Patent Publication Number: US-10322424-B2

Title: Electrostatic fluid delivery backpack system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/387,319 filed Dec. 21, 2016, entitled ELECTROSTATIC FLUID DELIVERY BACKPACK SYSTEM and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/270,430, filed Dec. 21, 2015, entitled ELECTROSTATIC FLUID DELIVERY BACKPACK SYSTEM, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/383,108, filed Sep. 2, 2016, entitled ELECTROSTATIC FLUID DELIVERY BACKPACK SYSTEM, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Infectious disease is too often acquired in places that should be safe, such as ambulances, hospitals, schools, restaurants, hotels, athletic facilities, and other public areas. These places are traditionally cleaned by spraying a fluid disinfectant onto surfaces and wiping down the surface with a cloth. Unfortunately, such cleaning methods have been shown to be ineffective. 
     An improved mechanism for spraying down surfaces uses an electrostatic delivery system that sprays an electrically charged fluid, such as a disinfectant, onto surfaces. In an electrostatic delivery system, a fluid such as chemical solution is atomized by a high-pressure air stream as it passes through an electrode inside a nozzle. Negatively charged particles are thereby induced onto droplet surfaces of the solution to form electric field charge within the spray plume of the solution. The electrostatic charge causes the fluid to cling to a surface to increase the likelihood that the disinfectant will cover and clean the surface. However, existing electrostatic delivery systems are unwieldy and inconvenient due to the power requirements of such systems. They are typically tethered to an electric cord or powered by air compressor or natural gas, which makes the system heavy. In addition, they are expensive. Cost and cording remain the two main obstacles to widespread adoption. In many cases existing corded products prohibit or restrict their use in applications where an extension cord is cumbersome, inconvenient, slow, and in some cases creating a safety concern by introducing a potentially dangerous tripping hazard. 
     In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved electrostatic fluid delivery system. 
     SUMMARY 
     Disclosed herein is an electrostatic fluid delivery system that is configured to deliver fluid, such as a disinfectant fluid, onto a surface by electrically charging the fluid and forming the fluid into a mist, fog, plume, or spray that can be directed onto a surface, such as a surface to be cleaned. The system atomizes the fluid using a high-pressure air (or other gas) stream and passes the fluid through an electrode inside a nozzle assembly to charge, such as negatively charge, droplets of the atomized fluid. The system uses a unique nozzle design that is configured to optimally atomize the fluid into various sized droplets. In addition, the system is powered by a DC (direct current) power system rather than an AC (alternating current) system to eliminate cumbersome power cords. In an embodiment, the DC power system includes a lithium ion battery. The device can electrically or positively charge a liquid or gas. In another embodiment, any of the systems described herein is powered by AC power source or any other type of power source including, for example, a solar power source. The system can also use, for example, an alternator or a Tesla coil. 
     In one aspect, there is disclosed an electrostatic sprayer device, comprising: a housing; an electrostatic module inside the housing; a reservoir having a cavity adapted to contain a fluid; at least one nozzle fluidly connected to the reservoir wherein the nozzles emit fluid in a direction along a flow pathway; a pump that propels fluid from the reservoir to the at least one nozzle; a direct current battery that powers at least one of the electrostatic module and the pump; an electrode assembly that electrostatically charges the fluid, wherein the electrode assembly is at least one of: (1) a first electrode assembly formed of a plurality electrodes electrically attached to the electrostatic module, wherein each electrode emits ions along an axis that is parallel to the flow pathway of the fluid emitted from the nozzle such that the plurality electrodes form a static electrical field through which the fluid passes; and (2) a second electrode assembly formed of a tube that fluidly through which fluid flows from the reservoir toward the at least one nozzle, wherein at least a conductive portion of the tube is electrically attached to the electrostatic module, and wherein the conductive portion of the tube physically contacts the fluid as it flows through the tube and applies an electrical charge to the fluid. 
     Other features and advantages should be apparent from the following description of various embodiments, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of an electrostatic fogger device. 
         FIG. 2  shows an exploded view of the device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  shows an enlarged view of a nozzle assembly of the device. 
         FIG. 4  shows a close up view of a nozzle surrounded by a charging ring. 
         FIGS. 5 and 6  show a backpack style fogger. 
         FIG. 7  shows an embodiment of a handheld fogger. 
         FIG. 8  shows another embodiment of a handheld fogger. 
         FIG. 9  shows another embodiment of an electrostatic fogger device. 
         FIG. 10  shows the device of  FIG. 9  with a portion of an outer housing removed. 
         FIG. 11  shows a nozzle assembly of the device. 
         FIG. 12  shows a nozzle assembly of the device with a nozzle tool attached thereto. 
         FIG. 13  shows a nozzle housing of the nozzle assembly. 
         FIG. 14  shows a nozzle component with nozzles. 
         FIG. 15  shows an electrode assembly. 
         FIG. 16  shows an electrode. 
         FIG. 17  shows a perspective view of the nozzle tool. 
         FIG. 18  shows an enlarged view of a handle region of the system. 
         FIG. 19  shows an enlarged view of a handle region of the system with a portion of the outer housing removed. 
         FIG. 20  shows an interior of a cap of a liquid or fluid reservoir of the system. 
         FIG. 21  shows a perspective view of the reservoir. 
         FIG. 22  shows a perspective view of the system with the reservoir removed. 
         FIG. 23  shows an exemplary embodiment of the pump of the system. 
         FIG. 24  shows an ion tube isolator that provides a positive or negative electrical charge to fluid flowing the tube isolator via direct contact with the fluid. 
         FIGS. 25A-26  show various views of a backpack style electrostatic fluid delivery system. 
         FIG. 27  shows the battery system of the backpack system. 
         FIG. 28  shows a perspective view of a sprayer. 
         FIG. 29  shows a partially exploded view of the backpack system with the tank detached from the base. 
         FIG. 30  shows the tank pivoting away from the base. 
         FIG. 31  shows an enlarged view of a hinge that locks the base to the tank. 
         FIG. 32A  shows a perspective view of the tank of the backpack system. 
         FIG. 32B  shows an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the tank showing a valve assembly. 
         FIG. 33  shows an enlarged view of a portion of the base and shows a valve assembly of the base. 
         FIG. 34  shows a perspective view of the combined valve assemblies of the tank and the base. 
         FIG. 35  shows a cross-sectional, perspective view of the combined valve assembly. 
         FIG. 36  shows a perspective view of the sprayer assembly with an outer housing of the sprayer assembly being partially transparent. 
         FIG. 37  shows a perspective, exploded view of the nozzle assembly. 
         FIG. 38  shows a perspective, cross-sectional view of the nozzle assembly in an assembled state. 
         FIG. 39  shows a side, cross-sectional view of the nozzle assembly in an assembled state. 
         FIG. 40  shows a perspective, cross-sectional view of an ion tube isolator. 
         FIG. 41  shows a perspective view of a nozzle tool that removably and mechanically couples to the nozzle assembly for manipulating the nozzle component. 
         FIG. 42A  shows a perspective view of an example pump housing of the system. 
         FIG. 42B  illustrates pumping process. 
         FIG. 43  shows another embodiment of a sprayer system. 
         FIG. 44A  shows a schematic diagram that illustrates an electrostatic charging process for the system. 
         FIG. 44B  shows a cross-sectional view of the system with the pump off. 
         FIG. 44C  shows the system with the pump powered on. 
         FIG. 45  shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a sprayer system. 
         FIG. 46  shows the system of  FIG. 45  with a portion of the outer housing removed to show internal components of the system. 
         FIGS. 47 and 48  show cross-sectional views of the system in the region where the reservoir removably couples to the outer housing of the system. 
         FIG. 49  shows a top-down of the system in the region where the reservoir removably couples to the outer housing of the system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before the present subject matter is further described, it is to be understood that this subject matter described herein is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such may of course vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing a particular embodiment or embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. Unless defined otherwise, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one skilled in the art to which this subject matter belongs. 
