Abstract:
Piezo aerosol and ultrasonic atomizer apparatuses are disclosed. In some embodiments, a piezo aerosol apparatus may comprise a piezo component defining an opening bonded to a metal plate defining a mist reservoir. The mist reservoir may define a plurality of apertures (or holes) orientated substantially perpendicular, and the opening of the piezo component may be located above the mist reservoir. The piezo aerosol apparatus generally defines a non-symmetric compound, while the ultrasonic atomizer comprises a piezo component and metal plate of substantially the same diameter in length. Other embodiments are also claimed and disclosed.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to piezoelectric fluid atomizers. More particularly, the present invention relates to piezoelectric fluid atomizers utilizing a tunnel and plateau formation. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Piezoelectric materials have the unusual characteristics that when subjected to a mechanical force, the materials, particularly crystalline minerals, become electrically polarized, and when the materials are subjected to an electric field, the material lengthens or shortens according to the polarity of the field and in proportion to the strength of the field. Due to these characteristics, piezoelectric materials have been used in a wide range of applications. For example, piezoelectric materials have been used in sensing applications, such as force or displacement sensors, and applications of materials with the inverse piezoelectric effect include actuation applications, such as in motors and devices that precisely control positioning, and in generating sonic and ultrasonic signals. 
     Piezoelectric transducers convert electrical energy into vibrational mechanical energy, such as sound or ultrasound, that is used to perform a task. Piezoelectric transducers are used to generate ultrasonic vibrations for cleaning, atomizing liquids, drilling, milling ceramics or other difficult materials, welding plastics, and medical diagnostics. One or more piezoelectric transducers can be used in an application. 
     Conventional atomizers typically utilize an ultrasonic vibrating component disposed at the lower extent of an atomization chamber. An electronic circuit that oscillates at an ultrasonic frequency drives the vibrating component, and the positive and negative leads of a fluid level sensor positioned along a fluid line in a liquid reservoir measures and maintains a safe volume of fluid. During operation, the ultrasonic vibrating component generates a sonic field that atomizes liquid in the reservoir. Since the liquid reservoir of a conventional atomizer is of an open design, the liquid must be maintained at a higher volume and level, with the ultrasonic vibrating component unavoidably requiring a larger sonic wave exciter surface area to generate a sonic field that is sufficient to atomize the liquid in the reservoir. As such, the design of conventional atomizers generally requires high power consumption and AC adaptors. Though atomizers may be actuated by hand operation, such atomizers are for personal use only and cannot be used to provide atomized fluids remotely. There are also other design elements that have hampered atomizer development and wider utilization in has not occurred. 
     What is needed are fluid atomizers that are compact, function with low power consumption, and that can be used remotely. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention generally comprises methods and apparatuses for providing atomized fluids. In particular, an apparatus of the present invention is compact and functions with low power consumption. Embodiments of the present invention comprise fluid atomizers that can be powered by AC current, or alternatively DC current provided by, including but not limited to, batteries and many other DC current sources. Aspects of the apparatus of the present invention may be controlled remotely. By using a timing means, the apparatus may be activated at any time to provide, for example, atomized fragrance, air freshener, or medicinal agents. Embodiments of the apparatus comprise piezoelectric atomizers comprising symmetric or nonsymmetrical piezo components. Embodiments of piezoelectric atomizers comprise a piezo component defining an opening that is bonded to a metal plate defining a mist reservoir. More specifically, the mist reservoir may define a plurality of apertures (or holes) oriented substantially perpendicular, and the opening of the piezo component may be located above the mist reservoir. 
     Methods of the present invention comprise providing atomized fluids using an apparatus disclosed herein. The atomic fluids may comprise fluids that affect the environment or persons or animals in the environment, including, but not limited to, fragrances, air fresheners, or medicinal agents. 
     Various objects, benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification when taken in conjunction with the appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A-C  are diagrams of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a tunnel formation. 
         FIG. 2  is an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a piezo component having a tunnel formation. 
         FIG. 3  is a diagram of an embodiment of a floating washer in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram of an embodiment of a floating washer holder in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a diagram of an embodiment of a conical spring system in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram of an embodiment of a holding system chamber in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 7A-C  are diagrams of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a plateau formation. 
