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    • 专利摘要:
    This device comprises: - a nebulization nozzle (20) provided with at least one liquid inlet orifice (23) and at least one liquid outlet orifice, as well as a suitable piezoelectric element (22). to emit acoustic waves in said liquid, a nebulizing chamber comprising at least one diffusion orifice (14), said nozzle being able to generate a jet of liquid inside said nebulization chamber, - a volume (VC) liquid collection device, suitable for supplying the at least one inlet orifice (23) of the nozzle, - ventilation means for generating a gas flow (C7) intended to entrain a part of the liquid leaving the nozzle, in the direction of the at least one diffusion orifice (14). According to the invention, the collection volume (VC) of liquid is integrated into the nebulization chamber. This reduces the number of components of the device, and reduce the overall structure. In addition, the liquid can be conveyed between this collection volume and the inlet of the nozzle by a stream of simplified shape, which avoids losses and dead volumes. This liquid path being more direct, the risks of possible leakage are further reduced.
    公开号:FR3045420A1
    申请号:FR1562576
    申请日:2015-12-17
    公开日:2017-06-23
    发明作者:Michel Gschwind；Frederic Richard；Abbas Sabraoui
    申请人:Areco Finances et Technologie ARFITEC SAS；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER SPRAY DEVICE,
    IN PARTICULAR FOR VEHICLE
    TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to nebulization devices, more particularly of small size, capable of generating a mist of micro-droplets of a liquid, for example water, in order to cool the atmosphere. The invention finds its main application in such devices, which can be mounted in a vehicle to moisten and cool the air and make it pleasant to breathe. Nevertheless, these devices can also be installed in other environments, such as on a stall for moistening and freshening fresh products for sale.
    State of the art
    Patent EP 0 691 162 discloses a nebulizing device equipped with a concentration nozzle, in which a piezoelectric element immersed in water generates a mist of water droplets at the outlet of the aforementioned nozzle. The fog, which is then carried away by an air flow generated by a fan, is extracted into the atmosphere via a diffusion orifice. This nozzle is arranged vertically, with the focusing output pointing upwards. This feature is disadvantageous in that it is expensive in energy because the nebulization is performed against the weight of the liquid present in the nozzle.
    The present invention therefore aims more particularly at a nozzle whose focussing output is generally directed downwards, known solution for example from EP 0 782 885. The nebulization device described in this document has a fan, located substantially at the same altitude as the piezoelectric element. In operation, the mist coming out of the nozzle is deflected by a deflector, then is carried away by the air flow created by the fan. The diffusion orifice is located approximately to the right of the outlet of the nozzle, below the latter.
    This known nebulization device, however, has certain disadvantages. Indeed it is a relatively complex structure, especially in that it has a high number of constituent elements. Moreover, it can be the cause of hygiene problems, due in particular to a phenomenon of stagnation of the liquid. This nebulizing device also involves a relatively high dead volume of liquid. In addition it has been found that any fluid leaks, in use, are difficult to identify. Finally, the nebulization produced by this device is not of good quality in all functional situations, in particular when the device is used in an environment undergoing strong accelerations, such as for example a motor vehicle.
    In general, there is a need for nebulizing devices, able to function satisfactorily when they are placed in a so-called disturbed environment, ie subjected to accelerations in the different directions of space. These include land vehicles, including automobiles, but also air or sea. In addition, the nebulization devices used on stalls must also meet these constraints. Indeed a stall can also be disturbed by shocks and other mechanical disturbances, insofar as it is surrounded by people likely to come into mechanical contact with him.
    That being said, the present invention proposes to remedy the various disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above. It therefore aims to provide an improved piezoelectric excitation nebulization device, which has a compact structure, inexpensive, and which lends itself in particular to miniaturization. The invention also aims at providing such a device which is capable of guaranteeing nebulization of satisfactory quality even in a disturbed environment, namely when it is subjected to significant accelerations according to the different dimensions of the space. Finally, the invention aims to provide such a nebulization device, which offers a satisfactory adjustment accuracy, as well as reliable control.
    Objects of the invention For this purpose, the subject of the invention is a nebulising device comprising: a nebulization nozzle provided with at least one liquid inlet orifice and at least one liquid outlet orifice, provided in the lower part of said nozzle, as well as a piezoelectric element provided in the upper part of said nozzle, capable of emitting acoustic waves into said liquid, the main axis of the nozzle being inclined relative to the vertical according to a an angle between -20 ° and + 20 °, in particular between -10 ° and + 10 °, especially at an angle of 0 °, a nebulizing chamber comprising at least one diffusion orifice, said nozzle being able to generate a jet liquid inside said nebulization chamber, a volume of liquid, said collection, adapted to supply the at least one nozzle inlet, circulation means extending between the liquid collection volume of co andeach at least one inlet port, ventilation means adapted to generate a gas flow for driving a portion of the liquid out of the nozzle, in the direction of the at least one diffusion orifice, said nebulizing device being characterized in that the liquid collection volume is integrated into the nebulization chamber.