     Disclosed herein is an electrostatic fluid delivery system that is configured to deliver fluid, such as a disinfectant fluid, onto a surface by electrically charging the fluid and forming the fluid into a mist, fog, plume, or spray that can be directed onto a surface, such as a surface to be cleaned. The system atomizes the fluid using a high-pressure air (or other gas) stream and passes the fluid through an electrode inside a nozzle assembly to charge, such as negatively charge, droplets of the atomized fluid. The system uses a unique nozzle design that is configured to optimally atomize the fluid into various sized droplets. In addition, in a non-limiting embodiment, the system is powered by a DC power system rather than an AC system to eliminate cumbersome power cords. In an embodiment, the DC power system includes a lithium ion battery. The device can electrically or positively charge a liquid or gas. 
     The system is configured to electrostatically charge the atomized fluid via direct charging, induction charging, indirect charging, or any combinations thereof. In the case of direct charging, fluid flows through an electrically conductive tube or other conduit that is electrostatically charged such that the fluid contacts the tube and is charged by direct contact with the tube, as describe below. For induction or indirect charging, the fluid is passed through a medium, such as air, that has been electrostatically charged by one or more electrodes or pins that create a static electric field through which the fluid passes to receive c charge. The electrode may or may not be in the fluid stream. In an embodiment, the fluid is charged through both direct contact with the charged tube and by flowing the fluid through a medium such as air that has been charged with electrodes such as, for example, described herein. 
       FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of an electrostatic fluid delivery system  105  that is configured to electrically charge and atomize a fluid for spraying onto a surface. The system  105  includes a housing  110  that is sized and shaped to be held by a user. The housing  110  has an ergonomic shape that can be easily grasped and held but it should be appreciated that the size and shape of the housing can vary. In an embodiment, one or more vents or openings are positioned in the outer housing to provide communication between an inside of the outer housing and the outside such as for venting. 
     The system  105  may have one or more actuators or controls  120  that can be actuated by a user to activate and operate the system. A fluid expelling region  175  is located at a front of the housing  110  and has an opening through which atomized fluid is expelled. The system  105  also includes a reservoir  125  that defines a chamber in which fluid can be stored. The chamber of the reservoir  125  communicates internally with a nozzle assembly  205  ( FIG. 2 ) for supplying fluid to be electrically charged and atomized by the nozzle assembly, as described more fully below. 
       FIG. 2  shows the system  105  in an exploded state. The housing is formed of multiple pieces that connect to contain an inner region in which is housed a fan  200 . The fan  200  is powered by a battery, such as a lithium ion battery. An electrical circuit board converts the DC power to AC power for powering the fan. The system may include a stator coupled to the battery as well as a protection circuit module (PCM). 
     The fan  200  (or a pump) operates to blow fluid (gas or liquid) toward a nozzle assembly  205  in the fluid expelling region  175  of the system. The nozzle assembly  205  atomizes and expels fluid in a spray. As the fan blows air toward the nozzle assembly, it creates a pressure differential that sucks fluid from the reservoir  125  into the nozzle assembly  205  where it is atomized and expelled as a result of the fan  200  blowing air therethrough. It should be appreciated that other mechanisms can be used to blow air or to blow or otherwise propel liquid from the reservoir. In an embodiment, a piston pump is used to deliver air pressure to the nozzle tip. A piston pump can pull from the reservoir tank to push fluid or pressurize straight to the nozzle tip. For a smaller footprint embodiment (such as the embodiments of  FIGS. 7 and 8 ) a Pneumatics Micro Pump can act as a solenoid pulling fluid by a magnetic movement. The device can also include a pump that pulls a vacuum in the reservoir or fluid tank to cause fluid to flow out of the reservoir toward the nozzles(s). 
       FIG. 3  shows an enlarged view of the nozzle assembly, which includes an annular housing  305  having a central opening in which is positioned a nozzle  310 . The housing  305  has a conically or frustoconically shaped surface that can be curved or straight. The surface is shaped such that fluid from the nozzle  310  bounces back and forth along the surface to form a turbulent flow that atomizes the fluid. In an embodiment, the fluid is atomized to droplets in the range of 5 microns to 40 microns in size. The nozzle  310  is mechanically coupled to a drive assembly  315  that moves the nozzle  310  relative to the housing to control the size of the droplets. In this manner, the user can move the nozzle back and forth to achieve a desired plume profile. 
       FIG. 4  shows an enlarged view of the nozzle  310 . The tip of the nozzle  310  is positioned centrally within a charge ring  405  that is positioned within the housing  305  ( FIG. 3 ) in the assembled device. The charge ring  405  is positioned as such (deep inside the housing) to reduce the likelihood of a user touching the charged ring. The charge ring  405  is grounded and also electrically connected to a power source for achieving a positive voltage on the charge ring  405  during use. As the nozzle  310  expels the atomized fluid through the charge ring  405 , it positively charges the fluid. In this manner, the electrically charged plume of fluid will cling to surfaces that it is sprayed upon. 
     With reference still to  FIG. 4 , the nozzle  310  has a series of openings through which fluid is expelled. The openings communicate with an internal lumen of a tube  410  through which fluid flows from the reservoir  125  ( FIG. 1 ). The openings are arranged in a unique spatial pattern comprised of four openings with each opening positioned 90 degrees away from an adjacent opening so as to form a cross pattern. The openings can vary in size. In an embodiment, the openings are 0.063 inches in diameter. As mentioned, the nozzle can be connected to a drive assembly that varies the position of the nozzle to control the plume profile. 
     The electrostatic fluid delivery system may vary in size and shape.  FIGS. 5 and 6  show a backpack embodiment  405  that is configured to be worn on the back of user. The system includes a fluid tank  410  that is removably mounted to a frame  412  such that the tank  410  can be interchanged with another tank. The frame  412  is connected to a harness  420  or other support for mounting on a user&#39;s back, as shown in  FIG. 6 . The tank  410  is fluidly connected to a handheld nozzle  415  through which a plume of electrically charged fluid is expelled. The backpack embodiment can include any component of the other systems described herein, including the electrostatic configurations and removable reservoir. 
     In addition,  FIG. 7  shows another handheld embodiment  705  having a reservoir at a bottom of the device.  FIG. 8  shows an embodiment  805  that has a hand pump that can be pumped to generate a pressure differential that expels a plume of fluid out of the device. 
       FIG. 9  shows another embodiment of the system  105 . As in the previous embodiment, the system  105  has an outer housing  110  that forms a handle that can ergonomically be grasped by a single hand of a user. The system  105  includes at least one actuator that can be actuated to turn on and also turn off an internal pump, as well as a second actuator for turning on and off an electrostatics charger for expelling a plume of electrostatically charged fluid from a fluid expelling region  175  of the system  105 . The system  105  has a removable reservoir  125  for storing fluid to be expelled. 
     The system  105  ejects high voltage ions to the air by means of a plurality of (such as three or more) sharp, detachable high voltage ion discharge electrodes or pins of a predetermined spacing (such as at 120° spacing) from each other on a rim of a nozzle holder (described below with reference to  FIG. 14 ). The high voltage ion discharge electrodes are each positioned along an axis that is in parallel to an axis of a spray nozzle so that the spray and ions are emitted in the same direction and along a parallel axis and therefore the droplets in the spray are surrounded and covered by ion stream and can be efficiently charged when they meet the ion stream. The electrodes thus emit, propel, or otherwise send out ions or charge in a direction parallel to the direct of fluid flow or an average direction of fluid flow from the nozzles. 
       FIG. 10  shows the system  105  with a portion of the outer housing  110  removed to show internal components of the system  105 . The system  105  includes a pump  1005  that is powered by a battery  1010 . The pump  1005  is fluidly coupled to fluid within the reservoir  125  such that the pump can cause a pressure differential to draw fluid from the reservoir and into a nozzle assembly  1015 , which is described in detail below. The system  105  further includes an electrostatic module that is electrically connected to an electrostatic ring, as described below. The electrostatic module in an example embodiment is a 12 kV electrostatic module and it is configured to electrostatically charge an item, such as the electrodes, ring, and/or tube described below. 
     In an embodiment, a light  1017  is positioned at a front end of the system  105  in the fluid-expelling region  175  such that the light aims light toward the direction where fluid is expelled. The light may be an LED light, for example. The light can automatically illuminate when any portion of the system is activated. In an example embodiment, LED light has 100 lumens with the light being directly focused on the path of the liquid that is being sprayed out of the sprayer nozzle. The light can be in multiple colors to allow the user to illuminate florescent antimicrobial solutions (infrared light). In another embodiment the light is black light. At least a portion of the light or electrical components of the light may be insulated from contact with the electrically charged field. 
       FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of the nozzle assembly  1015 , which includes a nozzle housing  1105  having an internal cavity that removably contains a nozzle holder or nozzle component  1110  in which one or more nozzles  1115  are positioned. An annular electrostatic ring  1120  is mounted on a forward edge of the nozzle housing  1105 . The electrostatic ring  1120  forms an opening through which fluid is expelled from the reservoir and through at least one of the nozzles by virtue of the pump creating a pressure differential. An insulator element, such as a rubber ring  1125  is positioned on the electrostatic ring  1120  to electrically shield it from the outer housing  110  of the system. 
     There is a metal contact on the high voltage electrostatic ring  1120  that is exposed at a rear part of the electrostatic ring  1120 . A high voltage wire from the electrostatic module is soldered or otherwise electrically connected to this metal contact. The soldering point and adjacent exposed metal is completely sealed by epoxy or other insulator to avoid oxidation and leakage of ions from the electrodes. A ground wire from electrostatic module is connected to ground plate. As discussed, the ground wire is embedded in the handle of the sprayer so that it is in contact with the operator during operation. This serves as electrical return loop to complete an electrical circuit. The electrostatic ring is electrically charged so that it transfers the charge to the electrodes that are electrically connected to the ring. In another embodiment, the electrodes themselves are individually connected to the electrostatic module. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the system  105  also includes a nozzle tool  1205  that removably and mechanically couples to the nozzle assembly for manipulating the nozzle component  1110 . The nozzle tool  1205  is sized and shaped to be inserted into a front opening in the nozzle housing  1105 . When inserted into the nozzle housing  1105 , the nozzle tool  1205  mechanically couples to the nozzle component  1110  in a manner that permits the nozzle tool  1205  to lock and/or move the nozzle component  1110  relative to the nozzle housing  1105 , as described more fully below. 
     In an embodiment, the tool  1205  couples to and removes nozzle component by a counter clock turn and by pushing in until nozzle component decouples and can be removed. In this regard, pushing the nozzle component deeper into the housing using the tool causes a threaded portion of the nozzle component to engage a threaded nut or bolt of the housing that secures the nozzle component to the housing. The user can then unthread the nozzle tool and remove it from the housing. 
     The tool  1205  can also be used to adjust the three-way nozzle by turning it in a desired rotational direction. The user can select three different spray patterns by turning the nozzle component so that a desired nozzle fluidly couples to the reservoir. In this regard, a portion of the tool mechanically attaches to the nozzle component so that it can apply force to the nozzle component and rotate it until a desired nozzle is in a position that is fluidly coupled to a fluid stream from the reservoir. The system may include a mechanism, such as spring and ball, that provides a noise (such as a clicking sound) when a nozzle is in a position to spray fluid. 
       FIG. 17  shows a perspective view of the nozzle tool  1205 . The nozzle tool  1205  is sized and shaped to be grasped by a user. It includes a coupler region  1705  that can be removably coupled to a drive device, such as a wrench, or grasped by a user. In an embodiment, the coupler region  1705  is hexagonal shaped so that it can be mechanically coupled to a wrench including a socket wrench. The nozzle tool  1205  includes a cavity or seat  1710  that is size and shaped to receive the outer portion of the nozzle component. For example, the seat  1710  can have a shape that complements and receives the shape of the nozzle component  1110 . The nozzle tool  1205  also includes at least one opening  1715  that interlocks with a complementary-shaped protrusion  1405  ( FIG. 14 ) on the nozzle component  1110 . 
       FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of the nozzle housing  1105  without the nozzle component  1110  mounted therein. The nozzle housing  1105  has an elongated, cylindrical shape and defines an internal cavity  1305  sized to removably receive the nozzle component  1110 . The electrostatic ring  1120  is mounted at the front edge of the nozzle housing  1105  with the rubber ring  1125  positioned in a seat within the electrostatic ring  1120 . The rubber ring  1125  insulates a set of three electrode assemblies  1310  that are mounted on the electrostatic ring  1120  in a predetermined position and orientation. The electrodes assemblies  1310  are arranged around the opening of the nozzle housing  1105  around the nozzles of the nozzle component  1110  when it is positioned in the nozzle housing  1105 . In an embodiment, the electrode assemblies  1310  are positioned at 120 degree increments around the electrostatic ring  1120 . 
     The electrostatic ring  1120  includes the three electrodes (which may be made or stainless steel for example) that are electrically isolated by a rubber washer and rubber threaded cap, as described below. The electrostatic ring  1120  that holds electrodes is metal and is built inside of the nozzle housing. The electric static ring is isolated inside a nozzle housing that acts as a protective barrier. The electrostatic ring  1120  contains three internal threaded holes that accept the three electrodes. A rubber washer is inserted between the electrostatic ring  1120  and an insulator on each electrode. The rubber washer aids in tightening of the electrode to the electrostatic ring  1120  and also assists in avoiding leakage of ions from the electrode. The whole electrostatic ring  1120  is isolated inside the nozzle housing so that it acts a protective barrier. 
     The ring, when properly mounted, forms a safety gap between the discharge electrodes and the outer housing so as to minimize static leakage through the housing. The rubber ring isolates the nozzle housing from causing a charge to the sprayer housing. The rubber ring also isolates the nozzle housing from main body of the sprayer to prevent water from penetrating to a main body of the sprayer. 
     A hose coupler  1320  is located at an end of the nozzle housing and is configured to be coupled to a house or other conduit that communicates with the reservoir. The hose coupler  132  defines an internal passageway that communicates with the nozzles  1115  for feeding fluid from the reservoir to the nozzles  1115 . 
       FIG. 14  shows the nozzle component  1110 , which is sized and shaped to be removably positioned within the cavity  1305  of the nozzle housing  1105 . The nozzle component  1110  houses one or more nozzles  1115 , each of which is configured to deliver fluid in a predetermined plume or spray pattern. The nozzle component  1110  includes one or more protrusions  1405  or other structural elements that are sized and shaped to receive complementary structures on the nozzle tool  1205 , as described below. Note that the electrostatic ring  1120  with the electrode assemblies  1310  is positioned around the nozzles  1115  with the electrodes of the assemblies  1310  being aligned along an axis that is parallel with an axis of the nozzles. 
     Any of a variety of nozzle types can be used to achieve a desired flow pattern. There are now described some non-limiting examples of electrodes. In an embodiment, the electrodes include three example types as follows: 
     (1) A nozzle that provides a cone-shaped spray, with a flow rate of 0.23 L/min, 45° @3.5 bar, SMD=113 um, inner orifice=0.65 mm; 
     (2) A nozzle that provides a cone-shaped spray, with a flow rate of 0.369 L/min, 60° @3.5 bar, SMD=84 um, inner orifice=0.58 mm; 
     (3) A nozzle that provides a fan-shaped spray, with a flow rate of 0.42 L/min, 60° @3.5 bar, SMD=100 um, inner orifice=1.00 mm. 
     It should be appreciated that the aforementioned nozzles are just examples and that variances are within the scope of this disclosure. 
       FIG. 15  shows an electrode assembly  1310 , which includes a high voltage ion discharge electrode  1510  (or pin) and an insulation element  1520  positioned over the electrode or pin  1510 . The insulation element  1520  is sized and shaped so that it covers substantially all of the electrode  1510  and exposes only a front portion of the electrode  1510  in the form of a frontward facing conical tip that is aligned along an axis.  FIG. 16  shows the electrode  1510  (sometimes referred to as a pin) without the insulation element  1520 . Each high voltage ion discharge electrode in the system has the same structure shown in  FIG. 15 , a metal pin that is overmolded with plastic at the middle of the pin. Each metal pin has one sharp spike at one end and external screw thread at the other end. The insulation element, which can be plastic, at the middle of pin is for easy gripping during installation and removal, although the pins are not necessarily removable. The plastic is also used to insulate the pin and prevent it from releasing ions from body of pin. The electrode assembly can also be a set of electrode assemblies of the type shown in  FIG. 15 . 
