Abstract:
A device for dispensing a fluid comprises a housing having an internal power source and a mounting assembly adapted for receiving a replaceable fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir includes a capillary element for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. A mechanism is disposed within the housing and is energized by the internal power source for vibrating a perforated discharge plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the capillary element. The mechanism provides sufficient vibratory movement in a dispensing state to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control is carried by the housing and is disposed beneath the mounting assembly. The control provides an interface for a user to select at least one of a timed mode of operation, an automatic mode of operation dependent upon a sensor output developed by a sensor, and a manual mode of operation. The mounting assembly is further adapted to receive the replaceable fluid reservoir in a manner that allows same to be visually inspected during an in-use condition.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     Not Applicable  
       REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT  
       [0002]     Not Applicable  
       SEQUENTIAL LISTING  
       [0003]     Not Applicable  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0004]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0005]     The present disclosure relates to discharging a fluid from a spray device, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for discharging a fluid through a nozzle using a piezoelectric pump assembly.  
         [0006]     2. Description of the Background of the Invention  
         [0007]     Manually-operated hand-held spray devices comprise pump-type sprayers that require repeated manual activation of a pump assembly to emit a fluid. Such spray devices are of limited usefulness because single action continuous spraying of a fluid cannot be accomplished. Instead, a user must repeatedly pump the assembly in order to emit a substantial quantity of product. In other hand-held spray devices, such as aerosol containers, single action continuous spraying is achieved by opening a valve assembly to allow a pressurized propellant to emit a fluid stored within the container. However, aerosol containers utilize propellants to achieve this continuous spraying functionality. While such devices are more useful in those occasions when a substantial quantity of product is to be released, some consumers find the force necessary to hold the valve assembly in an open condition to result in hand fatigue. Also, the need for propellants and/or devices (such as a piston to contain the propellant in an application where the propellant is to remain isolated from the atmosphere) undesirably adds to the complexity and cost of the device.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0008]     According to one embodiment of the present invention, a device for dispensing a fluid comprises a housing having an internal power source and a mounting assembly adapted for receiving a replaceable fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir includes a capillary element for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. A mechanism is disposed within the housing and is energized by the internal power source for vibrating a perforated discharge plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the capillary element. The mechanism provides sufficient vibratory movement in a dispensing state to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control is carried by the housing and is disposed beneath the mounting assembly. The control provides an interface for a user to select at least one of a timed mode of operation, an automatic mode of operation dependent upon a sensor output developed by a sensor, and a manual mode of operation. The mounting assembly is further adapted to receive the replaceable fluid reservoir in a manner that allows same to be visually inspected during an in-use condition.  
         [0009]     According to another embodiment of the present invention, a volatile liquid spraying device comprises a housing having an internal power source and a mounting assembly for receiving a replaceable fluid reservoir for holding a fluid. The fluid reservoir includes a capillary element for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. A piezoelectric element is disposed within the housing and is energized by the internal power source for vibrating a perforated discharge plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the capillary element. The piezoelectric element provides sufficient vibratory movement in a dispensing state to pump the fluid through the discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control panel is disposed on the housing having an instant activation button and a switch for permitting the selection of a timed mode of operation and a sensor-based mode of operation for automatically operating the mechanism in response to a sensed parameter.  
         [0010]     In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a hand-held spraying device comprises a housing having a body, a bottom end, and a top end. A first chassis is slidingly retained within the body and movable between first and second positions. The housing is adapted to receive a battery therein. At least one activation device is disposed on the housing. A second chassis is disposed within the housing and retains a piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly. The second chassis is further adapted to retain a removable liquid reservoir having a discharge end. The piezoelectric actuator and the orifice plate assembly are adapted to provide sufficient vibratory movement in a dispensing state to pump the liquid from the discharge end through the orifice plate. Movement of the first chassis to the first position allows the device to be placed in an operational state and movement of the first chassis into the second position allows at least one of the liquid reservoir and the battery to be inserted into the housing.  
         [0011]     In a further embodiment of the present invention, a method for dispensing a fluid from a dispenser includes the step of providing a housing having an internal power source, a mounting assembly for receiving a replaceable fluid reservoir, a mechanism for vibrating a perforated discharge plate, and a control panel for activating the dispenser. The replaceable fluid reservoir is retained within the mounting assembly and the fluid reservoir includes a capillary element for movement of a fluid to a discharge end thereof. A fluid is provided within the replaceable fluid reservoir. The method further includes the steps of orienting the replaceable fluid reservoir within the mounting assembly to allow a user to determine a level of the fluid within the fluid reservoir and activating the mechanism in at least one of a timed mode of operation, an automatic mode of operation dependent upon an output of a sensor, and a manual mode of operation. Activation causes the perforated discharge plate to vibrate adjacent the discharge end of the capillary element and pump the fluid from the discharge plate and into the atmosphere. The method includes the further step of energizing the mechanism by the internal power source.  