    According to other characteristics of this nebulizing device, taken separately or in any technically compatible combination: the enclosure comprises a bottom, an upper wall and side walls connecting the bottom and the upper wall, the collection volume being delimited by the bottom and a portion of the side walls, the upper wall is formed by an attached lid, in particular removably, on the side walls of the chamber, the nebulizing nozzle being fixed on the lid, the ventilation means are fixed on this cover, the main diffusion orifice is formed in the cover, the walls facing the cover and the nebulizing nozzle define a liquid pressurizing chamber, the or each inlet orifice communicating with this chamber pressure, a deflector is provided below the outlet orifice of the nozzle, so as to receive the jet of liquid and e avoid the direct flow of the latter to the bottom of the enclosure, the deflector is made of material, in particular came molding, with the cover, the ventilation means and the nebulizing nozzle are placed above respective channels of ventilation and nebulization, extending into the interior volume of the chamber, these channels being separated by a first separation skirt, the device comprises an intermediate channel of diffusion, opening into the main orifice of diffusion, this intermediate channel and the nebulization channel being separated by a second separation skirt, the intermediate diffusion channel is extended by a downstream diffusion channel opening into the main diffusion orifice, this intermediate channel and this downstream channel being bordered by a curved transition wall intended to separate drops of liquid of different sizes, the first separation skirt and / or the second separating skirt and / or the curved transition wall are integrally molded integrally with the cover, the piezoelectric element is fixed, removably, on an intermediate flange, which is mounted on the cover with interposition of a seal, - the circulation means comprise a single pipe, ensuring the liquid path between the liquid collection volume and the at least one inlet, - the device comprises a secondary reservoir offset relative to the enclosure, this tank and the enclosure being connected according to the principle of communicating vessels, this tank being equipped with a liquid presence sensor and / or a float member, - the main orifice of diffusion is located at a altitude greater than the altitude of the outlet orifice of the nozzle, - the outlet of the ventilation means is situated at an altitude greater than the altitude of the outlet orifice of the nozzle. The subject of the invention is also a method for implementing a nebulization device as defined above, this method comprising the following steps: at least partially filling the internal volume of liquid, activating the circulation pump, the piezoelectric element is activated so as to form a jet of liquid, the ventilation means are activated so as to generate a flow of air, micro-droplets present in this jet of liquid are carried off, to form a micro fog, - this micro fog is evacuated through the diffusion orifice.
    According to other characteristics of this process, taken alone or in any technically compatible combination: the height of the liquid in the chamber is measured and the operation of the piezoelectric element is stopped or reduced, if the measured altitude becomes less than a predetermined value, - the rotational speed of the circulation pump is measured and the operation of the piezoelectric element is stopped or reduced, if the measured speed becomes greater than a predetermined value, - the power consumed by the piezoelectric element, and the pump is enslaved according to the value of this measured power.
    It is the merit of the inventors to have identified that at least some of the drawbacks of EP 0 782 885 are related to the fact that the liquid collection volume is integrated in a tank remote from the enclosure, in which is generated the jet of liquid. Therefore, it is necessary to provide specific conduits, to ensure the liquid communication between the remote reservoir and the nozzle. These pipes are at the origin of a dead volume of liquid. In addition, they may be prone to leakage, which is difficult to detect. Finally they are at the origin of phenomena of liquid stagnation, disadvantageous in hygienic terms.
    According to the invention, this liquid collection volume, intended for feeding the nozzle, is directly integrated into the nebulization chamber. This reduces the number of components of the device, and reduce the overall structure. In addition, the liquid can be conveyed between this collection volume and the inlet of the nozzle by a stream of simplified shape, which avoids losses and dead volumes. This liquid path being more direct, the risks of possible leakage are further reduced.
    This advantage, as well as other advantages of the invention, will become more clearly apparent on reading the description below.
    Description of figures
    Figures 1 to 13 illustrate embodiments of the invention, but do not limit the scope of the invention.
    Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view, illustrating the various components of a nebulization device according to the invention;
    Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views from two different angles, illustrating the nebulization device according to the invention.
    FIGS. 4 and 5 are cutaway perspective views, illustrating at two different angles the nebulization device of FIG. 1.