         FIG. 8  is an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a piezo component having a plateau formation. 
         FIG. 9  is a diagram of an embodiment of a floating washer in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a diagram of an embodiment of a floating washer holder in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a diagram of an embodiment of a conical spring system in combination with a piezo component of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a diagram of an embodiment of a holding system chamber in combination with a piezo component of the present invention 
         FIG. 13  is a diagram of an embodiment of a piezo apparatus functionally connected to a container of fluid. 
         FIG. 14  is a diagram of an ultrasonic atomizer utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a diagram of the displacement of an ultrasonic atomizer utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 16A-C  are diagrams of multiple soldering types of ultrasonic atomizers utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a diagram of an ultrasonic atomizer utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a diagram of the displacement of an ultrasonic atomizer utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 19A-C  are diagrams of multiple soldering types of ultrasonic atomizers utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 20A-D  are diagrams of multiple soldering types. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention comprises methods and apparatuses for atomizing fluids. An apparatus of the present invention comprises a piezo ceramic disc attached (or coupled) to a metal diaphragm, for example, by gluing the piezo disc to the metal. The attachment of a piezo ceramic to one side of a metal plate or diaphragm is referred to as nonsymmetrical herein. The present invention comprises fluid atomizers made with nonsymmetrical piezo components. One aspect of an apparatus of the present invention comprises a ring-shaped piezo ceramic glued onto a metallic diaphragm. Prior art nonsymmetrical piezo components comprise a smaller diameter piezo disc attached to one side of a larger diameter metallic plate or diaphragm. 
     An aerosol apparatus of the present invention comprises a chamber and a mist reservoir formed in a metal steel plate or diaphragm. When the nonsymmetrical component is actuated, liquid is provided through the tapered holes in the roof of the mist reservoir. The liquid is supplied to the mist reservoir or chamber from a liquid source. The liquid source can be a bottle or any other container, and the container is optionally attached to the aerosol apparatus of the present invention. The liquid in the container may be transferred from the container to the mist reservoir by means for transferring the liquid. An example of such means includes, but is not limited to, a wick. One skilled in the art will recognize that a wick is generally a piece of material that conveys liquid by capillary action. The wick may include, but is not limited to, nonwoven materials, such as a nonwoven felt, woven materials such as a cord or strand of loosely woven, twisted, or braided fibers, or any material that draws liquid, for example, from a container to the top of the wick. An aerosol apparatus may further comprise a floating washer, a holder for the floating washer, a cap, means for supplying a current to the piezo component, and optionally, means for attachment of a liquid container. 
     Referring now to the drawings in which like numerals represent like elements or steps throughout the several views,  FIGS. 1A-C  display a diagram representation of a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The piezo aerosol apparatus  100  generally comprises a piezo component  105  and a metal plate  110 , also referred to as a diaphragm. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the piezo component  105  is shaped as a disc having a small circular section removed from its center region  120  to form a cylindrical hole (or opening)  125  in the center of the piezo component  105  (e.g., the piezo component  105  may have a doughnut or ring shape). The piezo component  105  may have a top surface  122  and a bottom surface  124 . The piezo component  105  may comprise a ceramic having piezoelectric properties. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that ceramic piezoelectric properties do not come from its chemical composition, but must include the proper formulation and be subjected to a high electric field for a short period of time to force the randomly oriented micro-dipoles into alignment (sometimes referred to as “poling”). Later, if a low-level electric field is applied in the opposite direction, the micro-dipoles undergo a dislodging stress, but the polarization of the ceramic bounces back upon removal of the electric field. This dislodging stress and bounce back of polarization causes the ceramic to vibrate, because of the transformation of mechanical strain to internal electric field shifts and vice versa. 
     The metal plate  110  may be shaped as a disc having a center region  130  and a cavity  135  with openings in the center region  130 . The metal plate  110  may also have a top surface  132  and a bottom surface  134 . The metal plate  110  may have a larger diameter than the piezo component  105 . The metal plate  110  may comprise gold, silver, copper, zinc, aluminum, steel, or any other conducting metal or, combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the metal plate  110  comprises stainless steel. 