         [0012]     Other aspects and advantages will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the attached drawings, in which like elements are assigned like reference numerals.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0013]      FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a front, side, and top of one embodiment of a fluid emitting device having a fluid reservoir inserted therein;  
         [0014]      FIG. 2  is a front elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0015]      FIG. 3  is a rear elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0016]      FIG. 4  is a bottom elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0017]      FIG. 5  is a plan view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0018]      FIG. 6  is a front trimetric view taken along sight lines similar to that of  FIG. 2 , except that only a first body portion of the fluid emitting device is shown;  
         [0019]      FIG. 6A  is a rear trimetric view of the first body portion of  FIG. 6 ;  
         [0020]      FIG. 7  is a rear trimetric view taken along sight lines similar to that of  FIG. 3 , except that only a second body portion of the fluid emitting device is shown;  
         [0021]      FIG. 7A  is a front trimetric view of the second body portion of  FIG. 7 ;  
         [0022]      FIG. 8  is an exploded isometric view of  FIG. 1  illustrating the separation of a cylindrical body and a chassis of the fluid emitting device, with a fluid reservoir and batteries omitted therefrom;  
         [0023]      FIG. 9  is an isometric view similar to  FIG. 8  depicting the combined chassis and cylindrical body of the fluid emitting device in an open position;  
         [0024]      FIG. 9A  is a rear view of the fluid emitting device in the open position shown in  FIG. 9 ;  
         [0025]      FIGS. 10 and 10  A are front and rear elevational views, respectively, of the chassis of  FIGS. 8, 9 , and  9 A;  
         [0026]      FIG. 11  is a cross sectional view taken generally along lines  11 - 11  of  FIG. 2  showing the fluid emitting device without the fluid reservoir and the piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly and with portions behind the plane of the cross-sectional plane omitted for purposes of clarity;  
         [0027]      FIG. 12  is a block diagram of a control circuit for driving a piezoelectric element;  
         [0028]      FIG. 13  is an enlarged, exploded, trimetric view of a support chassis and a piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly;  
         [0029]      FIG. 14  is an enlarged, fragmentary, trimetric view of a top end of the atomizing device of  FIGS. 10 and 10 A depicting a first top portion thereof;  
         [0030]      FIG. 14A  is an enlarged, trimetric view of a top end of the atomizing device of  FIGS. 10 and 10 A depicting a second top portion thereof;  
         [0031]      FIG. 15  is an isometric view of the fluid reservoir depicted in  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0032]      FIG. 16  is a first timing diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1  according to a first operational sequence;  
         [0033]      FIG. 17  is a second timing diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1  according to a second operational sequence;  
         [0034]      FIG. 18  is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 1  according to a third operational sequence;  
         [0035]      FIG. 19  is an isometric view of a front, side, and top of a different embodiment of a fluid emitting device having a fluid reservoir inserted therein;  
         [0036]      FIG. 20  is a front elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 17 ;  
         [0037]      FIG. 21  is a plan view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 17 ;  
         [0038]      FIG. 23  is a side elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 17 ;  
         [0039]      FIG. 23  is a bottom elevational view of the fluid emitting device of  FIG. 17 ; and  
         [0040]      FIG. 24  is an isometric view similar to  FIG. 17  with a front cover, a sensor, and the fluid reservoir removed therefrom. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0041]      FIGS. 1-5  generally depict one embodiment of a fluid emitting device  2 . The device  2  generally comprises a telescoping housing  4 , a fluid reservoir  6 , and a control panel  8 . The device  2  is typically operated in at least one of two in-use conditions or modes of operation. In a first operational mode the user holds the device  2  in his or her hand by gripping the housing  4 , whereupon fluid is emitted from the reservoir  6  by manipulation of the control panel  8 . In a second operational mode the housing  4  of the device  2  is disposed on a support surface and fluid is emitted upon receipt of an activation signal from a timer and/or a sensor  9 . The emitted fluid may be a fragrance, sanitizing agent, household cleaner, insecticide, insect repellant, deodorizing liquid, or, for that matter, any fluid (liquid and/or gas), whether disposed in a carrier fluid or not.  
         [0042]     The telescoping housing  4  is typically made from a molded plastic, such as polypropylene. The housing  4  comprises a cylindrical body  10 , a truncated hemispherical top portion  12 , and a planar bottom end  14  (seen in  FIG. 4 ). The body  10  has a diameter of about 2.0 in. (5.08 cm) and an overall height of about 6.0 in. (15.24 cm). The hemispherical top portion  12  includes a concave depression  15 , which is best seen in  FIGS. 1 and 5 . An atomized or aerosolized liquid outlet  16  is provided within the center of the concave depression  15 . The planar bottom end  14  may be disposed on a support surface to maintain the device  2  in an upright condition.  
         [0043]     Referring specifically to  FIGS. 1, 2 ,  4 , and  5 , a front side  18  of the housing  4  includes a planar faceplate  20  recessed within the body  10  and the top portion  12  when the various parts are assembled together as noted in greater detail hereinafter. The faceplate  20  is generally rectangular in shape except for a rounded upper portion  22  extending into and integral with the top portion  12 . A race-track shaped opening  24  is provided within the planar faceplate  20 . The opening  24  is partially covered by a wall  26  that depends downwardly from a top of the opening  24 . The control panel  8  is positioned below the opening  24  on the faceplate  20 . The control panel  8  comprises a wheel or dial  28  and an activation button  30 . A non-planar rounded portion  32  is shown beneath the faceplate  20 . The rounded portion  32  tapers inwardly from the body  10  from a bottom of the faceplate  20  toward a top thereof.  
         [0044]     Referring next to  FIGS. 3-5 , a rear side  34  of the housing  4  includes a channel  36  that is in the form of an inverted U-shape when the various parts are assembled as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . First and second elongate portions  38 ,  40  of the U-shaped channel  36  extend normally (i.e., perpendicularly) between the bottom end  14  of the housing  4  and the top portion  12 . A rounded section  42  of the U-shaped channel  36  extends between the first and second elongate portions  38 ,  40  within the top portion  12 . The rear side  34  also includes a mounting orifice  44  for attaching the housing  4  to a vertical or other support surface (not shown).  
