U.S. patent application number 11/466965 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-23 for a liquid atomizing nozzle.
This patent application is currently assigned to Advanced Specialized Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bruce Dorendorf.
Application Number | 20070194146 11/466965 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38427195 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070194146 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dorendorf; Bruce |
August 23, 2007 |
A LIQUID ATOMIZING NOZZLE
Abstract
The present invention provides a nozzle capable of multiple
atomizing steps of a liquid. In one configuration the nozzle
provides atomization of a liquid fluid in a first direction and
subsequent post atomization of the same liquid in a second
direction to form a counter-flow nozzle. Accordingly, the liquid
fluid to be dispensed is atomized in at least two separate stages
causing improved atomization and the creation of particulate matter
size of the liquid within a specified droplet spectrum.
Furthermore, the present invention provides these features through
an improved and simplified design providing potential cost savings
to the end user due to the more effective operation of the nozzle
and more efficient dispensing of fluid agents.
Inventors: |
Dorendorf; Bruce;
(Winnebago, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DOBRUSIN & THENNISCH PC
29 W LAWRENCE ST
SUITE 210
PONTIAC
MI
48342
US
|
Assignee: |
Advanced Specialized Technologies,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
38427195 |
Appl. No.: |
11/466965 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60710934 |
Aug 24, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
239/419.3 ;
239/422; 239/423; 239/424; 239/463; 239/487 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F23D 11/103 20130101;
F23G 2209/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
239/419.3 ;
239/487; 239/463; 239/422; 239/423; 239/424 |
International
Class: |
F23D 14/62 20060101
F23D014/62 |
Claims
1. An air liquid atomizing nozzle, the nozzle comprising: a first
member extending along an axis and having a first fluid connector
for receiving a first fluid from a first fluid supply and a second
fluid connector for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid
supply; and a second member attached to the first member, the first
and second members defining: a first fluid flow formed from the
first fluid supply, a second fluid flow formed from the second
fluid supply, a third fluid flow formed from the first fluid
supply, and wherein the second fluid flow path merges with the
first fluid flow to cause atomization of the second fluid and
wherein the second fluid flow merges with the third fluid flow to
cause further atomization of the second fluid.
2. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow and the
third fluid flow rotate in opposite directions.
3. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow is defined
by a first chamber and the third fluid flow is defined by a second
chamber.
4. The nozzle of claim 3, further comprising a wall separating the
first and second chamber, wherein the wall includes grooves formed
therein for directing the first fluid flow or the second fluid flow
within the nozzle.
5. The nozzle of claim 3, further comprising a pre-atomization
chamber for atomizing the second fluid flow.
6. The nozzle of claim 3, further comprising one or more feature
located at the end of the first or second chamber for effecting the
direction of the fluid flow exiting the chamber.
7. The nozzle of claim 6, wherein the second fluid flow rotates in
a direction opposite the first fluid flow.
8. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the first fluid comprises a gas
and the second fluid comprises a liquid.
9. The nozzle of claim 8, wherein first fluid comprises
substantially of air and the second fluid comprises an
insecticide.
10. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein upon exiting the nozzle, a
droplet spectrum is formed.
11. The nozzle of claim 10, wherein the droplet spectrum comprises
droplet between 5-30 microns.
12. The nozzle of claim 10, wherein the droplet spectrum comprises
droplets less than 5 microns.
13. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein a seal is formed between the
first and second member.
14. The nozzle of claim 13, wherein the nozzle is substantially
free of a gasket.
15. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow is formed
by a first set of openings formed through the first member and the
third fluid flow is formed by a second set of openings formed
through the first member.
16. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is configured to
direct the first and second fluid flow at an angle with respect the
nozzle axis.
17. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is a low pressure
nozzle dispensing fluid between 2 to 20 psi.
18. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is a high pressure
nozzle dispensing fluid greater than 100 psi.
19. A low pressure air liquid atomizing nozzle, the nozzle
comprising: a housing member extending along an axis, the member
having a first fluid connector for receiving a first fluid from a
first fluid supply and a second fluid connector for receiving a
second fluid from a second fluid supply, wherein the housing member
defines a first fluid flow formed from the first fluid supply, a
second fluid flow formed from the second fluid supply, and a third
fluid flow formed from the first fluid supply, wherein the second
fluid flow path merges with the first fluid flow to cause
atomization of the second fluid and wherein the second fluid flow
merges with the third fluid flow to cause further atomization of
the second fluid, and wherein the first fluid flow path rotates in
a first direction and the second fluid flow path rotates in a
second direction.
