US20070001024A1 - Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment - Google Patents
Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment Download PDFInfo
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- US20070001024A1 US20070001024A1 US11/160,642 US16064205A US2007001024A1 US 20070001024 A1 US20070001024 A1 US 20070001024A1 US 16064205 A US16064205 A US 16064205A US 2007001024 A1 US2007001024 A1 US 2007001024A1
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- fluid
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- gas
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
- A61L9/015—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone
- A61L9/02—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone using substances evaporated in the air by heating or combustion
- A61L9/03—Apparatus therefor
- A61L9/037—Apparatus therefor comprising a wick
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
- A61L9/015—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone
- A61L9/04—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone using substances evaporated in the air without heating
- A61L9/12—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor
- A61L9/122—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor comprising a fan
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
- A61L9/015—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone
- A61L9/04—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone using substances evaporated in the air without heating
- A61L9/12—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor
- A61L9/127—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor comprising a wick
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
- A61L9/14—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using sprayed or atomised substances including air-liquid contact processes
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)
Abstract
A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment. According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a housing having a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment disposed adjacent thereto and in fluid communication therewith via an orifice. The fluid compartment contains the fluid for release to the ambient environment. The orifice compartment includes a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and contains an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state. A fluid restrictor is disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state. A gas-generating cell is in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment when the device is in an activated state. A fluid membrane is disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state. The device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening and activating the cell to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening in a controlled manner.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/868,203, entitled “Device for Employing Gas Generating Cell for Facilitating Controlled Release of Fluid into Ambient Environment,” filed Jun. 14, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of the following applications: a.) U.S. application Ser. No. 09/645,673, entitled “Controlled Release of Substances,” filed Aug. 24, 2000; b.) U.S. application Ser. No. 09/649,563, entitled “Controlled Release of Substances,” filed Aug. 28, 2000, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/028,372, entitled “Controlled Release of Substances,” filed Feb. 24, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,109,539, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/880,124, entitled “Controlled Release of Substances,” filed Jun. 20, 1997, now abandoned; c.) U.S. application Ser. No. 10/115,273, entitled “Electrochemical Cell with Cathode Construction,” filed Apr. 2, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,787,008, which claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 60/335,050, entitled “Electrochemical Cell with Cathode Construction,” filed Oct. 30, 2001; d.) U.S. application Ser. No. 10/300,729, entitled “Foldable, Refillable Sustained-Release Fluid Delivery System,” filed Nov. 20, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/989,552, entitled “Dual Reservoir Dispenser for an Air Freshener or Insecticide,” filed Nov. 20, 2001, now abandoned and U.S. application Ser. No. 10/989,616, entitled “Apparatus with Potentiometer for Dispensing an Air Freshener or Insecticide,” filed Nov. 20, 2001, now abandoned; and e.) U.S. application Ser. No. 10/709,440 entitled “Moving Emanators,” filed May 5, 2004, which claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 60/483,833, entitled “Moving Emanators,” filed Jun. 30, 2003, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- This application also claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 60/584,987, entitled “Device Employing Gas Generating Cell for Facilitating Controlled Release of Fluid into Ambient Environment,” filed Jul. 1, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- This invention relates generally to fluid dispensing devices, and more particularly to fluid dispensing devices employing gas-generating cells as a propulsion component to facilitate controlled release of a fluid, such as, for example, a fragrance or sanitizer, into a surrounding environment.
- Various devices have been utilized as fluid dispensing apparatus, especially for fluids in liquid form, where the fluids are dispensed over an extended period of time at a predictable, substantially constant rate to the surrounding environment. One such device employs a gas-generating cell as a propulsion mechanism for the fluid.
- One important aspect of such fluid delivery devices is shelf life of the device, particularly in high volume consumer applications, such as air freshener devices. In such applications, a shelf life of more than two years is typically required. Most known devices, however, are not designed for long shelf life, especially when they are mated to bladder-type fluid delivery reservoirs.