         [0045]     The housing  4  further comprises first and second body portions  46 ,  48 , respectively. The first body portion  46 , as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 6 A, forms the front side  18  of the cylindrical body  10  and a portion of the bottom end  14  integral therewith. The front side  18  is shown in  FIG. 6  without the faceplate  20 . As seen in  FIG. 6A  the first body portion  46  includes a rectangular recess disposed therein defined by a bottom wall  50 , two side walls  52   a ,  52   b , a front wall  54 , and two angled walls  56   a ,  56   b  connecting the side walls  52   a ,  52   b , respectively, with the front wall  54 . Walls  58   a - 58   c  define a rectangular cut-out portion  59  disposed in the front wall  54 . The second body portion  48 , as shown in  FIGS. 7 and 7 A, forms the rear side  34  of the cylindrical body  10  and a further portion of the bottom end  14  integral therewith.  FIG. 7A  shows a front view of the second body portion  48  including a rectangular recess disposed therein defined by a bottom wall  60 , two side walls  62   a ,  62   b , an intermediate wall  64 , and two angled walls  66   a ,  66   b  connecting the side walls  62   a ,  62   b , respectively, with the intermediate wall  64 . The intermediate wall  64  further has a channel  68  disposed therein. The channel  68  is defined by a second pair of angled side walls  70   a ,  70   b , a rear wall  72 , a portion of the bottom wall  60  and an opposing top wall  74 . The intermediate wall  64  and the second pair of angled walls  70  substantially define the first and second elongate portions  38 ,  40  as shown in the rear view of the second body portion  48  depicted in  FIG. 7 .  
         [0046]     Referring to  FIGS. 6A, 7A , and  9 , the first and second body portions  46 ,  48  include aligned bores  75  within which tapered pins  77  are press-fitted. In one embodiment, the tapered pins  77  are sized relative to the bores  75  and function alone to hold the first and second body portions  46 ,  48  together in a permanent fashion. Alternatively, the pins  77  and an adhesive or other securing means may be used to hold the body portions  46 ,  48  together in either a permanent or semi-permanent fashion. Specifically,  FIGS. 6A and 7A  depict bores  75   a - 75   h  and bores  75   i - 75   p , respectively, which are aligned with one another after a chassis  76  is placed therebetween ( FIGS. 8, 9 , and  9 A) during assembly of the body  10 . Tapered pins  77  (only pins  77   a - 77   d  are shown in phantom in  FIG. 9 ) are disposed within the holes  75   a - 75   p  to secure the first and second body portions  46 ,  48  together as noted above. As illustrated in  FIGS. 8, 9 , and  9 A, the chassis  76  is slidingly retained within the body  10 . During use of the device  2 , the chassis  76  may be moved relative to the housing  4  from a first closed or operational position shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  to a second open or non-operational position shown in  FIGS. 9 and 9 A. The chassis  76  is moved between the closed and open positions by grasping and pulling apart the top portion  12  and housing  4 .  
         [0047]      FIGS. 10 and 10 A depict the chassis  76  removed from the body  10 . The chassis  76  comprises a rectangular block  78  having a top wall  80 , a bottom wall  82 , a front wall  84 , a rear wall  86 , and two side walls  88   a ,  88   b . The block  78  further includes a first pair of angled side walls  90   a ,  90   b  that extend from the side walls  88   a ,  88   b , respectively, toward the front wall  84 . The block  78  also includes a second pair of angled side walls  92   a ,  92   b  that extend from the side walls  88   a ,  88   b , respectively, toward the rear wall  86 . A rear plate  94  ( FIG. 10A ) and a third pair of angled side walls  95   a ,  95   b  extend upwardly from ends of the angled side walls  92   a ,  92   b  toward the top wall  80 . A further tapered wall  97  extends between the rear plate  94  and the top wall  80 . The rear plate  94  extends outwardly a greater distance than the angled side walls  92   a ,  92   b  and the rear wall  86 . The rear plate  94  also includes an outwardly extending stop flange or member  96  adjacent a lower end  98  of the rear plate  94 .  
         [0048]      FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of the block  78  fitted within a void  100  defined by the combined rectangular recesses of the first and second body portions  46 ,  48 . Placement of the block  78  within the void  100  allows the chassis  76  to be slid between the open and closed positions with respect to the body  10 . The outwardly extending stop flange  96  of the rear plate  96  is formed to fit within the channel  68  of the second body portion  48  when the block  78  is disposed within the void  100 . The stop flange  96  assists in guiding the chassis  76  between the open and closed positions and prevents the removal of the chassis  76  from the void  100  by physical engagement of the stop flange  96  with the top wall  74  of the channel  68  when the chassis  76  is in the open position.  
         [0049]     A first chamber  102  is disposed in the rear wall  86  of the block  78 . An electrical circuit (not shown), which may comprise a programmable controller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or the like and the function of which is described in detail hereinafter, is disposed within the first chamber  102 . A second, slightly smaller chamber  106  is disposed behind the front wall  84  of the block  78 . A pair of battery contact holders  108  are provided within the second chamber  106 . The battery contact holders  108  are configured to press conductive leads  110  against ends of standard AA batteries (not shown). The leads  110  extend from ends of the batteries to the circuit, thereby providing power to same.  
         [0050]     Referring next to  FIG. 12 , a control circuit  112  for driving the fluid emitting device  2  includes a d. c. power supply  114  that is electrically connected to a voltage regulator  116 . The voltage regulator  116  supplies electrical power to an output driver  118 . Output driver  118  may be an amplifier of any suitable type, the details of which are readily apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The control circuit  112  further includes a digital input and control block  120  that is connected to a first input  118   a  of the output driver  118  to regulate the operation of the fluid emitting device in accordance with the position of the dial  28  and/or the activation button  30  and or the motion sensor  9  as described in detail hereinafter. The output driver  118  controls the flow of electric current through an inductor  122  that is connected in series between the output driver  118  and a piezoelectric element  124 . A feedback capacitor  126  is connected between the piezoelectric element  124  and a second input  118   b  of the output driver  118 . In addition a resistor  128  is connected between control circuit  112  and ground at a junction between the piezoelectric element  124  and the feedback capacitor  126 . The control circuit  112  causes current to flow through the piezoelectric element  124  at a resonant frequency determined by, among other things, the characteristic impedance of the element  124 , the impedance of the inductor  122 , and the temperature of the element  124 . The feedback capacitor  126  advances the phase of the feedback signal by 90 degrees as required for proper operation.  