    Figure 6 is a front view illustrating the nebulization device according to the invention.
    Figures 7 and 8 are sectional views along the lines VII-VII and VIII-VIII in Figure 6. Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views at two different angles, illustrating on a larger scale a lid belonging to the device nebulization according to the invention.
    Figures 11 and 12 are perspective views with cutouts, illustrating at two different angles the lid of Figures 9 and 10.
    FIG. 13 is a view on a larger scale of the detail XIII of FIG. 2.
    The following numerical references are used in this description:
    detailed description
    The nebulizing device according to the invention, designated as a whole by the reference 1, firstly comprises an elongated enclosure 2, of cylindrical shape, which defines an interior volume. The main axis A2 of this chamber 2 is substantially vertical in use, as will be explained in the following. This enclosure 2 comprises a body 3, 4 and a lid 5 attached to the body, advantageously in a removable manner.
    The body is formed by a closed bottom 3, whose section tapers downwards, as well as by lateral walls 4 extending from this bottom 3. These walls 4 define a main opening, which is closed by means of the aforesaid lid. The latter is attached to the upper end of the side walls by any appropriate means, in particular by elastic snap. At its lower end, the chamber 2 is equipped with a base 2 ', projecting downwards from the bottom 3. This base is equipped with fixing means, preferably removable, in particular by screwing, on a support. The latter may be, for example, a structural element of a motor vehicle.
    It can be provided that the body 3,4 and the cover 5 are made of different materials. Thus, the body can be made of aluminum or stainless steel, which is advantageous in hygienic terms. Moreover, the cover may be made of a moldable material, in particular a plastic material such as a composite of the PPS type, which is advantageous in terms of manufacture. It is also possible that the cover can pivot, by sliding relative to the walls 4. In this way, the direction in which the liquid is nebulized can be changed without having to move the body.
    This cover 5 is hollowed out with a recess 6, around the periphery of which is fixed a ventilation means 7, of a type known per se. This fan 7, which has an inlet 7 ', is able to blow the air through a so-called ventilation channel C7 via a cut-out 7 "placing this channel in communication with the notch 6. Furthermore, a hole 8 is practiced substantially in the center of the lid. The walls of this bore 8 define a receiving seat S1 for a nebulization nozzle, generally designated by the reference 20, as will be described in more detail in the following.
    The lid is equipped with two skirts 9 and 10, which delimit three distinct channels, in the upper part of the enclosure. First of all, the above-mentioned ventilation channel C7 and a so-called nebulization channel C20 extend below respectively the fan and the nebulization chamber. Finally, the skirt 10 separates the nebulization channel with respect to a channel 11 said intermediate diffusion. The three channels defined above have main axes, which are substantially parallel to that A2.
    The intermediate channel 11 communicates with a downstream channel 12 of diffusion, whose main axis is however substantially horizontal. This downstream channel opens into a diffusion nozzle 13 protruding radially from the walls of the enclosure. This tip delimits, in its downstream part, a main diffusion orifice 14. The transition between the channels respectively intermediate and downstream is provided by a wall 15 of the cover, forming deflector. This wall has a rounded profile, typically in the form of a circular arc, in particular a quarter circle. At their lower end, the three channels C7, C20 and 11 open into a main chamber 16, or common chamber, whose section corresponds to that of the enclosure. This chamber is provided with a deflector 17 which, according to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, has come from molding with the cover 5. Under these conditions, when the cover is detached from the side walls 4, substantially all of the interior volume of the speaker is accessible in a simple way. It is then possible to carry out any desirable maintenance operation, such as cleaning the tank, changing the pump if it is immersed in the main enclosure, or access to a possible disinfection element. .
    This deflector 17 has a rounded shape, whose concavity is turned upwards. It has a descending profile, from the outlet of the ventilation channel to the outlet of the intermediate channel. This deflector 17 does not extend over the entire width of the enclosure so that, opposite its fixing area, it defines a passage 18 for the flow of liquid to the bottom 3, by gravity.
    Figures 4, 5 and 7 illustrate, more specifically, the fixing of the concentration nozzle 20 on the lid 5. The nozzle 20 has a side wall, which defines an interior volume adapted to contain the liquid to be sprayed. The inner cross section of this wall has a progressive narrowing towards a liquid outlet orifice 21. Opposite this orifice 21, the aforesaid internal volume is closed by a piezoelectric (ceramic) element 22, with the interposition of a flange 26. The element 22 is able to emit acoustic waves in the liquid. The inner wall of said nozzle is typically made of a hard material capable of reflecting the acoustic waves generated by said piezoelectric element 22.
