Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates to the field of atomizers, and more particularly to an airflow guided essential oil reflux-type atomizer.

In daily life, essential oils are often used to improve the surrounding environment or to perform medical treatment, such as sterilization, disinfection or changing environmental odor, etc. When using the essential oils, an atomizer is often used to atomize the essential oils for facilitating diffusion of the essential oils into the environment.

<CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT> disclose oil atomizers according to the prior art.

The present invention relates to an essential oil atomizer according to claim <NUM>.

According to the invention, the atomizer nozzle assembly comprises a gas nozzle and an oil nozzle, wherein the oil nozzle is configured to be in fluid communication with the oil receptacle and wherein the gas nozzle is configured to expel the gas across the oil nozzle.

A heater can be configured to heat oil in the atomizer nozzle assembly or in the oil receptacle. In some embodiments, the heater can be configured to be concentric with the oil receptacle. The heater can be configured to heat gas before or when the gas enters into the atomizer nozzle assembly. The heater can also be configured to apply heat to a gas line entering the atomizer nozzle assembly. The heater can be substantially cylindrical or can comprise a heating element and an insulator positioned radially external to the heating element.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to an essential oil atomizer having a housing connectable to an oil receptacle, an atomizer having a nozzle assembly attached to the housing and configured to atomize oil from the oil receptacle by directing flow of a gas across the oil at the nozzle assembly, wherein the flow of the gas and atomized oil is configured to pass out of the housing, and a heater configured to raise a temperature of the oil at the nozzle assembly.

In some embodiments, the heater can be configured to raise the temperature of the nozzle assembly. The heater can be configured to raise the temperature of the oil by heating the gas before or while it flows through the nozzle assembly. The heater can be configured to heat the gas at a position external to the nozzle assembly. In some embodiments, the heater can be configured to raise the temperature of the oil by heating the oil before or while it flows to the nozzle assembly. The heater can be configured to heat the oil in the oil receptacle. In some embodiments, the heater can be configured to raise the temperature of the oil to be within a range of about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure relates to a method of atomizing essential oil, wherein the method comprises generating gas flow through a gas nozzle, generating oil flow through an oil nozzle, wherein the gas flow passes over an outlet of the oil nozzle to atomize the oil flow, and raising a temperature of the oil flow to increase atomization of the oil flow as the gas flow passes over the outlet.

Raising the temperature of the oil flow can comprise applying heat to the gas flow and moving (e.g., driving or drawing) the oil flow into the gas flow, applying heat to an oil container from which the oil flows, or applying heat to the gas nozzle or the oil nozzle.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an essential oil atomizer, comprising a housing and a first oil diffuser and a second oil diffuser located within the housing. Each of the first and second oil diffusers can comprise an oil receptacle configured to store oil, and an atomizer nozzle assembly configured to diffuse oil and gas. The essential oil atomizer can further comprise a heater configured to apply heat to the oil or gas.

In some embodiments, the essential oil atomizer comprises a first pump configured to provide gas to the first oil diffuser, and a second pump configured to provide gas to the second oil diffuser. The heater can comprise a first heating element configured to supply heat to the first oil diffuser, and a second heating element configured to supply heat to the second oil diffuser. The first heating element and the second heating element can be configured to heat the respective oil receptacles of the first and second oil diffusers. The first heating element and the second heating element are configured to heat the respective atomizer nozzle assemblies of the first and second oil diffusers.

In some embodiments, each atomizer nozzle assembly can comprise an oil nozzle and a gas nozzle, wherein the heater can configured to apply heat to at least one gas nozzle of the first and second oil diffusers. The heater can comprise a heating block positioned adjacent at least one of the atomizer nozzle assemblies. The heater can be configured to apply heat to a first gas line of the first oil diffuser and a second gas line of the second oil diffuser.

In some embodiments, the atomized oil and gas from the first and second oil diffuser is expelled into a mixing chamber to form a mixture of atomized oil from the first and second oil diffusers. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a total of three or more oil diffusers.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an essential oil atomizer, comprising a housing connectable to a mixing shell, the mixing shell defining a mixing chamber and a shell outlet, at least two oil diffusers connected to the housing. Each of the at least two oil diffusers can comprise an oil receptacle, an atomizer nozzle assembly configured to atomize oil from the oil receptacle in a gas, and a spray outlet through which the atomized oil and gas can be configured to be expelled into the mixing chamber. The atomized oil and gas from each of the at least two oil diffusers can be configured to be combined in the mixing chamber and to be expelled through the shell outlet.

In some embodiments, the essential oil atomizer can comprise a heating assembly configured to raise a temperature of the oil. The heating assembly can comprise a first heater configured to raise the temperature of a first oil diffuser of the at least two oil diffusers, and a second heater configured to raise the temperature of a second oil diffuser of the at least two oil diffusers. The heating assembly can be configured to heat gas expelled through each of the atomizer nozzle assemblies. The heating assembly can be configured to raise the temperature of the oil by heating the oil before or while the oil flows to the nozzle assembly. The heating assembly can comprise a first heating element configured to at least partially surround one of the oil receptacles, and a second heating element configured to at least partially surround another of the oil receptacles.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an essential oil atomizer, comprising a housing having a first mounting location and a second mounting location, first and second oil diffusers located within the housing, the first oil diffuser being positioned in the first mounting location, the second oil diffuser being positioned in the second mounting location, wherein the first and second oil diffusers are removable from the first and second mounting locations. Each of the first and second oil diffusers can comprise an oil receptacle and an atomizer nozzle assembly in fluid communication with the oil receptacle, the atomizer nozzle assembly configured to atomize oil.

In some embodiments, the essential oil atomizer can further comprise a third oil diffuser, wherein the third oil diffuser can be connectable to the housing in the first mounting location upon removal of the first oil diffuser from the first mounting location. The third oil diffuser can have different properties relative to the first oil diffuser. The atomizer nozzle assembly can comprise an oil nozzle and a gas nozzle, wherein the oil nozzle can be configured to be in fluid communication with the oil receptacle, and the gas nozzle can be configured to expel the gas across the oil nozzle. The housing can comprise a total of three or more mounting locations for a total of three or more oil diffusers.

The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The Figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify one or more preferred embodiments.

The accompanying drawings and figures illustrate a number of exemplary embodiments and are part of the specification. Together with the present description, these drawings demonstrate and explain various principles of this disclosure. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the following drawings.

While the embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.

A conventional essential oil atomizer/nebulizer typically ejects a high-speed airflow to extract an essential oil from an essential oil bottle and to transfer the essential oil out of the atomizer into the surrounding atmosphere. However, this atomization method can result in larger droplets of essential oil in the atomized gas, so the atomization performance is poor and oil is inefficiently distributed. The large essential oil droplets can be wasted if they are dispensed. To reduce the waste of essential oils, a filter is often used for filtering the atomized airflow mixed with the essential oil droplets so as to recycle the essential oil droplets. However, since the space of the essential oil atomization chamber is generally small, the mixed airflow may directly hit and accumulate in an area of the sidewall of the atomization chamber facing the gas nozzle. With subsequent airflow hitting the same area, the essential oil droplets in the area can be blown and splashed to the filter, thereby blocking the filter, reducing the efficiency of filtration, and causing waste.

These issues are amplified and aggravated when the essential oils have high viscosity or high molecular stability. These thicker oils are much more difficult to draw through a tube or channel from an oil reservoir to the air flow. They are also less effectively atomized and diffused by the airflow, so the atomizer less effectively distributes the oil using the airflow.

Compared to conventional essential oil atomizers, airflow-guided essential oil reflux-type atomizers of the present invention can provide many beneficial effects. First, by providing the filter atomization mechanism in the atomization chamber, when an airflow is pumped out of the gas pump through the gas nozzle, the airflow extracts the essential oil from the essential oil bottle through the oil nozzle, and atomizes the essential oil to form a mixed airflow. When the mixed airflow passes through each of the filter housings of the filter atomization mechanism, successively larger essential oil droplets in the airflow are filtered by each of the filter housings to be recycled, thereby reducing waste of the essential oil, while smaller atomized essential oil droplets will pass through the through hole of each of the filter housings to be dispensed out the atomizer into the environment. When the essential oil droplets in the airflow are located in each of the through holes, the pressure difference between two sides of the filter housing can create an airflow in each of the through holes to re-atomize these essential oil droplets to improve the atomization performance.

Second, in embodiments having a guide board and filter in the atomization chamber, the mixed airflow (which includes a mixture of the airflow from a gas pump and essential oil from the oil bottle) can hit the guide board and be guided to flow upward to the filter atomization mechanism, where the larger essential oil droplets are filtered and recycled to reduce waste. At the same time, the guide board can also collect some of the essential oil droplets from the mixed airflow, reducing oil splashing which may block the filter to ensure filtration efficiency.

It is noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to," "installed on," "arranged on" or "disposed on" another component, it can be directly or indirectly fixed on another component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly or indirectly connected to the other component.

