Electrothermal Microsystem for Wireless Fragrance Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for releasing fragrances and aromas are limited by high paper costs, inability to combine multiple fragrances, and lack of precise temperature control, leading to distortion of olfactory characteristics, especially in mobile device applications which require physical connections and separate modules.
Innovation Solution
An electrothermal hybrid microsystem integrating a thermal control system, wireless transmitter/receiver, electrical power supply, and fragrance compartments on a low-thickness LTCC multi-layered platform, activated by wireless radio frequency signals, allowing for precise temperature control and versatile integration with portable electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current technologies for releasing fragrances are used, then fragrances can be released, but the olfactory characteristics are distorted due to lack of precise temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by implementing precise temperature control through an electrothermal hybrid microsystem that regulates heating parameters. The system controls the temperature parameter to remain below 40°C, preventing thermal degradation of fragrance molecules and maintaining their original olfactory characteristics while enabling controlled release.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices are used to release fragrances, then portability is achieved, but physical connections and separate modules are required increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate components into a single integrated electrothermal hybrid microsystem. The wireless transmitter, receiver, electrothermal actuator, and fragrance release mechanism are combined into one compact unit, eliminating the need for physical connections and separate modules while maintaining adaptability to portable devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The microsystem achieves universality by incorporating multi-functionality within a single device that can wirelessly communicate, control thermal actuation, and release fragrances. This integrated design allows the same device to perform multiple functions without requiring additional components or connection interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fragrance release methods are used, then fragrances can be dispensed, but paper costs are excessive and multiple fragrances cannot be combined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical paper-based fragrance delivery systems with an electrothermal microsystem. Instead of using paper catalogs with microencapsulated fragrances that require physical handling and distribution, the invention uses electronic wireless control with electrothermal actuators to release fragrances on demand, eliminating paper consumption and enabling flexible fragrance combination.
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
Enables the controlled release of fragrances and aromas without altering their olfactory characteristics, eliminating the need for physical connections and reducing device thickness, thus enhancing versatility and maintaining fragrance integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The microsystem comprises a resistive heating element integrated into the LTCC substrate
Implementation Method 2
causing the controlled release of fragrances and aromas by the action of the heat generated in these resistors
Data Source
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Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present patent belongs to the air deodorizer sector and concerns micro-manufacturing microsystems (10) which integrate multiple functionalities including electrothermal actuators (80) and radio frequency transmitters/receivers (RF), as well as microsystems responsive to wireless radio frequency signals and the micromanufacture of microsystems that control the release of fragrances and/or aromas (F) activated through the precise control of variations in temperature, by activating thermal resistance activated via wireless. The microsystem (10) simultaneously integrates a thermal electronic system (80), a wireless electronic transmitter/receiver system (RF), an electrical power supply system (60) and at least one compartment or well (50) for storage of the fragrance and/or aroma (F), all micro-manufactured on a support (30) of reduced thickness; the electrothermal system (80) comprising a set of conductors (40), interconnected with a set of resistors (R1) printed on the micro-manufactured support within the space or well (50) delimited for the deposition of the fragrance (F); the power supply system (60) being mechanical electrical power generators or light generators or chemical generators; the storage compartment for the fragrance and/or aroma being open or semi-sealed or sealed by membranes (M1); and the fragrances and/or aromas being in free form or associated with other supporting materials such as solvents or waxes or gums or silicas.