         [0051]     If desired, one could use the circuit shown in Nakane et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,632,311 to drive the piezoelectric element  124  at the resonant frequency, the disclosure of such patent being specifically incorporated by reference herein.  
         [0052]     The chassis  76  further includes a rectangular portion  136  ( FIGS. 8-10 ) that extends outwardly from the front wall  84  of the block  78  above the second chamber  106 . Two arms  138   a ,  138   b  extend between the top wall  80  and the hemispherical top portion  12  of the housing  4 . The top portion  12  comprises a first top portion  140  and a second top portion  142  ( FIGS. 10 and 11 ). The first top portion  140  includes bores  144   a ,  144   b  that are aligned with bores  144   c ,  144   d , respectively, of the second top portion  142 . Tapered pins (not shown) similar to those discussed above are disposed in the aligned bores  144   a - d  in the portions  140 ,  142  and similarly secure the first and second top portions  140 ,  142  together. The first top portion  140  is integrally attached to an inner side  146  of the arms  138   a ,  138   b  in spaced relation from the top wall  80  of the block  78 . Further, the top portion  12  is centered above the top wall  80  of the block  78 . A recess within the rectangular portion  136 , the arms  138   a ,  138   b , and the first top portion  140  is sized to allow the faceplate  20  to be secured therein. The faceplate  20  is recessed an appropriate distance so as to be flush with the rectangular cut-out portion  58  of the body  10 . When the chassis  76  is moved from the open to the closed position, a lower end  148  of the faceplate contacts the body  10 , thereby preventing further movement of the chassis  76 .  
         [0053]     A support chassis  150  useful in the present embodiment includes those described in, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,193, which is herein incorporated by reference. In an embodiment depicted in  FIG. 13  the support chassis  150  is provided within the top portion  12 , and is shown in further detail in  FIGS. 14 and 14 A. The support chassis  150  comprises an oval base plate  152  that is truncated on one side to form a flat end  154 . The flat end  154  includes two slots  156  that engage with corresponding slots  158  within the arms  138  of the chassis  76  as shown in  FIG. 14 . The portions of the arms  138  having the slots  158  are disposed on the inner side  146  of the first top portion  140 . A side of the base plate  152  opposite the flat end  154  is recessed within a groove  160  formed into a protrusion  162 . The protrusion  162  extends from the inner side  146  of the second top portion  142  as shown in  FIG. 14A . An outer periphery of the base plate  152  between the flat end  154  and the opposite side is in contact with two opposing walls  164  that depend from the inner side  146  of the top portion  12 . The support chassis  150  further comprises an upwardly extending cylindrically shaped reservoir mounting wall  166 . Two opposing bayonet slots  168  are formed into the reservoir mounting wall  166  and the base plate  152 . Each bayonet slot  168  includes a circumferentially extending detent  170 . Four cylindrical projections  172  extend upwardly from the base plate  152 , wherein each projection  172  includes a smaller second projection  174  extending from a top end thereof.  
         [0054]      FIG. 13  also shows a piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly  178  similar to those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,193. The assembly  178  includes a metal wire frame  180 . The metal wire frame  180  has a flat end with opposing sides of the frame  180  extending inwardly in an inverted V-shaped manner toward a central portion  182 . The central portion  182  is defined by two opposing U-shaped sections. The two sides thereafter flare outwardly in a V-shaped manner with loops  184  at ends thereof. The central portion  182  of the metal frame  180  is attached to a hollow cylindrical assembly housing  186 . A bottom end  188  of the assembly housing  186  includes two opposing inwardly stepped members  190  depending from the bottom end  188  thereof. Each stepped member  190  has a slot  192  disposed therein for the U-shaped sections of the metal frame  180  to extend through. Two protrusions  194  also depend from the bottom end  188  of the assembly housing  186  on one of the sides between the two opposing stepped members  190 . A groove  196  is formed between the two protrusions  194 . The frame  180  is disposed on the support chassis  150  by pressing the inverted V-shaped portion of the frame  180  adjacent the flat end around two of the projections  174  and the remaining two projections  174  into the loops  184 .  
         [0055]     The assembly  178  further includes the piezoelectric element  124  having an orifice plate  200  extending thereacross. The present piezoelectric element  124  is annular shaped and is disposed within the assembly housing  186  so that it rests upon the frame  180  adjacent the bottom end  188  of the assembly housing  186 . The piezoelectric element  124  is held against the frame  180  by a spring  202  that is fitted into the assembly housing  186  between the piezoelectric element  124  and a truncated annular portion  204  that extends inwardly from a top end  206  of the assembly housing  186 . Two wires  207  extend from the piezoelectric element  124  through the groove  196  and to the circuit. The wires  207  are provided to supply alternating electrical fields or voltages produced by the circuit to opposite sides of the piezoelectric element  124 . When high frequency alternating electric fields are applied to the piezoelectric element  124  same undergoes changes to some of its physical dimensions. In the present embodiment, supplying alternating electric fields to the piezoelectric element  124  causes the diameter of the element  124  to alternatively decrease and increase, thereby causing the orifice plate  200  to vibrate up and down, respectively. Various piezoelectric mechanisms known to those skilled in the art may be utilized to produce a similar effect.  