    The convergent shape of the inner walls of the nozzle 20 is determined so as to focus the ultrasonic sonic waves at a location close to the central portion of the outlet orifice 21. This makes it possible to generate a mist of microdroplets of the liquid to spray when the nozzle is filled with liquid and when the ceramic 22 emits acoustic waves of appropriate frequency and intensity. The convergent shape of the inner walls of the nozzle is advantageously parabolic, which improves the efficiency. Preferably, the shape of the inner walls of the nozzle 20 shows a radial symmetry. In general, the piezoelectric ceramic element 22 is preferably of cylindrical shape, typically a circular shaped plate. By way of example, it may have a diameter of 20 mm or 25 mm. The outlet orifice 21 is preferably circular in shape. In one embodiment, its diameter is between 2 and 10 mm, and advantageously between 4 and 6 mm. The inside height of the nozzle is typically between 30 mm and 40 mm, knowing that this distance corresponds to the near field of the ultrasound generated by the piezoelectric ceramic 22.
    In known manner, the nozzle 20 comprises at least one liquid inlet for admitting the liquid to be sprayed into the interior volume of the nozzle. Preferably, a plurality of intake orifices are arranged around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle, in an area close to the piezoelectric ceramic element. In the present embodiment, there are four intake orifices 23 regularly distributed around the periphery of the nozzle, of which only two are represented. The inlet section of the nozzle 20, namely the sum of the surfaces of the intake ports, is advantageously greater than the section of the outlet orifice, preferably at least three times greater, in order to prevent a lack of water and avoid the phenomenon of cavitation in the nozzle. This condition is fulfilled for example with four inlet ports with a diameter of 5 mm for an outlet orifice with a diameter of 6 mm.
    A shank 51, belonging to the cover 5, protrudes upwards from the perimeter of the bore 8. At its upper end, the periphery of this shank 51 defines a seat S2 for the aforementioned clamp 26. More precisely, the piezoelectric element has screw holes 53, which penetrate into first holes 26 'of the flange, for mutual attachment. This flange also has second orifices 26 ", for the passage of additional screws (not shown), which penetrate into facing orifices 51 'provided on the seat S2. A first seal 54 is crushed between the flange 26 and the second seat S2, while a second seal 55 is crushed between the nozzle 20 and the first seat S1.
    The outer face of the wall of the nozzle delimits, with the facing faces of the barrel 51, an annular space 25 forming a pressurizing chamber for the liquid. In operation, this chamber is permanently filled with liquid, which ensures optimal operation of the piezoelectric element, even in disturbed conditions. This chamber 25 is supplied with liquid, from the collection volume, via a pipe 31 which will be described below. In addition, this chamber 25 communicates with the interior volume of the nozzle, via the intake ports 23. The presence of the flange 26 is advantageous, since it allows firstly to close the pressurizing chamber 25 with a particularly satisfactory seal. In addition, it provides a removable attachment of the piezoelectric element, which can be replaced quickly and simply.
    The ultrasound frequency is advantageously between 1.3 MHz and 3 MHz. It can be for example 1.68 MHz. The piezoelectric element can typically absorb a large electrical power, for example 40 W for a diameter of 20 mm. About 40% of this power is rendered as acoustic energy transmitted to the liquid, the rest is dissipated in thermal form. For this reason, during its operation, the piezoelectric element must be constantly cooled by the liquid in order to avoid its deterioration by overheating.
    As illustrated in particular in Figure 7, the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 20 is substantially parallel to the main axis A2 of the enclosure, namely that it is generally vertical. According to the invention, provision may be made for this longitudinal axis to be inclined with respect to the vertical, at an angle of between -20 ° and + 20 °, in particular between -10 ° and + 10 °. The value of this angle is considered "at rest", ie when the device according to the invention is mounted on a support, such as a vehicle or a stall, which rests on a horizontal ground in the absence of dynamic disturbance.
    The nozzle 20 is supplied with liquid by the pipe 31 mentioned above, associated with a so-called circulation pump 30. As shown in particular in Figure 13, the pump 30 is mounted on the base 2 '. It has an inlet 30 'connected to the bottom 3 of the enclosure, and an outlet 30 "on which is connected the lower end of the pipe 31. The upper end of this pipe is connected to a nipple 33 provided on the cover 5, itself in communication with the pressurizing chamber 25, via a not shown channel formed in this cover.