     Thus, each electrode assembly  1310  includes an insulator element  1520  that can be formed of a rubber washer that covers a middle section of the electrode, and rubber boot that covers a front section except for a front most, sharpened tip. The rubber washer and a plastic or rubber cap (or boot) isolates the electrode and protects the electrode from static leakage such that only the sharpened tip is exposed and/or uninsulated. 
     Each high voltage ion discharge electrode is to be screwed into an internal screw thread on the high voltage ring  1120  coupled to the nozzle component  1110 . Except for its sharp spike at the end, each high voltage ion discharge electrode is completely covered and concealed by the insulator element after it is installed to the high voltage ring  1120 . 
       FIG. 18  shows an enlarged view of a handle region of the housing  110 . The handle region is ergonomically sized and shaped to be grasped by a single hand of a user. A trigger  1805  or other actuator, such as a knob, switch, etc., is ergonomically positioned so that a user can actuate the trigger with his or her finger when the other fingers are wrapped around a post  1810  of the handle region. A ground wire  1815  or other structure  1815  is embedded into the handle region, such as in the post  1810 . The ground wire  1815  is positioned so that it will electrically contact the user&#39;s hand when the user grasps the post  1810  during use of the device. In an embodiment, the ground wire is made of copper and is a copper strip of material that contacts the user&#39;s hand when the user grasps the device although other materials, such as stainless steel, may be used. 
       FIG. 19  shows the handle region with a portion of the outer housing  110  removed to show internal components of the device particularly with respect to the reservoir  125 , which is a container that encloses an interior cavity that contains fluid. The reservoir is removably attached to the housing  110  and includes a guide surface  1907  that slides into the housing  110 . In an embodiment, the guide surface  1907  defines one or more inclined guide projections that interact with the outer housing  110  to properly guide the reservoir  125  into the housing  110 . 
     With reference still to  FIG. 19 , a first detachment mechanism  1905 , such as a ring attached to a biased or tensions structure such as a pin, and a second detachment mechanism  1920 , such as a rotatable wheel or cap  1921 , that can be collectively actuated by a user to enable detachment and locking reattachment of the reservoir  125  to the outer housing.  FIG. 20  shows a view of the portion of the cap  1921  that communicates with and covers the interior cavity of the reservoir  125 . A one-way valve  2003 , such as a duckbill valve, is positioned in the cap  1921  and provides a vent for fluid to enter into the interior of the reservoir from atmosphere as the pump of the system pulls a vacuum in the reservoir. 
       FIG. 21  shows the reservoir  125 , which includes an opening  2005  that provides access to the internal cavity of the reservoir  125 . The opening  2005  is defined by a neck  2010  having one or more flanges or threads. The neck  2010  sealingly engages the first detachment mechanism  1905  and the second detachment mechanism  1920  of the system for detaching and lockingly attaching the reservoir to the housing. 
       FIG. 22  shows the system with the reservoir  125  and a portion of the outer housing removed. As mentioned, the first detachment mechanism  1905  is configured to attach to the reservoir. Specifically, the first detachment mechanism  1905  includes a spring loaded or tensioned structure that is biased toward locking engagement with a seat  2020  ( FIG. 21 ), structure, or opening in the housing of the reservoir. The first detachment mechanism  1905  is biased to automatically engage and lock with the seat  2020  (or other structure) and lock the reservoir  125  to the housing when it is inserted. In this manner, the detachment mechanism  1905  mechanically prevents the reservoir from being removed from the housing unless the user pulls on, disengages, or otherwise releases the first detachment mechanism  1905  from the reservoir. A user can disengage the first detachment mechanism  1905  from the reservoir by pulling on a structure such as a ring or tab of the first detachment mechanism  1905  to release it from the reservoir. Thus the user must pull out the first detachment mechanism relative to the housing and/or reservoir to release the reservoir from the housing. 
     With reference still to  FIG. 22 , second detachment mechanism  1920  is a rotatable structure such as a wheel with threads that engage the neck  2010  ( FIG. 21 ) or a portion thereof of the reservoir  125 . In an embodiment, the wheel of the second detachment mechanism  1920  is rotated (such as by a three quarter turn or other turn range) by a user once the reservoir  125  is attached to the outer housing. Rotation of a knob the second detachment mechanism  1920  lockingly and sealingly engages the opening  2005  of the reservoir to the knob and to internal conduits of the system that fluidly couple the fluid in the reservoir to the nozzles. 
     In this regard, an outlet conduit  2115  fluidly communicates with the internal region of the reservoir when the reservoir is attached and lockingly sealed to the housing. The outlet conduit  2115  can be fluidly attached to a pump inlet conduit  2120  of the pump  1005  such as via a hose (not shown). The pump  1005  has an outlet conduit  2125  that can be fluidly attached to the hose coupler  1320  ( FIG. 13 ) of the nozzle assembly. In this manner, the pump can create a pressure differential that draws fluid from the reservoir and drives it to the nozzle assembly. 
     In an embodiment, a hose or tube connects the outlet conduit  2125  of the pump  1005  to the hose coupler  1320  of the nozzle assembly. The tube (or other conduit) that connects the pump  1005  to the nozzle assembly may be configured to electrostatically charge fluid flowing through the tube by direct charging between the tube, which is charged, and the fluid that flows through the tube toward the nozzles. The fluid comes into physical contact with a charged electrode, such as the tube. This is described in more detail with reference to  FIG. 24 , which shows an ion tube isolator  2405  that electrically charges fluid flowing from the reservoir or pump and toward the nozzles. The ion tube isolator includes the tube  2410  through which fluid passes as well as a high voltage electrode assembly or module  2415  that is electrically connected to the electrostatic module and that is made of a conductive material such as metal. The module  2415  can include a lead where it can be electrically connected to the electrostatic module such as via a conductive wire. 
     In an embodiment the module  2415  is a conductive material, such as metal. In an embodiment only the module  2415  is conductive and the remainder of the tube  2410  is non-conductive and/or is insulated from contact with any other part of the system. The module  2415  may also be surrounded by an insulator that insulates it from contact with any other part of the system. As fluid flows through the tube  2410 , the module  2415  directly contacts the fluid as it flows and passes a charge to the fluid through direct contact with the fluid. In this way, the ion tube isolator  2405  electrostatically charges the fluid prior to the fluid passing through the nozzle. 
     Since molecules in an aqueous solution are polarized in nature, they can easily carry and conduct electricity from a charge source under high electrical potential (such as a positive electrode in the nozzle holder). Under high electrical potential, the aqueous solution and its path becomes conductive and therefore the charge can be carried to whole liquid system including the hose, pump and tank within the sprayer. 
     When the aqueous solution is sprayed, the charged solution is forced out through the nozzle and broken up into tiny charged droplets in the air. Because all droplets are carrying the same charge, they will repel each other forming a uniform fine mist in the air. With the help of electrical attraction force between the mist and the intended object, they are pulled like a “magnet” towards the intended object on which opposite charge is induced to its surface via ground. The fine droplets can spread with high mobility and therefore can reach the edges and even backside of an intended object to achieve the desired 360 degree coverage, which is sometimes referred to as a “wrap around effect.” 
     As unlike charges attract each other, theoretically, a positive electrostatic sprayer works the same way as negative electrostatic sprayer. A negative electrostatic module can also be used in place of a positive electrostatic module. In such a case, the droplets sprayed out carry a negative charge and positive charge will be induced on the intended object via ground to attract the negative charges droplets. The negative charge on the droplets will eventually be neutralized by induced positive charge on the intended object when it hit the surface of the intended object. 
     Although the sprayer can be powered by a DC battery, it can still “pump” electrical charges to the aqueous solution by means of the electrostatic module inside the sprayer. For electrically balanced system, opposite charge may be supplied to compensate the charge spent to the liquid system. This is effectively achieved by means of the ground plate on the handle grip, opposite charge can flow through the ground plate from user to electrostatic module to counterbalance the charge lose to the liquid system. 
