EP3227622B1 - Compact spraying device - Google Patents

Compact spraying device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3227622B1
EP3227622B1 EP15808754.4A EP15808754A EP3227622B1 EP 3227622 B1 EP3227622 B1 EP 3227622B1 EP 15808754 A EP15808754 A EP 15808754A EP 3227622 B1 EP3227622 B1 EP 3227622B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
liquid
jet
piezoelectric element
mist
refrigerator
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EP15808754.4A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3227622A1 (en
Inventor
Michel Gschwind
Frédéric Richard
Abbas SABRAOUI
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Areco Finances et Technologie ARFITEC SAS
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Areco Finances et Technologie ARFITEC SAS
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B17/00—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups
    • B05B17/04—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups operating with special methods
    • B05B17/06—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups operating with special methods using ultrasonic or other kinds of vibrations
    • B05B17/0607—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups operating with special methods using ultrasonic or other kinds of vibrations generated by electrical means, e.g. piezoelectric transducers
    • B05B17/0615—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups operating with special methods using ultrasonic or other kinds of vibrations generated by electrical means, e.g. piezoelectric transducers spray being produced at the free surface of the liquid or other fluent material in a container and subjected to the vibrations
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
    • B05B7/0012—Apparatus for achieving spraying before discharge from the apparatus
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D17/00—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces
    • F25D17/04—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection
    • F25D17/042—Air treating means within refrigerated spaces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2317/00—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2317/04—Treating air flowing to refrigeration compartments
    • F25D2317/041—Treating air flowing to refrigeration compartments by purification
    • F25D2317/0413—Treating air flowing to refrigeration compartments by purification by humidification

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the technical field of spraying devices capable of producing a mist of micro-droplets from a liquid.
  • the droplets are generated by a piezoelectric element.
  • Ultrasound is generated by a piezoelectric element. These devices use either a microperforated membrane or a piezoelectric element with or without a concentrating nozzle.
  • the size of the droplets generated by these devices is typically between 1 and 10 ⁇ m.
  • Spray devices are also known using a vessel provided with a concentrating nozzle and a piezoelectric element, as described for example in the documents EP 0 691 162 A1 and EP 0 782 885 A1 (IMRA Europe). These devices are very reliable and are commonly used to moisten and freshen fresh products on sales stands, as described in the documents FR 2 899 135 A1 , FR 2 921 551 A1 , WO 2014/023907 A1 , WO 2013/034847 A1 (ARECO) FR 2 690 510 A1 (Techsonic). Their flow is important and suitable for many technical and industrial uses; in return, their electrical consumption is significant (of the order of 10 to 70 W per piezoelectric element).
  • these devices are not likely to be disturbed in their operation by clogging problems; they have a lifespan of 5000 hours on average.
  • these devices have a certain size which is mainly related to the thickness of water necessary for the proper functioning of the piezoelectric element (generally from 20 to 35 mm), to the diameter of the piezoelectric element. , and also at the height of the diffusion chamber necessary for the creation of an acoustic jet almost vertical and very powerful (generally from 40 to 100 mm).
  • the problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a miniaturized spraying device, and in particular of very low height, having a high flow rate, a low power consumption, which is of great reliability that does not need to be used. frequent maintenance, and which presents no risk of clogging.
  • the problem is solved by a nebulizing device according to claim 1.
  • Said acoustic reflection surface advantageously has a substantially parabolic shape.
  • Said deflector is advantageously able to orient the jet of liquid generated by the effect of said acoustic waves outside the liquid surface area which extends between the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element and said acoustic reflection surface.
  • the primary jet of nebulization makes an angle ⁇ of between 5 ° and 85 ° (and preferably between 10 ° and 60 °) relative to the surface of the liquid.
  • the focal point of the acoustic waves reflected by the acoustic reflection surface is advantageously at a depth of between 0 mm and 5 mm and preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm below the surface of the liquid: this ensures a bin fog yield and good stability of the operating conditions of the device.
  • the device according to the invention may comprise a fan which generates an air flow towards said deflection surface.
  • the device according to the invention comprises an auxiliary deflector disposed downstream of the primary jet; this auxiliary deflector slows the flow of fog.
  • the height h of the liquid in the device does not exceed 12 mm, preferably does not exceed 10 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 9 mm.
  • the device according to the invention comprises means for periodically or permanently disinfecting said liquid, such as a UV light source or a heating resistor.
  • the device according to the invention can be constructed in a very compact manner, and in particular with a low height.