In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying a relative importance or indicating the quantity of technical features. Therefore, a feature that is qualified as "first" and "second" may expressly or implicitly include one or more of such a feature. In the description of the present invention, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

Unless specified otherwise, it should be understood that, "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left" and "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside" and other terms indicating the orientation or positional relationship are used to refer to orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, only for the purpose of facilitating and simplifying the description of the invention, instead of indicating or implying that the indicated device or component must have a specific orientation and constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore cannot be construed as limiting.

In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "install," "connected," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly unless specifically defined or limited otherwise. For example, the components may be fixedly connected or they may be detachable connected, or integral connected. The connection can be mechanical or electrical. The connection can be direct or indirect (connected through an intermediary). It can also be the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those of ordinary skill in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present disclosure according to specific circumstances.

<FIG> represent an embodiment of an essential oil reflux-type atomizer of the present invention. The essential oil reflux-type atomizer includes a chassis <NUM>, a housing <NUM>, a gas pump <NUM>, a gas tube <NUM>, a gas nozzle <NUM>, an oil nozzle <NUM>, and a filter atomization mechanism <NUM>. The housing <NUM> includes an atomization chamber <NUM> and a dispensing opening <NUM> connected to the atomization chamber <NUM>. A lower end of the housing <NUM> includes a connection opening <NUM> for cooperatively connecting the essential oil bottle <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is installed on the chassis <NUM>. The gas pump <NUM> is also installed in the chassis <NUM>, which supports and protects the gas pump <NUM>. One end of the gas tube <NUM> is connected to the gas pump <NUM>, and the other end of the gas tube <NUM> is connected to the gas nozzle <NUM>. The oil nozzle <NUM> is located at a position corresponding to the connection opening <NUM> so that when the connection opening <NUM> is connected to the essential oil bottle <NUM>, the essential oil can be extracted from the essential oil bottle <NUM> through the oil nozzle. The upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> is protruded into the atomization chamber <NUM>. An outlet <NUM> of the gas nozzle <NUM> is located adjacent to the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> and is configured to direct an airflow exiting the gas pump to the upper end of the oil nozzle. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that, when the gas pump <NUM> provides high pressure airflow and ejects the airflow from the gas nozzle <NUM>, a negative pressure is formed at the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> to extract essential oil from the essential oil bottle <NUM> via the oil nozzle <NUM>. The extracted essential oil droplets can then be atomized by the high-speed airflow from the gas nozzle <NUM> to form a mixed airflow containing essential oil droplets, which increases the pressure in the atomization chamber <NUM>. Because the connection opening <NUM> and the essential oil bottle <NUM> are connected, the high-pressure mixed airflow in the atomization chamber <NUM> will be forced through the dispensing opening <NUM> to be dispensed into the environment.

The filter atomization mechanism <NUM> is arranged in the atomization chamber <NUM> in the housing <NUM> and is supported by the housing <NUM>. The filter atomization mechanism <NUM> is used to filter the essential oil droplets in the airflow flowing from the atomization chamber <NUM> to the dispensing opening <NUM>. When the mixed airflow in the atomization chamber <NUM> flows toward the dispensing opening <NUM>, it needs to pass through the filter atomization mechanism <NUM>, where the mixed airflow may be filtered by the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> to recycle larger essential oil droplets and reduce the waste of essential oils while the smaller essential oil droplets will pass through the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> to be dispensed through the dispensing opening <NUM>.

In general, the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> includes a plurality of (e.g., two, three, or four) filter housings <NUM>. In some embodiments, when the airflow in the atomization chamber <NUM> flows toward the dispensing opening <NUM>, it passes through the filter housings <NUM> successively. The lower ends (e.g., at the bottom of the cylinders) of the filter housings <NUM> include one or more (e.g., two, three, or four) through holes <NUM> for filtering the essential oil droplets in the airflow. When the airflow containing essential oil droplets passes through each of the filter housings <NUM> successively, the larger essential oil droplets in the mixed airflow are filtered by each of the filter housings <NUM> and can flow back to the oil bottle through the return funnel due to gravity. The smaller essential oil droplets can pass through the through hole <NUM> of each of the filter housings <NUM> to be dispensed through the dispensing opening <NUM>. As discussed above, the airflow from the gas nozzle <NUM> increases the pressure in the atomization chamber outside the filter housings <NUM>. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the pressure difference at two sides of the filter housing <NUM> creates an airflow in each of the through holes <NUM>, such that the essential oil droplets in the through holes <NUM> are re-atomized by the airflow to improve the atomization efficiency. As a result, using the plurality of filter housings <NUM> can better filter larger essential oil droplets, further reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of filtration. In addition, it is believed that, compared to a conventional system without a filter housing, using the filter housing <NUM> can better return the essential oil liquid accumulated therein, and avoid oil attachment to the filter atomization mechanism <NUM>, and thus better recycle the filtered essential oil droplets and further reduce the waste of essential oils.

Compared to a conventional atomizer, the essential oil reflux-type atomizer of the present invention has one or more of the following beneficial effects: when the gas nozzle <NUM> blows out the airflow, essential oil is extracted from essential oil bottle through the oil nozzle <NUM>, and mixed and atomized by the airflow to form a mixed airflow. When the mixed airflow passes through each of the filter housings <NUM> of the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> successively, the larger essential oil droplets in the airflow can be filtered by each of the filter housings <NUM> and recycled, thereby reducing waste of the essential oil. The smaller essential oil droplets can pass through each of the filter housings <NUM> and dispensed into the environment. The pressure difference between the two sides of the filter housing <NUM> creates an airflow in each of the through holes <NUM>, therefore the essential oil droplets in the through hole <NUM> are re-atomized by the airflow to improve the atomization efficiency.

Further, <FIG> and <FIG> show embodiments in which each of the filter housings <NUM> is cylindrical, the diameters of a plurality of the filter housings <NUM> are reduced successively, a plurality of the filter housings <NUM> are concentrically arranged, and the two adjacent filter housings <NUM> include an inner layer filter housing 41a is inserted into an outer layer filter housing 41b. The inner layer filter housing 41a is connected with the dispensing opening <NUM>. The filter housings <NUM> are generally simple to manufacture, and easy to install. The filter housings <NUM> are located in the atomization chamber <NUM>, facilitating the mixed airflow in the atomization chamber <NUM> to enter the filter housings <NUM> to be filtered and atomized. In addition, the filter housings <NUM> are arranged in a cylindrical shape, and one or more through holes <NUM> are arranged at the lower end of the filter housings <NUM>. The inner layer filter housing 41a is inserted into the outer layer filter housing 41b. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that, when the mixed airflow enters the outer layer filter housing 41b from the through holes <NUM>, it rotates and/or turbulently flows along the outer wall of the inner layer filter housing 41a. Thus, the atomized essential oil can rapidly diffuse, and the larger essential oil droplets will hit the outer surface of the inner layer filter housing 41a due to inertia to be blocked and filtered to improve the filtering effect. In addition, when the gas pump is not in use, the essential oil collected in the filter housings <NUM> forms larger droplets and returns to essential oil bottle <NUM> through the through holes of the filter housings <NUM> due to gravity and can be re-used. In some embodiments, a plurality of boards with holes (e.g., in addition to or in lieu of filter housings <NUM>) may be used to filter the essential oil droplets in the atomization chamber. In other embodiments, the filter housings <NUM> may also be cup-shaped with the central part of the bottom arched downward.

In this embodiment, the number of the filter housings <NUM> is two, and the inner layer filter housing 41a is inserted into the outer layer filter housing 41b. In other embodiments, the number of the filter housings <NUM> can be three, four, or more.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> further includes a fixing board <NUM>, which includes a plurality of connection rings <NUM> for connecting the upper ends of the filter housings <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. With the connection rings <NUM>, each of the filter housings <NUM> can be conveniently connected to the fixing board <NUM>, either integrally or through threaded engagement. The fixing board <NUM> can be installed in the atomization chamber <NUM> so that the filter housings <NUM> can be installed in the atomization chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fixing board <NUM> includes a passing hole. The passing hole can be located in the innermost connection ring <NUM> so that when the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> is installed on the fixing board <NUM>, the passing hole can receive the innermost layer filter housing <NUM>, and thus the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> is connected with the dispensing opening <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, the fixing board <NUM> can further include a fixing ring <NUM> around the connection rings <NUM>. The fixing ring <NUM> can be connected with an inner wall of the atomization chamber <NUM>. It is convenient to install and secure the fixing board <NUM> in the atomization chamber <NUM> through the fixing ring <NUM>.

Furthermore, the fixing ring <NUM> may have installation threads. The inner wall of the atomization chamber <NUM> can have corresponding threads for threaded connection with the fixing ring <NUM>.

Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the connection rings <NUM> may include a first thread, and the upper ends of the corresponding filter housings <NUM> may include a second thread corresponding to the first thread. The structure can be conveniently manufactured by methods known in the art. One or more of the filter housings <NUM> can be conveniently connected with the corresponding connection rings <NUM> through threaded engagement.