- There are three major issues that affect shelf life of fluid delivery devices. First, shelf life is affected by the loss of moisture from the gas generating cell due to permeation through the gas chamber shell or through the flexible diaphragm. Since most of the reactions which generate hydrogen involve the consumption of water, desiccation of the cells typically will have a negative impact resulting in lower performance or shorter than desirable life. Second, if the gas generators are the type which consumes a metal, and oxygen is uncontrollably admitted to the cell, the metal will oxidize prematurely, and be spent when the device is to be activated. Third, if the gas generators are the type which consume a metal, hydrogen is generated to some degree prematurely. While corrosion inhibitors may be utilized to significantly reduce this effect, some hydrogen generation will occur if the active metal is in the presence of the aqueous solution, especially if the device is exposed to elevated temperature during storage. This hydrogen must be vented passively, otherwise the device will prematurely pressurize resulting in premature dispensing of the liquid, deformation of the device, or an undesirable burst of fluid delivery when the device is first activated.
- Another concern exists with such fluid delivery devices that electrochemically consume a metal to form hydrogen in connection with the gas generator. With such devices, there is a delay before pumping of fluid occurs after the device is activated. This is caused by oxygen which has diffused into the headspace between the gas generating cell and the flexible diaphragm, which must be consumed before hydrogen generation begins.
- There is yet another concern with such fluid delivery devices of the type which electrochemically consume a metal to form hydrogen. Typically, the metals utilized in such devices are amalgamated with mercury to reduce the amount of corrosion while being stored. This creates environmental concerns since mercury is toxic.
- Among other things, the present invention is intended to address these as well as other shortcomings in the prior art and generally provides a device employing a gas-generating cell as a propulsion component to facilitate controlled release of a fluid to an ambient environment.
- A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment. According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a housing having a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment disposed adjacent thereto and in fluid communication therewith via an orifice. The fluid compartment contains the fluid for release to the ambient environment. The orifice compartment includes a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and contains an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state. A fluid restrictor is disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state. A gas-generating cell is in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment when the device is in an activated state. A fluid membrane is disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state. The device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening and activating the cell to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening in a controlled manner.
- According to other aspects of the invention, the device comprises a container or housing having three compartments and an emanator system located to receive fluid drop from the container. The first compartment of the container contains a gas-generating cell and is located at the top of the container. The second compartment contains a predetermined quantity of fluid and the third compartment contains a small initial amount of fluid to be dispensed at the start of the activation of the device. The emanator system is located just below the container. The emanator system volatizes the fluid dispensed from the container into the surrounding atmosphere.
- The first and the second compartments are separated by either an impermeable member or a selectively permeable member. The impermeable member does not allow any fluid or its vapors within the second compartment to reach first compartment. It also does not allow gas generated by the gas generative cell to permeate into second compartment until such time that the pressure generated by the gas breaks the seal of the member and allows gas to put pressure on the fluid in second compartment. The selective permeable member allows only gas to permeate through but not allow fluid or its vapor in second compartment to permeate through to contact gas generating cell and associated electronics in the first compartment.
- The second and the third compartments are separated by a plug or restrictor having an aperture configured in such a way that the fluid in second compartment will not drip under storage and gravity and will drip under gravity and gas pressure when the device is activated.
- The third compartment has an opening in the bottom of the device. The third compartment contains a small initial amount of fluid. This compartment is sealed at the bottom opening by metal or plastic. The user of the device breaks the seal to get initial instant dose of fluid on to the emanator system to be volatilized into a surrounding atmosphere. The container of the device is positioned such that the first compartment is above second compartment and second compartment is above third compartment to allow gravity to help effectuate delivery of the fluid.
- The emanator system is located so that fluid dripping from the container falls on emanator system, which volatizes or delivers the fluid to surrounding atmosphere.
- According to other aspects of the invention, a means for holding and sealing a gas generating cell and associated electronics in the first compartment is provided so that gas generated by gas cell upon activation of the device puts pressure on the fluid in second compartment and does not escape out of first compartment when the device is activated.
- Means for protecting and separating gas generating and associated electronics from exposure to fluid or its vapor in the second compartment is also provided. Means for not allowing the fluid in second compartment to flow into third compartment under storage or inactivated conditions is also provided. Means for allowing the fluid in the second compartment to flow through third compartment out of container and on to emanator system under gravity and hydrogen gas pressure under an activated condition is also provided.