     In an embodiment, the pump  1005  is a direct current (DC) pump although an AC pump or any other type of pump can be used as well. The pump includes a rotary motion motor with a connecting rod that drives a diaphragm in an up and down motion when activated. In the process of the downward movement of the diaphragm, a pump cavity creates a pressure differential such as by pulling a vacuum relative to the interior of the reservoir to suck fluid through the pump inlet conduit  2120  from the reservoir. Upward movement of the diaphragm pushes fluid of the pump cavity press through the pump outlet conduit  2125  toward the hose coupler  1320  of the nozzle assembly via an attachment hose that attaches the pump outlet conduit  2125  to the hose coupler  1320 . Any mechanical transmission parts and the pump cavity are isolated by the diaphragm within the pump. The diaphragm pump does not need oil for auxiliary lubricating, in the process of transmission, extraction and compression of the fluid.  FIG. 23  shows an exemplary embodiment of the pump  1005 , which includes the pump inlet conduit  2120  and the pump outlet conduit  2125 . 
     The type of motor used in any of the embodiments described herein can vary. In an embodiment, the system uses a constant speed motor such that the speed of the motor when in use is not vary based upon the remaining power and the battery. This constant speed ability can be achieved by a motor circuit or other electrical element positioned between the battery and the motor. The motor circuit intercepts and monitors the phase changing frequency and adjust the frequency or otherwise regulates the power signal to maintain a constant speed for the motor during operation. This constant speed of the motor has several advantages over variable speed motor including the following. 
     In a variable speed motor, the motor speed of the motor can vary based upon the motor input voltage. Thus, a higher input voltage result in a higher motor speed. This results in a variation in the output pressure of the pump as the charge in the battery varies, and the output pressure depends on motor speed. A fully charged battery that provides a higher input voltage to the motor can drive the sprayer at highest pressure and so the spray performance is strong. As the battery loses charge, the motor input voltage drops, which results in a reduced motor speed as well as a drop in the pressure the sprayer. As a result, the sprayer performance is reduced. Therefore, inconsistent sprayer performance can result from different levels of battery charge. With constant speed motor as described above, the constant motor speed results in a constant or uniform pressure output from the pump to the spray nozzles, which maintains a consistent sprayer performance that is not based on or independent of the battery voltage. 
     In an embodiment, the motor operates at a speed of 3000 rpm at 12V. The supplied voltage of the sprayer may be higher than 12V where the nominal voltage of the battery is higher. This can be the case even where a resistor is positioned in series in the power supply line. For example, the nominal voltage of the battery can be 14.8V. The peak speed of the motor (when the battery is fully charged) may attain about 4000 rpm. As higher the motor speed, higher the pump pressure and higher rate of wear which means shorter the pump life. 
     In use, the user grasps the system  105  and powers the pump so that it propels fluid out of the selected nozzle from the reservoir. As mentioned, the user can use the nozzle tool  1205  to both insert and lock the nozzle assembly  1015  to the system. The user can also use the nozzle tool  1205  to rotate the nozzle component and fluidly couple a selected nozzle to the reservoir. Thus the user can select a desired plume profile for the fluid. The system can also be equipped with just a single nozzle. The user also activates the electrostatic module so that the electrodes become charged and form an electrostatic field in the electrode ring. The fluid is propelled from the nozzle through the ring and through the electrostatic field so that the droplets of fluid in the aerosol plume become positively or negatively electrically charged. As mentioned, the electrodes and the nozzle are aligned along a common parallel axis. This directs the liquid or aerosol toward a desired object based on where the user points the nozzles. In an embodiment, the electrodes do not physically contact the fluid propelled through the nozzles. In another embodiment, the electrodes physically contact the fluid propelled through the nozzles. 
     Supercharging of Fluid 
       FIG. 44A  shows a schematic diagram that illustrates an electrostatic charging process for the system, referred to herein as electrostatic wrapping. As described below, the system is configured to electrostatically charge the fluid at two or more locations thereby resulting in an electrostatically supercharged fluid as the fluid exits the nozzle assembly. The system electrostatically charges the fluid within the reservoir (tank) via the duck bill valve in the upper region of the reservoir. As the fluid passes through the pump and through the electrostatic module, it is charged again at the metal ring of the nozzle assembly. This is described in more detail below. 
     With reference to  FIG. 44A , when a battery is installed inside the device, the user activates the trigger to cause charging of the (7 Kv) electrostatic module. The tank/reservoir has fluid inside. The pump, as mentioned, is a pneumatic piston style pump. The pump causes a pressure differential that opens a valve and starts to vacuum the fluid content out of the tank reservoir. In order for the tank not to collapse, the duck bill valve opens to permit ambient outside air into the tank. 
     When the pump opens and the power trigger is activated, the (7 kv module) becomes fully charged. The pump modulates as the pump valves open and close. The electrostatic state is moved between the tank and the nozzle of the device. The charge is a positive charge. When the pump starts to vacuum, the pressure differential propels fluid from the tank through internal fluid conduits until the fluid contacts the nozzle assembly, where the electric static metal or copper ring is fitted inside the nozzle housing. 
     The fluid is charged going through the nozzle housing in a positive charge. The pump valve opens and closes but so does the outside air, entering only through the duckbill valve, which allows positive and negative ions to inter the tank. This cycle allows the tank to be charged with positive and negative Ions. 
     When the valve open and allows fluid from the tank to pass through the piston style valve and the fluid hoses of the device, as well as the electric static tubing, the fluid reaches the nozzle assembly, where the fluid becomes supercharged with positive ions. Thus, when the fluid is sprayed at a negatively charged object, the positive ions in the fluid causes the fluid to wrap the negatively charged object, which causes substantial wrapping of fluid around the object. 
     The double charging process is described in more detail with respect to  FIG. 44B  and  FIG. 44C .  FIG. 44B  shows a cross-sectional view of the system with the pump off, while  FIG. 44C  shows the system with the pump powered on. When the pump unit is turned on as shown in  FIG. 44B , the electrostatic charge starts at the electrostatic charging ring and works itself back down the fluid output line and suction line, through the pump and into the tank, where the electrostatic charge causes all the ions to be positively charged. 
       FIG. 44C  shows the system with the pump powered on. The pump causes the fluid to move out of the reservoir (tank) and toward the nozzle assembly, which includes the electrostatic ring charging ring. All the positive ions from the tank are pumped from the tank, through the pump, and charged again at the electrostatic charging ring ( 3720 ), all prior to becoming atomized by the nozzle assembly. In this manner, the fluid is electrostatically charged at least two times along the fluid flow pathway from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly. 
     A combination of charging the fluid twice and charging prior to the fluid being atomized at the nozzle assembly enables the system to fully charge the liquid, rather than just charging an outer shell of the atomized particle thereby providing more charged particles. This also provides a greater wrapping effect for the atomized particle and enables the particles to hold the charge longer. The charging process described with respect to  FIGS. 44A-44C  can be used with any type of power source including AC power source or solar power source, for example, and is not limited to use with a DC power source. 
     Additional Backpack Embodiment 
       FIGS. 25A-26  show various views of a backpack style electrostatic fluid delivery system, referred to herein as the backpack system  2405 . The backpack system  2405  includes a tank  2410  that is removably mounted on the base  2415 . A system of one or more straps  2420  is connected to the base  2415  in a manner that permits the backpack system  2405  to be worn by a user, as shown in  FIG. 26 . A tubing  2425  extends outward from the backpack system  2405  and is fluidly coupled to the tank  2410 , as well as to a handheld sprayer ( FIG. 28 ), as described in detail below. The backpack system  2405  also includes a removable and rechargeable battery  2435 , as best shown in  FIG. 25 . The system can also include vents or openings for permitting heat transfer out of the system. 
     As shown in  FIG. 26 , the one or more straps  2420  are positioned and connected to the backpack system  2405  in a manner that permits the backpack system to be worn on the back of a user. The straps  2420  are arranged such that the straps can be positioned around the user&#39;s shoulder with the tank  2410  and the base  2415  positioned adjacent the user&#39;s back. 
       FIG. 27  shows the battery system of the backpack system. As mentioned, the battery system includes the battery  2435 , which removably attaches to a charger  2605 . The charger  2605  has a seat that is sized and shaped to receive the battery  2435 . A power cord  2610  extends from the charger  2605  and can be plugged into a power outlet for providing an electrical charge to the charger  2605  and the battery  2435 . As mentioned, the battery  2435  can be removably attached to the base  2415  of the backpack system  2405  for providing power to the backpack system  2405 . In an embodiment, the charger is a 12 volt charger although this can vary. 
