Piezoelectric Diffusion Device Droplet Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diffusion devices lack a reliable and energy-efficient method for dispensing droplets of a predictable size for suspension or evaporation in ambient environments, often requiring external power sources or complex mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A diffusion device with a battery-powered piezoelectric element that vibrates a perforated orifice plate to dispense fluid, utilizing a control circuit and LED for efficient operation, capable of continuous use for 10 hours a day for at least 45 days on a single 1.5-volt AA battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If passive diffusion devices are used that require only ambient air flow, then device complexity is reduced, but droplet size predictability and dispersion reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a piezoelectric element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies to atomize liquid active material into droplets of predictable size. This mechanical vibration approach provides reliable and consistent droplet dispersion without requiring complex external power sources or control mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity while achieving high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces passive diffusion mechanisms with an active piezoelectric vibration system. The piezoelectric element converts electrical energy directly into mechanical vibrations that atomize the liquid, substituting unreliable passive diffusion with a controlled mechanical process that ensures predictable droplet size and dispersion reliability.
2Reliability
If heating elements are used to promote vaporization, then active material dispersion is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes thermal energy (heating) with mechanical energy (piezoelectric vibration) to achieve atomization. Instead of heating the liquid to promote vaporization, the ultrasonic vibrations directly break up the liquid into droplets, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable dispersion.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes phase transition from liquid to aerosol droplets through mechanical vibration rather than thermal heating. The piezoelectric element induces rapid phase change by creating sufficient mechanical stress to atomize the liquid, achieving dispersion reliability without the high energy costs of thermal vaporization.
3Manufacturing precision
If ultrasonic transducers are used to break up active material into droplets, then droplet size predictability is improved, but device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential function of ultrasonic atomization without incorporating the complex housing, power supply, and control systems of conventional ultrasonic diffusers. By using a simple piezoelectric element that can be powered by standard AA batteries, the invention achieves droplet size predictability while minimizing device complexity to essential components only.
4Use of energy by moving object
If battery-powered piezoelectric elements are used, then energy efficiency and battery life are improved, but droplet delivery consistency may be affected by battery voltage variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback control system that dynamically adjusts the drive signal to the piezoelectric element based on battery voltage levels. As the battery voltage decreases over time, the control circuit compensates by adjusting the amplitude or frequency of the drive signal, maintaining consistent droplet delivery throughout the battery's operational life despite voltage variations.
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 device achieves reliable and efficient dispensing of droplets of predictable size, offering extended battery life and energy efficiency, suitable for various active materials like insecticides, fragrances, and air purifiers, with controlled release rates and reduced solvent losses.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element energized by a power source for vibrating a perforated orifice plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the wick, wherein the piezoelectric element develops vibratory movement to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the perforated discharge plate and into the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
the fluid reservoir includes a wick for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof
Implementation Method 3
a control circuit and light emitting diode (LED) are disposed in the housing, wherein the control circuit energizes the LED at a particular frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A diffusion device includes a housing having a battery disposed therein and adapted to receive a replaceable fluid reservoir for holding a fluid, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a wick for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. The diffusion device further includes a piezoelectric element energized by a power source for vibrating a perforated orifice plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the wick, wherein the piezoelectric element develops vibratory movement to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the perforated discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control circuit and light emitting diode (“LED”) are disposed in the housing, wherein the control circuit energizes the LED at a particular frequency when the dispenser is active and a voltage developed by the battery is above a threshold voltage.