         [0056]     As noted above, the fluid reservoir  6  is removably inserted into the device  2  and may be fashioned in any manner known to those skilled in the art. The present embodiment, as depicted in  FIG. 15 , utilizes a liquid reservoir  208 . Other liquid reservoirs useful in the present embodiment include those disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,293,474, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. The liquid reservoir  208  comprises a transparent cylindrical container  210  with a neck (not shown). A combination plug and wick holder  214  is affixed to the neck. The plug and wick holder  214  includes a pair of laterally extending mounting lugs  216 . The liquid reservoir  208  is inserted into the support chassis  150  by aligning the lugs  216  with the bayonet slots  168  of the support chassis  150  and pressing the reservoir  6  upwardly, thereby inserting the lugs  216  into their respective bayonet slot  168 . The liquid reservoir  208  is thereafter rotated counter-clockwise to force the lugs  216  to engage with the detents  170  of the respective bayonet slot  168  to secure the reservoir  208  within the device  2 . The liquid reservoir  208  may be removed from the support chassis  150  by rotating the reservoir  208  clockwise to disengage the lugs  216  from their respective detents  170  and pulling the reservoir  208  downwardly so that the lugs  216  may pass through the bayonet slots  168 . In this manner, the liquid reservoir  208  may be easily inserted into or removed from the device  2  when the device  2  is in the open position. The level of liquid within the liquid reservoir  208  may be monitored through the race-track shaped opening  24  in the faceplate  20  to provide a user an indication of whether the liquid reservoir  208  is in a first condition or in a second condition. For example, the first condition may indicate that the liquid reservoir  208  is full and the second condition may indicate that the liquid reservoir  208  is empty or nearly empty. Therefore, the opening  24  in the faceplate  20  and the liquid reservoir  208  act as an indicating system by informing a user whether the liquid reservoir  208  should be replaced or refilled.  
         [0057]     A wick  218  is held within the combination plug and wick holder  214 . An upper end  220  of the wick  218  extends beyond the neck and a lower end  222  of the wick  218  depends into the container  210  toward a bottom surface  224  thereof. The wick  218  transfers liquid by capillary action from within the reservoir  208  to the upper end  220  of the wick  218 . The upper end  220  of the wick  218  is disposed adjacent a bottom of the orifice plate  200 . During operation of the device  2  the orifice plate  200  vibrates up and down adjacent the upper end  220  of the wick  218 . The up and down vibrations of the orifice plate  200  cause the liquid to be pumped through minute orifices in the orifice plate  200 . Each orifice has a diameter within a range of about four microns to about ten microns. Alternatively, a discharge plate may be provided with a varying number of orifices and/or orifices having a different diameter. The support chassis  150  and the liquid reservoir  208  are adequately configured to ensure that the upper end  220  of the wick  218  does not apply an appreciable force to the orifice plate  200 , thereby allowing liquid to be supplied to the orifice plate  200  without damping the vibrations of the plate  200  and reducing the effectiveness in atomizing the liquid. The pumping of the fluid through the orifice plate  200  causes the fluid to be ejected from a top of the orifice plate  200  in the form of aerosolized or atomized liquid particles. The atomized liquid particles thereafter traverse an unobstructed interior of the assembly housing  186  and pass through the liquid outlet  16  in the top end  16  of the housing  4 . Thus, the liquid from the liquid reservoir  208  is discharged upwardly through the liquid outlet  16  and into the atmosphere. If desired, the liquid outlet  16  may instead be L-shaped or have any other nonlinear shape to direct the contents of the liquid reservoir  208  in a direction other than upwards. Still further, the cross-sectional shape and/or diameter of the liquid outlet  16  may be modified to obtain any desired spray pattern, or to alter the swirling and/or mechanical breakup of the discharged liquid, as should be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art.  
         [0058]     The circuitry of the device  2  is activated by manipulation of the dial  28  and activation button  30  on the control panel  8 . When the dial  28  is fully rotated to the left (clockwise) the device  2  is in an off state. Rotating the dial  28  to the right (counter-clockwise) away from the off position to an active position causes the device  2  to be in an activated state. When the dial  28  is in an active position, the device  2  operates in an automatic timed mode of operation as noted in greater detail below. Depression of the activation button  30  causes a manual spraying operation to be undertaken. The manual spraying option allows the user to override and/or supplement the automatic operation of the device  2  when so desired. Numerous other interfaces that have similar functional characteristics as described above may be provided on the control panel  8  or elsewhere on the device  2  and are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.  
         [0059]      FIG. 16  depicts a timing diagram of the present embodiment that illustrates the operation of the device  2 . Initially, the device  2  is energized by moving the dial  28  from the off position to an active position by rotating the dial  28  to the right. The device  2  thereafter enters a first sleep period that lasts a predetermined time interval, such as about 1 hour. Upon expiration of the first sleep period the piezoelectric element  124  is activated to dispense fluid from the device  2  during a first spraying period. The first spraying period may last anywhere from a fraction of a second to a couple of seconds or longer. Automatic operation thereafter continues with alternating sleep and spraying periods.  
         [0060]     The dial  28  provides for an infinite number of duty cycles. Rotating the dial  28  slightly to the right from the off position causes the device to have a sleep period of several hours. Rotating the dial  28  farther to the right reduces the sleep period, such as to an hour or a half hour. Additional rotation to the right further reduces the sleep periods to a couple of minutes or even a couple of seconds or less. If the dial  28  is completely rotated to the right, the sleep period is reduced to zero and the device  2  continuously sprays. The user may adjust the dial  28  to change future or current sleep periods at any time. The device  2  therefore allows for the piezoelectric element  124  to atomize the fluid during spray periods separated in time by sleep periods of adjustable durations.  
         [0061]     In one embodiment, the dial  28  is provided with visible numeric indicators associated with a zero position, a first position, a second position, a third position, a fourth position, and a fifth position. When the dial  28  is in the zero position the device  2  is in an off state. Rotating the dial  28  to the left (as seen in  FIG. 1 ) to the first position causes the device  2  to alternate between a 22 second sleep period (or dwell time interval) and a 12 ms puff of the fluid. The second, third, fourth, and fifth positions similarly result in emission of fluid for 12 ms following sleep periods (i.e., dwell time intervals) of 18 seconds, 13 seconds, 9 seconds, and 5 seconds, respectively. In a different embodiment, the dial  28  is provided with non-numeric indicators, such as lines, letters, icons, or the like. Further, any of the embodiments disclosed herein may have the ability to provide an infinite number of continuously variable spray duty cycles dependent upon the position of the dial  28 .  