20. The nozzle of claim 19, wherein the first and second fluid flow
paths rotate in opposite directions with respect to the nozzle
axis.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] The present invention claim priority to provisional patent
application 60/710,934, filed on Aug. 24, 2005, the contents of
which are entirely incorporated by reference for all purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to an improved
nozzle for atomization and to dispensing of fluids.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Fluid dispensing systems often utilizes nozzles to control
the dispensing of fluid for a particular use. As the application of
fluid dispensing devices has increased, so has that of available
nozzles for controlling the pattern size and amount of fluids being
dispensed. Accordingly, the fluid dispensing industry has developed
nozzles for use with different applications. These nozzles include
high pressure and low pressure nozzles. These nozzles also include
high volume and low volume nozzle. However, certain nozzles have
been designed to function properly under high or low pressure
and/or high or low volume range.
[0004] In addition to being designed based upon the volume and
pressure of fluids to be dispensed, nozzles may also be configured
to control the droplet size or the droplet spectrum of fluid. In
doing so, a designer may control not only the size of droplets
being dispensed, but also the amount of liquid volume being
dispensed from the nozzle. Furthermore, a designer can create a
droplet spectrum to be dispensed (e.g., the percentage of droplets
within a particular droplet size). The creation and modification of
droplet size is commonly referred to as liquid atomization or under
certain circumstances nebulization. The control of droplet size is
particularly advantageous when dispensing fluids over a specific
area and/or where a specific droplet size is required or
preferred.
[0005] Applications of dispensed atomized fluids may include:
insect control/eradication, pesticide applications, medicinal or
medical product spraying applications, including spraying
antibiotics among livestock, chickens, pigs, etc. and antidotes for
potential terrorist activities, herbicide applications, insecticide
applications, paint applications, pipe coating, misting
applications, cooling applications, water applications, fertilizer
applications, horticultural applications, solid-stream
applications, and application of cleaning/stripping/degreasing
solutions for household and industrial uses. Still other examples
include pollution control, waste water treatment, humidification,
food reprocessing odor control, environmental scenarios, any
structures that requires coating on exterior or interior surfaces
or in the application of fluids to other agriculture sectors.
[0006] In designing nozzles to control the particulate size of the
fluid being dispensed, the nozzles are configured to cause
pressurized gaseous fluid to mix with pressurized liquid fluid.
During this mixing, the gas breaks up the larger molecules of
liquid fluid into smaller particles or droplets. While the industry
has provided certain nozzles for the dispensing of fluid liquids
across regions, in this manner, these nozzles have failed to
atomize the dispensed fluids in an effective and efficient manner
(e.g., more energy is required to create a droplet of a specific
size than is necessary) for proper dispensing, Accordingly, the
fluids are not dispensed in small enough particulate matter to
cover a specific area or the amount of liquid fluid being dispensed
is disproportionate to the amount required for the given
application or droplet size does not afford for uniform coverage or
coating (e.g., the mill thickness created by the coating is not
consistent or nonexistent) to be sufficiently effective.
[0007] Yet another shortcoming of prior art dispensing nozzles is
the intricate and/or costly nozzle designs created to form a
specific droplet size. In such systems, numerous components are
typically utilized and assembled to form these nozzles. In doing
so, seals or gaskets are typically used to prevent unwanted leakage
of the pressured fluid through nozzle. Unfortunately, gaskets can
degrade over time, which reduces the internal tolerances built into
the nozzle. Furthermore, these gaskets must be replaced to prevent
fluid leakage.
[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for a nozzle which adequately
atomizes liquid in order to cause dispensing of the same over an
area or volume of space, and preferably within a specific droplet
spectrum and size. Furthermore, there is a need for a nozzle having
a simplified design available at a potential lower cost of the
nozzle and/or reduces the amount of material required to
effectively treat or coat a specific area, volume or region.
Furthermore, there is need for a nozzle which minimizes or
eliminates the need for gaskets.
SUMMARY & DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention overcomes the prior nozzle designs by
providing a nozzle, and a method of dispensing fluids, which
provides multiple atomizing steps of a liquid to be dispensed. In
doing so, the nozzle provides for the atomization of a liquid fluid
in a first direction and subsequent post atomization of the same
liquid in a second direction. Accordingly, the liquid fluid to be
dispensed is atomized in two separate stages causing improved
atomization and the creation of particulate matter size of the
liquid within a specified droplet spectrum. Furthermore, the
present invention provides these features through an improved and
simplified design providing potential cost savings to the end user
due to the more effective operation of the nozzle and more
efficient dispensing of fluid agents.