- A predetermined quantity of initial fluid in the third compartment is dispensed instantaneously at the start of the activation of device and is released onto the emanator system to start the emanation of the fluid instantaneously while the fluid in the fluid compartment begins to flow.
- A seal at the bottom opening of the container retains the fluid in the third compartment under storage and until such time a user of the device breaks the seal in order to get instantaneous release of fluid onto the emanator system located adjacent to a fluid exit opening of the third orifice compartment.
- The emanator system comprises means for vaporizing the dispensed fluid to the surrounding atmosphere. The emanator systems may comprise mechanisms involving pleated high surface area paper emanators, generating cells, heated pads or elements, fans, vibrating elements or pads and combinations thereof.
- These and other aspects of the present invention will be apparent after consideration of the written description, drawings and claims herein.
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FIG. 1 is a schematic partial section view of an embodiment of a fluid delivery device in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is an exploded section view of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a schematic partial section view of an embodiment of a fluid delivery device in an inactivated state in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a schematic partial section view of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3 in an activated state in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a refillable cartridge device that accepts a refill cartridge such as that shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is an engineering drawing illustrating the embodiment ofFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a refillable cartridge device that accepts a refill cartridge such as that shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is an engineering drawing illustrating the embodiment ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional aspects of the embodiment ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of a refillable cartridge device that accepts a refill cartridge such as that shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 5 showing a piercing pin of a refill cartridge in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a refill cartridge that incorporates an activation ring having a removable strip in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional aspects of the embodiment ofFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of a refill cartridge in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a refill cartridge in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of a piercing element in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a wick having a smooth surface in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the wick ofFIG. 17 disposed within a refill cartridge in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a wick having pleats in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the wick ofFIG. 19 disposed within a refill cartridge in accordance with the principles of the present invention. -
FIGS. 21A-21E are schematic diagrams illustrating several blank designs for use in manufacturing respective wick designs in accordance with the present invention. -
FIGS. 22A-22F are schematic diagrams additionally illustrating aspects of the present invention. - While the present invention is capable of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and will herein be described in detail, one or more specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to these specific embodiments.
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FIG. 1 depicts a particular embodiment of the device, shown in section view in order to illustrate the details of construction.FIG. 2 shows the preferred embodiment in an exploded section view. In this embodiment, the device has two main components, afluid delivery container 1 and anemanation system 33. Thecontainer 1 is made up of three main sections, agas generation compartment 3, afluid compartment 5 and anorifice compartment 7. - The
gas generation compartment 3 features agas generating cell 9, held within atop cover 13. Thetop cover 13 is made of a material that is substantially impermeable to the gas being generated. Thegas generating cell 9 is sealed to the top cover by an O-ring 11 or similar gas tight seal. Theseal 11 prevents the gas generated by thecell 9 from escaping the container. Thegas cell 9 is held in place within thetop cover 13 by a retainingring 15. - The retaining