         [0062]      FIG. 17  is similar to  FIG. 16  except that the activation button  30  is depressed and released during the second sleep period. Momentarily depressing and releasing the activation button  30  causes the piezoelectric element  124  to dispense atomized fluid from the device  2  for either a fixed spray period, such as about one to seven seconds, or for a period of time dependent upon the length of time the button  30  is depressed. Upon completion of the spray period a third sleep period is entered into that lasts for the predetermined time interval. Automatic operation thereafter continues with alternating sleep and spraying periods. At any time during a sleep period, the user can manually activate the device  2  by depressing the activation button  30  as noted above. If the activation button  30  is depressed and held in a depressed state by the user for longer than a moment, the piezoelectric element  109  dispenses atomized fluid continuously until the activation button is released. Upon release of the button  30  a new sleep period is initiated that lasts for the predetermined time interval.  
         [0063]     In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the sleep periods may all be of the same duration, whether the spray operation is initiated manually or automatically. Also, in other embodiments the lengths of the automatic spray periods are all equal. If desired, one or more of the sleep periods may be longer or shorter than other sleep periods and/or one or more of the automatic spray periods may be longer or shorter than other spray periods. The lengths of the automatic spray periods may last anywhere from a fraction of a second to a couple of seconds or longer. The automatic spray periods may be modified to last even longer, such as until the complete exhaustion of the fluid in the device  2 , or to comprise several sequenced discharges of the fluid. Still further, the control methodology can be modified to cause spraying operations to be periodically undertaken at equal or unequal intervals without regard to whether a manual spraying operation has been undertaken.  
         [0064]     The present device  2  may be combined with the sensor  9  for activating the piezoelectric element  124 . The device  2  may operate in a sensor mode and only activate the piezoelectric element  124  in response to output from the sensor  9 . The device  2  could also operate in a combined timed and sensing mode of operation, wherein the piezoelectric element  124  is activated after completion of a sleep period or in response to output from the sensor  9 . Following actuation of the piezoelectric element  124  by an output signal developed by the sensor  9 , a new sleep period lasting the predetermined time interval may be initiated. In any of these embodiments the activation button  30  may be used to interrupt a sleep period with a manually activated spray period. The sensor  9  may be a motion sensor, a sound activated sensor, a light sensor, a temperature sensor, a vibration sensor, a malodorous compound detecting sensor, etc. In a particular embodiment, the sensor  9  comprises a photocell motion sensor that collects ambient light and allows a controller to detect any changes in the intensity thereof. It should be noted that numerous other motion sensors such as passive infrared or pyroelectric motion sensors, infrared reflective motion sensors, ultrasonic motion sensors, or radar or microwave radio motion sensors may be used with the present embodiment. In one embodiment only a single one of these sensors is utilized, while in other embodiments a combination of sensors is used. Further, the present listing of potential sensors is not exhaustive but is merely illustrative of the different types of sensors that can be used with the device  2  described herein. Still further, the placement of the device  2  is not confined to any of the specific examples described above. It is intended that the device  2  be placed in any area where the dispensing of an atomized fluid is required or desired and/or where the sensor  9  is effective.  
         [0065]      FIG. 18  depicts a block diagram illustrating the functioning of one embodiment of the device  2 . For purposes of the present example, it is assumed that the inactive device  2  is placed in a room such as a household bathroom. A block  250  activates the device  2  when the dial  28  is rotated to the left as seen in  FIG. 1  from the zero position to one of the first to fifth active positions. It will further be assumed for purposes of the present example that the dial  28  has been rotated to the first position to initiate an automatic spray time interval of about 22 seconds.  
         [0066]     A block  252  then initiates a start-up burst mode upon activation of the device  2 . The start-up burst mode provides an initial burst of fluid from the device  2  upon expiration of a dwell period or interval following energization of the device  2 . The start-up burst mode provides for a dwell interval of about 1 second to about 2 minutes following movement of the dial  28  from the zero position to any of the remaining positions. In a preferred embodiment the dwell interval elapses after about a minute. After the dwell interval has elapsed, fluid is emitted during a start-up spray period of about one second to about ten seconds, and more preferably for about three seconds. The piezoelectric element  124  is operated during this start up spray period by alternatively energizing and deenergizing the element  124  in 12 ms 50% duty cycles.  
         [0067]     A block  253  initializes and starts a post-activation timer and a sensor delay period timer. The post-activation timer starts running upon activation of the device  2  and is activated only once immediately following each energization of the device  2 . The post-activation timer indicates when a post-activation delay period has elapsed. The post-activation delay period lasts for a specified interval, such as 15 minutes. The sensor delay period timer is utilized to determine when a sensor delay period has elapsed.  
         [0068]     Thereafter, a block  254  executes a continuous action air freshener (hereinafter “CAAF”) mode of operation. The CAAF mode provides for timed bursts of fluid dependent on the position of the dial  28 . In the present example, a 12 ms burst of fluid is dispensed every 22 seconds. The timing of the CAAF mode may be modified by adjusting the dial  28  to increase or decrease the time between bursts of the fluid.  
         [0069]     A query is undertaken during the CAAF mode at a block  256 , which determines whether the post activation delay period has elapsed. If the 15 minute post activation delay period has not elapsed the CAAF mode continues uninterrupted. Once the 15 minute post activation period has elapsed a second query is undertaken by a block  257  that determines whether the sensor delay period has elapsed. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor delay period timer senses a 15 minute period of time during which the signal developed by the sensor  9  is ignored. If the 15 minute sensor delay period has not elapsed the CAAF mode continues uninterrupted; however, if the sensor delay period has elapsed the device  2  enters an active sensor mode implemented by a block  258 .  