     The piezo component  105  may be affixed onto the metal plate  110  so that the bottom surface of the piezo component  105  is adjacent to the top surface of the metal plate  110 . Additionally, the center  120  of the piezo component  105  is typically aligned with the center  130  of the metal plate  110  so that the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105  is situated proximate the center  130  of the metal plate  110 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there exists an adhesive layer  115  between the bottom surface  124  of the piezo component  105  and the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the adhesive layer  115  may include any appropriate bonding medium such as, but not limited to, glue, epoxy, or synthetic acrylic resins. The piezo component  105  and metal plate  110  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  may form a non-symmetrical compound that will produce vibration when a voltage, AC or DC or pulsating DC generated for example by an electronic timing circuit, is applied to the piezo component  105  and the metal plate  110 . 
       FIG. 2  displays a diagram representation of the construction of a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The metal plate  110  may comprise a mist reservoir  205  and tapered holes  210  through which small amounts of a liquid may be transported from the mist reservoir  205  to the top  132  of the metal plate  110  and beyond. The mist reservoir  205  may be generally located in the center region  130  of the bottom surface  134  of the metal plate  110 . In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mist reservoir  205  may have approximately the same diameter as the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . Accordingly, the mist reservoir  205  may also be of a cylindrical shape and may be positioned directly under the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . 
     The mist reservoir  205  may be a cavity or engraving in the bottom surface  134  of the metal plate  110 . The mist reservoir  205  forms an enclosure that is bounded on the top by the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110  having tapered holes  210  therein, and is open on the bottom for contact with the wick. In other words, the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110  remains intact, except for the tapered holes  210 , forming the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205 . The roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  may be located at the center portion of the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110  includes tapered holes  210 . The tapered holes  210  may be made, for example, by laser drilling or etching the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . The tapered holes  210  may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  and provide a path for liquid to travel from the mist reservoir  205 . The mist reservoir  205  allows liquid to be sprayed or vaporized through the tapered holes  210  when the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  is actuated. 
     The construction of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , as described above, results in the resonance of an ultrasonic frequency having an effective and power amplitude and output at the central region  120  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , when actuated with a radial mode of vibration. The effectiveness of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  is realized by two non-parallel waves of displacement occurring at the same time. First, the greatest amount of displacement occurs at the central region  120  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , which is caused by a powerful ultrasonic frequency generated by a vertical mode of vibration. The ultrasonic frequency amplitude and output is greatest at the central region  120 . Accordingly, orienting the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 , the mist reservoir  205 , and the tapered holes  210  at the center  120  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  takes advantage of the displacement. Second, the regions of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  extending outwardly from its center experience displacement that gradually decreases in amplitude and output. Accordingly, the displacement near the center  120  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  has a higher ultrasonic frequency, with higher amplitude and output, than the displacement near the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . Additionally, if the outer edge  220  or the boundary area of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  is fixed or restrained, then the displacement at the outer edge  220  is approximately equal to zero. Although the axial resonance of the outer edge  220  is weak, the displacement at the outer edge  220  effectively supports the actuated piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , provided that the displacement does not remain at zero, for example, the outer edge is not fixed or restrained. 
     As described above, the displacement at the outer edge  220  effectively supports the actuated piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , so long as the outer edge  220  is not fixed. A restrained or fixed outer edge  220  would interfere with the effectiveness of the actuated piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . Consequently, the holder or holding of the piezo aerosol apparatus should not restrain or fix the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . Instead, the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  should be as free to move as possible during actuation. 
       FIG. 3  displays a diagram representation of a floating washer  305  applied to a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. To keep the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  as free as possible during actuation, a floating washer  305  may be utilized with the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . The floating washer  305  may be generally shaped as a dome. The floating washer  305  may be placed over the top of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  without interfering with the functionality of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . The floating washer  305  provides a chamber  310  for the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  to reside. The outer edge  315  of the floating washer  305  may form a vertical wall  320 , where the inner side  325  of the vertical wall is proximate to or adjacent with the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the inner side  325  of the vertical wall  320  is close enough to adequately orient the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , but does not fix or restrain the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . Additionally, the inner side  325  of the vertical wall  320  of the floating washer  305  is situated proximate to the outer edge  220  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  so that the floating washer  305  does not disturb resonance during actuation of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . 