[0010] As should be appreciated, the present invention provides the
ability to formulate droplets of a specific size or range of size
(e.g., a droplet spectrum) for a specific application. Furthermore,
as another benefit, with smaller droplet size, the dispensed liquid
is capable of being airborne for a longer period of time thereby
resulting in a larger or more effective application area. The
formulation of a droplet spectrum is particularly important in the
dispensing of fluid droplets for insect control where a specific
amount of liquid fluid is required to affect the specific type
insect. Alternatively, this is also important for medicinal
applications where specific droplet size is desired for optimum
application (e.g. nebulization or otherwise). Accordingly, with the
creation of a specific range of droplet size, it is possible to
reduce the amount of liquid agents used for a given application
since over and/or under application of the liquid agent may be
reduced.
[0011] In one aspect, the present invention provides a low or high
pressure liquid atomizing nozzle (e.g. counter-flow or otherwise).
The nozzle comprises a first member extending along an axis and
having a first fluid connector for receiving a first fluid from a
first fluid supply and a second fluid connector for receiving a
second fluid from a second fluid supply. The first member includes
a first mating surface for joining with a corresponding component
through an attachment feature. The first member defines: i) a first
fluid flow formed by a plurality openings formed through the first
member which are in fluid connection with the first fluid supply
means and configured for directing the first fluid at an angle with
respect to the first axis, ii) a second fluid flow formed along the
axis for directing the second fluid and iii) a third fluid formed
by a plurality openings formed through the first member, the
plurality of openings being in fluid connection with the first
fluid supply means and configured for directing the first fluid at
an angle with respect the axis. The second fluid flow path merges
with the first fluid flow path to cause atomization of the second
fluid and wherein the second fluid flow merges with the third fluid
flow path to cause further atomization of the second fluid. The
nozzle further includes a second member attached to the first
member along the first axis, the second member defining a portion
of the second fluid flow path.
[0012] In another aspect, the present invention provides an air
liquid atomizing nozzle. The nozzle includes a first member
extending along an axis and having a first fluid connector for
receiving a first fluid from a first fluid supply and a second
fluid connector for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid
supply. The nozzle also includes a second member attached to the
first member, wherein the first and second members defines: a first
fluid flow formed from the first fluid supply, a second fluid flow
formed from the second fluid supply, and a third fluid flow formed
from the first fluid supply. The second fluid flow path merges with
the first fluid flow to cause atomization of the second fluid and
wherein the second fluid flow merges with the third fluid flow to
cause further atomization of the second fluid.
[0013] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a low
pressure air liquid atomizing nozzle. The nozzle includes a housing
member extending along an axis. The member includes a first fluid
connector for receiving a first fluid from a first fluid supply and
a second fluid connector for receiving a second fluid from a second
fluid supply. The housing member defines a first fluid flow formed
from the first fluid supply, a second fluid flow formed from the
second fluid supply, and a third fluid flow formed from the first
fluid supply. The second fluid flow path merges with the first
fluid flow to cause atomization of the second fluid and wherein the
second fluid flow merges with the third fluid flow to cause further
atomization of the second fluid. The first fluid flow path may
rotate in a first direction and the second fluid flow path rotates
in a second direction.
[0014] It should be appreciated that any of the above features may
be combined to form yet additional unique aspects or configurations
of the present invention. Similarly, it should be appreciated that
other unique aspects of the present invention exists as shown and
described herein.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
nozzle of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates another perspective view of the
embodiment of the nozzle shown in FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the nozzle shown in FIG.
1.
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of the nozzle shown in FIG.
3.
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view of the nozzle
shown in FIG. 3.
[0020] FIG. 5A illustrates an alternate configuration of the nozzle
shown in FIG. 5.
[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates and alternate configuration of the nozzle
shown in FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates a nozzle of the present invention in one
of many application of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The present invention provides a method and apparatus for
improved dispensing and atomization of fluid. In one aspect, the
invention provides a nozzle for dispensing liquid wherein the
liquid to be dispensed undergoes more than one atomization stage.
In another aspect, the nozzle of the present invention may comprise
two or more components, which during assembly do not require the
use of gasket material to prevent leakage of fluid through the
nozzle. Other features should be appreciated as described
herein.
[0024] The nozzle of the present invention is particularly useful
with the dispensing of liquid fluids in conjunction with gaseous
fluids. For example a first fluid may comprise a gaseous fluid
(such as air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, argon, or any other gas
capable of use with an atomization process), and the second fluid
may comprise a liquid fluid (such as water, oil, chemical
composition or otherwise). While it should be appreciated that the
numerous gases and liquids may be used with the nozzle of the
present invention, from here forth, the first fluid will be
generically termed air and the second fluid generically termed
liquid.