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> and the fixing board <NUM> are integrally formed. Forming the fixing board <NUM> integrally with the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> can ensure the connection strength between the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> and the fixing board <NUM>. In this structure, the innermost connection ring <NUM> can be used as a sidewall of the inner layer filter housing <NUM> to reduce the space occupied. In other embodiments, the fixing board <NUM> and the innermost layer filter housing <NUM> can be two separate parts and can be connected through threaded engagement described above.

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a bottom board <NUM> of each of the filter housings <NUM> is curved, with the central part of the bottom board <NUM> arched upward. The through holes <NUM> are located at the lower end (e.g., defined by the sidewall and the bottom board) of the sidewall of the filter housings <NUM>. The bottom board <NUM> of each of filter housings <NUM> is arched to allow the essential oil liquid collected in the filter housing <NUM> to flow toward the through holes <NUM> and be discharged back into the essential oil bottle <NUM>.

Further, the through holes <NUM> of each of the filter housings <NUM> are located at the lower end of the sidewall (e.g., at the lower one-third of the sidewall) of each filter housing <NUM>, making it convenient for manufacturing and also convenient for filtration and recycling of the essential oil droplets. Furthermore, when the bottom board <NUM> of a filter housing <NUM> has an upwardly arched arc surface, the arc surface can also guide the airflow flowing from each of the through holes <NUM> into the filter housing <NUM>.

Further, the through holes <NUM> of two adjacent filter housings <NUM> can be mutually staggered. In such embodiments, when the airflow passes through the through hole <NUM> of the outer layer filter housing 41b, the larger essential oil droplets are blown onto the outer sidewall of the inner layer filter housing 41a to be blocked and collected to achieve better filtration. Smaller droplets have less mass and thus less inertia so that they can change directions more easily and stay with the airflow. In some embodiments, the through holes <NUM> in two adjacent filter housings <NUM> can have successively reduced diameters to filter larger essential oil droplets. For example, the diameters of the through holes <NUM> in the inner layer filter housing 41a can be smaller than those of the through holes <NUM> in the outer layer filter housing 41b. In some embodiments, the diameter of the though holes <NUM> of the innermost filter housing <NUM> ranges can be <NUM>-<NUM> (e.g., <NUM>) while the diameter of the though holes <NUM> of the immediate outer filter housing <NUM> is can be <NUM>-<NUM> (e.g., <NUM>). In such embodiments, the through holes <NUM> in the inner layer filter housing 41a and outer layer filter housing 41b can be either centrally aligned or staggered (i.e., not centrally aligned).

Further, in two adjacent filter housings <NUM>, the bottom board of the inner layer filter housing 41a can be spaced from the bottom board <NUM> of the outer layer filter housing 41b so that the airflow in the gap between the inner layer filter housing 41a and the outer layer filter housing 41b can be increased, enhancing the filtration and recycling of the essential oil droplets.

Further, in two adjacent filter housings <NUM>, the closest distance between the sidewall of the inner layer filter housing 41a and the sidewall of the outer layer filter housing 41b can range from at least <NUM> (e.g., at least <NUM> or at least <NUM>) to at most <NUM> (e.g., at most <NUM> or at most <NUM>). Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that controlling the above distance to <NUM>-<NUM> can be important to minimize excessive noise when the essential oil atomizer is being used. In a preferred embodiment, the closest distance between the sidewalls of two adjacent filter housings <NUM> is <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the axial direction of the outlet <NUM> of the gas nozzle <NUM> is directed toward the top of the upper end of the sidewall <NUM> of the oil nozzle <NUM>. The outlet axis of the gas nozzle and the outlet axis of the oil nozzle form an angle that is less than <NUM> degrees. When the airflow is ejected from the outlet <NUM> of the gas nozzle <NUM>, the airflow can cover the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> to better form a negative pressure (e.g., due to Bernoulli effect) at the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM>, which can extract essential oil from the essential oil bottle <NUM>. At the same time, the top of the sidewall <NUM> of the oil nozzle <NUM> can change the direction of the airflow ejected from the gas nozzle <NUM> (e.g., by blocking at least some of the airflow), thereby improving the atomization of the essential oil droplets drawn from the oil nozzle <NUM>.

Further, the airflow ejected from the outlet <NUM> of the gas nozzle <NUM> is directed toward the top of the upper end of the sidewall <NUM> of the oil nozzle <NUM> from a lower position (e.g., the outlet <NUM> can be at a lower position than the oil nozzle <NUM>). This arrangement can prevent the airflow ejected by the gas nozzle <NUM> from being blown into the oil nozzle <NUM>, thereby facilitating extraction of the essential oil from the essential oil bottle and blowing the essential oil upward for better atomization. Further, in this embodiment, the sidewall <NUM> of the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> is conically shaped, guiding upward the airflow from the gas nozzle <NUM> so that the airflow can better atomize the essential oil drawn from the oil nozzle <NUM>. In other embodiments, the sidewall <NUM> of the upper end of the oil nozzle <NUM> may also be a dome in shape.

Further, as shown <FIG>, a lower end of the atomization chamber <NUM> includes a return funnel <NUM> with an outlet tube <NUM> at the bottom. The outlet tube <NUM> protrudes into the connection opening <NUM>. The oil nozzle <NUM> is integrally connected to the outlet tube <NUM>. When the connection opening <NUM> is connected with the essential oil bottle <NUM>, the outlet tube <NUM> of the return funnel <NUM> is protruded into the essential oil bottle <NUM>, so that the recycled essential oil droplets in the atomization chamber <NUM> can better return to the essential oil bottle <NUM>.

Further, in this embodiment, the lower end of the return funnel <NUM> is connected with the inner wall of the atomization chamber <NUM>, such that the essential oil liquid accumulated on the inner wall of the atomization chamber <NUM> can be easily returned to the essential oil bottle <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, a lower end of the oil nozzle <NUM> is connected with a connection sleeve <NUM>. An oil tube <NUM> can be detachably inserted in the connection sleeve <NUM> and can be in fluid communication with oil nozzle <NUM> such that essential oil can be extracted from essential oil bottle <NUM> to the atomization chamber <NUM> through the oil tube <NUM> and oil nozzle <NUM>. In some embodiments, oil tubes <NUM> of different lengths can be used to fit different essential oil bottles <NUM>, enhancing the adaptability of the design.

Further, as shown in <FIG> represent a connection tube <NUM> is arranged at the corresponding position of the chassis <NUM> to allow the gas tube <NUM> to be connected with the gas nozzle <NUM>, thereby allowing airflow to travel from the gas pump <NUM> through the gas tube <NUM> and connection tube <NUM>, and to be ejected from gas nozzle <NUM>. The connection tube <NUM> is arranged in the chassis <NUM> such that the gas tube <NUM> can be securely attached to it to deliver airflow from the gas pump <NUM> into the atomization chamber <NUM>.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, a sealing ring <NUM> is arranged between the gas nozzle <NUM> and the connection tube <NUM> to improve the sealing and minimize leaks of the connection so that substantially all the airflow in the gas tube <NUM> can flow through the gas nozzle <NUM>. It is believed that this structure simplifies the manufacture and connection of the housing <NUM> and the chassis <NUM>. In other embodiments, the gas nozzle <NUM> can also be directly connected to the gas tube <NUM> without using a connection tube <NUM>. In some other embodiments, the gas nozzle <NUM> and the connection tube <NUM> can be integrally formed as a part of the chassis <NUM> (e.g., without using a sealing ring <NUM>).

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a main housing <NUM> installed on the chassis <NUM> and an outer cover <NUM> installed on the main housing <NUM>. The atomization chamber <NUM> is formed in the main housing <NUM>, the outer cover <NUM> covers the atomization chamber <NUM>. The outer cover <NUM> includes the dispensing opening <NUM> at the top of the housing <NUM>. The connection opening <NUM> is arranged at a bottom of the main housing <NUM>. This structure simplifies the manufacture of the housing <NUM> and the assembly of the parts. For example, it simplifies the installation of the oil nozzle <NUM>, gas nozzle <NUM> and the filter atomization mechanism <NUM> onto the housing <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the connection opening <NUM> is provided with a thread sleeve <NUM> for connecting the essential oil bottle <NUM>. The thread sleeve <NUM> is arranged in the connection opening <NUM> to ensure easy installation and replacement of the essential oil bottle <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, the chassis <NUM> includes a supporting frame <NUM>. The gas pump <NUM> is installed on the supporting frame <NUM> for better fixation. The supporting frame <NUM> includes a plurality of heat dissipation channels <NUM> to improve the heat dissipation efficiency.

In some embodiments, the gas pump <NUM> can be a diaphragm pump. Of course, in other embodiments, the gas pump <NUM> can be other types of pumps, such as centrifugal pump, piston pump, and the like.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the essential oil reflux-type atomizer provided by embodiment two can have one or more of the following differences from embodiment one:.