     The vertical wall  320  of the floating washer  305  includes a corner  335  where the inner wall  325  and the bottom  340  of the floating washer  305  (e.g., the dome ceiling) meet. This corner  335 , as well as the height of the vertical wall  320 , effectively restricts the upward movement of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  during actuation. The center portion  350  of the floating washer  305  has tapered holes therethrough so that the liquid from the mist reservoir of piezo aerosol apparatus may be transmitted through the floating washer. The center portion  350  is aligned with the center portion of the piezo aerosol apparatus. For example, the cap may have one opening on its central axis through which the atomized fluid is ejected. In action then, the liquid is wicked into the mist reservoir and is transmitted through the openings in the mist reservoir roof, through the hole in the floating washer, through the center of the spring and the opening in the cap. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that the floating washer  305  may be constructed of any appropriate material, which may be selected to maximize the support of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  while allowing the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  the freedom to effectively vibrate. Suitable materials include plastics or low density metal plate, including but not limited to polyacetals such as Derlin, polyoxymethlylene (POM), polypropylene, PP, Nylon and other polyamides, (PA) and aluminum. Suitable materials may be any light weight material that provides the functionality of the floating washer and are not effected by the liquid dispensed from the mist reservoir, such as organic solvents. 
       FIG. 4  displays a diagram representation of a floating washer holder  405  applied to a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. To ensure that the floating washer  305  remains properly in place around the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , the present invention may include a floating washer holder  405 . The floating washer holder  405  may include a vertical wall  410 , where the inner side  415  of the vertical wall  410  is proximate the outer wall  315  (e.g., outer edge) of the floating washer  305 . The bottom of the vertical wall  410  meets perpendicularly with the floor  420  of the floating washer holder  405 , so that a cross-sectional view of the floating washer holder  405  generally resembles the shape of the letter “L.” The floor  420  of the floating washer holder  405  is long enough to adequately support the floating washer  305  and the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , but does not interfere with the mist reservoir  205  of the metal plate  110 . The floating washer holder  405 , therefore, allows a wick (not shown) to freely contact the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  (e.g., near the mist reservoir  205 ). Accordingly, the floating washer holder  405  enables a wick to contact the mist reservoir of piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . Such a floating washer holder  405  assists in enhancing the freedom of the piezo aerosol apparatus to vibrate freely during resonance. 
       FIG. 5  displays a diagram representation of a conical spring system  505  applied to a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation with a floating washer in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The present invention may include a conical spring system  505  to assist the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  to properly engage substantially all of a wick  550  top surface with the lower opening of the mist reservoir  205 , no matter how the wick  550  moves or shifts to different angles. Generally, the conical spring system  505  may comprise a flexible material, such as very soft and thin brass. The conical spring system  505  is typically tapered with a varying diameter across its length. A small diameter end  515  of the conical spring system  505  is oriented adjacent to the outside roof  512  of the floating washer  305 , and a large diameter end  520  of the conical spring system  505  is orientated away from the floating washer  305 . To adequately support the small diameter end  515  of the conical spring system  505 , there may exist a depression  525  (or indentation) on the center of the roof or, the dome  512  of the floating washer  305 . The depression  525  provides a place for the small diameter end  515  of the conical spring system  505  to reside. The conical spring system  505  provides a smooth transition of tension and force from the large end  520  of the conical spring system  505  to the small diameter end  515  of the conical spring system  505 . The conical spring system  505 , therefore, provides the ability of the floating washer  305  and piezo aerosol apparatus  100  to accommodate any movement of the wick  550 . 
       FIG. 6  displays a diagram representation of a holding system chamber  605  applied to a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a tunnel formation with a conical spring system  505  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The holding system chamber  605  generally comprises a base  650  and a cap  660 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the wick  550  extends from a container  640  to the lower opening of the mist reservoir  205 . To provide the conical spring system  505  with the necessary tension, the present invention may include a holding system chamber  605  placed over the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , floating washer  305 , floating washer holder  405 , and conical spring system  505   
     The holding system chamber  605  has a flat ceiling  610 , where the inner side  615  of the flat ceiling  610  encounters the large end  520  of the conical spring system  505 . The holding system chamber  605  may also include vertical walls  620  at the outer edge  625  of the holding system chamber  605 , where the inner sides  630  of the vertical walls  620  are adjacent to the floating washer holder  405 . The holding system chamber  605  may comprise any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, PP, PA and POM. The holding system chamber  605  acts as the cap  660  for the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , floating washer  305 , floating washer holder  405  and conical spring system  505 , where the holding chamber system  605  does not interfere with the performance of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . As shown, the large diameter end  520  of the conical spring system  505  engages the cap  660  on the inner side  615 , the small diameter end  515  engages the floating washer  305  enabling the floating washer  305  to float above the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , and the cap  660  is mounted to the base  650 . 