[0025] In the dispensing of fluids through the nozzle, air is used
to atomize the molecules of liquid. This is advantageous as the
atomization process of the present invention is capable of
achieving a droplet spectrum within a predetermined range. For
example, in the application of insecticide, only specific amounts
of liquid agent are required to terminally affect a specific
insect. In such an application, a droplet spectrum of between 5-30
microns is formed through the nozzle. In contrast, the prior art
nozzles fail to provide such a spectrum but instead dispense liquid
in a much larger spectrum or none at all. This leads to excessive
dispensing of liquid agent due to excessive amount of large or
ineffectively small droplets. Furthermore, the prior art nozzles do
not provide efficient dispensing of a droplet spectrum as they
require excessive energy to formulate droplet between 5-30 microns,
or otherwise. Still further, the prior art nozzles are
unnecessarily complex in design, thereby increasing the cost of
forming the nozzle.
[0026] In a most preferred embodiment, after the initial
atomization of the liquid, the liquid is again atomized with a
second application of air to further reduce the dispensed droplet
size. Still further, it is contemplated with the nozzle of the
present invention that more than two atomization stages may be
utilized to achieve the desired droplet spectrum.
[0027] The atomization of the liquid may be achieved by a first and
second application of air in a first direction. In such a
configuration, it is contemplated that the direction of the first
and second application may be clockwise, counterclockwise, or at
some angle with respect to the axis of the nozzle. However, it is
contemplated that the direction of the application of air may be
different between the first and second application. In otherwise,
the first application of air generated may be clockwise and the
second application of air may be counterclockwise. Other
configurations are available.
[0028] In one preferred embodiment, the application of air with
respect to the liquid is in a direction different from the motion
of the fluid. Upon impact of the air with the liquid fluid, the
liquid particles are atomized and follow the path of the air, e.g.
first airflow path. Thereafter, another application of air is
applied to the mixture of the air and liquid in a direction
different from the motion direction of the mixture. In one
preferred configuration, the direction of the first application of
air is opposite the application of the second air. For example, it
is contemplated that the direction of the first application of air
may be in a clockwise direction, which may be straight, arcuate or
even helical flow path, while the second application of air is in a
counterclockwise direction, which may be straight, arcuate or even
helical flow path, or vise versa. Furthermore, the direction of the
holes may correspond to the naturally occurring air flow of the
nozzle to achieve improved efficiency.
[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, one embodiment of the nozzle 10 of
the present invention is illustrated. The nozzle provides a dual
stage atomization of a liquid fluid. The nozzle includes a first
member 12 and a second member 14. The first and second members
extend along axis A. The first and second members are attached
together using a suitable attachment feature such as a threaded
fastener 16 or otherwise. In a preferred embodiment, the first and
second member includes a first and second mating surface 18, 20,
respectively. In one preferred embodiment, the first and second
mating surfaces are formed, such as through machining or otherwise,
with high tolerances such that upon joining of the first and second
mating surfaces no appreciable gap exists through the width of the
joint. Such tolerances are preferably in the range of 1/1000-
1/10,000. It should be appreciated that the tolerance requirements
are dependent upon the pressure and fluid type (e.g. air, water,
oil, or otherwise). Accordingly, by the resulting joint the nozzle
of the present invention does not require a use of a seal or gasket
between the first and second members to prevent leakage of fluid.
However, the nozzle of the present invention still may use a gasket
between the first and second component or otherwise, particularly
during dispensing of high pressure fluids.
[0030] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first member 12 of the nozzle
provides a first chamber 22 configured for receiving a first fluid
and directing the fluid tangential with respect to axis A, thereby
forming a rotational or even a helical or vortex current within the
chamber. The first chamber is defined by a base portion 24 and a
first wall 26 located radially from the nozzle axis A. The first
wall extends from the base portion at a distance from the nozzle
axis. Preferably, the distance between the wall portion and the
nozzle axis increases as the first chamber extends away from the
base portion. This allows the air flow path to have an increasing
radius as it moves along axis A. It should be appreciated that
given the increasing radius and speed of the air flow along the
exterior walls forming the first chamber, a vacuum is formed in a
central portion of the first chamber, which generally as a center
along the nozzle axis.
[0031] The first chamber 22 is configured for receiving a first
fluid through a plurality of first openings 28. The plurality of
openings extends through the first member to a first fluid supply
30. The openings are located radially from the nozzle axis and
extend to the first supply at an angle with respect to the axis of
the nozzle. Preferably, the axis of the holes and the nozzle are
non-parallel. More preferably, the axis of the openings intersect
wall 26 such that any fluid exiting the openings impacts and
deflects thereby causing the fluid to circulate about the wall to
form a rotational, helical or vortex air flow current. As such, it
is contemplated that the axis of the openings do not intersect the
axis of the nozzle. Furthermore, the openings may be equally spaced
about the nozzle axis and the axis of the openings are formed in an
array about the nozzle axis.