         [0070]     In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor  9  comprises a photocell motion sensor that collects ambient light and allows a controller to detect any changes in the intensity thereof. The active sensor mode causes the device  2  to register the signal developed by the sensor  9 . A block  260  undertakes a query to determine whether the registered signal indicates that motion has been detected by the sensor  9 . If motion is detected by the sensor  9  a block  261  executes a first extended burst mode. The first extended burst mode causes the device  2  to emit an extended burst of fluid for a specified duration independent of the dial  28 . In the present example, the first extended burst of fluid lasts for a period of three seconds and is emitted by alternatively energizing and deenergizing the element  124  in 12 ms 50% duty cycles. Thereafter, a block  262  re-initializes and restarts the sensor delay period timer and the CAAF mode is resumed. If motion is not detected by the sensor  9  a block  264  executes a ghost mode of operation. The ghost mode conserves fluid by providing timed bursts of fluid independent of the position of the dial  28 . In one embodiment, the ghost mode emits timed bursts of fluid separated by a dwell period or interval greater than the user-selectable dwell periods or intervals of the CAAF mode. Alternatively or in addition, the device  2  may emit shorter bursts of fluid during operation in the ghost mode than are emitted during operation of the CAAF mode. In the present example, a 12 ms burst of fluid is dispensed every three minutes regardless of the position of the dial  28  during operation in the ghost mode. The active life span of the fluid in the reservoir  6  is therefore extended by decreasing the frequency and/or duration of bursts of fluid during periods of little or no activity.  
         [0071]     During the ghost mode of operation a block  265  continuously registers the signal developed by the sensor  9  and a block  266  continuously queries whether the signal developed by the sensor  9  indicates that motion has occurred. If the block  266  determines that no motion has occurred the ghost mode continues uninterrupted. However, if the block  266  determines that motion has occurred a block  268  executes a second extended burst mode.  
         [0072]     The second extended burst mode causes the device  2  to emit an extended burst of fluid for a specified duration independent of the dial  28 . In the present example, the extended burst of fluid lasts for a period of three seconds and is emitted by alternatively energizing and deenergizing the element  124  in 12 ms 50% duty cycles. Thereafter, a block  270  re-initializes and restarts the sensor delay period timer and the block  254  thereafter resumes the CAAF mode of operation.  
         [0073]     At any time during the active state of the device  2  the activation button  30  may be depressed to initiate a manual burst mode. The manual burst mode allows the user to emit fluid from the device  2  regardless of the position of the dial  28  or what mode the device  2  is currently in. In the present example, when the activation button  30  is depressed for less than a second the fluid is emitted for a pre-set period of time of about three seconds. Alternatively, if the activation button  30  is depressed for more than a second the fluid is emitted continuously for a user determined period time that ceases when the user releases the activation button  30 . The piezoelectric element  124  is operated during the manual burst mode by alternatively energizing and deenergizing the element  124  in 12 ms 50% duty cycles for the pre-set period of time or the user determined period. The duration that the activation button  30  must be pressed to activate the user determined period may be modified. Similarly, the duration that the pre-set period lasts or the timing interval used to alternatively energize and deenergize the element  124  may be modified as well. Further, it is anticipated that any of the spray periods or delay periods discussed in connection with the present embodiment may be likewise modified.  
         [0074]     The present device  2  may also be used in a manner consistent with the use of commercially marketed hand-held aerosol containers. Rather than activating the device  2  by way of a timer or sensor, the device  2  may be kept in an inactive state until a user requires the fluid to be dispensed. The user picks up the device  2  by gripping the container body  10  with his or her hand. The device  2  is activated by the user depressing the activation button  30  with a thumb or finger. A single depression and release of the activation button  30  causes the piezoelectric element  124  to dispense atomized fluid from the device  2  for a limited spray period. In some embodiments the spray period will last for the same duration the button  30  is held down while in other embodiments the spray period may last for a fixed spray interval, such as several seconds.  
         [0075]      FIGS. 19-24  depict a different embodiment of an atomizing device  302  similar in functionality and structure to the atomizing device  2  described herein. The device  302  generally comprises a housing  304 , a fluid reservoir  306 , and a control panel  308 . The device  302  is operationally disposed on a support surface (not shown) and emits fluid upon receipt of an activation signal from an internal timer and/or sensor  309 . The device  302  may also be manually activated via the control panel  308  to provide a burst of fluid. Similar to the device  2  described herein, the emitted fluid may be a fragrance, sanitizing agent, household cleaner, insecticide, or insect repellant disposed within a carrier liquid, a deodorizing liquid, or the like. The fluid alternatively comprises any fluid known to those skilled in the art that can be dispensed from a reservoir.  
         [0076]     The housing  304  is typically made from a molded plastic, such as polypropylene. The housing  304  comprises an elliptical body  310  with a bottom surface  312 , a central portion  314 , and a top portion  316 . In one particular embodiment, the body  310  has an overall height of about 109 mm (4.29 in.), an overall width of about 91 mm (3.58 in.), and an overall depth of about 54 mm (2.13 in.). The top portion  316  of the body  310  includes first and second elliptical recesses  318 ,  320 , respectively, that taper inwardly toward a central circular outlet opening  322 . The outlet opening  322  in one embodiment has a diameter of at least about 8 mm (0.32 in.). The bottom surface  312  of the body  310  is planar and includes three equidistantly placed cylindrical feet  324   a ,  324   b ,  324   c  disposed thereon. A door  326  is hingedly secured to the bottom surface  312  for movement between open and closed positions. When the door  326  is in an open position (not shown) battery terminals similar to those described in connection with the device  2  are accessible, thereby allowing a user to insert one or more batteries to power the device  302 .  