     In operation, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention as described above with reference to  FIGS. 1-6  may be applied to most devices utilizing a wick system. As designed, the wick  550  remains freely in contact with the mist reservoir  205  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , where the mist reservoir  205  is proximate the top surface of the wick  550 . As liquid is drawn to the top of the wick  550  from the container  640 , the liquid finds an outlet in the mist reservoir  205 . When an electric current is applied to the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , the ultrasonic frequency is strongest at the center  120  near the mist reservoir  205 . The vibration rapidly draws the liquid in the mist reservoir  205  towards the tapered holes  210  of the metal plate  110 . By the resonance of the metal plate caused by the piezo component  105 , the high-speed particles of liquid forms an aerosol when leaving the tapered holes  210 , and the aligned holes of the floating washer and cap. 
       FIGS. 7A-C  are diagrams of the displacement of a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  comprises a piezoelectric ceramic  105 , a metal plate  110 , and an adhesive layer  115 , similar to those described above with reference to  FIGS. 1A-C . This embodiment is a non-symmetrical piezo component in which a ring-shaped piezo ceramic  105  is adhered or attached to the metal plate  110 , preferably a stainless steel plate. In this embodiment, the metal plate  110  is formed to comprise a raised plateau  705  in the center region  130  of the metal plate  110 . As discussed for the other embodiments, the amplitude and frequency are highest in the central region. When actuated, the piezo component  105  generates a radial mode vibration during resonance 
       FIG. 8  displays a diagram representation of the construction of a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The raised plateau  705  may be formed by pressing a single thin metal plate, such as, but not limited to, a stainless steel plate, using processes known to those skilled in the art, such as a coining process. The raised plateau  705  may be formed in the center region  130  of the metal plate  110 , to create a mist reservoir  205  underneath the raised plateau  705 . The metal plate  110 , as shown in  FIG. 8 , may have the same thickness throughout, whereas an embodiment with the tunnel form of mist reservoir  205  may have a thinner center as does the metal plate  110  described in  FIGS. 1-6 . The raised plateau  705  is generally located at the center region  130  of the top surface  132  and is raised above the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the raised plateau  705  may have any diameter less than the diameter of the raised plateau within the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . Accordingly, the raised plateau  705  may also be of a cylindrical shape and may be positioned directly under the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . 
     The top surface  710  of the raised plateau  705  forms the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  located directly underneath. The roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  (e.g., the top surface  710  of the raised plateau  705 ) includes tapered holes  210  that may be made, for example, by a laser drill or by etching the top surface  710  of the metal plate  110 . The tapered holes  210  may be substantially oriented perpendicular to the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  and provide a path for liquid to travel from the mist reservoir  205 . 
     Other than the raised plateau  705  in the metal plate  110 , as described above, the construction and design of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  (including the floating washer  305 , floating washer holder  405 , conical spring system  505 , and holding system chamber  605 ) utilizing plateau formation is substantially similar to the construction and design of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing tunnel formation. Accordingly, the detailed descriptions above for  FIGS. 2-6  adequately disclose and describe  FIGS. 9-12 , respectively, and are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG. 13  displays a diagram representation of a piezo aerosol apparatus  100  functionally connected to a container  1305  of fluid  1310  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In operation, the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  (utilizing either tunnel or plateau formation) may be physically connected to a container  1305  (e.g., a bottle  1305 ), where a wick  1320  extends upwardly out of an opening  1325  of the container  1305  to become proximate to the mist reservoir  205  of the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . The wick  1320  may extend downwardly into the container  1305  and liquid  1310  therein. One skilled in the art will recognize that the liquid  1310  within the container  1305  may include, but is not limited to, water, oil, lubrication, paint, perfume, cologne, or any other appropriate liquid  1310  to be transformed into an aerosol. As the wick  1320  draws the liquid  1310  up to the mist reservoir  205  through capillary action, the vibration of the piezo component  105  transports the liquid through the tapered holes  210  of the mist reservoir  205  creating an aerosol of the liquid. To actuate the piezo component  105 , a power supply  1315  may be present and connected to the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 . The power supply  1315  may provide a voltage necessary to actuate the piezo component  105  at an ultrasonic frequency, thus causing the resonance necessary to vibrate the piezo component  105 . 