    In this way, this pipe connects the inlet ports 23 of the nozzle and a volume VC, said liquid collection, defined by the bottom 3 and the lower part of the side walls 4 of the enclosure. In the example illustrated, the pump 30 and the pipe 31 are placed outside the chamber 2. However, as an alternative, not shown, it is firstly possible to provide that the pump is disposed inside. of this enclosure and communicates with the pipe 31 by any appropriate means. It is also possible that the pipe 31 extends, at least in part, inside this chamber. Note further that the invention offers an advantageous aspect, in that the circulation of liquid between the collection volume and the nozzle allowed by a single pipe 31. This is to be compared with the prior art represented by EP 0 782 885, where it is necessary to provide two pipes connecting the nozzle and the remote collection volume.
    Different types of pumps can be used. An adjustable flow pump is preferred; a value between 0.1 and 2.8 liters / min being well adapted to the dimensions of the nozzle 20 indicated above. In an advantageous embodiment, which is well suited to a miniaturized system usable for the passenger compartment of a vehicle, the circulation pump 30 may be a propeller pump. Advantageously, this pump absorbs a direct current and the voltage is adjusted to vary the rotational speed and therefore the discharge pressure at the outlet of the nozzle, which allows to change the characteristics of the jet of liquid exiting the nozzle.
    In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises, in addition to the enclosure, a secondary liquid reservoir 40. The latter, which is remote, is connected to the lower part of the enclosure by at least a conduit 42. In this way, the liquid present in the enclosure and the present in the secondary tank communicate according to the principle called "communicating vessels". This secondary tank is equipped, in its lower part, with a sensor 43 for the presence of liquid. In addition, a float 44, forming a level indicator, is received in the interior volume of this tank.
    The inventors have realized that when the piezoelectric element 22 runs dry even for a very short time, it may be damaged or even destroyed. To avoid this, the inventors have provided that appropriate means to prevent said piezoelectric element from functioning (ie does not emit acoustic waves or only acoustic waves of very low power) when the piezoelectric element n is not immersed in the liquid to be sprayed. These means can take different forms. In the example illustrated, the sensor 43 fulfills this function.
    In general, one can provide at least one means for detecting the lack of liquid and / or a means of detecting heating of the piezoelectric element and a feedback means on the power supply of said piezoelectric element. Said liquid lack detection means may be a level sensor, such as the one 43 or the like, or a presence sensor which cuts or regulates the operation of the piezoelectric element. This sensor may be an optical sensor or a capacitive sensor or an inductive sensor, but among these three, an optical sensor is preferred which has a better reliability. This sensor may be located in other places than that shown in the figures, particularly in the bottom of the enclosure or inside the nozzle itself. An ultrasonic sensor can also be used, acting as an analog sensor to measure the instantaneous flow rate of the system.
    Said liquid lack detection means may be a sensor which detects the presence of the liquid jet at the outlet of the outlet orifice of the nozzle. This means is less preferred because it causes a delay in the detection of an immersion fault of said piezoelectric element. Said means for detecting the lack of liquid may be a pressure sensor in the nozzle and / or at the outlet of the circulation pump.
    Another means for detecting the lack of liquid in the nozzle is a temperature detector at the surface and / or inside said piezoelectric element, which makes it possible to detect rapid heating of said piezoelectric element before it suffered significant damage. This detection can be done for example using a thermocouple. In the context of the present invention, thermal detection at the level of the piezoelectric element is however not a preferred embodiment: the means which detect more directly the lack of liquid, and at a higher stage, are preferred. early to which the lack of liquid has not yet disturbed the operation of said piezoelectric element.
    We can combine two or more detection means, selected from those that have just been presented and / or from those which will be below. The device according to the invention is finally equipped with a control box 45, visible in Figure 1, which contains an electronic card 46, of any type suitable for controlling the device. This housing is provided with a cooling fan 47 of the card 46, associated with an air intake 48.
    According to an advantageous variant of the invention, the main diffusion orifice is situated at an altitude higher than that taught in the prior art, in accordance with EP 0 782 885. With reference to FIG. altitudes between this main diffusion orifice and the outlet orifice of the nozzle. DH is typically between 10 mm and 60 mm, especially between 20 mm and 30 mm. Other advantageous dimensional values, characteristic of the nebulization device according to the invention, are the following: difference in altitudes between the outlet orifice of the fan 7 and the outlet orifice 21 of the nozzle: between 5 mm and 30 mm, in particular between 10 mm and 15 mm diameter of the enclosure: between 30 mm and 150 mm, in particular between 70 mm and 100 mm total height of the enclosure: between 150 mm and 450 mm, in particular between 350 mm and 400 mm mm distance between the outlet orifice of the nozzle and the deflector: between 50 mm and 140 mm, in particular between 70 mm and 90 mm height H9 of the separation skirt between the channels C7 and C20: between 30 mm and 60 mm, in particular between 40 mm and 50 mm.
