Patent ID: 6021776
Filing Date: 2000-02-08
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
An atomizer device, comprising:(a) means for holding a liquid;(b) an atomizing nozzle in communication with the means for holding a liquid and a gas outlet tube; and(c) a trigger valve system for providing controlled release of compressed gas to the atomizing nozzle, the trigger valve system including a tapered needle valve positioned in a needle support surrounded by a valve housing with a cap, the needle valve slidably disposed in a valve channel in the valve housing and in substantially coaxial alignment with the gas outlet tube the valve housing having a pressure relief port in communication with the valve channel, the needle support being movably engaged with the cap for retaining the needle valve within the valve housing, the needle valve being resiliently biased toward the cap;wherein when the needle support is depressed inwardly, the needle support seals the pressure relief port while the needle valve releases the compressed gas to flow through the valve channel into the gas outlet tube and to the atomizing nozzle, thereby withdrawing the liquid into the atomizing nozzle such that the liquid is atomized when mixed with the compressed gas in the atomizing nozzle.