       FIG. 14  displays a diagram representation of the construction of an fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing a tunnel formation wherein the embodiment comprises a nonsymmetrical piezo ceramic and metal combination wherein the piezo component  105  and a metal plate  110  are similar to those described above with reference to the piezo aerosol apparatus  100 , except that the diameters of the piezo component  105  and the metal plate  110  may be substantially equal. 
     The piezo component  105  may be affixed onto the metal plate  110  so that the bottom surface  124  of the piezo component  105  is adjacent to the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . The piezo component  105  and the metal plate  110  have substantially the same diameter, the center region  120  of the piezo component  105  is aligned with the center region  130  of the metal plate  110  so that the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105  is situated at the center of the metal plate  110  and above the mist reservoir  205 . Additionally, there may exist an adhesive layer  115  between the bottom  124  of the piezo component  105  and the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . 
     Similar to the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing tunnel formation described above, the metal plate  110  may comprise a mist reservoir  205  and tapered holes  210  where small amounts of a liquid may be transported from the mist reservoir  205  through the tapered holes. The mist reservoir  205  may be generally located at the center region  130  of the bottom surface  134  of the metal plate  110 . In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mist reservoir  205  may be the same diameter or a smaller diameter as that of the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . Accordingly, the mist reservoir  205  may also have a cylindrical shape and may be positioned directly under the cylindrical hole  125  of the piezo component  105 . The mist reservoir  205  may be a cavity or engraving in the bottom of the metal plate  110 . The top surface  132  of the metal plate  110  forms the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205 . The roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  (e.g., the center portion  130  of the top of the metal plate  110 ) includes tapered holes  210  that may be made, for example, by laser drilling or by etching the top surface  132  of the metal plate  110 . The tapered holes  210  may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the roof  215  of the mist reservoir  205  and provide a path for liquid to travel from the mist reservoir  205 . The mist reservoir  205  provides for liquid to be sprayed or vaporized through the tapered holes  210  on the top of the metal plate  110  when the ultrasonic atomizer  1400  is actuated. 
       FIG. 15  displays a diagram representation of the displacement of an ultrasonic atomizer  1400  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The unique construction of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , as described above, results in the resonance of an ultrasonic frequency having an effective amplitude and output at the central region  120  of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , when actuated with a radial mode of vibration. When an electric current (or voltage) is applied to the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , the mist reservoir  205  (e.g., the center  130  of the metal plate  110 ) receives a significant displacement of output and intensity. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a wick (not shown) remains freely in contact with the mist reservoir  205  of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , where the mist reservoir  205  is proximate to the top surface of the wick. As liquid is drawn to the top of the wick the liquid finds an outlet in the mist reservoir  205 . During actuation of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , the vibration rapidly draws the liquid in the mist reservoir  205  towards the tapered holes  210  of the metal plate  110 . By the resonance of the metal plate  110  caused by the piezo component  105 , the high-speed particles of liquid leave the tapered holes  210 . 
       FIGS. 16A-C  display a diagram representation of multiple soldering types of ultrasonic atomizers  1400  utilizing a tunnel formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. An electrode  1605  may be applied to the top surface  122  of the piezo component  105  to assist in providing an electric current (or voltage) to the ultrasonic atomizer  1400  for actuation. One skilled in the art will recognize that an electrode  1605  is generally a solid electric conductor though which an electric current may flow. Lead lines from a power source (not shown) may be connected in the ultrasonic atomizer in several unique configurations. First, a lead line  1610  may be connected to an electrode  1605  formed on the piezo component  105 , and another lead line  1615  may be connected to the bottom of the metal plate  110 . Second, a lead line  1620  may be connected to an electrode  1605  formed on the piezo component  105 , and another lead line  1625  may be connected to a post  1622  coupled to and extending from the metal plate  110 . Third, a lead  1630  line may be connected to an electrode  1605  coupled to the piezo component  105 , and another lead line  1635  may be connected to the top of a shielded electrode  1640 , where the electrode  1605  and shielded electrode  1640  are separated. Each of these configurations allows an electric current to flow through the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , thus actuating the piezo component  105  and causing vibration. 