In some embodiments, a side of the atomization chamber <NUM> facing the gas nozzle <NUM> is provided with an optional guide board <NUM>. The guide board <NUM> forms an inclined plane relative to the axial direction of an outlet <NUM> of the gas nozzle <NUM> and integrally connected with or formed on a sidewall of the atomization chamber <NUM>. The guide board <NUM> is configured to guide the airflow jetted by the gas nozzle <NUM> upward. When the gas nozzle <NUM> ejects the air flow and extracts the essential oil to form the mixed airflow, the mixed airflow can flow towards the guide board <NUM> which can better guide the mixed airflow to the filter atomization mechanism <NUM>, thereby facilitating filtration in filter atomization mechanism <NUM>. In addition, the guide board <NUM> can also collect part of the essential oil droplets from the mixed airflow, reducing oil splashing (which may block the filter atomization mechanism <NUM>) and ensuring filtration efficiency.

Further, the guide board <NUM> can be connected to an upper end of the return funnel <NUM>. This structure can make it easier for the oil droplets accumulated on the guide board <NUM> to return to the essential oil bottle <NUM> through the return funnel <NUM>, thereby improving the efficiency of the recycling process. Further, the guide board <NUM> may be integrally formed with the return funnel <NUM> to simplify manufacture, installation and fixation.

Further, in some embodiments, the guide board <NUM> is flat. In some embodiments, the guide board <NUM> is curved.

Further, the angle between an extension line of an outlet <NUM> axis of the gas nozzle <NUM> and the tangent line at the intersection of this extension line and the guide board <NUM> can range from at least <NUM> degrees (e.g., at least <NUM> degrees or at least <NUM> degrees) to at most <NUM> degrees (e.g., at most <NUM> degrees or at most <NUM> degrees). For example, the angle can be about <NUM> degrees. In this arrangement, the guide board <NUM> can better guide the airflow to the guide board <NUM>, and reduce the impact of the airflow to the guide board <NUM>.

Further, in one specific embodiment, the closest distance between the outermost filter housing <NUM> and the oil nozzle <NUM> is at least <NUM> (e.g., at least <NUM> or at least <NUM>). This distance can reduce the oil splashing on the filter housings <NUM> and avoid congestion at the filter atomization mechanism <NUM>.

The other structures of the essential oil reflux-type atomizer in the present embodiment can be the same as the corresponding structures of the essential oil reflux-type atomizer in embodiment one, and the details will not be repeated here.

Essential oil atomizers, including reflux-type atomizers, can have difficulty atomizing and diffusing essential oils that have high viscosity for high molecular weight. For example, in such cases, the essential oil can have difficulty traveling up an oil tube <NUM> or through an oil nozzle <NUM>. Additionally, the oil can be less likely to atomize into droplets as result of airflow passing through the gas nozzle <NUM>. Oil droplets that are atomized from the oil nozzle <NUM> can also be larger than desired and can therefore accumulate more easily within the atomization chamber <NUM> or on the filter housings <NUM>.

<FIG> show embodiments of essential oil atomizers configured to help reduce the viscosity of denser and stickier essential oils and to thereby improve flow from an oil bottle <NUM> (i.e., an oil receptacle or oil container) through the oil tube <NUM> and oil nozzle <NUM>, improve droplet formation (i.e., increasing the volume of oil diffused from the nozzle (or the rate of oil diffused over time) and/or decreasing the size of the oil droplets formed by the gas flow), and reduce oil accumulation in the atomization chamber <NUM> and filter housings <NUM>. These additional embodiments can include heaters having heating elements configured to (a) heat the oil (or its container) directly, thereby reducing the oil's internal viscosity, (b) heat a chamber in which the oil or its container is positioned in a housing or chassis of the atomizer, thereby indirectly reducing the oil's internal viscosity, (c) heat a nozzle, tube, or other passage through which the oil is drawn after it leaves its container, thereby reducing viscosity locally within that nozzle, tube, or passage, (d) heat the gas or passages through which the gas passes before it comes into contact with oil so that the heated gas can reduce the viscosity of the oil when it comes into contact with the oil (i.e., when the oil is being atomized at the oil nozzle), (e) heat up multiple portions or passageways within the atomizer, or (f) implement combinations or subcombinations of (a) through (e) to improve atomization efficiency for otherwise potentially stubborn or problematic essential oils. Heaters disclosed herein can be electronically controlled to manage the temperature to which the oil is heated, to improve energy efficiency, and to limit or prevent overheating.

Various types of heaters can be used in atomizers. In some embodiments, including the embodiments of <FIG>, a heater can comprise resistive metal or metallic wires (e.g., wires formed into resistive heating coils), ceramic compound blocks or units (e.g., comprising Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) ceramic), thick film heaters, resistive polymer heating elements (e.g., conducting PTC rubber), composite heating elements, incandescent or other radiative heating elements, liquid-based heating elements, heat pumps, similar types of heating elements, and combinations thereof. Heaters can be configured to raise the temperature of the essential oil in its container (or where it is being atomized) to a temperature within a range extending from about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the temperature of the oil in the container or reservoir is raised by the heater to be within a range of about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius. Therefore, depending on the configuration of the heater, the temperature of the heater can be configured to reach a temperature within a range of about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius, and heat from the heater can then be transferred to the oil to cause the oil temperature to increase as indicated above. Then the heated, atomized oil droplets can have an elevated temperature that remains elevated (e.g., remains above ambient room temperature) as they pass through the atomization chamber, as they pass through the filter housings (if any), as they exit the atomizer, or as they cycle through multiple stages of this atomization and diffusion process.

<FIG> shows an example embodiment of an essential oil atomizer <NUM> having a heater according to the present disclosure. The atomizer can comprise a chassis <NUM> including a base <NUM>, a lower housing <NUM>, an upper housing <NUM>, a filter housing <NUM>, an atomization housing <NUM>, an outer shell <NUM>, and a top cap <NUM>. A pump <NUM> (i.e., a gas or air pump, an air or gas compressor, or similar air flow provider) can be located within the lower housing <NUM>, and oil receptacle <NUM> can be located in the upper housing <NUM>. A top end <NUM> of the oil receptacle <NUM> can mate with and connect to a lower end of the atomization housing <NUM>.

The atomization housing <NUM> can have an atomization chamber <NUM>. The oil nozzle <NUM> and gas nozzle <NUM> can have outlets within the atomization chamber <NUM>, similar to the outlets (e.g., <NUM> and end of <NUM>) shown in <FIG>. The oil nozzle <NUM> and gas nozzle <NUM> can collectively be referred to as an atomizer nozzle assembly that is configured to atomize oil at the oil nozzle <NUM> by expelling a gas (e.g., compressed air) from the gas nozzle <NUM> into contact with or over the surface of the oil in the oil nozzle <NUM>. The oil nozzle <NUM> can be in fluid communication with an oil tube <NUM> configured to extend into the oil receptacle <NUM>. The gas nozzle <NUM> can be connected to a gas tube <NUM> (i.e., a gas or air line, gas or air supply line, or gas or air passage) that receives output (i.e., gas flow) from the pump <NUM>. The parts and features of this essential oil atomizer <NUM> can have similar functions and can perform similar effects as their corresponding parts described in previous embodiments shown above.

Additionally, the base <NUM>, the lower housing <NUM>, the upper housing <NUM>, the top <NUM>, the atomization housing <NUM>, and the outer shell <NUM> can all be concentrically aligned along a central vertical axis extending through the atomizer <NUM>. The positioning of these parts can reduce the overall width footprint of the atomizer <NUM>, thereby making it more compact and giving it aesthetic appeal. In an example embodiment, the outer shell <NUM> can be removed from the base <NUM> and other parts such as the upper and lower housings <NUM>, <NUM> can be separated to provide access for a user to insert and remove the oil receptacle <NUM>, e.g., to change the receptacle <NUM> or to refill oils in the receptacle <NUM>. In some embodiments, a user can refill the oil receptacle <NUM> by pouring oil through the central vent opening <NUM> in the top cap <NUM>, which allows the oil to pass through the atomization chamber <NUM> into the oil receptacle <NUM>. In some cases, the oil receptacle <NUM> can be removed, and a non-removable and integrated chamber can be used within the upper housing <NUM> or atomization housing <NUM> that is configured to hold and retain oil until it is atomized and diffused from the atomizer <NUM> or until the oil is poured out. Thus, a bottle-shaped oil receptacle <NUM> can be used for convenience but is optional.

The atomizer <NUM> can also include an electronics unit <NUM> (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB), power electronics, buttons, connectors, etc.) in electrical communication with the pump <NUM> and configured to control the operation of the pump <NUM>, the amount of gas flow produced by the pump <NUM>, and similar functions. The electronics unit <NUM> can also be electrically connected to a heater <NUM> that is horizontally aligned with (i.e., is centered at roughly the same height in the atomizer <NUM> as the electronics unit <NUM>) and substantially surrounds the oil receptacle <NUM>. A set of electrical controls or switches (e.g., <NUM> in <FIG>) can be used to provide user input to the electronics unit <NUM>.