    The above values are considered in the rest position as defined above. The altitudes of the orifices are taken in the center of the latter. The distances are taken between the faces opposite the mechanical elements considered.
    Figures 4 and 7 show schematically the operation of the nebulizing device according to the invention, as described above. First of all, the interior volume of the chamber is filled in a manner known per se. The circulation pump is then started, so that the liquid circulates in a loop, via the pipe 31, between the nozzle and the bottom of the enclosure. At the beginning of this liquid circulation phase, the piezoelectric element is not yet activated.
    When the level of liquid in the chamber 2 and the secondary reservoir 40 is such that the level sensor 43 detects a presence of liquid, the piezoelectric element is put into operation. The liquid is then admitted into the nozzle 20 so that, under the action of this piezoelectric element, a jet J of liquid flows from the outlet orifice. This jet of liquid is directed generally downwards, which is advantageous on an energy level since it is not necessary to create a force opposing the weight of the liquid contained in the nozzle. Furthermore, the float 44 has a visual indicator function of water level in the main tray. From the creation of this jet J, the fan 7 is actuated so as to generate a flow of air materialized by the arrows F7. It will be noted that, upstream of the deflector, the air and the jet of water flow substantially in parallel, in the respective channels C7 and C20. This is advantageous because the air does not substantially disturb the creation of the nebulization, especially in the first centimeters of the jet immediately downstream of the nozzle. Indeed, the first five centimeters have a high nebulization efficiency compared to the rest of the jet. It is therefore advantageous not to disturb this zone, in order to generate a maximum of nebulization when the liquid is close to the deflector 17. Moreover, the presence of this deflector makes it possible to modify the direction of flow of the air, transversely to the jet of liquid. This ensures a good mixture between air and liquid, in order to extract the micro-droplets present in the latter.
    Moreover, this deflector avoids a direct impact of the jet in the volume of liquid collection, present in the bottom of the enclosure. This is advantageous, first of all in that this volume of water does not undergo untimely agitation, which would be due to a direct arrival of the jet. In addition, it helps to reduce noise and contributes to the overall comfort of users. Finally, this absence of direct impact avoids any substantial formation of air bubbles, which would be detrimental to the performance and reliability of the piezoelectric element.
    The airflow carries the micro-droplets of water generated by the nozzle around the jet of water. Thus forms a mist B of micro-droplets which leaves the main chamber 16 and flows along the intermediate channel 11 and the downstream channel 12. This fog is then projected via the diffusion orifice 14 into its environment destination, for example the passenger compartment of a vehicle. It will be appreciated that the presence of the curved wall 15 is advantageous because it provides an additional degree of separation between droplets of different sizes. The fraction of liquid, which is not carried away by the air flow, is then directed by gravity towards the bottom 3 of the enclosure, via the passage 18. This liquid fraction makes it possible to continuously supply the volume VC of collecting liquid.
    When the liquid level as detected by the water presence sensor 43 is insufficient to ensure that the piezoelectric element 22 is fully immersed, a feedback loop interrupts or decreases the operation of this piezoelectric element. If this level decrease continues beyond a certain duration, water is added to the interior volume of the enclosure. The addition of water can also be done permanently, continuously or discontinuously, for example using a peristaltic pump (not shown in the figures), in order to compensate for the loss of water due to the nebulization.
    According to an advantageous variant, it is possible to measure, continuously or at regular intervals, the speed of rotation of the pump. If we notice a sudden increase in this speed, this may mean that the pump is turning, not in the water, but in the air. In other words, the amount of liquid present in the device is insufficient. The aforementioned feedback loop acts on the piezoelectric element, in a similar manner to that described in the previous paragraph.
    According to another advantageous variant, it is possible to measure, continuously or at regular intervals, the power of the piezoelectric element. If there is a sudden change in this power, this may mean that there is a lack of water in the nozzle or in the pressure vessel. The flow rate of the pump is then adjusted so as to adjust the flow of water as a function of the acoustic power (the flow rate of the pump must advantageously be increased as a function of the electrical power sent to the piezoelectric element).
    In FIGS. 4 and 7, reference is made to the so-called transverse axis of the device, which is perpendicular to both the main axis A2 and the so-called longitudinal axis L, connecting the fan 7 and the orifice 14. The first place is in the case where the device undergoes a strong acceleration, around this axis T, in a first direction materialized by the arrow T1. This phenomenon corresponds for example to the braking of a vehicle equipped with this device. The main axis of the enclosure, which is vertical at rest, then forms an angle with respect to this vertical, which is for example between 5 ° and 35 °.
