Patent ID: 6540153
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: A61M,B05B,B41J

Abstract:
A method for dispensing liquid droplets as an atomized spray, the droplets being ejected from a vibratable member having a front surface and a rear surface, the member having at least one tapered hole between the surfaces for dispensing the liquid, wherein the tapered hole has a larger cross sectional area at the rear surface than at the front surface, the liquid being delivered from a supply container, the method comprising:delivering liquid from the supply container to the rear surface of the vibratable member sufficient to cover the hole with liquid, wherein the liquid is delivered by a capillary feed system such that a film of liquid is held between the capillary feed system and the rear surface of the vibratable member by surface tension forces; vibrating the vibratable member to dispense at least a portion of the liquid through the hole and from the front surface; and delivering additional liquid from the supply container and to the rear surface in volumes that are held in surface tension contact to the rear surface of the vibratable member.