ring 15 and thetop cover 13 can be connectable by a snap fit, press fit, screw threads or similar removable fit if it is desirable to be able to remove thegas cell 9 for recycling or disposal, or it could be a permanent method of joining such as gluing or heat staking. In addition, the retainingring 15 could be made of a substantially electrically conductive material so that the surface of the retainingring 15 can be used as the cathode contact for thegas generating cell 9. This is useful since the cathode surface of thegas generating cell 9 could be substantially covered by theseal 11. An electricallyconductive retaining ring 15 can make contact with the top of the cathode portion of thegas generating cell 9 as it holds the cell in place, allowing the cathode contact of the switching mechanism to make contact with the retainingring 15 anywhere on its surface. The anode contact area is found on the top surface of thegas generating cell 9. - The
gas generating compartment 3 is situated adjacent to and above thefluid compartment 5, separated by afluid membrane 17. Thefluid membrane 17 is sealed to thetop cover 13 preferably by a compression fit as shown in order to prevent fluid 23 from thefluid compartment 5 from entering thegas generating compartment 3 which could potentially damage thegas generating cell 9. Thegas generating compartment 3 is attached to thefluid compartment 5 with a gas tight seal. The joint shown inFIG. 1 between thetop cover 13 and afluid container 21 is an ultrasonic weld, but could be some other gas tight joint, including a one-piece integrated design. - As stated above, the
fluid membrane 17 prevents fluid 23 from entering thegas generating compartment 3, but in addition it allows the gas being generated to pass through it into thefluid compartment 5. In the embodiment described, this is achieved by making thefluid membrane 17 from a material that is substantially permeable to the gas being generated. For example, if hydrogen is being generated by thegas generating cell 9 thefluid membrane 17 could be made of polypropylene. - An additional membrane, the
gas membrane 19, may optionally be employed in this device. Thegas membrane 19 is sealed to thetop cover 13 in a gas tight arrangement. Its purpose is to protect thegas generating cell 9 from potentially harmful vapors from thevolatile fluid 23 in thefluid compartment 5, and also to prevent thecell 9 from drying out before use. In the event that vapors from the fluid 23 could permeate through thefluid membrane 17, thegas membrane 19 will prevent them from coming into contact with thegas cell 9. In the event that it is desirable to partially assemble thefluid delivery container 1 with thegas cell 9 installed, and in case thegas cell 9 is subject to damage from drying out over time in this condition due to storage or environmental conditions, thegas membrane 19 will prevent water vapor from escaping the smallgas generating compartment 3, thus preserving the integrity of thegas generating cell 9. - There are two preferable configurations for the
gas membrane 19. First, it could be made of a material that is impermeable to the vapors from the fluid 23, but substantially permeable to the gas generated by thegas generating cell 9. In this embodiment the driving gas permeates freely through thegas membrane 19 as it is generated. Another embodiment is one in which the gas membrane is impermeable to both the vapors from the fluid 23 and the driving gas. In this case, thegas membrane 19 itself, or the joint between thegas membrane 19 and thetop cover 13, is ruptured by the pressure developed by the driving gas once thegas cell 9 is activated. In both of these embodiments, thegas cell 9 is protected during storage of the device. - The
fluid compartment 5 holds a predetermined amount ofvolatile fluid 23 to be dispensed within thefluid container 21. This compartment is situated adjacent to and above theorifice compartment 7 and is attached with a fluid tight seal, or made in an integrated one-piece configuration as shown inFIG. 1 . Theorifice compartment 7 is separated from thefluid compartment 5 by arestrictor 25. The restrictor 25 contains atortuous path 27 for the fluid 23 to pass through. In the embodiment shown, therestrictor 25 has one or more grooves along its length to form the tortuous path(s) 27, and is sealed to the inside walls of theorifice compartment 7 with an interference fit. - The
orifice compartment 7 contains a predetermined bolus ofvolatile fluid 29 that serves as an instant dose when the device is activated. Thebolus 29 is sealed within theorifice compartment 7 by aremovable membrane 31 covering a fluid exit opening of the compartment. Thisremovable membrane 31 could be in the form of a screw cap that is removed just before use or, as shown in this embodiment, a thin metal foil seal that is punctured or peeled off just before use. Alternatively, a similar removable membrane could be employed. - To activate the
fluid delivery container 1, a user breeches theremovable membrane 31 in a prescribed manner, which allows the bolus ofvolatile fluid 29 to exit theorifice compartment 7. The user also applies an activation switch to thegas generating cell 9, connecting the anode and cathode of thecell 9 with a resistance, which begins gas generation within thecell 9. As the driving gas is generated by thegas generating cell 9, it passes through thegas membrane 19 and thefluid membrane 17 into thefluid compartment 5. Thus the driving gas applies pressure to the top of the fluid 23, driving it through thetortuous path 27 of the restrictor 25, and finally out of theorifice compartment 7. - As the