[0032] The nozzle is also configured to receive a second fluid into
the first chamber. The second fluid enters the first chamber
through a central opening 32 formed in the base portion 24 and
extending through the first member 12 to a second fluid supply
means 34. Preferably, the opening 32 is located in a central
portion of the base portion and more preferably substantially along
the axis of the nozzle. Accordingly, as a result of a vacuum being
formed by the rotational movement of the air within the first
chamber, the second fluid is equally dispersed into the first air
flow. In one preferred embodiment, the axis of opening 32 coexists
with the axis of the nozzle.
[0033] The first fluid enters the first chamber at a first end 36,
rotates about the chamber, and exits a second end 38 of the chamber
along a first flow path F1. The first flow path is generally
conically shaped between the first and second ends of the chamber,
wherein the central portion is generally hollow. In a preferred
embodiment, the first wall forming the chamber extends 360 degrees
about an axis of the first member. More preferably, the first
chamber comprises a conical shape or even more preferably, a
frustoconical shape, wherein the first end nearer the base portion
is narrower than the second end or exit portion of the chamber.
[0034] In operation, the first fluid enters through the plurality
of openings 38 and collides with the first wall portion 26 causing
an angular impact and the first fluid to circulate about the first
chamber as it first from the first end to the second end of the
chamber. This circulating movement causes a helical or vortex
current and creates a negative pressure (e.g. vacuum) in the center
of the first chamber. During the rotational movement of the first
fluid, a second fluid enters the first chamber through the opening
32. As the fluid enters the chamber, it is drawn to the first wall
due to the negative pressure created through the movement of the
first fluid along the first fluid path F1. Upon the second fluid
entering the flow of the first fluid, the first fluid collides with
the second fluid causing the second fluid to break up into
droplets, commonly referred to as atomization. Upon collision, the
second fluid follows the first fluid path F1 and exits the first
chamber at the second end 38.
[0035] In one configuration, it is contemplated that the first
chamber may include one or more features for disrupting the fluid
flow along the first flow path to create a more turbulent airflow,
or otherwise, for the purposes of further atomizing the second
fluid. For example, in one configuration, it is contemplated that
the first air flow path may be partially or even completely laminar
at one or more portions of the air flow path, particularly at the
second end of the nozzle. In order to create further atomization,
it is contemplated that the one or more features may be added along
the wall portions forming the first air flow. This may include
projections, recesses or other contoured surface. In one particular
configuration, referring to FIG. 5A, it is contemplated that one or
more rings 56 may be formed one the first wall at the second end of
the nozzle, which extends about the nozzle axis. As a result of
such rings, it is contemplated that the air flow would cross over
the rings and be drawn outwardly to collide with yet another
airflow path, as described herein. Other configurations are
available.
[0036] Optionally, the second fluid may be pre-atomized prior to
entering the first chamber. In such a configuration, the second
fluid is already in a combination liquid-gaseous state as it
travels along opening 32 and into the first chamber. Alternatively
in another embodiment, or in conjunction with the previous
embodiment, an additional chamber may be included with the nozzle
to pre-atomize or atomize the second fluid prior to entering the
first chamber. Such a chamber may be located between the second
fluid supply means and the first chamber.
[0037] For example, referring to FIG. 5, one example of a
pre-atomizing chamber 40 is illustrated in phantom. In this
configuration, the pre-atomizing chamber is configured for
hydraulic shearing of the second fluid prior to entering the first
chamber. As shown, the chamber is attached to the nozzle via an
attachment feature 42 such as a snap fit, threaded configuration or
otherwise. In this configuration, the second fluid traveling along
opening 32 exits the opening and enters the pre-atomizing chamber.
The pre-atomizing chamber is shaped to cause dispersion of the
liquid fluid into smaller droplets through hydraulic shearing. The
second fluid then exits the pre-atomizing chamber and enters the
first chamber as described above. However, in this configuration,
the second fluid now entering the first chamber comprises a
liquid-gaseous mixture as oppose to a substantially liquid fluid.
It should be appreciated that one or more pre-atomization chambers
may be used either before or after the second liquid fluid enters
the nozzle. Also, it should be appreciated that the pre-atomizing
chamber may be further configured with additional features to
control the fluid flow characteristic (e.g., velocity, direction,
laminar or turbulent fluid flow, or otherwise). Such features
include the same features as discussed with the openings of the
nozzle as discussed herein.