    It is further assumed that the chamber has just been filled and that, therefore, the water level in this chamber and in the secondary reservoir is maximum. Due to the inclination of the device, the liquid level is no longer perpendicular to the walls 4. On the contrary, the liquid tends to occupy a larger fraction of the wall, on the diffusion orifice side, and a reduced fraction of the wall , fan side. However, because of the high altitude of this orifice, no substantial amount of liquid can escape through this orifice. Indeed, the upper level of the liquid, forming the collection volume, is located well below this orifice. Therefore, the overall quality of the nebulization is not generally affected by the high inclination of the device.
    It is now assumed that the device undergoes a strong acceleration, around the axis T, in a second direction materialized by the arrow T2, namely opposite to that T1. This phenomenon corresponds for example to the acceleration of a vehicle equipped with this device. The main axis of the enclosure, which is vertical at rest, then forms an angle with respect to this vertical, which is for example between 5 ° and 35 °. It is further assumed that the chamber has just been filled and that, therefore, the water level in this chamber and in the secondary reservoir is maximum. Because of the inclination of the device, the liquid level is no longer perpendicular to the walls 4. The liquid now tends to occupy a larger fraction of the wall, on the fan side, and a reduced fraction of the wall, orifice side of diffusion.
    However, because of the high altitude of the fan, no substantial amount of liquid can reach the latter. Indeed, the upper level of liquid is located well below the fan outlet. Therefore, the overall good operation of the latter is preserved, even at a high inclination of the device. The invention is not limited to the examples described and shown.
    Indeed, it can be provided that the fan 7 is not mounted on the cover. In this case, the latter is fixed on the side wall of the enclosure, in particular in the upper part thereof.
    It can also be provided that the deflector 17 is not integral with the cover. In this case, it may be integral with the walls of the enclosure, or may be attached to these walls or to this cover, by any appropriate means.
    It is also possible that the main diffusion orifice 14 is not formed in the lid. In this case, it can for example be made in the walls of the enclosure.
    It can further be provided that the liquid diffused through the orifice 14 contains an additive of any desired type, for purposes of disinfection, deodorization or the like. In this spirit, providing an essential oil-based additive is advantageous.
    It is also possible to equip the device according to the invention with a means for disinfecting the liquid contained in the enclosure. Such a means of disinfection can be of any appropriate type, in particular by thermal shock (heating resistor) or based on UV LED (Light Emitting Ultraviolet Diodes).
    It can further be provided that the nebulization device according to the invention has at least two diffusion orifices. For example, with reference to the illustrated example, one can provide three orifices similar to that 14, regularly distributed angularly, in order to be able to diffuse liquid in several directions of space. It can also provide at least one additional orifice, capable of ensuring a liquid diffusion upwards.
    权利要求:
    Claims (13)
    [1" id="c-fr-0001]
    Nebulizing device (1) comprising: - a nebulizing nozzle (20) provided with at least one liquid inlet (23) and at least one liquid outlet (21), provided lower part of said nozzle, as well as a piezoelectric element (22), provided in the upper part of said nozzle, able to emit acoustic waves in said liquid, the main axis of the nozzle being inclined with respect to the vertical at an angle between -20 ° and + 20 °, in particular between -10 ° and + 10 °, in particular at an angle of 0 °, a nebulizing chamber (2) comprising at least one diffusion orifice (14) , said nozzle being able to generate a jet of liquid inside said nebulization chamber, - a volume (VC) of liquid, said collection, adapted to feed the at least one inlet (23) of the nozzle; means (31) for circulation extending between the collecting liquid collection volume and the at least one inlet, - ventilation means (7), adapted to generate a gas flow intended to drive a portion of the liquid, leaving the nozzle, towards the at least one diffusion orifice (14) said nebulizing device being characterized in that the collection volume (VC) of liquid is integrated with the nebulization chamber (2).
    [2" id="c-fr-0002]
    2. Nebulizing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the enclosure comprises a bottom (3), an upper wall (5) and side walls (4) connecting the bottom and the upper wall, the collection volume ( VC) being delimited by the bottom and a part of the side walls.
    [3" id="c-fr-0003]
    3. Nebulizing device according to claim 2, characterized in that the upper wall is formed by a cover (5) reported, in particular removably, on the side walls (4) of the chamber, the nebulizing nozzle (20). ) being fixed on this lid.
    [4" id="c-fr-0004]
    4. Nebulizing device according to claim 3, characterized in that the walls facing the cover (5) and the nebulizing nozzle (20) define a chamber (25) for pressurizing liquid, the or each orifice of inlet (23) communicating with this pressurizing chamber.