       FIG. 17  displays a diagram representation of the construction of a fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fluid atomizer  1400  comprises a piezo component  105 , a metal plate  110 , and an adhesive layer  115 , similar to those described above with reference to  FIG. 14 . The diameter of the piezo component  105  and the metal plate  110  may be substantially equal. The metal plate  110 , however, comprises a raised plateau  705  in the center region  130  of the metal plate  110 . The ultrasonic frequency is higher in output and amplitude at the raised plateau  705  (e.g., the center  120  of the actuated ultrasonic atomizer  1400 ). When actuated, the piezo component  105  generates a radial mode vibration during resonance. 
     Like the piezo aerosol apparatus  100  utilizing plateau formation described above, the metal plate  110  may be formed by pressing a single thin metal plate using a coining process. The raised plateau  705  may be formed in the center region  130  of the metal plate  110 , to create a mist reservoir  205  underneath the raised plateau  705 . The metal plate  110  is formed (or bent) to have the raised plateau  705  and, forms the mist reservoir  205 . 
     Other than the raised plateau  705  in the metal plate  110 , as described above, the construction and design of the fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing plateau formation is substantially similar to the construction and design of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400  utilizing tunnel formation. 
       FIG. 18  displays a diagram representation of the displacement of a fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing a plateau formation in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The construction of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , as described above, allows for the resonance of an ultrasonic frequency having its highest amplitude and output at the central region  120  of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , when actuated with a radial mode of vibration. When an electric current (or voltage) is applied to the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , the mist reservoir  205  (e.g., the center  130  of the metal plate  110 ) receives a displacement of output and intensity. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a wick (not shown) remains freely in contact with the mist reservoir  205  of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , where the mist reservoir  205  is proximate to the top surface of a wick. As liquid is drawn to the top of the wick the liquid finds an outlet in the mist reservoir  205 . During actuation of the ultrasonic atomizer  1400 , the vibration rapidly draws the liquid in the mist reservoir  205  towards the tapered holes  210  of the metal plate  110 . By the resonance of the metal plate with the piezo component  105 , the particles of liquid leave through the tapered holes  210 . 
       FIGS. 19A-C  are diagrams of multiple soldering placements for fluid atomizers  1400  utilizing a plateau formation with a similar sized diameter ceramic disc and metal plate, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Except for the use of a fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing a plateau formation (instead of a tunnel formation), the description for  FIGS. 16A-C  adequately describes  FIGS. 19A-C  and are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIGS. 20A-D  are diagrams of multiple soldering placements for fluid atomizers according to the present invention utilizing tunnel form and plateau form mist reservoirs wherein the ceramic disc has a smaller diameter than the metal plate. Except for the use of a fluid atomizer  1400  utilizing a plateau formation (instead of a tunnel formation), the description for  FIGS. 16A-C  adequately describes  FIGS. 20A-D  and are incorporated herein by r 
     Methods of the present invention comprise providing aerosolized fluids using embodiments of one or more of the apparatus disclosed herein. Piezo devices such as the present ones may also be used in other applications including, but not limited to toys and healthcare devices. For example, in toys where special effects are wanted, such as smoke from a toy train engine, the “smoke” effect could be made by aerosols from the piezo device of the present invention, without the need for fire or smoke from burning or chemical reactions. Additionally, soluble drugs can be expelled from piezo devices of the present invention into humans or animals for, for example, respiratory, oral or nasal routes of administration. 
     Whereas the present invention has been described in detail above with respect to an embodiment thereof, it is understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention, as described herein before and as defined in the appended claims. The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means-plus-function elements, if any, in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or acts for performing the functions in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed.