Similarly, the diffuser 118 comprises a porous material, such as a porous plastic material, a plant or cellulosic material, or a natural fiber material, that absorbs or otherwise saturates with the volatile material 106 received from the flow limiter 116 via the pores 120. Accordingly, the diffuser system 100 includes a third, or tertiary fluid flow path 140 from the flow limiter 116, through at least one of the pores 120, and to the diffuser 118. In some embodiments, the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 comprise the same material. In other embodiments, the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 comprise different materials.

[0046] The diffuser system 100 includes a fourth fluid flow path 142 from the diffuser 118 into an ambient atmosphere surrounding the diffuser system 100. While a single first fluid flow path 136, a single second fluid flow path 138, a single third fluid flow path 140, and a single fourth fluid flow path 142 are labeled in FIG. 5, it is understood that porous materials include many individual fluid flow paths and each pore 120 defines a respective fluid flow path. As such, the first fluid flow path 136, the second fluid flow path 138, the third fluid flow path 140, and the fourth fluid flow path 142 are understood to represent example fluid flow paths. In other words, the first fluid flow path 136 represents any fluid flow path between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104; the second fluid flow path 138 represents any fluid flow path between an exterior surface of the flow limiter 116 to any pore 120 of the coupling 114; the third fluid flow path 140 represents any fluid flow path from the interior surface 128 to the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 114; and the fourth fluid flow path 142 represents any fluid flow path from the diffuser 118 to the ambient atmosphere.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0047] The volatile material 106 travels through the second fluid flow path 138 and the third fluid flow path 140 to wet the surface of the diffuser 118. Once wetted, the diffuser 118 releases the volatile material 106 to an ambient atmosphere as the volatile material 106 evaporates. The volatile material 106 continues to evaporate as volatile material 106 is wicked outwardly toward the diffuser 118 until the diffuser 118 dries out or otherwise stops transporting liquid to the external surfaces of the diffuser 118 (e.g., the capillary action or wi eking ceases). In this way, at least some of the portion of the volatile material 106 that is diverted (e.g., absorbed) by the flow limiter 116 is released into the ambient atmosphere, while the remaining volatile material 106 is stored in the diffuser system 100 within the first inner cavity 130 and / or the second inner cavity 132. Thus, the volatile material 106 is released from the diffuser system 100 when the user flips the diffuser system 100 and remains in the diffuser system 100 if no user input is received. Therefore, the user controls at what times the volatile material 106 is released from the diffuser system 100.

[0048] The first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 comprise a fluid impermeable material (e.g., a nonporous material) such as plastic or glass. In some embodiments, the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 comprise a translucent material or a transparent material that shows the volatile material 106 contained within. In this way, the exchange of the volatile material 106 between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104 can be observed in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The coupling 114 comprises a fluid impermeable material (e.g., a nonporous material) such as plastic. In this way, the diffuser system 100 is configured so that the volatile material 106 is released only through the pores 120 of the coupling 114 and the diffuser 118. In some embodiments, the diffuser system 100 includes O-rings, gaskets, or other seals to reduce or prevent unwanted release of the volatile material 106 from between the coupling 114 and the vessels 102, 104. In some embodiments, the coupling 114 and the flow limiter 116 are a single component with the coupling 114 portion of the single component having been modified or otherwise sealed after manufacture to prevent the volatile material 106 from exiting the single component except through the pores 120. In some embodiments, the coupling 114 and the diffuser 118 are a single component with the coupling 114 portion of the single component having been modified or otherwise sealed after manufacture to prevent the volatile material 106 from entering the single component except through the pores 120.

[0049] The first vessel 102, the second vessel 104, and the coupling 114 are impermeable to the volatile material 106. As such, an amount of the volatile material 106 that is released into the ambient atmosphere is based, in part, on an amount of the volatile material 106 (e.g., a size of the portion of the volatile material 106) that is diverted or otherwise absorbed by thePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) flow limiter 116. Similarly, a diffusion rate (e.g., an intensity) of the volatile material 106 is based, in part, on a flow rate of the volatile material 106 from the flow limiter 116 to the diffuser 118. Therefore, the amount of the volatile material 106 and the intensity of the volatile material 106 that is released when the user reorients the diffuser system 100 is based on the configuration of the first fluid flow path 136, the second fluid flow path 138, the third fluid flow path 140, and the fourth fluid flow path 142.

[0050] The first fluid flow path 136 and the second fluid flow path 138 determine the amount of volatile material 106 that is absorbed in the flow limiter 116. For example, a time that the flow limiter 116 absorbs the volatile material 106 is based on, in part, a size of the hole (or holes) 134 and a resulting first flowrate of the volatile material 106 through the first fluid flow path 136 (e.g., a flowrate between the first inner cavity 130 and the second inner cavity 132). The volatile material 106 flows through the second fluid flow path 138 at a second flowrate (e.g., a flowrate of the volatile material 106 into the flow limiter 116). Thus, the volatile material 106 is absorbed by the flow limiter 116 for the time determined by the first fluid flow path 136 at the second flowrate determined by the second fluid flow path 138. If the size of the hole or holes 134 is reduced, flow is restricted, and the first flowrate of the volatile material 106 through the first fluid flow path 136 is likewise reduced. The reduced first flowrate results in more absorbing time, and the amount of the volatile material 106 absorbed by the flow limiter 116 through the second fluid flow path 138 is increased. Similarly, the second flow rate of the volatile material 106 through the second fluid flow path 138 is based, in part, upon a surface area and a porosity of the flow limiter 116. If the total surface area of the flow limiter 116 is increased, the second flowrate of the volatile material 106 through the second fluid flow path 138 is increased, and the total amount of the volatile material 106 absorbed by the flow limiter 116 is increased. In some embodiments, the hole or holes 134 are symmetrically arranged about or co-axial with the central axis 108. In other embodiments, the hole or holes 134 are asymmetrically arranged or positioned off-center relative to the central axis 108. In this way, the first flow rate of the volatile material 106 through the first fluid flow path 136 and the second flow rate of the volatile material 106 through the second fluid flow path 138 are altered by the asymmetry of the hole or holes 134. For example, a larger single hole 134 positioned off-center from the central axis 108 can have similar first and second flow rates when compared to a smaller single hole 134 that is coaxial with the central axis 108, while reducing a total amount of material comprising the flow limiter 116.

[0051] The third fluid flow path 140 and the fourth fluid flow path 142 determine the diffusion rate of the volatile material 106. A flow rate of the volatile material 106 from thePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) flow limiter 116 to the diffuser 118 is determined in part by the third fluid flow path 140. For example, the flow rate of the volatile material 106 between the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 is based on a diameter of the pores 120, a length of the pores 120, and a number of the pores 120. In other words, the flow rate of the volatile material 106 between the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 is based on a total cross-sectional area or volume of pores 120. If a diameter of the pores 120 increases, the flow rate of the volatile material 106 between the flow limiter 116 and the diffuser 118 also increases. Similarly, an evaporation rate of the volatile material 106 is determined by the fourth fluid flow path 142. For example, the evaporation rate of the volatile material 106 is based on a surface area of the diffuser 118. If the surface area of the diffuser 118 increases, the evaporation rate of the volatile material 106 from the diffuser 118 also increases. The foregoing fluid flow paths are examples of design parameters that can be adjusted to configure the diffuser system 100 for a desired diffusion time and a desired intensity of the volatile material 106. For example, if the pores 120 are very small, the diffuser 118 may not benefit from additional surface area as the volatile material 106 flows to the diffuser 118 too slowly to fully wet a larger diffuser 118.

[0052] To determine the effect of various configurations of the diffuser system 100 on performance, multifactor experiments were conducted with several embodiments of the diffuser system 100. Specifically, combinations of different factors were tested to determine the effect on performance indicators such as perceived intensity, flow time of the volatile material 106 between the first inner cavity 130 and the second inner cavity 132 after flipping, and the weight loss of the volatile material 106 after flipping, Factors identified for a first experiment are represented in Table 1 below.Table 1

[0053] Referring to Table 1 above, the first multifactor experiment explores the diameter DI of the hole (e.g., the hole 134) of the flow limiter (e.g., the flow limiter 116), the number of holes in the flow limiter 116, the diameter D2 of the pores (e.g., the pores 120) on the coupling (e.g., the coupling 114), and the number of pores on the coupling. In some embodiments, various features have alternative geometries that are not circular or otherwisePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) radially symmetric, and it is understood that the term “diameter” also refers to a minimum width of a feature when measured perpendicularly to a central axis of the feature (e.g., the central axis 108). Each factor is assigned three levels corresponding to increasing size or number of the factors.