     As mentioned, the backpack system  2405  includes a handheld sprayer  2705  for spraying electrically charged fluid.  FIG. 28  shows a perspective view of the sprayer  2705 . The sprayer  2705  is a handheld structure that is sized and shaped to be grasped by a single hand of a user. The sprayer  2705  includes a handle region  2710  that can be grasped within the palm of a user such that the user can wrap his or her fingers around the handle region  2710 . A first actuator  2712  is movably mounted on the handle region world  2710  such that a user can actuate the first actuator  2712  such as by squeezing on the first actuator  2712 . In an embodiment, the user activates a pump of the backpack system  2405  by pressing on the first actuator  2712  to cause fluid to be expelled out of the sprayer  2705  as described below. 
     The sprayer  2705  also includes a second actuator  2714  that is ergonomically positioned on the sprayer  2705  such that a user can use a thumb to press on the second actuator  2714  when grasping the sprayer  2705  with his or her fingers. The second actuator  2714  is coupled to a electrostatic charger of the backpack system. The user activates the electrostatic charger by pressing on the second actuator  2714  to electrostatically charge fluid being expelled from the sprayer, as described herein. 
     With reference still to  FIG. 28 , is a strip  2715  of conductive material, such as copper, is positioned on the first actuator  2712  such that the strip  2715  will contact the user&#39;s hand when the user is grasping the sprayer  2705 . Other materials, such as stainless steel, may be used for the strip  2715 . The strip,  275  service as an electrical ground connection to the user. 
       FIG. 29  shows a partially exploded view of the backpack system with the tank detached from the base. The tank  2410  is sized and shaped so that it can fit within a seat of the base  2415 . The tank can be shaped so that it can fit within the base  2415  only when positioned in a predetermined orientation relative to the base. The tank  2410  and base  2415  can also include a tongue and groove configuration such that one or more comes in the tank  2410  slidably made with one or more grooves in the base  2415  (or vice versa) to slidably made and secure the tank  2410  to the base  2415 . 
     In an embodiment, the tank  2410  mates with the base  2415  by first hinge hingedly attaching to the base  2415 , such as a long the bottom region of the tank  2410 .  FIG. 30  shows an example of how the tank  2410  can hinge into an attached relationship with the base  2415 . The tank  2410  has a bottom attachment region  3005  that is positioned along the seat region of the base  2415 . With the tank  2410  positioned as shown in  FIG. 30 , the user rotates the top region of the tank  2410  toward a locking attachment  3010  the top region of the base  2415 .  FIG. 31  shows an enlarged view of a hinge that locks the base to the tank. The top region of the tank  2410  includes a cavity  3015  that is sized and shaped to receive the locking attachment  3010  of the base  2415 . The locking attachment  3010  is a tongue shaped member or clasp that clasps onto the cavity  3015  to removably secure the tank  2410  to the base  2415 . 
       FIG. 32A  shows a perspective view of the tank of the backpack system. The tank is formed of an outer housing that defines an internal cavity configured to contain a fluid. An opening is located on the tank, such as along an upper top region of the tank. The opening is covered by a cap  3210  that can removably cover the opening into the cavity. The cap, when positioned over the opening, sealingly covers the opening such that fluid inside the cavity is sealed within the cavity of the tank  2410 . The tank  2410  removably couples to the base  2415  along the bottom region of the base. In this regard, the tank  2410  includes a valve assembly  3215  ( FIG. 32B ) that interacts with a corresponding valve assembly  3310  ( FIG. 33 ) in the base to permit fluid to flow from the tank  2410  and into the base  2415 , where the fluid can then flow toward the sprayer  2705  via the tubing  2425  ( FIG. 24A ). 
       FIG. 32B  shows an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the tank showing the valve assembly  3215 . The valve assembly includes a valve cap  3250  that surrounds a pin valve  3255 . As described in detail below, the pin valve  3255  transitions between a closed position that prevents fluid flow into and out of the tank, and an open position that permits fluid flow from the tank to the base. The pin valve  3255  has a default, closed state. The pin valve  3255  automatically transitions to the open state when the tank  3410  is properly seated within the base  3415 . 
     The valve assembly between the base  2415  and the tank  2410  is mechanically configured such that a valved fluid passageway between the tank  2410  and the base  2415  automatically opens when the tank  2410  is properly seated in the base  2415 . 
       FIG. 33  shows an enlarged view of a portion of the base  2415  and shows a valve assembly  3310  of the base  2415 . The valve assembly  3310  of the base  2415  is sized and shaped to mechanically interact with the valve assembly  3215  of the tank  2410 . Specifically, the valve assembly  3215  of the tank  2410  couples with and/or seats within the valve assembly  3310  of the base  2410 . When properly seated, the two valve assemblies interact such that the valve assembly  3215  of the tank automatically opens when the tank is properly seated in the base. 
       FIG. 34  shows a perspective view of the combined valve assemblies of the tank and the base.  FIG. 35  shows a cross-sectional, perspective view of the combined valve assembly. With reference to  FIG. 34 , the valve assembly  3215  of the tank includes the one way valve cap  3250 , which partially surrounds a spring valve  3420  that is closed in a default state. The valve assembly  3310  of the base  2415  includes a filter  3415  for filtering fluid that passes through the valve. 
     With reference to  FIG. 35 , the spring valve  3420  includes a valve pin  3510  that has an upper region that seats on a plate  3520 . The spring valve  3420  includes a spring that biases the spring valve  3420  toward the closed position. When the valve assembly of the tank is seated within the valve assembly of the base, the spring valve  3420  is pushed by the interaction toward an open position so that fluid can flow from the tank into the base and toward the sprayer. 
       FIG. 36  shows a perspective view of the sprayer assembly with an outer housing of the sprayer assembly being partially transparent. As discussed above, the sprayer assembly is formed of an outer housing that has an ergonomic shape. A nozzle assembly  3615  is positioned within the outer housing in fluid communication with the tubing  2425  ( FIG. 25 ) that is fluidly coupled to the fluid in the tank  2410 . The outer housing includes one or more internal tubular members that provide a passageway for fluid to flow to the nozzle assembly  3615 . 
     The sprayer assembly also includes an internal pump  3610  that causes a pressure differential to cause fluid to flow from the tank, through the tubing  2425 , and into the nozzle assembly  3615  of the sprayer assembly. As mentioned, the sprayer assembly includes a first actuator  2712  that can be actuated by a user to activate the pump  3610 . The sprayer assembly also includes a second actuator  2714 , such as a button, that activates the electrostatic module of the device. 
       FIG. 37  shows a perspective, exploded view of the nozzle assembly  3615 .  FIG. 38  shows a perspective, cross-sectional view of the nozzle assembly in an assembled state.  FIG. 39  shows a side, cross-sectional view of the nozzle assembly in an assembled state. The nozzle assembly  3615  can optionally be configured in a similar manner to the nozzle assembly of any of the other embodiments disclosed herein. In the embodiment of  FIG. 38 , the nozzle assembly includes a nozzle housing  3705  having an internal cavity that removably contains a nozzle holder or nozzle component  3710  in which one or more nozzles are positioned in a manner similar to the previous embodiment. An annular electrostatic ring  3720  is mounted on a forward edge of the nozzle housing  3705 . The electrostatic ring  3720  forms an opening through which fluid is expelled from the tank/reservoir and through at least one of the nozzles by virtue of the pump creating a pressure differential. An insulator element, such as a rubber ring can be positioned on the electrostatic ring to electrically shield it from the outer housing of the sprayer. 
     There is a metal contact on the high voltage electrostatic ring that is exposed at a rear part of the electrostatic ring. A high voltage wire from the electrostatic module is soldered or otherwise electrically connected to this metal contact. The soldering point and adjacent exposed metal is completely sealed by epoxy or other insulator to avoid oxidation and leakage of ions from the electrodes. A ground wire from electrostatic module is connected to ground plate. As discussed, the ground wire is embedded in the handle of the sprayer so that it is in contact with the operator during operation. This serves as electrical return loop to complete an electrical circuit. The electrostatic ring is electrically charged so that it transfers the charge to the electrodes that are electrically connected to the ring. In another embodiment, the electrodes themselves are individually connected to the electrostatic module. 