The heater <NUM> can include a heating element <NUM> positioned on a radially internal side of the heater <NUM> relative to a central axis of the atomizer <NUM> and relative to the central axis of the upper housing <NUM> (i.e., a central axis extending vertically through the central vent opening <NUM>). The heater <NUM> can also include an insulator <NUM> externally radially surrounding the heating element <NUM>. As explained above, the heating element <NUM> can be a resistive heating element or other type of electronic heater configured to receive power from the electronics unit <NUM> to generate heat. The heat generated by the heating element <NUM> can be transferred (e.g., via conduction, radiation, and convection) through the upper housing <NUM>, the walls of the oil receptacle <NUM>, and into oil within the oil receptacle <NUM>, thereby heating and raising the internal temperature of oil in the oil receptacle <NUM>. The insulator <NUM> can help improve efficiency of the heating element <NUM> by limiting heat transfer in a radially outward direction from the oil receptacle <NUM>. The insulator <NUM> can comprise a thermally insulating material such as fiberglass, foam rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, urethane foam, cork, polystyrene foam, cellulose, similar materials, and combinations thereof.

The heater <NUM> can have a heater length dimension <NUM> measured extending parallel to the vertical longitudinal axis of the oil receptacle <NUM> or parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the oil tube <NUM>. The length dimension <NUM> can be substantially equal to an overall length/height dimension of the oil receptacle <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In this manner, the heater <NUM> can apply heat along the overall length of the oil receptacle <NUM> and thereby ensure that all of the oil in the receptacle <NUM> is heated by the heater <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the length dimension <NUM> can extend along less than the entire length of the oil receptacle <NUM>, such as, for example, along half of the length of the receptacle <NUM> or less. In some embodiments, the heater <NUM> can extend along only an upper end of the receptacle <NUM> to heat the oil just before it enters the oil nozzle <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heater <NUM> can extend along only the lower end of the receptacle <NUM>. This can be beneficial to apply heat to oil that accumulates at the bottom of the receptacle <NUM> and to allow the oil to start to cool as it moves up the oil tube <NUM> before being atomized at the oil nozzle <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the heater <NUM> can be positioned radially between the upper housing <NUM> and the oil receptacle <NUM>. This can help improve the efficiency of heat transfer into the oil receptacle <NUM>. In embodiments where the heater <NUM> is positioned external to the upper housing <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, the heater <NUM> can be protected by the upper housing <NUM> from potential damage and wear that can occur when a user removes and inserts an oil receptacle <NUM> while operating the atomizer <NUM> (e.g., when refilling or changing the oil receptacle). In some embodiments, the heater <NUM> can be positioned beneath the oil receptacle <NUM> and can therefore apply heat to the bottom of the oil receptacle <NUM>. In this case, the heater <NUM> can be smaller and the external width of the upper housing <NUM> can be reduced. The size of the heater <NUM> can be configured to apply sufficient heat to the oil to raise its temperature to a range such as about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius at the oil nozzle <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a diagrammatic representation of components of the atomizer <NUM> of <FIG>. The electronics unit <NUM> can include a printed circuit board <NUM> configured to be connected to an electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, the gas pump <NUM>, and the heating element <NUM>. The printed circuit board <NUM> can also be connected to switches or other user input devices <NUM> or mechanisms. The printed circuit board <NUM> can therefore be in electrical communication with the electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, user input devices <NUM>, the pump <NUM>, and the heating element <NUM>. The printed circuit board <NUM> can comprise control circuitry configured to send or receive electrical signals to each of the components that are in electrical communication with the printed circuit board <NUM> and can thereby manage and control power provided to the pump <NUM> or heating element <NUM>. <FIG> also diagrammatically shows the insulator <NUM>, the oil receptacle <NUM> the upper housing <NUM>, the oil tube <NUM>, the oil nozzle <NUM>, the gas nozzle <NUM>, and the gas tube <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can apply heat to the receptacle <NUM> or to the upper housing <NUM> via conduction.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of an atomizer <NUM> having many components duplicated from atomizer <NUM> and which performs similar functions as in atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals used in connection with atomizer <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>. Only an upper end of the atomizer <NUM> is shown in side view cross-section in <FIG> to show detail at the atomization housing <NUM> and atomization chamber <NUM>.

The atomizer <NUM> can comprise a heating element <NUM> electrically connected with the electronics unit <NUM> in a manner similar to heating element <NUM>. Thus, the electronics unit <NUM> can electrically generate heat with the heating element <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can be mounted to the upper housing <NUM> on a radially internal side of the heating element <NUM> and can be mounted to the bottom of a thermal block <NUM>. The thermal block <NUM> can be configured to contact the gas nozzle <NUM> (or, in some embodiments, the oil nozzle <NUM>, oil receptacle <NUM>, oil tube <NUM>, gas tube <NUM>, or atomizer housing <NUM>) when the atomizer <NUM> is fully assembled.

The heating element <NUM> can comprise a resistive heating element or another type of electrical heat generator described above in connection with heating element <NUM>. The thermal block <NUM> can comprise a material having high heat transfer conductivity, such as metal or ceramic. The gas nozzle <NUM> can also comprise a material having high heat transfer conductivity, such as metal or ceramic. In this manner, the heating element <NUM> can generate heat is transferred via conduction to the thermal block <NUM> and transferred via conduction to the gas nozzle <NUM>. This heat can increase the departure of the gas nozzle <NUM> so that gas flowing through the gas tube <NUM> is heated as it passes through the gas nozzle <NUM>. That heated gas can then come into contact with oil at the top of the oil nozzle <NUM>, heat the oil at that point, and thereby thin or start to evaporate the oil to improve atomization and droplet formation of the oil within the atomization chamber <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the oil nozzle <NUM> can be formed with, contacting, or attached to the gas nozzle <NUM>. Therefore, the oil nozzle <NUM> can have its temperature increased by heat transferred via the gas nozzle <NUM>. Raising the temperature of the oil nozzle <NUM> can consequently increase the temperature of oil at the outlet of the oil nozzle <NUM> even further, thereby improving atomization and droplet formation even further.

The heating element <NUM> and thermal block <NUM> can be beneficially implemented where space within the atomizer <NUM> is limited or where high electrical heating efficiency is desired. The heating element <NUM> can be significantly smaller in size than a heating element (e.g., <NUM>) that must extend along a significant portion of the oil receptacle <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can also be beneficial in environments where the gas or oil does not need to be heated a large amount, and a small heating element <NUM> can therefore suffice to ensure proper oil heating at the atomization chamber <NUM>. Heating the gas nozzle <NUM> and oil nozzle <NUM> can also help to prevent oil residue buildup on the nozzles and within the atomization chamber <NUM> by thinning oil or melting residue on the nozzles.

<FIG> is a diagrammatic view of components of the atomizer <NUM>. In this embodiment, a printed circuit board <NUM> can be connected to an electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, a gas pump <NUM>, user input device <NUM>, and a heating element <NUM>. As indicated in <FIG>, the printed circuit board <NUM> can generate heat at the heating element <NUM> that is transferred to the thermal block <NUM> and then, in turn, to the gas nozzle <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of an atomizer <NUM> having many components duplicated from atomizer <NUM> and which perform similar functions as their counterparts in atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals in <FIG> as used in connection with atomizer <NUM>. Only an upper end of the atomizer <NUM> is shown in side view cross-section in <FIG> to show detail at the upper end of the gas tube <NUM>.

The atomizer <NUM> can comprise a heating element <NUM> electrically connected with the electronics unit <NUM> in a manner similar to heating element <NUM>. Thus, the electronics unit <NUM> can electrically generate heat with the heating element <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can be mounted to a thermally conductive tube <NUM> that is connected to the gas tube <NUM> and that extends through the heating element <NUM>. The thermally conductive tube <NUM> can be in fluid communication with an inlet side of the gas nozzle <NUM> when the atomizer <NUM> is fully assembled.

The thermally conductive tube <NUM> can beneficially comprise a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal or ceramic material, but in some embodiments, other types of less thermally conductive material can be used such as, for example, polymers or rubber. Thus, the tube can be described as being "thermally conductive" because it is used to conduct heat from the heating element <NUM> to elevate the temperature of gas within the tube <NUM>. In other words, gas flowing through the thermally conductive tube <NUM> can be heated due to the thermally conductive tube <NUM> having an elevated temperature caused by heat generated in the heating element <NUM> external to the tube <NUM>. In some embodiments, the gas tube <NUM> can extend through the heating element <NUM> instead of connecting to a separate thermally conductive tube <NUM> that extends through the heating element <NUM>.

The heating element <NUM> can comprise a resistive heating element or another type of electrical heat generator described above in connection with heating element <NUM>. The thermally conductive tube <NUM> can comprise a material having high heat transfer conductivity, such as metal or ceramic. In this manner, the heating element <NUM> can generate heat that is transferred via conduction to the thermally conductive tube <NUM> to heat the tube <NUM> and the gas positioned in or flowing through it. This heat can increase the temperature of the gas entering the gas nozzle <NUM>. Thus, gas flowing through the gas tube <NUM> can be heated before it enters the gas nozzle <NUM>. That heated gas can then come into contact with oil at the top of the oil nozzle <NUM>, heat the oil at that point, and thereby improve atomization and droplet formation of the oil within the atomization chamber <NUM>.

