Atomization Module Waterproofing via Segmented Piezoelectric Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional atomizers face issues with water vapor seepage, leading to short-circuiting of internal electronic components during washing or sanitization processes, necessitating enhanced waterproofing.

Innovation Solution

The atomization module incorporates a waterproof member that covers the piezoelectric element and utilizes separable first and second waterproof members to cover the atomization structure top and bottom, enhancing waterproof performance and preventing water vapor ingress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the atomizer is designed with open structure for washing and sanitization, then ease of operation is improved, but waterproof performance deteriorates causing short-circuiting of electronic components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of washingVSAvoidwaterproof performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The atomizer is divided into separate waterproof and non-waterproof sections. The electronic components are isolated in a sealed compartment while the atomization chamber remains accessible for washing. This segmentation allows the washing area to be cleaned without exposing the electronic components to water.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A waterproof membrane or coating acts as an intermediary barrier between water and electronic components. This intermediary layer allows the atomizer to be washed while preventing water from reaching and short-circuiting the electronic components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If waterproof coating is applied to protect electronic components, then waterproof performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A thin waterproof coating or membrane is applied to the electronic component housing or specific areas. This thin film provides effective waterproof protection while adding minimal structural complexity and maintaining ease of manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If the atomizer structure is sealed to prevent water ingress, then waterproof performance is improved, but ease of washing deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof performanceVSAvoidease of washing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The atomizer is segmented into a sealed electronic component compartment and an open atomization chamber. This allows the chamber to be easily accessed and washed while the electronic components remain protected in their sealed compartment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design allows water to naturally drain away from electronic components through gravity and surface tension, eliminating the need for complex active waterproofing mechanisms. The structure itself provides the waterproofing function without requiring additional power or complex systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design effectively prevents water vapor from reaching the electronic components, thereby preventing short-circuiting and ensuring the reliability and longevity of the atomizer during use and maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

After a piezoelectric element is electrically conducted, an atomization member inside the atomization assembly can generate vibration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240123462A1Atomization module
Publication Date: 2024.04.18 HCMED INNOVATIONS
  • US20240123462A1 patent drawing
  • US20240123462A1 patent drawing
  • US20240123462A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An atomization module includes a base, an auxiliary fixing member, an atomization member, a piezoelectric element, a conductive member, and a waterproof member. The base includes a support portion and an outer annular portion. The support portion has a first opening, the outer annular portion surrounds the support portion, and the support portion protrudes relative to the outer annular portion. The auxiliary fixing member is disposed on the support portion, and has a second opening. The second opening is opposite to the first opening. The atomization member is disposed between the support portion and the auxiliary fixing member. The piezoelectric element is disposed on the outer annular portion, and the piezoelectric element and the atomization member are disposed on a same side of the base. The conductive member is electrically connected to the piezoelectric element. The waterproof member at least partially covers the piezoelectric element.