     A one-way check valve can be positioned inside the nozzle assembly  3615  such that fluid must flow through the one way valve in order to flow out of the nozzle assembly. When the trigger that powers the fan is released by a user, the check valve closes and prohibits fluid from exiting the nozzle assembly when the trigger is released by the user. In this manner, residual fluid is prohibited from being released out of the system and onto the ground when the system is not in use. 
     An ion tube isolator  3905  is mounted within the nozzle assembly of the sprayer.  FIG. 40  shows a perspective, cross-sectional view of the ion tube isolator  3905 . The ion tube isolator  3905  functions a manner similar to the ion tube isolator described above with respect to the previous embodiment. The ion tube isolator  3905  electrically charges fluid flowing from the tank or pump and toward the nozzles. The ion tube isolator includes a tube  3910  through which fluid passes as well as a high voltage electrode assembly or module that is electrically connected to the electrostatic module and that is made of a conductive material such as metal. The module can include a lead where it can be electrically connected to the electrostatic module such as via a conductive wire. 
     In an embodiment the module is a conductive material, such as metal. In an embodiment only the module is conductive and the remainder of the tube  3910  is non-conductive and/or is insulated from contact with any other part of the system. The module may also be surrounded by an insulator that insulates it from contact with any other part of the system. As fluid flows through the tube  3910 , the module directly contacts the fluid as it flows and passes a charge to the fluid through direct contact with the fluid. In this way, the ion tube isolator  3905  electrostatically charges the fluid prior to the fluid passing through the nozzle. 
       FIG. 41  shows a perspective view of a nozzle tool  4105  that removably and mechanically couples to the nozzle assembly for manipulating the nozzle component  3710 . The nozzle tool  4105  is sized and shaped to be inserted into a front opening in the nozzle housing  3705 . When inserted into the nozzle housing  3705 , the nozzle tool  4105  mechanically couples to the nozzle component  3710  in a manner that permits the nozzle tool  4105  to lock and/or move the nozzle component relative to the nozzle housing. 
     In an embodiment, the tool  4105  couples to and removes nozzle component by a counter clock turn and by pushing in until nozzle component decouples and can be removed. In this regard, pushing the nozzle component deeper into the housing using the tool causes a threaded portion of the nozzle component to engage a threaded nut or bolt of the housing that secures the nozzle component to the housing. The user can then unthread the nozzle tool and remove it from the housing. 
     The tool  4105  can also be used to adjust the three-way nozzle by turning it in a desired rotational direction. The user can select two or more different spray patterns by turning the nozzle component so that a desired nozzle fluidly couples to the reservoir. In this regard, a portion of the tool mechanically attaches to the nozzle component so that it can apply force to the nozzle component and rotate it until a desired nozzle is in a position that is fluidly coupled to a fluid stream from the reservoir. The system may include a mechanism, such as spring and ball, that provides a noise (such as a clicking sound) when a nozzle is in a position to spray fluid. 
     The nozzle tool  4105  is sized and shaped to be grasped by a user. It can include a coupler region that can be removably coupled to a drive device, such as a wrench, or grasped by a user. In an embodiment, the coupler region is hexagonal shaped so that it can be mechanically coupled to a wrench including a socket wrench. The nozzle tool includes a cavity or seat that is size and shaped to receive the outer portion of the nozzle component. For example, the seat can have a shape that complements and receives the shape of the nozzle component. The nozzle tool also includes at least one opening that interlocks with a complementary-shaped protrusion on the nozzle component. 
       FIG. 42A  shows a perspective view of a pump housing of the system, which includes a pneumatic head. The pump housing is sized and shaped to receive the pump, which can be similar or the same as the pump the pump described above with respect to the previous embodiment. The pump housing  4210  includes a top and a bottom inlet opening  4220  and a top and a bottom outlet opening  4230 . Valves are positioned in each of the top and bottom in the openings for a total for valves. Fluid flows into the pump to the inlet opening  4220  and out of the pump through the outlet opening  4230 . In an embodiment, the pump is a rotary pump that includes a connecting rod and a diaphragm. The diaphragm is positioned or coupled within a top diaphragm opening  4235  and an aligned bottom diaphragm opening. The rotary motion of the motor turn into the swing of a connecting rod causes the diaphragm to move up and down relative to the diaphragm opening  4235 . The process of downward movement of the diaphragm a pump cavity will suck fluid through the inlet opening  4220 . Upward movement of the diaphragm presses fluid out of the outlet opening  4230  and towards the nozzles. The mechanical transmission parts and a pump cavity are isolated by the diaphragm. The diaphragm does not need oil for auxiliary lubricating during the process of transmission, extraction and compression of the fluid. 
     The diaphragms have two holes that are cut into a circle. The valves (which can be plastic, for example) have a seating position inside of a pneumatic gasket. A top and a bottom lid of the housing secures the rubber diaphragms like an o-ring. The rubber diaphragm, when properly inserted, makes a water tight seal when screwed down to a pneumatic head assembly of the housing. 
     The top and bottom reservoir outlet openings allow water to flow in and out of each channel. The valves are inserted into the rubber diaphragms. The two channels equalize the pressure when the pneumatic valves are opening and closing to provide continues motion of suction and pressure. The pneumatic head has multiple channels or openings thereby allowing water to flow through the top and the bottom by using applied force from a DC motor. The motor rotates with a bearing that spins on an oval axis inside of the cam housing causing a up and down motion and side to side motion. The rubber diaphragm can be of a harder and thicker material which will act as a trampoline when the cam housing is attached to both sides of the diaphragm. The diaphragms move up and down generating an internal pressure. The valves will open and close allowing water pressure to circulate in in and out causing the system to be under a constant suction and flow pressure. The pressure is regulated and is equal to the suction pressure. The pressure can be adjusted by the thickness of the diaphragms and the rpm of the motor. 
     The cam has an oval shape allowing the bearing to be off-set to allow the cam to rotate up and down or side to side causing the rubber diaphragms to be pushed up and down. This causes an up and down motion on the pneumatic diaphragm, which in turn causes suction on one side of the pneumatic housing and pressure on the other side of the housing. As the water flows through the valve opening and closing the valves, the water is equal to both pressures. The one side of the pump draws in water while the other side pushes the water. 
     There are three bearings that are included in the pneumatic pump including a DC motor casing bearing. The first bearing is located inside of the DC motor housing to allow the shaft to spin freely when the motor is spinning at high speeds. The second bearing is located in the cam housing which is the pneumatic housing. All three bearings can be stainless steel, for example, and have stainless steel casing which allows the bearing not to overheat or rust. The third bearing is configured to keep the shaft and the cam aligned with the internal pneumatic head. This allows the inner motor bearing to stay aligned with the second cam shaft bearing and third bearing which keeps the shaft straight and true allowing the shaft to take more impact when spinning at high RPMs. 
     The four valves sit flush on the outside of the pneumatic housing, which are located in front of the inlet and outlet ports. The valves&#39; purpose is to open and close such as on the order of 3000 times a minute. As this occurs, the diaphragm is pushed up and down by way of the bearing rotating inside the cam which rides freely between both pneumatic rubber diaphragms. The top and bottom diaphragm are a mirror image in size and in length. The cam attaches by two posts that connect them together. The cam rides freely between the two diaphragms making them independent and free to move in the direction of the bearing that is off-set allowing the cam to move in a direction up and down or side to side. 
     As mentioned, there are four rubber valves that open and close. The valves have different functions. The valves are meant to open and close allowing for water pressure or suctioning pressure to be continuous. One of the valves is always in a closed position so as not allowing water to back flow to the water pressure side. The opposing side of the valve allows suction pressure. A spoke check valve is in an open position and allows water pressure to flow when in one position. The pump has a suction side and a pressure side. The valves are Identical in the pneumatic housing. The cam moves the pneumatic diaphragm in a up and down motion causing the valves to open and close allowing water to be extracted from a reservoir and pushed out of the opposing side. 