The heating element <NUM> and thermally conductive tube <NUM> can be beneficially implemented where space within the atomizer <NUM> is limited or where high electrical heating efficiency is desired. The heating element <NUM> can be smaller in size than a heating element (e.g., <NUM>) that extends along a significant portion of the oil receptacle <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can also be beneficial in environments where the gas or oil does not need to be heated a large amount, and a small heating element <NUM> can therefore suffice to ensure proper oil heating at the atomization chamber <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can also be more easily removed or serviced within the atomizer <NUM> by removing the gas tube <NUM> and/or thermally conductive tube <NUM>. Additionally, the amount of surface area within the thermally conductive tube <NUM> that is heated by the heating element <NUM> can be designed to ensure that the gas flowing through the tube <NUM> quickly rises to a desired temperature before it reaches the gas nozzle <NUM>. In some embodiments, the gas flowing through the thermally conductive tube <NUM> can help reduce or eliminate the need for an insulator external to the heating element <NUM> because the gas flow can help wick away heat from the heating element <NUM> (e.g., via a convection process) and can thereby limit or prevent overheating in the thermally conductive tube <NUM>. In some embodiments, insulation can be positioned around the heating element <NUM> to improve efficiency of the heat transfer from the heating element <NUM> into the tube <NUM>. Additionally, in some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> can be positioned within the thermally conductive tube <NUM>. See also <FIG>.

<FIG> shows a diagrammatic view of components of the atomizer <NUM> including a printed circuit board <NUM>, electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, gas pump <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, gas nozzle <NUM>, oil nozzle <NUM>, oil tube <NUM>, and oil receptacle <NUM>. As indicated in <FIG>, the printed circuit board <NUM> can be in electrical communication with the electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, the gas pump <NUM>, and the heating element <NUM>. Heat generated by the heating element <NUM> can be transferred through the thermally conductive tube <NUM> to gas flowing through it, and that heated gas can pass into the gas nozzle <NUM> to heat oil at the outlet of the oil nozzle <NUM> as the oil is atomized.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of an atomizer <NUM> having many components duplicated from atomizer <NUM> and which perform similar functions to atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals in <FIG> as used in connection with atomizer <NUM>. Only an upper end of the atomizer <NUM> is shown in side view cross-section in <FIG> to show detail at the upper end of the gas tube <NUM>.

The atomizer <NUM> can comprise a heating element <NUM> electrically connected (e.g., by wires) with the electronics unit <NUM> in a manner similar to heating element <NUM>. Thus, the electronics unit <NUM> can electrically generate heat with the heating element <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can be mounted to a heating passage <NUM> that is connected to the gas tube <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can be in fluid communication with an inlet side of the gas nozzle <NUM> when the atomizer <NUM> is fully assembled, and gas flowing from the pump can pass into the gas tube <NUM>, through the heating passage <NUM>, and into the gas nozzle <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can in some embodiments beneficially comprise a material with low thermal conductivity, such as an insulating material (e.g., rubber, fiberglass, polymer, or another insulator identified herein). Gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> can be heated due to the heating element <NUM> generating heat and having an elevated temperature. In some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> can be positioned inside the gas tube <NUM> or within the gas tube <NUM> and within the heating passage <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> can be positioned at least partially within the gas nozzle <NUM>.

The heating element <NUM> can comprise a resistive heating element or another type of electrical heat generator described above in connection with heating element <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can comprise a material having low heat transfer conductivity. In this manner, the heating element <NUM> can generate heat that is transferred via conduction and convection to gas passing through heating passage <NUM>. This heat can increase the temperature of the gas entering the gas nozzle <NUM>. Thus, gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> can be heated before it enters the gas nozzle <NUM>. That heated gas can then come into contact with oil at the top of the oil nozzle <NUM>, heat the oil at that point, and thereby improve atomization and droplet formation of the oil within the atomization chamber <NUM>.

The heating element <NUM> and heating passage <NUM> can be beneficially implemented where space within the atomizer <NUM> is limited or where high electrical heating efficiency is desired. The heating element <NUM> can be smaller in size than a heating element (e.g., <NUM>) that extends along a significant portion of the oil receptacle <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can also be beneficial in environments where the gas or oil does not need to be heated a large amount, and a small heating element <NUM> can therefore suffice to ensure proper oil heating at the atomization chamber <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> can also be more easily removed or serviced within the atomizer <NUM> by removing the gas tube <NUM> and/or heating passage <NUM>. Additionally, the amount of surface area of the heating element <NUM> can be designed to ensure that the gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> quickly rises to a desired temperature before it reaches the gas nozzle <NUM> while also using the smallest heating element <NUM> needed in that setting.

In some embodiments, the gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> can help reduce or eliminate the need for an insulator external to the heating passage <NUM> because the gas flow can help wick away heat from the heating element <NUM> (e.g., via convection) and thereby limit or prevent overheating in the heating passage <NUM>. In some embodiments, insulation is positioned around the heating passage <NUM> to reduce heat loss through the heating passage <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a diagrammatic view of components of the atomizer <NUM> including a printed circuit board <NUM>, electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, gas pump <NUM>, heating element <NUM>, gas nozzle <NUM>, oil nozzle <NUM>, user input device <NUM>, or oil tube <NUM>, and oil receptacle <NUM>. As indicated in <FIG>, the printed circuit board <NUM> can be in electrical communication with the electrical power source/power source connection <NUM>, the gas pump <NUM>, and the heating element <NUM>. Heat generated by the heating element <NUM> can be transferred through the heating passage <NUM> to gas flowing through it, and that heated gas can pass into the gas nozzle <NUM> to heat oil at the outlet of the oil nozzle <NUM> as the oil is atomized.

The embodiments disclosed herein also relate to methods for atomizing essential oil. An example method includes generating gas flow through a gas nozzle, generating oil flow through an oil nozzle, wherein the gas flow passes over an outlet of the oil nozzle to atomize the oil flow, and raising a temperature of the oil flow to increase atomization of the oil flow as the gas flow passes over the outlet. Generating gas flow through the gas nozzle can comprise using a pump (e.g., <NUM>) or similar airflow generator to force air through a gas nozzle (e.g., <NUM>). The gas nozzle can comprise a narrowed end outlet configured to accelerate and direct the gas stream passing through the gas nozzle so that the airflow passes across the outlet of the oil nozzle (e.g., <NUM>). The passage of gas flow over the oil nozzle can generate a low pressure region above the oil nozzle to draw oil through the nozzle from a reservoir or receptacle (e.g., <NUM>) in fluid communication with the oil nozzle (e.g., via <NUM>). The oil flow can be atomized when subjected to the moving gas flow, and the droplets of oil can be carried by the gas flow from the atomizer.

Raising the temperature of the oil flow to increase atomization of the oil flow (as compared to the rate of atomization of the oil flow without the temperature being raised) can comprise heating the oil before it reaches the oil nozzle so that the oil has a higher than usual temperature (e.g., an elevated temperature relative to conventional room temperature, within a range of about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius, etc.) when it comes into contact with and is atomized by the gas flow. Raising the temperature of the oil flow to increase atomization of the oil flow can also comprise applying heat to the oil flow by raising the temperature of the gas flow. In other words, the gas flow can be heated, and the heat in the gas flow can be transferred to the oil as the gas flow passes over the oil nozzle, thereby heating the oil flow via the heated gas flow.

Furthermore, raising the temperature of the oil flow to increase atomization of the oil flow can comprise raising the temperature of parts or components of the atomizer, such as by applying heat to the oil nozzle or gas nozzle, to the oil receptacle, or to a housing of the atomizer. In this manner, heat can be transferred from a heater to the oil or gas indirectly through the components of the atomizer. Raising the temperature can therefore include positioning and powering a heater in the atomizer. Additional embodiments and variations of these methods will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art and with the benefit of the present disclosure.

<FIG> shows an example embodiment of a multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> having multiple diffusers 801a, 801b (collectively <NUM>). The diffusers <NUM> can be comparable to, and include some or all of the features of, any of the atomizers discussed herein. For instance, many components of diffusers <NUM> are duplicated from atomizer <NUM> and therefore share common reference numerals. It will be understood that the letters "a" and "b" have been added to select reference numbers differentiate between the components of diffuser 801a and diffuser 801b. The parts and features of this essential oil atomizer <NUM> can have similar functions and can perform similar effects as their corresponding parts described in previous embodiments shown above. In some embodiments, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> is symmetric across a central vertical axis extending through the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM>.