[0038] The nozzle of the present invention further includes a
second chamber 44 configured for forming a second fluid flow path
F2 and providing an additional atomization step to the fluid
exiting the first chamber. The second chamber is defined by a base
portion 24 and a second wall 46 located radially from the axis of
the nozzle and extending from the base portion. The second chamber
is also defined by an interior wall 48 of the second member 14. As
with the first chamber, the interior wall of the second member and
the second wall portion extending radially about the nozzle axis.
However, in contrast to the first chamber, as the interior wall of
the second member and the second wall extends to the exit portion
of the second chamber, the distance to the wall portions decrease
thereby causing divergence of the second fluid flow path F2 towards
the nozzle axis.
[0039] Similar to the first chamber, the first fluid enters the
second chamber through a plurality of openings 50 formed in the
base portion 24 and extending through the first member to the first
fluid supply means 30. The openings are located radially from the
axis of the nozzle "A" and extend to the first supply means at an
angle with respect to the axis of the nozzle. Preferably, the axis
of the holes and the nozzle are non-parallel. More preferably, the
axis of the openings intersects the interior wall 48 of the second
member 14 such that any fluid exiting the openings deflect and
circulate about the wall to form a rotational, helical or vortex
current. As such, in a preferred embodiment the axis of the
openings do not intersect the axis of the nozzle. Furthermore,
preferably the openings are equally spaced about the nozzle axis
and the axis of the openings are formed in an array about the
nozzle axis.
[0040] As with the first chamber, as the first fluid enters the
second chamber at a first end 52, rotates about the chamber, and
exits a second end 54 of the chamber. In a preferred embodiment,
the interior sidewalls of the second member extend 360 degrees
about an axis of the first member. The first chamber may comprise a
conical shape or even a frustoconical shape, wherein the first end
nearer the base portion is narrower than the second end or exit
portion of the chamber. As shown in the drawings, the first chamber
may be located within the second chamber.
[0041] In operation, the first fluid enters through the plurality
of openings and collides with the interior wall portion 48 at an
angle causing the first fluid to rotate about the second chamber,
along the interior wall 48 from the first end of the nozzle to the
second end. This rotational movement causes a rotational, helical
or vortex current and creates a negative pressure in the central
portion of the first chamber.
[0042] Optionally, it is contemplated that the second chamber may
include one or more features for disrupting the fluid flow along
the first flow path to create a more turbulent airflow, or
otherwise, for the purposes of further atomizing the second fluid.
For example, in one configuration, it is contemplated that the
second air flow path may be partially or even completely laminar at
one or more portions of the air flow path, particularly at the
second end of the nozzle. In order to create further atomization,
it is contemplated that the one or more features may be added along
the wall portions forming the second air flow. This may include
projections, recesses or other contoured surface. In one particular
configuration, referring to FIG. 5A, it is contemplated that one or
more rings 56 may be formed one the wall at the second end of the
nozzle, which extends about the nozzle axis. As a result of such
rings, it is contemplated that the air flow would cross over the
rings and be drawn outwardly to collide with yet another airflow
path, as described herein. Other configurations are available.
[0043] As previously mentioned, the flow direction (e.g. clockwise,
counterclockwise, or otherwise) of the first fluid flow and the
second fluid flow may be the same or different. This may include a
difference in angular direction and/or rotation about the axis of
the nozzle, or may include no angular rotation at all with respect
to one of the fluid flow paths. However, in one preferred
embodiment, the rotation of the first fluid flow F1 and the second
fluid flow F2 are in opposite directions. Accordingly, it is
contemplated that the first fluid flow may move in a clockwise or
counterclockwise manner about the axis of the nozzle while the
second fluid flow moves in an opposite direction, or vice
versa.
[0044] The difference in angular rotation and/or direction causes a
greater collision of the first fluid flow exiting the second
chamber 44 with the mixed first and second fluid flow exiting the
first chamber 22. This collision causes the droplets of the second
liquid fluid to break up into smaller droplets through atomization,
as discussed herein.
[0045] As previously mentioned already, openings 28, 32 and 50 may
be configured to provide desired fluid flow characteristics for
optimum atomization of the liquid fluid to be dispensed through the
nozzle. Such characteristics may include velocity, direction,
whether the fluid flow is laminar or turbulent, or otherwise,
Accordingly, it is contemplated that the openings may be machined
with high tolerances, polished, coated, or otherwise configured to
improved fluid flow velocity. The opening may also include
texturing, cross hatching, embedded material, threads or other
features configured to cause a turbulent fluid flow. The opening
may also include lands (e.g., raised portions such as rings 56),
grooves, inserts or other features to control the fluid flow
direction. It should be appreciated that any of the above
combination of opening features may be combined.
[0046] Also, in another optionally feature, the central opening 32
may be configured with a spiral grooved configuration adapted to
form a helical airflow within the central opening, which is
opposite the helical air flow formed in the first air chamber.
Accordingly, the fluid exiting the central opening may rotate in a
clockwise manner while the fluid in the first chamber is rotating
in a counterclockwise manner, or vise versa. Advantageously, this
will provide increased impact force between the first and second
fluid.
[0047] One unique aspect of the present invention is the nozzles
ability to atomize the fluid exiting the second portion. In doing
so, the first chamber and the second chamber may include side walls
(e.g., 26, 46 and 48) that are configured to further cause
collision between the fluids exiting the first and second chambers.
For example, the first walls portions 26 of the first chamber 22
may be configured to cause divergence of the fluid flow path with
respect to the axis of the nozzle. Accordingly, as the mixed first
and second fluid moves from the first to the second end 36 of the
first chamber 38, the radius of the helical or vortex path
increases. This continues upon exiting the first chamber due to the
mass momentum of the mixed fluid flow and upon exiting the first
chamber collides with the fluid exiting the second chamber.
[0048] In contrast, the interior walls of the second chamber may be
configured to cause convergence of the second fluid flow. As shown
in the drawings, this can be achieved by a reduction in the radius
of the interior wall 48 of the second member 14. Accordingly, as
the first fluid travels along the interior wall of the second
member, the fluid flow converges towards the axis of the nozzle and
hence the fluid exiting the first chamber. This is the result of
the interior walls of the second member having a decreasing radius
from the first end to the second end of the second chamber. As
should be appreciated, the divergence and convergence of the first
and second chambers, respectively, further causes the mixed first
and second fluid to collide with the first fluid flow of the second
chamber.
[0049] The nozzle may be further configured to effectuate the
property (e.g. velocity or otherwise) of the fluid flow exiting the
first or second chamber. This may include angular momentum as with
the converging or diverging fluid flow, velocity of the fluid flow
or otherwise. For example, the velocity of the first fluid exiting
the second chamber may be controlled by the configuration of the
exit portion of the second chamber. For example, the total area
formed by the openings 50 in the first member for providing a
conduit for the first fluid to enter the second chamber 44, may be
larger than the area provided for the fluid to exit the second
chamber. This may be advantageous as smaller exit area increases
the velocity of the first fluid and increases the impact energy
against the liquid-gaseous mixture exiting the first chamber to
increase atomization efficiency. Accordingly, the first fluid is
traveling faster as it exits the second chamber as compared to when
it enters the second chamber. Also, due to the angular impact of
the first fluid against the walls of the first or second chamber,
the airspeed increases through the chamber.
[0050] The walls forming the first and second chambers may be
further configured to effectuate the flow of the fluid through the
chamber. For example, as with the openings and the pre-atomization
chamber, the first and second chamber may include features for
controlling the velocity of the fluid direction of the fluid,
whether the fluid flow is laminar or turbulent, or otherwise.
[0051] In one alternate configuration, referring to FIG. 5, the
first and/or second chambers may include grooves 58 on the outer
(or inner) walls to assist in forming the rotational or helical air
flow about the chamber. In doing so, the grooves may be aligned
with openings 28 of 50 such that upon exiting the openings the
fluid flow is guided about the first or second chamber through the
grooves. Other configurations should be appreciated.
[0052] The materials forming the components of the present
invention include any materials that are commonly or uniquely used
for forming a nozzle for either low or high pressure fluid
dispensing. These material used to form the various components
(e.g., first and second component pre-atomization chamber, or
otherwise) and may be similar or dissimilar. Suitable materials
include metals, plastics, ceramics, or other similar materials.
However, a preferred material comprises a material configured for
machining. A more preferred material comprises a material that is
corrosion resistance to fluids. Specific examples of suitable
materials that may be used to form the nozzle of the present
invention include stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, plastics
(such as propylene, nylons, Teflon.TM.), carbon, ceramics, or
otherwise. It should be appreciated, as previously discussed, that
materials may be selected to optimize fluid flow through the
chamber (e.g., velocity of fluid, direction of fluid, whether the
fluid is laminar or turbulent, or otherwise).
[0053] As previously mentioned, the nozzle of the present invention
may be used in various industries, particularly industries desiring
controlled pattern spraying of liquid or gaseous fluids. Such
application are particularly advantageous when a specific range of
particulate size, or droplets, of dispense fluid is desired. For
example, these applications may include dispensing of insecticide,
application of paint products, treatment of patients with medicinal
products, metal coating or otherwise as described herein.
