Electrostatic Spray Nozzle Electrode Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spray apparatuses for cosmetic liquids using electrodynamic sprayers face challenges in reliable operation, particularly due to the distance between the electrical contact element and the nozzle opening, which affects the spraying efficiency and safety.

Innovation Solution

A spray apparatus with a nozzle design featuring an electrode positioned close to the spray opening, within a distance of 0.0 mm to 2.1 mm, and an operating voltage of up to 10 kV, equipped with a safety device to reduce voltage upon detecting excessive current flow, and using elongated electrodes and conductive polymer contact bodies for efficient and safe operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the distance between the electrical contact element and the nozzle opening is increased, then the safety is improved, but the spraying efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidspraying efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the distance between the electrical contact element and the nozzle opening to a specific range (0.5-2.0 mm), transforming the safety-efficiency trade-off into a controlled parameter optimization that achieves both safety and spraying efficiency simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic voltage control where the operating voltage is adjusted based on the detected current flow, enabling the system to adaptively maintain safe operation while preserving spraying efficiency through real-time parameter adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If the operating voltage is increased, then the spraying efficiency is improved, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespraying efficiencyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic voltage control where the operating voltage is adjusted based on detected current flow conditions. The control unit reduces voltage when excessive current is detected and restores it when current returns to normal, enabling efficient operation while preventing energy waste and maintaining spraying performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback control by continuously monitoring the current flow and using this information to adjust the operating voltage through the control unit, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes power consumption while maintaining spraying efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If the distance between the electrical contact element and the nozzle opening is decreased, then the spraying efficiency is improved, but the reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespraying efficiencyVSAvoidsafe operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dynamic voltage adjustment based on real-time current flow detection to maintain safe operation distances. When the electrode is positioned close to the nozzle opening for efficient spraying, the control unit monitors current and reduces voltage if safety thresholds are exceeded, enabling close positioning without compromising safety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback control where the control unit continuously monitors current flow and adjusts the operating voltage accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain reliable operation even when the electrical contact element is positioned close to the nozzle opening for optimal spraying efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution ensures reliable and efficient spraying of cosmetic liquids, with reduced power consumption and enhanced safety features, allowing for uninterrupted operation and precise control of the electrostatic forces.

Implementation Method 1

spray apparatus for spraying a cosmetic liquid by way of electrostatic forces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic forces: Electrostatics

Implementation Method 2

safety device, by which the operating voltage is reduced to a safety voltage when a current flow of greater than 10 microamps is detected

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCurrent flow detection: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20240207873A1Spray apparatus for spraying a cosmetic liquid, method for operating a spray apparatus, nozzle for a spray apparatus and nozzle array for a spray apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.06.27 IONIQ SKINCARE GMBH & CO KG
  • US20240207873A1 patent drawing
  • US20240207873A1 patent drawing
  • US20240207873A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A spray apparatus for spraying a cosmetic liquid by way of electrostatic forces. The spray apparatus includes a fluid supply, at least one feed device, and at least one nozzle comprising a nozzle body, a connection flange, a nozzle channel, a spray opening, and an electrode. The fluid supply is connected to the feed device, the feed device is connected to the nozzle, and the electrode is arranged in the nozzle channel. The electrode is arranged in the nozzle channel such that it has a distance to the spray opening measured along a longitudinal axis of the nozzle channel of at most 2.1 mm and at least 0.0 mm.