The atomizer <NUM> can comprise a first chassis 802a configured to retain a first diffuser 801a and a second chassis 802b configured to retain a second diffuser 801b. In some embodiments, a single chassis can be configured to retain multiple diffusers <NUM>. For example, the first and second chassis <NUM> can be formed as a single piece or part of the single housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can include multiple pumps 818a, 818b (collectively <NUM>). The pumps <NUM> (i.e., gas or air pumps, air or gas compressors, or similar air flow providers) can be located within the housing <NUM>, below respective diffusers <NUM>. In some embodiments, a first pump 818a is configured to provide gas flow to the first diffuser 801a, and a second pump 818b is configured to provide gas flow to the second diffuser 801b.

In some embodiments, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> includes a single pump configured to provide gas flow to each of the diffusers <NUM>. For instance, gas tubes 432a, 432b can receive output (i.e., gas flow) from a common pump (not shown in <FIG>). The gas tubes 432a and 432b can be coupled with valves (not shown) such that the valves can control gas flow independently to each diffuser <NUM> while sharing a common pump.

Similar to previous embodiments, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can include an electronics units 806a, 806b (collectively <NUM>) (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB), power electronics, buttons, connectors, etc.). In some embodiments, each diffuser <NUM> comprises its own electronics unit <NUM> to be in electrical communication with the respective pumps <NUM>. In other words, a first electronics unit 806a can be operatively coupled with the first diffuser 801a, and a second electronics unit 806b can be operatively coupled with the second diffuser 801b such that the electronics units can control the operation of the diffusers <NUM> independently. In some embodiments, each diffuser <NUM> is operatively coupled with a single electronics unit.

The diffusers <NUM> can further include heaters 838a, 838b (collectively <NUM>) The heaters <NUM> can be substantially similar to heater <NUM> with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. As used herein, multiple heaters in an atomizer can be referred to as a heating assembly. The heaters <NUM> can substantially surround their respective oil receptacles <NUM>. The heaters <NUM> can be positioned on a radially external side of the oil receptacles <NUM> relative to a central axis of the diffusers <NUM>. The heat generated by the heaters <NUM> can be transferred (e.g., via conduction, radiation, and convection) to and through the walls of the oil receptacles <NUM>, and into oil within the oil receptacles <NUM>, thereby heating and raising the internal temperature of oil in the oil receptacles <NUM>. The heaters <NUM> can also include insulators 442a, 442b (collectively <NUM>) externally radially surrounding the oil receptacles <NUM>. The insulators <NUM> can help improve efficiency of the heaters <NUM> by limiting heat transfer in a radially outward direction from the oil receptacles <NUM>. The insulators <NUM> can comprise a thermally insulating material such as fiberglass, foam rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, urethane foam, cork, polystyrene foam, cellulose, similar materials, and combinations thereof.

The heaters <NUM> can have a length dimension that is substantially equal to an overall length/height dimension of the respective oil receptacles <NUM>. In this manner, the heaters <NUM> can apply heat along the overall length of the oil receptacles <NUM> and thereby ensure that substantially all of the oil in the receptacles <NUM> is heated by the heaters <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the heaters <NUM> can extend along less than the entire length of the oil receptacles <NUM>, such as, for example, along half of the length of the receptacles <NUM> or less. In some embodiments, the heaters <NUM> can extend along only an upper end of the receptacles <NUM> to heat the oil just before it enters the oil nozzles <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heaters <NUM> can extend along only the lower end of the receptacles <NUM>. This can be beneficial to apply heat to oil that accumulates at the bottom of the receptacles <NUM> and to allow the oil to start to cool as it moves up the oil tubes <NUM> before being atomized at the oil nozzles <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the heaters <NUM> can be positioned beneath the oil receptacles <NUM> and can therefore apply heat to the bottom of the oil receptacles <NUM>. The size of the heaters <NUM> can be configured to apply sufficient heat to the oil to raise its temperature to a range such as about <NUM> degrees Celsius to about <NUM> degrees Celsius at the oil nozzles <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a single heater (not shown in <FIG>) can be configured to heat both oil receptacles <NUM>. A single heater can be configured to surround the oil receptacles <NUM>. In some embodiments, the single heater can comprise a heating pad that is positioned below the oil receptacles <NUM>.

The diffusers <NUM> can include vent openings 434a, 434b (collectively <NUM>) configured to dispense atomized oil and gas. For example, when the atomized oil and gas flows toward the vent openings <NUM>, it needs to pass through the filter housings <NUM>, where the mixed airflow can be filtered to recycle larger essential oil droplets and reduce the waste of essential oils while the smaller essential oil droplets will pass through the filter housings <NUM> to be dispensed through the vent openings <NUM>. In other words, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can include vent openings or spray outlets <NUM> through which the atomized oil and gas is configured to be expelled into the mixing chamber.

Similar to previous embodiments, one or more printed circuit boards (e.g., in electronics unit <NUM>) can be in electrical communication with the electrical power source/power source connection, user input devices, the pump <NUM>, and the heaters <NUM>. The printed circuit boards can comprise control circuitry configured to send or receive electrical signals to each of the components that are in electrical communication with the printed circuit boards and can thereby manage and control power provided to the pumps <NUM> or heaters <NUM>.

The diffusers <NUM> can be configured to operate independently or in combination with one another. In some embodiments, the diffusers <NUM> can share various components of the multi diffuser atomizer <NUM>. For example, the diffusers <NUM> can share a common control circuit that can synch the on/off controls, temperature controls, gas output rates, etc. The diffusers <NUM> can also be powered by a common battery or other power source operatively coupled to a common printed circuit board. In some examples, the diffusers <NUM> can shared a common mist outlet and/or filter. As discussed above, the diffusers can share a common pump.

It will be appreciated that while the multi-diffuser atomizers discussed herein are depicted with two diffusers, any number of diffusers can be used. For instance, in some embodiments, the housing comprises a total of three or more diffusers. In such cases, the multiple diffusers can each comprise their own pump, chassis, oil receptacle, atomization housing, heaters, and other components associated with the diffusers <NUM> of <FIG>. In some cases, a single heater can be provided in the housing <NUM> and can be configured to provide heat to multiple diffusers <NUM> or oil receptacles simultaneously. For example, a heater <NUM> can wrap around or otherwise surround multiple oil receptacles <NUM> to heat multiple supplies of oils in the atomizer <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of a multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM>. The multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can be comparable to, and include some or all of the features of any of the atomizers discussed herein. For instance, many components of multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> are duplicated from multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals in <FIG> as used in connection with multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can include a cover or shell <NUM>. The shell <NUM> can be positioned above the housing <NUM> and can be substantially dome-shaped. The shell <NUM>, in combination with a top surface of the housing <NUM> can define a mixing chamber <NUM>. The shell <NUM> can be configured to at least partially cover the vent openings <NUM> such that the atomized oil and gas that is dispensed from the vent openings <NUM> is expelled into the mixing chamber <NUM>. The mixing chamber <NUM> can be configured to allow combining or intermingling of the atomized oil expelled from vent opening 434a and the atomized oil expelled from the vent opening 434b.

The shell <NUM> can further define an aperture or shell opening <NUM> configured to release the mixed atomized oil into the atmosphere. While only one shell opening <NUM> is shown, some embodiments may include multiple openings formed in the shell <NUM>. The size of the shell opening <NUM> can depend on a desired expulsion rate. In some embodiments, the size of the shell opening <NUM> can be adjusted by a user. In some examples, the shell <NUM> can include a filter (not shown), similar to filter housings <NUM>, to filter droplets of oil from the mixed atomized oil and gas in the mixing chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, the filter housings <NUM> are not positioned near the vent openings 434a, 434b and a single filter housing (not shown) is positioned in the dome opening <NUM> instead.

The shell <NUM> can be shaped and sized to encourage mixing or combining of the atomized oil and gas. For instance, the atomized oil and gas expelled from the vent openings 434a, 434b can create turbulence within the mixing chamber <NUM> to promote intermingling of the atomized oil and gas expelled from each vent opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, the shell <NUM> can be used in combination with a mixing apparatus (such as a fan) configured to generate airflow within the mixing chamber <NUM> to promote increase intermingling of the atomized oils. It will be appreciated that the cover or shell <NUM> is not limited to a dome or curved shape. For example, the shell <NUM> can be substantially rectangular in shape, having flat walls, oval-shaped, box-shaped, tube-shaped, annular-shaped, etc..

In some embodiments, the shell <NUM> can be integrally formed with the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the shell <NUM> can be attached to the housing <NUM>. Any suitable attachment means can be implemented to secure the shell <NUM> to the housing <NUM>, including adhesives, threads, snaps, fasteners, friction-fitting, etc. In some embodiments, the shell <NUM> can be removably attached to the housing.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of a multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM>. The multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can be comparable to any of the atomizers discussed herein. For instance, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can have many components duplicated from atomizers <NUM> and <NUM> and which perform similar functions to atomizers <NUM> and <NUM> and are therefore indicated with similar numerals.

The multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can comprise a heating element <NUM> mounted to a heating passage <NUM> that is connected to each of the gas tubes <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> and the heating passage <NUM> can be substantially similar to the heating element <NUM> and heating passage <NUM>, with the exception that the heating element <NUM> and heating passage <NUM> are configured for use with multiple diffusers <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can be in fluid communication with an inlet side of the gas nozzles <NUM> when the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> is fully assembled, and gas flowing from the pumps <NUM> can pass through the heating passage <NUM> and into the gas tubes <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can, in some embodiments, beneficially comprise a material with low thermal conductivity, such as an insulating material (e.g., rubber, fiberglass, polymer, or another insulator identified herein). Gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> can be heated due to the heating element <NUM> generating heat and having an elevated temperature. In some embodiments, the heating passage <NUM> can be integrally formed with the gas tubes <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heating passage <NUM> is configured to be coupled with the gas tubes <NUM> on one end of the heating passage <NUM> and attached to the pumps <NUM> at an opposite end of the heating passage <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> can be positioned at least partially within the gas nozzles <NUM>. In some embodiments, the gas tubes <NUM> remain isolated and independent from one another, despite sharing a common heating element <NUM>. In other words, the heating element <NUM> and heating passage <NUM> can be configured to form an airtight seal between gas tube 432a and gas tube 432b, and gas from one gas tube 432a is not commingled with gas from the other gas tube 432b even though they are both heated by a single heating element <NUM> and within a single heating passage <NUM>. The heating passage <NUM> can therefore comprise two independent airways that respectively link to the two gas tubes <NUM> without mixing the air in each independent airway.

The heating passage <NUM> can comprise a material having low heat transfer conductivity. In this manner, the heating element <NUM> can generate heat that is transferred via conduction and convection to gas passing through heating passage <NUM>. This heat can increase the temperature of the gas entering the gas nozzles <NUM>. Thus, gas flowing through the heating passage <NUM> can be heated before it enters the gas nozzles <NUM>. That heated gas can then come into contact with oil at the top of the oil nozzles <NUM>, heat the oil at that point, and thereby improve atomization and droplet formation of the oil.

The heating element <NUM> and heating passage <NUM> can be beneficially implemented where space within the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> is limited or where high electrical heating efficiency is desired. For instance, the heating element <NUM> and passage <NUM> can be positioned at a central location within the housing <NUM> in order to limit heat loss to the exterior of the atomizer <NUM>. In some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> and passage <NUM> can be positioned at the opposite end of the tubes <NUM> to heat the air immediately before it enters the nozzle assemblies and to thereby limit heat loss. In some embodiments, the heating element <NUM> and passage <NUM> can be positioned in an insulating chamber or within insulation configured to reduce heat loss around the passage <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of a multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> including a shell <NUM>. The multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can be substantially similar to, and include some or all of the features of any of the atomizers discussed herein. For instance, many components of the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> are duplicated from multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals. Further, the shell <NUM> can be substantially similar to, and include some or all of the features of the shell <NUM> on multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> and are therefore indicated with the same numerals in <FIG> as used in connection with multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example embodiment of a multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> having multiple diffusers 1201a, 1201b (collectively <NUM>). The diffusers <NUM> can be comparable to, and can include some or all of the features of, any of the atomizers discussed herein. For instance, many components of diffusers <NUM> are duplicated from atomizer <NUM> and therefore share common reference numerals. It will be understood that the letters "a" and "b" at the end of a reference number has been added to differentiate between the components of diffuser 1201a from the components of diffuser 1201b. Further, the multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can be substantially similar to the multi-diffuser atomizers discussed herein, such as multi-diffuser atomizers <NUM>-<NUM>.

The multi-diffuser atomizer <NUM> can comprise a heating element 1202a in thermal communication with diffuser 1201a, and heating element 1202b in thermal communication with diffuser 1201b. The heating elements 1202a, 1202b (collectively <NUM>) can be mounted to the bottom of thermal blocks 1204a, 1204b (collectively <NUM>). The thermal blocks <NUM> can be configured to contact the gas nozzles <NUM> (or, in some embodiments, the oil nozzles <NUM>, oil receptacles <NUM>, oil tubes <NUM>, gas tubes <NUM>, or atomizer housing <NUM>) when the atomizer <NUM> is fully assembled.

The heating elements <NUM> can comprise a resistive heating element or another type of electrical heat generator described above in connection with heating element <NUM>. The thermal blocks <NUM> can comprise a material having high heat transfer conductivity, such as metal or ceramic. The gas nozzles <NUM> can also comprise a material having high heat transfer conductivity, such as metal or ceramic. In this manner, the heating element <NUM> can generate heat is transferred via conduction to the thermal blocks <NUM> and transferred via conduction to the gas nozzles <NUM>. This heat can cause the gas flowing through the gas tubes <NUM> to be heated as it passes through the gas nozzles <NUM>. That heated gas can then come into contact with oil at the top of the oil nozzles <NUM>, heat the oil at that point, and thereby thin or start to evaporate the oil to improve atomization and droplet formation of the oil.

In some embodiments, the oil nozzles <NUM> can be formed with, contacting, or attached to the gas nozzles <NUM>. Therefore, the oil nozzles <NUM> can have their temperature increased by heat transferred via the gas nozzles <NUM>. Raising the temperature of the oil nozzles <NUM> can consequently increase the temperature of oil at the outlet of the oil nozzles <NUM> even further, thereby improving atomization and droplet formation even further.

The heating element <NUM> and thermal blocks <NUM> can be beneficially implemented where space within the atomizer <NUM> is limited or where high electrical heating efficiency is desired. Similar to previous embodiments, a printed circuit board can generate heat at the heating elements <NUM> via wires 1205a, 1205b. The heat generated at the heating elements <NUM> can then be transferred to the thermal blocks <NUM> and then, in turn, to the gas nozzles <NUM>.

In addition to transferring heat from the heating elements <NUM> to the gas nozzles <NUM>, the thermal blocks <NUM> can protect or shield the heating elements <NUM> (e.g., during assembly/disassembly of the atomizer <NUM>).

The use of heaters, such as heaters <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> discussed above can enable diffusion of thicker essential oils. In some embodiments, a single heating element <NUM> can contact one or more thermal blocks <NUM> connected to the diffusers <NUM>. Accordingly, although multiple heating elements <NUM> and thermal blocks <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, it will be understood that a single heating element <NUM> or single thermal block <NUM> can be used to heat multiple gas nozzles and thereby heat multiple gas streams through the atomizer <NUM>.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the atomizer <NUM> can comprise a combination of different types of heating apparatuses in a single housing <NUM>. For instance, a first heating apparatus can be implemented in the atomizer <NUM> with a heating element (e.g., 1202a) and a thermal block (e.g., 1204a) used to heat a gas nozzle (e.g., 428a), and a heating element (e.g., 838b) can be used to heat an oil receptacle (e.g., 420b) within the same housing <NUM>. Similarly, mixed types of heating elements from other embodiments disclosed herein can be used in various embodiments of the present disclosure. In some cases, multiple heating apparatuses can be simultaneously or selectively used on a single diffuser (e.g., 1201a), such as a heating apparatus that heats the gas nozzle 428a, a heating apparatus that heats air in the gas line 432a, and a heating apparatus that heats the oil receptacle 420a. Having a variety of heating options on a single diffuser can make the diffuser more versatile in the types of oils that it can heat and distribute due to heating air, the oil receptacle, or the nozzle. Thus, the most efficient heating apparatuses can be used for each type of oil based on the oil's unique properties and the properties of the diffuser in which it is contained.

<FIG> illustrates a modular diffuser <NUM>. Likewise, <FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the modular diffuser <NUM>. The modular diffuser <NUM> can be substantially similar to, and include some or all of the features of any of the atomizers/diffusers discussed herein. For instance, many components are duplicated and therefore share common reference numerals. In some embodiments, an atomizer or multi-diffuser atomizer as discussed herein can include one or more mounting location for mounting one or more oil diffusers within the housing. In some embodiments, the modular diffuser <NUM> is a modular unit configured to be removable from the mounting location. For example, a top panel of the housing <NUM> in atomizers <NUM>-<NUM> (through which the outlets <NUM> extend) can be removable in order to access and remove modular diffusers <NUM> on each side of the housing <NUM>. Further, a replacement diffuser can be configured to be connectable to the mounting location after removal of the modular diffuser <NUM>. The top panel can then be replaced to help keep the replacement modular diffuser retained in the housing <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An essential oil atomizer (<NUM>)(<NUM>)(<NUM>)(<NUM>)(<NUM>)(<NUM>), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>);
a first oil diffuser (801a) and a second oil diffuser (801b) located within the housing (<NUM>), each of the first and second oil diffusers (801a, 801b) comprising:
an oil receptacle (<NUM>) configured to store oil;
an atomizer nozzle assembly configured to diffuse oil and gas, the atomizer nozzle assembly comprising an oil nozzle (<NUM>) and a gas nozzle (<NUM>);
a filter housing (<NUM>) positioned at a top end of the oil diffuser; and
a vent opening (<NUM>) configured to extend through a top surface of the housing (<NUM>).