[0054] Yet another advantageous feature of the present invention is
the design capability to control the particulate size of the liquid
fluid. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the nozzle of the
present invention may be configured to reduce the particulate size
of a liquid, or the droplet spectrum, to such an extent that a
substantial portion of the liquid becomes vaporized. In one
configuration the nozzle may be configured to reduce the
particulate size of liquid droplets between 5-150 microns, or
perhaps more preferably between 20-100 microns. In another
preferred configuration the size of the liquid droplets is between
5-30 microns. Still in another preferred embodiment, particularly
with nebulization applications, the droplet size may be between 1-5
microns or less than 5 microns. It should be appreciated that the
droplet size is dependent upon the application of the liquid being
dispensed. Also, the droplet size of the liquid is dependent upon
the type of liquid being dispensed and the amount of energy being
used (e.g., fluid pressure) to form the droplet spectrum. In view
of the forgoing, it would be possible to utilize the nozzle as a
device for the separation of suspended solid particles from a
liquid. Alternatively, the nozzle may be utilized for air
drying.
[0055] In yet another particularly useful application, it is
contemplate that the nozzle of the present invention may be used to
purify water and/or remove foreign matter such as salt or other
contaminants. In doing so, the nozzle would cause vaporization of
water in an area, preferably controlled, and then recollected the
liquid without the impurities originally located therein. In
another configuration, the nozzle may be used for purification of
water. In such a configuration, the first fluid may comprise a
purifying gas, such as ozone (O.sub.3), and the second fluid
comprises liquid water, Upon dispensing of the liquid through the
nozzle the water is purified by the ozone gas.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 7, one application of the nozzle of the
present invention is shown. In this application, the nozzle is
attached to a spraying system (e.g., an air compressor and liquid
supply means) and is configured to atomize the liquid for
application over an area. In this particular application, the
nozzle forms a droplet spectrum in the range of 5-30 microns which
is particularly effective for the elimination of insects, such as
mosquitoes, Such systems can be found in commonly owned U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/318,827, filed on Dec. 13, 2002, herein
incorporated by references for all purposes. However, it should be
appreciated as this is but one application of the nozzle of the
present invention and the nozzle can be used in numerous
applications such as insect control/eradication, pesticide
applications, medicinal or medical product spraying applications
(e.g., nebulization or otherwise), including spraying antibiotics
among livestock, chickens, pigs, etc. and antidotes for potential
terrorist activities, herbicide applications, insecticide
applications, paint applications, pipe coating, misting
applications, cooling applications, water applications, fertilizer
applications, horticultural applications, solid-stream
applications, and application of cleaning/stripping/degreasing
solutions for household and industrial uses. Still other examples
include pollution control, waste water treatment, humidification,
food reprocessing odor control, environmental scenarios, any
structure that requires coating on exterior or interior surfaces or
in the application of fluids to agriculture.
[0057] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the nozzle of the
present invention is capable of use in both high pressure systems
(e.g., approximately 100 psi or greater) and in low pressure
systems (e.g., approximately 100 psi or less). In one application,
the pressure of the first fluid supply may be between 2 to 20 psi.
In yet another application, the pressure of the first fluid supply
is between 5 to 7 psi. Of course other supply pressure
configurations are available and may be dependent upon the type of
fluid being dispensed and the design of the nozzle as described
herein.
[0058] The pressure of the second fluid entering the chamber is
dependent upon the characteristics of the nozzle and first fluid
entering the nozzle. For example, the pressure of the second fluid
may be based upon the viscosity of the second fluid, the flow rate
of the second fluid through the fixed opening of the nozzle, the
flow rate of the first fluid through the nozzle, or otherwise.
Accordingly, the pressure of the second fluid through the central
opening of the nozzle can range between 0 to 100 psi, or greater.
Other ranges are available.
[0059] Unless stated otherwise, dimensions and geometries of the
various structures depicted herein are not intended to be
restrictive of the invention, and other dimensions or geometries
are possible. Plural structural components can be provided by a
single integrated structure. Alternatively, a single integrated
structure might be divided into separate plural components. In
addition, while a feature of the present invention may have been
described in the context of only three of the illustrated
embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other
features of other embodiments, for any given application. It will
also be appreciated from the above that the fabrication of the
unique structures herein and the operation thereof also constitute
methods in accordance with the present invention.
[0060] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been
disclosed. A person of ordinary skill in the art would realize
however, that certain modifications would come within the teachings
of this invention. Therefore, the following claims should be
studied to determine the true scope and content of the
invention.
* * * * *