volatile fluid 23 exits thefluid delivery container 1, it is directed onto theemanation system 33. Theemanation system 33 can be a simple surface for thevolatile fluid 23 to evaporate from, a wicking system to spread the fluid 23 to wick the fluid 23 up vertically over a large surface area, or a more active emanation system such as a fan, heater or ultrasonic vibrator. -
FIG. 3 depicts a section view of oneembodiment 35 of the emanation system with thefluid delivery container 1, shown prior to activation.FIG. 4 shows the same embodiment after activation. Thefluid delivery container 1 is held to anupper emanator cage 37 with a snap fit configuration. Alower emanator cage 39 attaches to theupper emanator cage 37 with a vertically sliding fit. Awicking emanator pad 41 is held within theupper emanator cage 37 as well. The configuration of theemanator pad 41 shown is pleated in order to increase its surface area in order to increase the rate of fluid evaporation from its surface. - The
lower emanator cage 39 contains a piercing element in the form of apin 43. Thepin 43 pierces theremovable membrane 31 when theupper emanator cage 37 is pushed down into thelower emanator cage 39, as shown inFIG. 4 . The bolus ofvolatile fluid 29 exits theorifice compartment 7, flowing down the surface of the piercingpin 43 to make contact with theemanator pad 41. The fluid is then wicked up theemanator pad 41 where it can evaporate into the environment. As the fluid 23 in thefluid compartment 5 is discharged from thefluid delivery container 1 by the driving gas from thegas generating cell 9, it follows the same path to the emanator pad and into the environment on a continuous basis. - It should be noted that the aforementioned embodiment 35 (hereinafter referred to as refill cartridge 35) can be utilized as a refill cartridge for a device in a refillable configuration. It should also be noted that the
fluid delivery container 1, which is disposed within therefill cartridge 35, can be configured to be replaceable as well. - Refill Cartridge Device Embodiments
- Referring to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , arefillable cartridge device 60 is shown in a “desktop” configuration. In this configuration, adesktop cover 62 is removably connected to therefill cartridge 35. Thedesktop cover 62 includes aswitch 64 that, when connected to therefill cartridge 35, is in electrical communication with thegas generating cell 9. Theswitch 64 preferably includes 4 setting positions as shown inFIGS. 5 and 6 , an OFF position, a LO position, a MED position, and a HI position. When turned to one of the “on” positions, i.e., LO, MED, and Hi, an electrical circuit is completed with respect to thegas generating cell 9, such that the cell begins to produce gas. Theremovable membrane 31 of therefill cartridge 35 must also be pierced to start the flow of fluid for the device to function properly, as will be described later in more detail below. - Referring to
FIGS. 7-9 , yet another embodiment in the form of arefillable cartridge device 70 is shown, wherein therefill cartridge 35 can be inserted into ahousing 72 of thedevice 70. The housing comprises aplatform portion 74, amain portion 76, anactivation portion 78 and acover portion 80. Thecover portion 80 is connected to theactivation portion 78, which is pivotably connected to themain portion 76 of thehousing 74 to allow thecover portion 80 and theactivation portion 78 to engage therefill cartridge 35 as shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 . As shown inFIG. 9 , theactivation portion 78 includes anelectrical contact arrangement 82 and aresistor 84 in electrical communication therewith. As thecover portion 80 and theactivation portion 78 are pivoted toward a closed position, the activation portion engages therefill cartridge 35 such that thecontact arrangement 82 completes an electrical circuit with, and therefore applies the resistance fromresistor 84 to, thegas generating cell 9, thereby activating thegas generating cell 9. Additionally, as thecover portion 80 and theactivation portion 78 are pivoted toward a closed position, thecover portion 80 properly positions therefill cartridge 35 and also pushes downwardly on therefill cartridge 35 to facilitate piercing of theremovable membrane 31 of therefill cartridge 35 to start the flow of fluid. This piercing mechanism will be described in more detail below. - Referring to
FIG. 10 , yet another embodiment in the form of arefillable cartridge device 90 is shown, wherein therefill cartridge 35 can be inserted into ahousing 92 of thedevice 90, which includes afan blade 94 and amotor 95 to facilitate emanation of the fluid. As shown inFIG. 10 , themotor 95 is powered by abattery 96. Thegas generating cell 9 is activated by completion of a circuit with a set ofcontacts 98. Rotation of thefan blade 94 causes movement of air across thewicking pad 41 of therefill cartridge 35 in a direction and path as shown inFIG. 10 . - Piercing Mechanism Configurations
- As previously mentioned above, the
refill container 35 preferably includes a piercing element. As shown inFIG. 11 , the piercing element is in the form of apin 100. By including thepin 100 with therefill cartridge 35, thepin 100 is replaced every time the refill cartridge is replaced. This prevents collection of surfactants and build-up of dust on the pin over long periods of time, which would occur if the same pin was continually used as part of the device. A new pin with each refill also ensures that theremovable membrane 31 is properly pierced. A new pin, which is clean, also ensures that the fluid properly flows down the pin. - Referring to
FIG. 12 , therefill cartridge 35 is shown in a configuration that includes a removable piece of material in the form of a strip 110 (pull strip) on an activation member in the form of anactivation ring 112 of thecartridge 35. As shown inFIG. 13 , theactivation ring 112 includes a piercingpin 114. Upon removal of thestrip 110, theactivation ring 112 is allowed to be pushed upwardly toward theremovable membrane 31 such that the piercingpin 114 is allowed to pierce themembrane 31. Theactivation ring 112 is moveable a distance equivalent to a width of material represented by thestrip 110, as shown inFIG. 12 . In a preferred embodiment, theactivation ring 112 moves axially by applying an axial force thereto, such as by a user pushing it upwardly. Alternatively, theactivation ring 112 can be configured to move axially by rotating theactivation ring 112, as shown inFIG. 14 . The rotational movement can be converted to axial movement via a cam and follower combination. Referring toFIG. 15 , anannular rib 115 on theactivation ring 112 includes anannular cam surface 116. A correspondingannular slot 117 on therefill cartridge 35 includes afollower surface 118 that facilitates axial movement of theactivation ring 112 as thecam surface 116 engages it through rotation of theactivation ring 112. The camming action is preferably facilitated by the cam and follower surfaces 116, 118 being configured as ramped surfaces. - The piercing pin can be integrated into the activation ring 112 (as shown in
FIG. 11 (pin 100) andFIG. 13 (pin 114)), or it can be integrated into asleeve portion 119A of the refill cartridge 35 (as shown inFIG. 15 ). In the embodiment shown inFIG. 11 , the piercing pin moves by virtue of movement of theactivation ring 112. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 12 , the piercing pin moves when theactivation ring 112 moves upwardly to cause aflexure member 119B of the sleeve portion to deflect upwardly and direct the pin toward theremovable membrane 31. In this embodiment, one or more portions of the flexure member can have a thinner cross-section with respect to other portions to facilitate deflection. - Referring to
FIG. 16 , analternate piercing arrangement 120 is shown wherein a plurality of piercingblades 122 is disposed on theactivation ring 112. This configuration allows theremovable membrane 31 to be pierced even if theactivation ring 112 is off center with respect to theorifice compartment 7. Furthermore, this configuration makes a larger tear into theremovable membrane 31. - Wick Embodiments
- It has been shown that various wick embodiments are effective when utilized in the aforementioned embodiments. For example, as shown in
FIG. 17 , a smooth surfaceconical wick 140 can be utilized.FIG. 18 depicts thewick 140 disposed within therefill cartridge 35. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 19 , a pleatedconical wick 150 can be utilized.FIG. 20 depicts thewick 150 disposed within therefill cartridge 35. -
FIGS. 21A-21E depict various blank designs that can be utilized to manufacture the wicks.FIG. 21A depicts a blank 160 utilized to create a conical shaped wick.FIG. 21B depicts a blank 162 having a pair ofwings 164 that can be folded inwardly when forming the conical wick, thereby increasing wicking surface area.FIG. 21C depicts a similar concept that incorporates a blank 166 having a plurality offingers 168 that can be folded inwardly when forming the conical wick, thereby increasing wicking surface area.FIGS. 21D and 21E depictblanks 170 and 172, respectively, which are examples of pleated wick blanks having variable pleat sizes, rather than constant pleat sizes. - Additional Illustrations of Aspects of Invention
- Additional illustrations of aspects of the present invention may be depicted in
FIGS. 22A-22F . For example,FIG. 22A shows steps of manufacturing an embodiment of thefluid delivery container 1. The remaining figures depict other aspects, which will be understood to one of ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the descriptions set forth herein and in these drawings. - While specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, numerous modifications may come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying Claims.
Claims (28)
1. A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment, the device comprising:
a housing having a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment disposed adjacent thereto and in fluid communication therewith via an orifice, the fluid compartment containing the fluid for release to the ambient environment, the orifice compartment including a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and containing an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state;
a fluid restrictor disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state;
a gas-generating cell in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment when the device is in an activated state; and
a fluid membrane disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state;
wherein the device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening and activating the cell to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening in a controlled manner.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid membrane comprises an impermeable seal that prevents gas generated from the cell to pass therethrough into the fluid compartment until sufficient pressure is generated to break the impermeable seal.
3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid memberane is a selectively permeable membrane that allows gas generated from the cell to pass therethrough into the fluid compartment while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell.
4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising an emanating system disposed adjacent the fluid exit opening to receive the fluid from the fluid compartment in the activated state and deliver the fluid into the ambient environment.
5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the removable sealing element is a removable cap.
6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the removable sealing element is a pierceable membrane.
7. The device of claim 6 , further comprising a moveable piercing element disposed adjacent the pierceable membrane to pierce the membrane when the device is activated.
8. A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment, the device comprising:
a housing including a cell compartment, a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment;
the fluid compartment containing the fluid for release to the ambient environment and in fluid communication with the orifice compartment via an orifice;
the orifice compartment including a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and containing an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state;
the cell compartment containing a gas-generating cell in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment and applies pressure to the fluid therein when the device is in an activated state;
a fluid restrictor disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state; and
a fluid membrane disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state; and
a fluid emanator disposed adjacent the fluid exit opening to facilitate delivery of the fluid to the ambient environment;
wherein the device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening to the emanator and activating the cell to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening to the emanator in a controlled manner.
9. The device of claim 8 , wherein the fluid membrane comprises an impermeable seal that prevents gas generated from the cell to pass therethrough into the fluid compartment until sufficient pressure is generated to break the impermeable seal.
10. The device of claim 8 , wherein the fluid membrane is a selectively permeable membrane that allows gas generated from the cell to pass therethrough into the fluid compartment while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell.
11. The device of claim 8 , wherein the removable sealing element is a removable cap.
12. The device of claim 8 , wherein the removable sealing element is a pierceable membrane.
13. The device of claim 12 , further comprising a moveable piercing element disposed adjacent the pierceable membrane to pierce the membrane when the device is activated.
14. A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment, the device comprising:
a housing including a cell compartment, a fluid compartment containing the fluid for release to the ambient environment, and an orifice compartment in fluid communication with the fluid compartment, the orifice compartment including a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and containing an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state;
a gas-generating cell disposed within the cell compartment;
means for holding and sealing the gas generating cell within the cell compartment such that gas generated by the cell when the device is in an activated state applies pressure to the fluid in the fluid compartment;
means for protecting the gas generating cell from the fluid in the fluid reservoir;
means for preventing fluid in the fluid compartment from flowing into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state;
means for allowing fluid in the fluid compartment to flow into the orifice compartment and out through the fluid exit opening in the activated state; and
a fluid restrictor disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state;
wherein the device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening to the emanator and activating the cell to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening in a controlled manner.
15. A device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment, the device comprising:
a device housing having a fluid activation mechanism; and a removable cartridge removably connected to the device housing, the cartridge comprising:
a cartridge housing having a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment disposed adjacent thereto and in fluid communication therewith via an orifice, the fluid compartment containing the fluid for release to the ambient environment, the orifice compartment including a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and containing an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state;
a fluid restrictor disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state;
a gas-generating cell in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment when the device is in an activated state; and
a fluid membrane disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state;
wherein the device is activated by removing the sealing element to allow the initial quantity of fluid to exit out of the orifice compartment via the fluid exit opening and activating the cell via the fluid activation mechanism of the device housing to generate gas and force fluid from the fluid compartment to the orifice compartment and out the fluid exit opening in a controlled manner.
16. The device of claim 15 , wherein the device housing comprises a cover that engages the removable cartridge such that the fluid activation mechanism is in communication with the gas generating cell of the removable cartridge.
17. The device of claim 15 , wherein the device housing comprises:
a housing portion; and
a cover portion movably attached to the housing portion allowing the cover portion to be in a open position and a closed position, the cover portion including the fluid activation mechanism;
wherein the fluid activation mechanism is in communication with the gas generating cell of the removable cartridge when the cover portion is in a closed position.
18. The device of claim 17 , wherein the removable cartridge further comprises a moveable piercing element disposed adjacent to the removable sealing element, the piercing element piercing the removable sealing element when the cover portion is placed in the closed position.
19. The device of claim 18 , wherein the piercing element is held in a temporarily fixed position by a removable strip of material.
20. The device of claim 15 , wherein the device housing includes a fan blade and a motor to rotate the fan blade to facilitate emanation of the fluid from the device.
21. A removable cartridge for use with a device for controllably releasing a fluid into an ambient environment, the cartridge comprising:
a cartridge housing having a fluid compartment and an orifice compartment disposed adjacent thereto and in fluid communication therewith via an orifice, the fluid compartment containing the fluid for release to the ambient environment, the orifice compartment including a fluid exit opening covered by a removable sealing element and containing an initial quantity of fluid when the device is in an inactivated state;
a fluid restrictor disposed adjacent the orifice to restrict fluid flow from the fluid compartment into the orifice compartment in the inactivated state;
a gas-generating cell in selective communication with the fluid compartment such that gas generated by the cell is directed into the fluid compartment when the device is in an activated state; and
a fluid membrane disposed between the gas-generating cell and the fluid compartment that allows the gas generated by the cell to pass therethrough to the fluid compartment in the activated state while preventing fluid within the fluid container from passing therethrough to the cell in the inactivated state.
22. The cartridge of claim 21 , further comprising a moveable piercing element disposed adjacent to the removable sealing element that can be moved to pierce the removable sealing element.
23. The cartridge of claim 21 , further comprising an activation member having a piercing element, the activation member moveably disposed adjacent to the removable sealing element.
24. The cartridge of claim 23 , wherein the activation member is held in a temporarily fixed position by a removable piece of material.
25. The cartridge of claim 23 , wherein the activation member is linearly moveable in a direction that is perpendicular to the removable sealing element.
26. The cartridge of claim 25 , wherein the activation member is rotatably moveable and linearly moveable via a rotational cam and follower arrangement.
27. The cartridge of claim 22 , wherein the piercing element comprises multiple blades.
28. The cartridge of claim 21 , further comprising a wicking material in communication with the fluid exit opening.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/160,642 US20070001024A1 (en) | 1997-06-20 | 2005-07-01 | Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment |
Applications Claiming Priority (14)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US08/880,124 US5932204A (en) | 1996-07-26 | 1997-06-20 | Controlled release of substances |
US09/028,372 US6109539A (en) | 1997-06-20 | 1998-02-24 | Controlled release of substances |
US09/645,673 US6923383B1 (en) | 2000-08-24 | 2000-08-24 | Controlled release of substances |
US64956300A | 2000-08-28 | 2000-08-28 | |
US09/989,616 US20030094501A1 (en) | 2001-11-20 | 2001-11-20 | Apparatus with potentiometer for dispensing an air freshener or insecticide |
US09/989,552 US20030094503A1 (en) | 2001-11-20 | 2001-11-20 | Dual reservoir dispenser for an air freshener or insecticide |
US35505002P | 2002-02-08 | 2002-02-08 | |
US10/115,273 US6787008B2 (en) | 2001-10-30 | 2002-04-02 | Hydrogen generating cell with cathode |
US10/300,729 US6957779B2 (en) | 2001-11-20 | 2002-11-20 | Foldable, refillable, sustained-release fluid delivery system |
US48383303P | 2003-06-30 | 2003-06-30 | |
US10/709,440 US20040261790A1 (en) | 2003-06-30 | 2004-05-05 | Moving emanators |
US10/868,203 US7614568B2 (en) | 2000-08-24 | 2004-06-14 | Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment |
US58498704P | 2004-07-01 | 2004-07-01 | |
US11/160,642 US20070001024A1 (en) | 1997-06-20 | 2005-07-01 | Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/868,203 Continuation-In-Part US7614568B2 (en) | 1997-06-20 | 2004-06-14 | Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment |
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Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20070001024A1 true US20070001024A1 (en) | 2007-01-04 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/160,642 Abandoned US20070001024A1 (en) | 1997-06-20 | 2005-07-01 | Device employing gas generating cell for facilitating controlled release of fluid into ambient environment |
Country Status (1)
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