    [5" id="c-fr-0005]
    Nebulizing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a deflector (17) is provided below the outlet orifice (21) of the nozzle, so as to receive the jet of liquid and to avoid the direct flow of the latter towards the bottom of the enclosure.
    [6" id="c-fr-0006]
    6. Nebulizing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the deflector (17) is integrally molded, with the cover (5).
    [7" id="c-fr-0007]
    Nebulizing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ventilation means and the nebulizing nozzle are placed above respective ventilation (C7) and nebulization (C20) channels, extending in the interior volume of the enclosure, these channels being separated by a first separation skirt (9).
    [8" id="c-fr-0008]
    8. Nebulizing device according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises an intermediate diffusion channel (11), opening into the main diffusion orifice (14), this intermediate channel and the nebulization channel (C20) being separated by a second separation skirt (10).
    [9" id="c-fr-0009]
    9. Nebulizing device according to claim 8, characterized in that the intermediate diffusion channel (11) is extended by a downstream diffusion channel (12), opening into the main diffusion orifice (14), this intermediate channel and this downstream channel being bordered by a curved transition wall (15) intended to separate drops of liquid of different sizes.
    [10" id="c-fr-0010]
    10. Nebulizing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a secondary reservoir (40), offset relative to the enclosure, the reservoir and the enclosure being connected according to the principle of communicating vessels , this tank being equipped with a liquid presence sensor (43) and / or a float member (44).
    [11" id="c-fr-0011]
    11. A method of implementing a device (1) nebulization according to any one of the preceding claims, said method comprising the following steps: at least partially fills the internal volume of liquid, activates the circulation pump, the piezoelectric element is activated, so as to form a jet of liquid, the ventilation means are activated, so as to generate a flow of air, micro-droplets present in this jet of liquid are carried in such a manner as to form a micro fog, we evacuate this micro fog through the diffusion orifice.
    [12" id="c-fr-0012]
    12. Process according to claim 11, characterized in that the rotational speed of the circulation pump is measured and the operation of the piezoelectric element is stopped or reduced, if the measured speed becomes greater than a predetermined value.
    [13" id="c-fr-0013]
    13. The method of claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the power consumed by the piezoelectric component is measured, and the pump is slaved according to the value of this measured power.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    EP3389874A1|2018-10-24|
    WO2017103548A1|2017-06-22|
    FR3045420B1|2018-02-02|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    EP0782885A1|1996-01-04|1997-07-09|Imra Europe S.A.|High efficiency spray device particularly for producing water microdroplets|
    FR2788706A1|1999-01-27|2000-07-28|Air Refreshing Control|Spray producer for spraying liquid has holes in walls of supply chamber allowing introduction of nozzle with supply holes inside supply chamber|
    FR3004971A1|2013-04-30|2014-10-31|Areco Finances Et Technologie Arfitec|NEBULIZATION SYSTEM FOR AIR REFRIGERATION|
    FR3070906B1|2017-09-11|2020-07-24|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|MOTOR VEHICLE NEBULIZATION SYSTEM|
    FR3070907B1|2017-09-11|2020-05-15|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|NEBULIZATION SYSTEM FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE|
    FR3070908B1|2017-09-11|2020-07-24|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|MOTOR VEHICLE NEBULIZATION SYSTEM|
    FR3086559A1|2018-09-28|2020-04-03|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|NEBULIZATION SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE|
    FR3086562A1|2018-09-28|2020-04-03|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|NEBULIZATION SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE|
    FR3086561A1|2018-09-28|2020-04-03|Valeo Systemes Thermiques|FLUID SUPPLY SYSTEM AND NEBULIZATION SYSTEM FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A SUPPLY SYSTEM|
    CN111085382B|2019-12-30|2021-06-11|北京航空航天大学|Non-nozzle type spraying device|
    法律状态:
    2016-12-28| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |
    2017-06-23| PLSC| Publication of the preliminary search report|Effective date: 20170623 |
    2017-12-19| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |
    2019-12-20| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 5 |
    2020-12-14| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 6 |
    2021-12-14| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 7 |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    FR1562576|2015-12-17|
    FR1562576A|FR3045420B1|2015-12-17|2015-12-17|SPRAY DEVICE WITH A PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE|FR1562576A| FR3045420B1|2015-12-17|2015-12-17|SPRAY DEVICE WITH A PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE|
    EP16829264.7A| EP3389874A1|2015-12-17|2016-12-19|Piezoelectric-transducer spray device, notably for a vehicle|
    PCT/FR2016/053545| WO2017103548A1|2015-12-17|2016-12-19|Piezoelectric-transducer spray device, notably for a vehicle|
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