         [0077]     The body  310  of the device  302  includes varying cross-sectional dimensions so that dimensions along the major and minor axes adjacent the central portion  314  are greater than those adjacent the bottom surface  312  and the top portion  316 . The body  310  also includes an ovoid recess  328   a ,  328   b  on both front and rear sides  330 ,  332 , respectively, of the body  310  adjacent the central portion  314  of same. Each recess  328   a ,  328   b  tapers inwardly toward a circular-shaped edge  334   a ,  334   b , respectively, offset toward an upper side  336  of both elongate recesses  328   a ,  328   b . The circular edges  334   a ,  334   b  define opposite ends of a cylindrical hollow portion  338  that extends from the front side  330  to the rear side  332  of the body  310 . An opening  340  is provided within an upper wall  342  defining the cylindrical hollow portion  338 . The opening  338  provides access to a support chassis  344  mounted within an interior of the device  2  adjacent the top portion  316 . A piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly (not shown) is disposed on the support chassis  344 . The structure and functionality of the support chassis  344  and the piezoelectric actuator and orifice plate assembly are identical to the support chassis  150  and assembly  178  described in connection with the device  2 , including any contemplated variations thereof. Further, the fluid reservoir  306 , which is identical to the fluid reservoir  6  of the device  2 , depends from the support chassis  344  in a similar manner as fluid reservoir  6  depends from the support chassis  150 . In the present embodiment, however, the fluid reservoir  306  extends through the opening  340  and into the cylindrical hollow portion  338 . A bottom surface  346  of the fluid reservoir  306  is substantially planar and parallel with respect to the bottom surface  312  of the body  310 .  
         [0078]     The control panel  308  includes a sliding switch  348  on the front side  330  of the body  310 . The switch  348  is disposed within a lower side  350  of the elongate rounded recess  328   a . The switch  348  is a five position slide switch operable to be manipulated by a finger of a user between one of the five positions. Each of the five switch positions corresponds to a different fluid intensity level. For example, the user inserts batteries into the device  302  or otherwise provides power thereto by an on/off switch (not shown) to activate the device  302 . The device  302  thereafter operates in an automatic timed mode with alternating sleep and spraying periods of operation similar to those described herein with respect to device  2  and depicted in  FIG. 16 . However, in the device  302  the length of the sleep period is dependent on the position of the switch  348 . In one embodiment, manipulation of the switch  348  to the first position  352  causes a sleep period of 22.54 seconds, i.e., the device  302  has a dwell or sleep period of 22.54 seconds between activations of the piezoelectric element to dispense the fluid. A second position  354  of the switch  348  corresponds to a sleep period of 12.81 seconds, a third position  356  corresponds to a sleep period of 9.23 seconds, a fourth position  358  corresponds to a sleep period of 7.18 seconds, and a fifth position  360  corresponds to a sleep period of 5.65 seconds. The first through fifth positions  352 - 360  are indicated by markings beneath the switch  348 . The user may adjust the switch  348  to change future or current sleep periods at any time. The device  302  therefore allows for the piezoelectric element within the assembly  344  to atomize the fluid during spray periods separated in time by sleep periods of adjustable amounts.  
         [0079]     The device  302  also includes an instant action button  362  disposed on a lower wall  364  defining the cylindrical hollow portion  338 . The button  362  is centered beneath the bottom surface  346  of the fluid reservoir  306 . Depression of the button  362  causes a manual spraying operation to be undertaken. The manual spraying option allows the user to override and/or supplement the automatic operation of the device  302  when so desired. The present button  362  acts in a similar manner as the activation button  30  described in connection with the device  2  and depicted in  FIG. 17 . Depressing and releasing the activation button  362  during a sleep period or automatic spray period causes the assembly  344  to dispense atomized fluid from the device  302  for a manual spray period, such as about one to five seconds. Upon completion of the manual spray period a sleep period is entered into that lasts for a predetermined time interval dependent on the position of the slide switch  348 . Automatic operation thereafter continues with alternating sleep and spraying periods. At any time during a sleep period, the user can manually activate the device  302  by depressing the button  362  as noted above. In a further embodiment, if the button  362  is depressed and held in a depressed state by the user the piezoelectric element dispenses the atomized fluid continuously until the button  362  is released. Upon release of the button  362  a new sleep period will be initiated that will last for the predetermined time interval.  
         [0080]     The structure and functionality described in connection with the device  302  is also intended to be used in connection with the device  2  in alternative embodiments thereof. Similarly, the embodiments described in connection with the device  2  may be alternatively used or modified with respect to the device  302 . For example, the timing and duration of automatic or manual sleep and spray periods for the devices  2  and  302  may be utilized or adjusted in any manner described herein for either device. Other modifications contemplated with the present embodiments include supplying the device  302  with a sensor described in connection with the device  2  or providing the device  2  with a slide switch as opposed to the dial  28 . Further, numerous other interfaces that have similar functional characteristics as described above may be provided on either of the devices  2  and  302  and are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Still further, the present application contemplates variations to the structure of either of the devices  2 ,  302 . For instance, the aerosolized liquid outlet  16  of the device  2  may be modified to direct or break up fluid passing therethrough in a desired manner known by those skilled in the art or the body  10  may be fashioned to comprise a different shape such as a rectangle, triangle, or oval. Those skilled in the art will realize the numerous manners in which the present disclosure may be modified to provide similar functionality to that already disclosed herein.  
       INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY  
       [0081]     One advantage of the present invention is the ability to remove the user&#39;s hand from an area adjacent the fluid being pumped from the device, thereby preventing residual fluid from settling onto the user&#39;s hand. This advantage is possible because the control panel that includes the activation button is disposed beneath the support chassis and the reservoir. Further, a user can readily determine the current quantity of the fluid in the reservoir without having to disassemble components. The device can be held in any orientation during spraying, and the sizes of the aerosolized droplets are significantly smaller than droplets emitted from conventional aerosol containers. This latter feature promotes dispersal of emitted fluid and minimizes undesirable fallout.