       FIG. 42B  illustrates pumping process. The pump includes a collection of valves, which alternately and sequentially open and close allowing for water pressure or suctioning pressure to be continuous through the pump. A first valve is always in a closed position so that it prohibits fluid (e.g., water) to back flow to the water pressure side of the pump. A second, opposing side of the valve is configured to open and allow suction pressure. A third valve is in an open position and allows water pressure to flow. As mentioned, the pump has a suction side and a pressure side. A cam assembly inside the pump moves the pneumatic diaphragm in an up and down motion causing the valves to open and close allowing water to be extracted from the reservoir and pushed out of the opposing side. As the first valve and second valve open and close, the opening and closing of the valves alternately forms an opening and closing electrical circuit that exposes water in the tank to the electrostatic charger. This provides an electrical charge to the water the tank as described herein. 
       FIG. 43  shows another embodiment of a backpack system. This embodiment of the backpack system includes an elongated wand  4310  that extends outward from a handle  4315  of the system. The wand  4310  can be sized and shaped to space the nozzle  4320  from the handle  4315 , such as to enable a user to reach regions that are spaced apart from the handle  4315 . 
       FIG. 45  shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a sprayer system  4505 , which is similar but smaller in size to the embodiment of  FIG. 9 . The system  4505  has an outer housing  110  that forms a handle  4608  that can ergonomically be grasped by a single hand of a user. The sprayer handle is ergonomically designed to fit all hand sizes. A ground wire or other structure can be embedded into the handle, as discussed with respect to the previous embodiments. The ground wire is positioned so that it will electrically contact the user&#39;s hand when the user grasps handle during use of the device. In an embodiment, the ground wire is made of copper and is a copper strip of material that contacts the user&#39;s hand when the user grasps the device although other materials, such as stainless steel, may be used. 
     The system  4505  includes at least one actuator, such as a trigger  4606 , that can be actuated to turn on and also turn off an internal pump, as well as a second actuator, such as button  4602 , for turning on and off an electrostatic charger for expelling a plume of electrostatically charged fluid from a fluid expelling region  175  of the system  105 . The system  4505  has a removable tank or reservoir  125  for storing fluid to be expelled. There is sufficient space clearance between the reservoir  125  and the handle  4608  for a comfortable fit for the user when the user grasps the handle  4608 . In an embodiment, when fully loaded with liquid the sprayer system weighs no more than 3 pounds although the weight can vary. In an embodiment, the reservoir  125  can contain up to half a liter of fluid although this can also vary. 
     The system  105  ejects high voltage ions to the air by means of a plurality of (such as three or more) detachable, high voltage ion discharge electrodes or pins of a predetermined spacing from each other on a rim of a nozzle holder (which can be as described above with reference to  FIG. 14 ). The system can include a nozzle assembly such as any of the assemblies described herein. The high voltage ion discharge electrodes are each positioned along an axis that is in parallel to an axis of a spray nozzle so that the spray and ions are emitted in the same direction and along a parallel axis and therefore the droplets in the spray are surrounded and covered by ion stream and can be efficiently charged when they meet the ion stream. The electrodes thus emit, propel, or otherwise send out ions or charge in a direction parallel to the direct of fluid flow or an average direction of fluid flow from the nozzles. 
       FIG. 46  shows the system  4505  with a portion of the outer housing  110  removed to show internal components of the system  4505 . The system  4505  includes a pump  4605  that is powered by a battery  4610 , which can be rechargeable. The pump  4605  can be configured according to any of the embodiments of the pumps described herein, such as shown in  FIG. 42A  and related figures. The pump  4605  is fluidly coupled to fluid within the reservoir  125  such that the pump can cause a pressure differential to draw fluid from the reservoir and into a nozzle assembly  1015 , which can be configured as described above in the previous embodiment. The system  105  further includes an electrostatic module that is electrically connected to an electrostatic ring, as described above with respect to the previous embodiments. The electrostatic module in an example embodiment is a 12 kV electrostatic module and it is configured to electrostatically charge an item, such as the electrodes, ring, and/or tube described below. In another embodiment, the electrostatic module is a 7 kV electrostatic module. 
     As mentioned, the system  4505  has a removable reservoir  125  (such as a tank) for storing fluid to be expelled.  FIG. 47  shows a cross-sectional view of the system  4505  in the region where the reservoir  125  removably couples (or otherwise attaches) to the outer housing  110  of the system. A top portion of the reservoir  125  mechanically attaches to the housing of the system. As described below, the reservoir and the housing coupled to one another in a secure and fluidly sealed male-female mechanical relationship. 
     In this regard, the system of  4505  includes a male member  4705  that has a first end positioned within the reservoir  125  and a second end positioned outside of the reservoir  125 . The male member  4705  mechanically inserts into a female member  4710  in the housing when the reservoir  125  is attached to the outer housing  110 . The male member  4705  has an internal lumen that communicates with a lumen within the housing and that ultimately lead to the nozzle assembly of the system and that also passes through the pump, such as the type of pump shown in  FIG. 42A . In this manner, fluid can flow from the reservoir  125  to the nozzle assembly via the male member  4705  and the female member  4710  when the pump is activated. 
     With reference to  FIG. 47  and the enlarged view of  FIG. 48 , the male member  4705  can be an L-shaped structure, with a first, downwardly facing region that inserts into the reservoir  125 , and a second, horizontal region that inserts into and sealingly mates with the female member  4710 . The downwardly, vertical region includes can include or otherwise be attached to a tubing that reaches down to a bottom region of the reservoir  125 . Such tubing provides a passageway for fluid to flow from the reservoir  1  by into the lumen of the male member  4705  when the pump is activated. 
     With reference to  FIG. 48 , and insulation or sealing member, such as an O-ring  4810 , can be positioned on the male member  4705  to provide a seal between the male member and the structure in which it is mounted. This reduces the likelihood of liquid spilling out of the reservoir  125  if the device is toppled over. Any of the entryways into the reservoir  125  can include a filter to keep out contaminants. 
     When the reservoir  125  is attached to the outer housing  110  of the system, the male member  4705  sealingly mates with the female member  4710 . As shown in the top-down view of  FIG. 49 , the system can include a locking member  4910 , such as a pin, that secures or otherwise retains the male member  4705  inside the female member  4710  when the two are coupled. The locking member  4910  can be positioned between a locked state that secures the two members to one another and an unlocked state that permits the members to be released from one another. A biasing member, such as a spring  4810 , can be positioned or otherwise coupled to the female member  4710 . The spring  41  biases the male member  4705  outwardly from the female member  4710 . This helps to disengage the male member of the female member when the lock member is unlocked, such as in a “quick release” fashion. 
     With reference to the top-down view of the reservoir  125  of  FIG. 49 , an upper region of the reservoir  125  includes an opening or spout that is covered by a cap  4920 . The cap  4920  can move between a closed state wherein the  4920  sealingly covers the spout of the reservoir  125  and an open state wherein the cap  4910  does not cover the spout. When the spout is uncovered, a liquid can be poured into the reservoir  125 . In an embodiment, the cap  4910  is secured to a top of the reservoir  125  in a hinged manner such that the cap  4910  can pivotably move between the open and closed position. The cap can have a beveled edge that seals with the reservoir such as in the manner of a sink stopper. In an embodiment, the cap is a 1 inch diameter cap. 
     With reference again to  FIG. 47 , the system  4505  includes an ion tube isolator  3905 , which is mounted within the nozzle assembly of the sprayer. The ion tube isolator  3905  can be configured as described above respect to the previous embodiments. The electrostatic tube is isolated inside the nozzle housing, which acts as a protected barrier against an electrical shock when the nozzle has been insolated with electrostatic epoxy and over molded plastic. The electrostatic tube is electrically coupled to a wire. The wire is soldered into a small hole in the nozzle housing that allows the solder to attach the electrostatic ring of the nozzle assembly to a silicone wire. The silicone wire is then attached to the electrostatic module, which can be rated at 5 Kv to 7 Kv, for example. The nozzle assembly can also include a gasket, such as a double male sided gasket that allows the nozzle to keep a tight seal between the water nozzle and the electrostatic ring, both of which are inside the nozzle housing. 
     As discussed above, the nozzle assembly can include a one-way check valve, which prevents fluid from exiting the nozzle assembly when the user releases the trigger that powers the fan (i.e. the device is not being used). In this manner, residual fluid inside the device will not exit the system when the trigger is not being actuated by a user. It should be appreciated that any of the features described with respect to one embodiment described herein can be used with any of the other embodiments described herein. 
     While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of an invention that is claimed or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination. Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results.