[0054] The factors of Table 1 correspond to fluid flow paths of embodiments of the diffuser system 100. The hole diameter DI and the number of holes correspond to an embodiment of the first fluid flow path 136. The pore diameter D2 and the number of pores correspond to an embodiment of the third fluid flow path 140. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates the factors associated with the diffuser system 100. The diffuser system 100 includes one hole 134 with a diameter DI of 6.4 millimeters (mm) that is co-axial with the central axis 108 and six pores 120 with diameters D2 of 0.8 mm that are equally spaced about the coupling 114. In other words, the diffuser system 100 corresponds to a pore diameter of level 1, a number of pores of level 3, a hole diameter of level 3, and a number of holes of level 1. FIG. 8 illustrates a diffuser system 200 with an alternate fluid path configuration. In this example, the diffuser system 200 includes a flow limiter 202 with two holes 204 with diameters DI of 4.8 mm arranged symmetrically about the central axis 108 and a coupling 206 including four pores 208 with diameters D2 of 2.4 mm. In other words, the diffuser system 200 corresponds to a pore diameter of level 2, a number of pores of level 2, a hole diameter of level 2, and a number of holes of level 2. FIG. 9 illustrates a diffuser system 300 with another alternate fluid path configuration. In this example, the diffuser system 300 includes a flow limiter 302 with three holes 304 with diameters DI of 3.2 mm arranged symmetrically about the central axis 108 and a coupling 306 including two pores 308 with diameters D2 of 2.4 mm. In other words, the diffuser system 300 corresponds to a pore diameter of level 3, a number of pores of level 1, a hole diameter of level 1, and a number of holes of level 3. The diffuser systems 100, 200, 300 illustrate example embodiments of fluid flow paths. However, the position, the diameter, and the number of the holes and pores can be configured differently to balance the effects of each design factor. For the first multifactor test, a subset of potential factor level configurations was selected as described in Table 2 below.Table 2PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0055] Prototype diffuser systems were constructed to reflect each experiment configuration of Table 2. A volume of scented volatile material was placed in the diffuser systems, the diffuser systems were flipped, and test subjects rated each diffuser system for subjective intensity of between one (low intensity) and ten (high intensity). Additionally, the diffuser systems were qualitatively reviewed for aesthetic considerations of the flow of the volatile material as the flow was visible through the vessels of the diffuser systems. FIG. 10 is a chart showing mean intensities across factor levels for each design factor. The mean intensity serves as a measure of the main effect of each design factor level on the diffusion performance of the diffuser system. FIG. 11 is a chart showing signal -to-noise ratios (S / N) across factor levels for each design factor. The signal -to-noise ratio serves as a measure of how strongly the design factor contributes to the perceived intensity of the volatile material diffusion. In other words, a high S / N suggests that the design factor level contributes more directly to the perceived intensity, whereas a low S / N suggests that the design factor level is strongly influenced by other design factors. Thus, design factors with high mean intensity effects and high S / N effects are more likely to produce increased performance of the diffuser system.

[0056] The first multifactor experiment summarized by FIGS. 10 and 11 provides insight on configurations of the diffuser systems and, more specifically, configurations of the fluid flow paths of the diffuser systems. The number of pores and pore diameters in the coupling are proportional to the intensity of the volatile material experienced by a user. In other words, more pores with larger diameters results in increased intensity and more desirable liquid flow. The number of holes and the hole diameters appear to have a non-linear relationship to intensity. In other words, small holes, a single hole, large holes, or multiple holes (factor levels 1 and 3 for hole diameter and number of holes) lead to increased intensity. However, thePATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) change in intensity is relatively small between the factor levels 1 and 3 of hole diameter and number of holes. Additionally, at factor level 2 values, the hole diameter and the hole number show low S / N. Taken together, the multifactor experiment suggests that the hole size and hole number do not contribute to the perceived intensity of the diffuser system as much as the number of pores and pore diameters.

[0057] Based on the results of the multifactor experiment, an example preferred aspect of the fluid flow paths 138, 140 of the diffuser system 100 includes one hole 134 in the flow limiter 116 with a diameter DI of about 4.8 mm that is co-axial with the central axis 108 and six pores 120 in the coupling 114 each having diameters D2 of about 4.0 mm. While FIG. 10 shows the hole diameter DI of 4.8 mm has the lowest mean intensity, qualitative observations show that the hole diameter DI of 4.8 mm demonstrates improved flow aesthetics and decreased chance of fluid leakage. Therefore, a hole diameter DI of about 4.8 mm is preferred despite lower corresponding intensities. However, in other embodiments of the fluid flow paths 138, 140 of the diffuser system 100, hole diameters DI are between about 3.2 mm and about 6.4 mm to meet different aesthetic and intensity targets. In some embodiments of the fluid flow paths 138, 140, a larger number of pores 120, such as eight pores 120 or ten pores 120, are used to further increase the intensity of the volatile material diffused into the ambient atmosphere. Similarly, in some embodiments of the fluid flow paths 138, 140, larger pore diameters D2, such as about 4.8 mm, are used to increase the intensity of the volatile material diffused into the ambient atmosphere. In some embodiments, the pore diameter D2 is between about 0.8 mm and about 4.8 mm, or between about 1.0 mm and about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the diffuser system includes a ratio of the number of pores 120 to the number of holes 134 of 6:1, with each pore 120 having a diameter D2 of between about the diameter DI of the hole(s) 134 and about half the diameter DI of the hole(s) 134. In some embodiments, the diffuser system includes a ratio of the number of pores 120 to the number of holes 134 of between 2: 1 and 10:1. In some embodiments, a ratio of pore diameter D2 to hole diameter DI is between about 1:1 and about 1:8. In some embodiments, a total cross-sectional area of the pores 120 (e.g., a total area defined by the diameter D2 of the pores 120 and the number of pores 120) is between about 1.0 square millimeters (mm2) and about 180 mm2. In some embodiments, a ratio of total cross-sectional area of the pores 120 to an internal surface area of the diffuser 118 e.g., the portion of the diffuser 118 that contacts the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 114) is between about 1:12 and about 1 :2200.

[0058] Additional multifactor tests were performed to further explore additional factors. Like the first multifactor test described above, these tests were performed using combinationsPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) of factors and factor levels. Additional factors and levels were considered, including a flow limiter outer diameter D3, a diffuser outer diameter D4, a coupling thickness Tl, a diffuser density, and a flow limiter density. The factors tested are summarized below in Table 3.Table 3

[0059] In each of the following multifactor experiments, diffuser systems were configured with one hole 134 and six pores 120, consistent with the preferred configuration identified in the first multifactor experiment. The diffuser systems were flipped once per day, and the total time required for the volatile material 106 to travel from the upper vessel to the lower vessel was recorded as a flow time (e.g., a flip time). The total mass of the diffuser systems was recorded before testing began and before each subsequent flip. The weight loss for each flip represents the difference between the weight before the flip and the weight before the subsequent flip, which corresponds to the amount of volatile material 106 that has exited the diffuser system between flips. The tests were performed in an indoor environment.

[0060] FIG. 12 illustrates a diffuser system 400 with an example fluid path configuration to illustrate the factors of Table 3. In this example, the diffuser system 400 is similar in many ways to the diffuser system 100 of FIG. 7. The diffuser system 400 differs dimensionally from the diffuser system 100 by including a flow limiter 402 having an outer diameter D3, a diffuser 404 having an outer diameter D4 and an inner diameter D5, and a coupling 406 having aPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) thickness Tl. The flow limiter 402, the coupling 406, and the diffuser 404 are coupled concentrically about the central axis 108. As such, the outer diameter D3 of the flow limiter 402 is approximately equal to an inner diameter of the coupling 406. Likewise, the inner diameter D5 of the diffuser 404 is approximately equal to an outer diameter of the coupling 406. Therefore, the thickness Tl of the coupling 406 is approximately equal to the difference between the inner diameter D5 of the diffuser 404 and the outer diameter D3 of the flow limiter 402.

[0061] The outer diameter D3 of the flow limiter 402 relates to a surface area of the flow limiter 402 and partially defines the second fluid flow path 138, as shown in FIG. 5. In this way, increasing or decreasing the outer diameter D3 of the flow limiter 402 can change an amount of volatile material 106 that enters the flow limiter 402 as well as a flow time of the diffuser system 400. The flow time represents a duration of time after flipping the diffuser system 400 during which the volatile material 106 travels through the first fluid flow path 136 between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. In some embodiments, the outer diameter D3 of the flow limiter 402 is about 13 mm, about 17 mm, or between about 13 mm and about 17 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of the diffuser outer diameter D4 to the flow limiter outer diameter D3 is between about 2: 1 and about 3:1, between about 2: 1 and about 4:1, or at least about 3:1. In some embodiments, a ratio of the hole diameter DI to the flow limiter outer diameter D3 is between about 1 :2 and about 1:5, between about 1 :3 and about 1 :4, or less than about 1 :4

[0062] The outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404 relates to a surface area of the diffuser 404 and partially defines the fourth fluid flow path 142, as shown in FIG. 5. In this way, increasing or decreasing the outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404 can change a diffusion rate or rate of the volatile material 106 leaving the diffuser 404 via the fourth fluid flow path 142. The diffusion rate of the diffuser 404 can additionally affect the flow rate of volatile material 106 through the second fluid flow path 138 and the third fluid flow path 140 as evaporation of the volatile material 106 may affect the wi eking properties of the diffuser 404 and induce fluid pressure variation along the second fluid flow path 138, the third fluid flow path 140, and the fourth fluid flow path 142. In some embodiments, the outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404 is at least about 35 mm, at least about 50 mm, or between about 35 mm and about 50 mm.

[0063] The thickness Tl of the coupling 406 relates to a length and volume of the pores 120 and partially defines the third fluid flow path 140, as shown in FIG. 5. The thickness Tl describes a minimum distance between the interior surface 128 and the exterior surface 122 of the coupling 406. In this way, increasing or decreasing the thickness Tl of the coupling 406PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) can change a flow rate of volatile material 106 through the coupling 406. When the thickness T1 of the coupling 114 is larger, the volatile material 106 must travel farther between the flow limiter 402 and the diffuser 404. Additionally, the pores 120 of the coupling 406 may retain air or otherwise cause air pockets to form within the third fluid flow path 140 based on the overall size of the pores 120. In some embodiments, the thickness T1 of the coupling 406 is about 2.0 mm, about 6.0 mm, between about 1.0 mm and about 8.0 mm, between about 4 mm and about 12 mm, or less than 6.0 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of coupling thickness T1 to pore diameter D2 is between about 2:5 and about 8:1, or between about 1:1 and about 6:1.

[0064] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate results of a second multifactor experiment exploring the effects of the pore diameter D2, the hole diameter DI, and the outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404 on flow time and weight loss. The factors tested are summarized below in Table 4.Table 4

[0065] FIG. 13 is a graph depicting flow time over device life of the second multifactor experiment, showing the relationship between the number of flips on the horizontal axis andPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) the flow time in minutes on the vertical axis for the twelve configurations of Table 4. FIG. 14 is a graph depicting weight loss versus number of flips of the second multifactor experiment, showing the relationship between the number of flips on the horizontal axis and the cumulative weight loss in grams on the vertical axis for the twelve configurations of Table 4. The lines in FIGS. 13 and 14 correspond to the same configurations, allowing correlation between flow time behavior and volatile material release rates across the experiment.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 13, the second multifactor experiment demonstrates that a smaller hole diameter DI results in a longer flow time, indicating that the volatile material 106 moves more slowly between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. For example, configurations 1-3 and 7-9, having a hole diameter DI of 4.8 mm, exhibited longer flow times than configurations 4-6 and 10-12, having a hole diameter DI of 6.4 mm. While the hole diameter DI appears to have a controlling effect on flow time, some differentiation can be seen based on the outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404. Configurations 1-3 and 7-9 have hole diameters DI of 4.8 mm but differ in the outer diameter D4 of the diffusers 404. Configurations 1-3 have diffuser outer diameters D4 of 35 mm and show longer flow times than configurations 7-9 that have diffuser outer diameters D4 of 50 mm. This suggests that the outer diameter D4 of the diffuser 404 contributes to the flow time of the diffuser systems. No strong pattern was observed between pore diameter D2 and flow time. Across all configurations, flow time decreases as more flips are performed and a smaller volume of volatile material 106 travels between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 14, the second multifactor experiment demonstrates that a larger diffuser outer diameter D4 results in a larger weight loss of the volatile material 106 after flipping the diffuser system 400. A larger weight loss is expected as the release rate of volatile material 106 is a function of the surface area of the diffuser 404. For example, configurations 7-12, having a diffuser outer diameter D4 of 50.0 mm, exhibited greater cumulative weight loss than configurations 1-6, having a diffuser outer diameter D4 of 35.0 mm. No strong pattern was observed between pore diameter D2 and weight loss. Unexpectedly, no strong pattern was observed between flow time and weight loss. It was predicted that a larger flow time would allow more of the volatile material 106 to enter the flow limiter 402 and to enter the diffuser 404. However, the data of the second multifactor experiment suggests that weight loss and flow time may be affected by vapor pressure effects that limit the rate of weight loss.

[0068] The second multifactor experiment also revealed that diffusers 404 with a smaller diffuser outer diameter D4 may oversaturate later in device life. Oversaturation presents asPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) liquid volatile material 106 seeping beyond an outer surface of the diffuser 404 and occasionally forming droplets that can fall from the diffuser system 400. However, visual observation indicated that smaller pore diameters D2 may result in less saturation of the diffuser 404, which may provide improved resistance to dripping or spilling.

[0069] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate results of a third multifactor experiment exploring the effects of coupling thickness T1 on flow time and weight loss. In the third multifactor experiment, each configuration includes hole diameters DI of 4.8 mm, pore diameters D2 of 1.0 mm, and diffuser outer diameters D4 of 50.0 mm. The factors tested are summarized below in Table 5.Table 5

[0070] FIG. 15 is a graph depicting flow time over device life, showing the relationship between the number of flips on the horizontal axis and the flow time in minutes on the vertical axis for the four configurations of Table 5. FIG. 16 is a graph depicting weight loss versus number of flips, showing the relationship between the number of flips on the horizontal axis and the cumulative weight loss in grams on the vertical axis for the four configurations of Table 5. The lines in FIGS. 15 and 16 correspond to the same configurations, allowing correlation between flow time behavior and volatile material release rates across the experiment.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 15, the third multifactor experiment demonstrates that a larger thickness T1 results in a longer flow time, indicating that the volatile material 106 moves more slowly between the first vessel 102 and the second vessel 104. For example, configurations 3 and 4, having a coupling thickness T1 of 6.0 mm, exhibited longer flow times than configurations 1 and 2, having a coupling thickness T1 of 2.0 mm. A larger thickness T1 of the coupling 406 increases a distance that the volatile material 106 must travel through the pores 120. The larger thickness T1 of the coupling 406 also results in a larger inner diameterPATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) D5 of the diffuser 404 and therefore a smaller total surface area of the diffuser 404. As discussed above in relation to FIG. 13, the smaller total surface area of the diffuser 404 may additionally raise the flow time for configurations 3 and 4.

[0072] Referring now to FIG. 16, the third multifactor experiment demonstrates that a smaller coupling thickness Tl, such as the 2.0 mm coupling thickness T1 of configurations 1 and 2, results in a larger weight loss of the volatile material 106 after flipping the diffuser system 400. It is contemplated that a larger thickness Tl and correspondingly larger pores 120 may contribute to a vapor lock mechanism, wherein air, air pockets, or vapor from the volatile material 106 form within the coupling 406 and impede the flow of liquid volatile material 106. In other words, longer pores 120 associated with a thicker coupling 406 may require more time for air to travel through the pores 120 and the diffuser 404, resulting in a lower total weight loss after flipping the diffuser system 400.

[0073] FIG. 17 illustrates results of a fourth multifactor experiment exploring the effects of flow limiter density and diffuser density on weight loss. In the fourth multifactor experiment, each configuration includes hole diameters DI of 4.8 mm, pore diameters D2 of 1.7 mm, flow limiter outer diameters D3 of 17.0 mm, and diffuser inner diameters D5 of 25.0 mm. The factors tested are summarized below in Table 6.Table 6PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0074] FIG. 17 is a graph depicting weight loss versus number of flips, showing the relationship between the number of flips on the horizontal axis and the cumulative weight loss in grams on the vertical axis for the 9 configurations of Table 6.

[0075] The fourth multifactor experiment tested flow limiter densities and diffuser densities of 100 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm3), 150 g / cm3, and 200 g / cm3. The density of the flow limiter 402 and the diffuser 404 is a measure of porosity of the wicking material thereof. Thus, a less dense flow limiter 402 has more voids or porosity to accept volatile material 106. The fourth multifactor experiment demonstrates that a denser diffuser 404 results in faster release rates of the volatile material 106. The largest weight losses were seen in configurations 2, 5, 7, and 9, which had diffuser densities of 200 g / cm3. The highest weight loss was observed in configuration 9, with a flow limiter 402 having the least dense material of 100 g / cm3combined with a diffuser 404 of the highest density material of 200 g / cm3. The lowest release rate was observed with a flow limiter 402 having the most dense material of 200 g / cm3combined with a diffuser 404 having a low density material of 100 g / cm3.

[0076] Configurations 1, 3, and 4, which had flow limiters 402 and diffusers 404 of matching densities, show more moderate weight loss when compared to configurations without matching densities. Additionally, low density (100 g / cm3) flow limiters 402 were also shown to increase weight loss when combined with denser diffusers 404. The effect of a low density (100 g / cm3) flow limiter 402 combined with a high density (200 g / cm3) diffuser 404 was strong enough to overcome the weight loss lowering effect of a smaller outer diameter D4 of the diffuser. For example, configuration 7, with a diffuser outer diameter D4 of 35 mm, outperformed configurations 3, 5, and 8, with diffuser outer diameters D4 of 50 mm, in total weight loss.

[0077] In some embodiments, the diffuser 404 has a density of between about 50 g / cm3and about 250 g / cm3, between about 100 g / cm3and about 250 g / cm3, or at least about 200 g / cm3. In some embodiments, the flow limiter 402 has a density of between about 50 g / cm3and about 250 g / cm3, between about 50 g / cm3and about 150 g / cm3, or less than about 100 g / cm3. In some embodiments, the density of the flow limiter 402 is the same as the density of the diffuser 404. In other embodiments, the density of the flow limiter 402 is different than the density of the diffuser 404. In some embodiments, a ratio of a density of the porous diffuser to a density of the porous flow limiter is at least about 1:2, at least about 1.1:1, at least about 2: 1, or at least about 3:1.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0078] It is beneficial to maximize the amount of volatile material 106 diffused after each flip of the diffuser system 400 to allow the volatile material 106 to disperse quickly through a large room while still providing a pleasant scent experience in the room. Based on the results of the multifactor experiments described above, an example configuration of the diffuser system 400 that maximizes the amount of volatile material 106 diffused after flipping includes: one hole 134 with a hole diameter DI of about 4.8 mm to increase flow time; six pores 120 with pore diameters D2 of about 1.0 mm to reduce over saturation; a diffuser outer diameter D4 of about 50.0 mm; a coupling thickness T1 of about 2.0 mm; a flow limiter density of about 100 g / cm3; and a diffuser density of about 200 g / cm3. In some embodiments, a configuration of the diffuser system 400 that maximizes the amount of volatile material 106 diffused after flipping includes: a hole diameter DI of between about 4.8 mm and about 6.4 mm, a pore diameter D2 of between about 1.0 mm and about 1.7 mm, a diffuser outer diameter D4 of at least about 50 mm, a coupling thickness T1 of less than about 6.0 mm, a flow limiter density of less than about 150 g / cm3, and a diffuser density of at least 150 g / cm3.

[0079] FIGS. 18A-18G illustrate example embodiments of a diffuser system 500 with vessels 502 and a screen 504. The vessels 502A, 502B, 502C, 502D, 502E, 502F, and 502G vary in size and shape to provide different aesthetic qualities. The vessels 502A, 502B, 502C, 502D, 502E, 502F, and 502G are radially symmetric to provide a balanced distribution of weight and stability. The vessels 502A, 502B, and 502C are flared toward the top and bottom of the diffuser systems 500A, 500B, and 500C, which beneficially provide wider support surfaces. The screens 504A, 504B, and 504F include a plurality of shaped openings (e.g., circular openings, triangular openings, cruciform openings, etc.) to allow the volatile material to enter the ambient atmosphere. The diffuser systems 500A, 500B, 500C, 500D, 500E, 500F, and 500G include similar couplings (e.g., the coupling 114), similar flow limiters (e.g., the flow limiter 116), and similar diffusers (e.g., the diffuser 118) and provide similar intensities of volatile material when reoriented despite differences in the vessels 502 and the screens 504. In this way, the vessels 502 and the screen 504 can have different sizes and different shapes without affecting the diffusion performance of the diffuser system 500.

[0080] Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present disclosure. It is understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text and / or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present disclosure. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)

[0081] As noted previously, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein.

[0082] Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with different embodiments.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0083] The aspects of the diffuser system described herein advantageously provide a passive release of a volatile material at a desired time of use and a desired intensity. Additionally, the aspects of the diffuser system provide an aesthetically pleasing and simple to operate device to release a volatile material into a private area such as a room or outdoor patio. Accordingly, the disclosed diffuser system may be used across a broad range of applications.

[0084] Numerous modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The exclusive rights to all modifications which come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) We claim:

1. A passive emanation difluser, comprising:a first chamber configured to house a volatile material;a second chamber configured to house a volatile material;a coupling configured to fluidly couple the first chamber to the second chamber, the second chamber being disposed opposite the first chamber;a porous flow limiter disposed in an inside surface of the coupling, the porous flow limiter configured to receive a portion of the volatile material as the volatile material flows between the first chamber and the second chamber; anda porous diffuser coupled to an outside surface of the coupling,wherein, the coupling includes a fluid channel to fluidly couple the inside surface of the coupling to the outside surface of the coupling,wherein the fluid channel is configured to transfer at least some of the portion of the volatile material from the porous flow limiter to the porous diffuser, andwherein the porous diffuser is configured to evaporate the volatile material.

2. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein the fluid channel is a plurality of fluid channels.

3. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 2, wherein the plurality of fluid channels includes six fluid channels.

4. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein the fluid channel is a cylindrical channel with a diameter of between about 0.8 millimeters (mm) and about 4.8 mm.

5. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein the porous flow limiter includes a hole configured to increase a flow rate between the first chamber and the second chamber.

6. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 5, wherein the hole is a plurality of holes.

7. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 5, wherein the hole is a cylindrical hole with a diameter of between about 3.2 mm and about 6.4 mm.

8. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 5, wherein a ratio of a diameter of the hole to a diameter of the porous flow limiter is between about 1:2 and about 1:5.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) 9. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a diameter of the porous diffuser to a diameter of the porous flow limiter is at least about 3:1.

10. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein the porous flow limiter comprises a porous plastic material.

11. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 10, wherein the porous flow limiter has a density of between about 50 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm3) and about 150 g / cm3.

12. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein the porous diffuser comprises a porous plastic material.

13. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 12, wherein the porous diffuser has a density of between about 100 g / cm3and about 250 g / cm3.

14. The passive emanation diffuser of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a density of the porous diffuser to a density of the porous flow limiter is at least about 1.1:1.

15. A closed loop passive emanation diffuser, comprising:a first interior cavity fluidly coupled to a second interior cavity via a union, the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity configured to exchange a volatile liquid;a baffle disposed in the union, the baffle including a first fluid flow path between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity;an outlet to fluidly couple an interior surface of the union to a first exterior surface of the union, the outlet fluidly coupled to the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity via a second fluid flow path of the baffle; anda diffuser coupled to the first exterior surface of the union, the diffuser to at least partially cover the outlet, the diffuser to fluidly couple the outlet to a second exterior surface of the diffuser via a third fluid flow path,wherein the baffle is configured to divert at least a portion of the volatile liquid to the second exterior surface of the diffuser via the second fluid flow path, the outlet, and the third fluid flow path when the volatile liquid exchanges between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity.

16. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 15 further including a first vessel defining the first interior cavity and a second vessel defining the second interior cavity, wherein the first vessel and the second vessel are removably coupled to the union.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942) 17. The closed loop passive emanation difluser of claim 16, wherein the first vessel and the second vessel are removably coupled to the union via a threaded joint.

18. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 16, wherein the first vessel includes a first support surface and the second vessel includes a second support surface, wherein the first support surface is substantially parallel to the second support surface, wherein the volatile liquid flows in a substantially vertical direction when the first support surface or the second support surface are substantially parallel to the ground.

19. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 18, wherein the volatile liquid is exchanged between the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity based on a user reorienting the closed loop passive emanation diffuser to be supported by an opposite of the first support surface or the second support surface.

20. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 16 further including a screen surrounding the diffuser, the screen configured to contact the first vessel and the second vessel.

21. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 20, wherein the screen includes a plurality of openings.

22. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 16, wherein the first vessel and the second vessel are substantially radially symmetric about a shared axis.

23. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 15, wherein the baffle has a cylindrical shape, wherein a diameter of the baffle is larger than a height of the baffle.

24. The closed loop passive emanation diffuser of claim 15, wherein the first exterior surface of the union has a cylindrical shape, wherein the diffuser has a cylindrical shape, the diffuser sharing an axis with the first exterior surface of the union.

25. A passive diffuser, comprising:a wick including a passage;a housing at least partially surrounding the wick; anda pore disposed in the housing to fluidly couple the wick to an evaporator,wherein, the wick is configured to transfer a portion of a volatile liquid to the evaporator via the pore when the volatile liquid flows between a first side of the wick and a second side of the wick via the passage.PATENT APPLICATION 7421WO01 (510009.05942)26. The passive diffuser of claim 25 further including a first reservoir coupled to the housing and a second reservoir coupled to the housing, the second reservoir opposite the first reservoir relative to the wick, the first reservoir disposed closer to the first side of the wick than the second reservoir.

27. The passive diffuser of claim 26, wherein the second reservoir is configured to receive the volatile liquid when the volatile liquid flows from the first side of the wick to the second side of the wick, wherein the first reservoir is configured to receive the volatile liquid when the volatile liquid flows from the second side of the wick to the first side of the wick.

28. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the wick comprises a porous material.

29. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the evaporator comprises a porous material.

30. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the wick and the evaporator comprise the same material.

31. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the wick and the evaporator comprise different materials.

32. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the evaporator surrounds the housing proximate the wick.

33. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the passage is a plurality of passages.

34. The passive diffuser of claim 25, wherein the pore is a plurality of pores.

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