  • the total height of the device does not exceed 35 mm, preferably does not exceed 30 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 25 mm.
  • the device according to the invention comprises an upper part which integrates in a single piece (for example in the form of a cap or dome) the deflector which directs the jet of liquid generated by the effect of the waves. acoustic, and which also incorporates the auxiliary deflector; these two deflectors may form a single curved surface to the interior of said shell or cupola, which may extend from the air inlet port to the outlet of the fog.
  • the device also comprises a lower part which integrates the acoustic reflection surface, and which integrates, at the end opposite to the air inlet orifice, the piezoelectric element; this lower part contains the liquid to be sprayed.
  • the device according to the invention can operate with different liquids.
  • the liquid may especially be selected from the group consisting of: water, water containing at least one disinfectant product, water containing at least one odorous product, a solution of at least one essential oil, an emulsion of at least one essential oil; or a mixture of the elements that make up this group.
  • the device is integrated in a temperature and / or controlled humidity compartment, such as a refrigerator, a cold room, a controlled atmosphere cabinet or a wine cellar.
  • a temperature and / or controlled humidity compartment such as a refrigerator, a cold room, a controlled atmosphere cabinet or a wine cellar.
  • the device according to the invention can be integrated into a horizontal plate of a refrigerator, and preferably so that the mist of droplets is introduced into a crisper.
  • another object of the invention is a refrigerator plate, comprising a device according to the invention.
  • the device according to the invention and in particular the refrigerator plate comprising this device, may comprise a hydraulic adapter capable of accommodating the mouth of a water bottle of the current type.
  • Another object of the invention is an apparatus comprising at least one compartment with temperature and / or controlled humidity, such as a refrigerator, characterized in that it is equipped with at least one device according to the invention.
  • the device 1 according to the invention is traversed by an air flow 13 which enters through an air inlet opening 12 advantageously arranged at one of the ends of the device 1, which passes through the nebulizing cell 22 where it is located. charge in droplets, to be driven into the fog diffusion system 9.
  • An embodiment of such a device 1 is shown in FIG. figure 1 .
  • the mist diffusion system 9 (fogger) is close to the other end of the device 1. It necessarily comprises at least one outlet port 10 through which fog jet 11 emerges in the targeted environment.
  • the tank 2 containing the liquid to be sprayed 5 and the nebulization cell 22 with the droplet generator which comprises a piezoelectric element 3 whose active surface is immersed in said liquid 5 to be sprayed.
  • the piezoelectric element 3 is arranged so that its active surface is covered at least partially with a liquid thickness sufficient to ensure its cooling.
  • said piezoelectric element 3 is arranged so that its active surface forms an angle ⁇ greater than 60 ° and 95 ° with respect to the surface of the liquid, preferably between 70 ° and 95 °, and even more preferably between 75 ° and 90 °.
  • a quasi-vertical position of the active surface of the piezoelectric element 3 with respect to the surface 6 of the liquid 5 is preferred .
  • the acoustic waves emitted by said piezoelectric element 3 are directed towards the liquid / air interface 6, preferably via at least one acoustic reflection surface 4.
  • the distance between said surface and the emitting surface of the The piezoelectric element must be sufficiently short to prevent too much divergence of the acoustic wave beam.
  • a piezoelectric element that can be used in the device according to the invention has a near field (ie a zone from the emitting surface where the wave beam is approximately parallel) of about 10 mm to 30 mm.
  • a piezoelectric element with a diameter of 10 mm, which makes it possible to reduce the height h of liquid in the tank to less than 12 mm, ideally between 10 mm and 12 mm.
  • the acoustic reflection surface 4 has a shape that makes it possible to focus the acoustic waves. It typically has a cap or cupola shape, and preferably a parabolic shape, the concavity of said reflection surface 4 being turned towards the piezoelectric element 3. It allows the focusing of the acoustic waves on a focal zone (of preferably a focal point) which lies below the surface (liquid / air interface) 6 of the liquid 5, at a depth d of the order of a few millimeters (this parameter is shown on the figure 7 ) .
  • the focal point is at a depth d of between 0 and 5 mm.
  • the focal point is at a depth of at least 0.5 mm, and still more preferably at least 1 mm; it gives a good performance while ensuring a good stability of the operating conditions.
  • a depth of between 1 mm and 3 mm is globally optimal.
  • the focal length F between the focal point and the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element 3 is advantageously between 8 and 28 mm.
  • the distance E between the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element 3 and the acoustic reflection surface, measured at the level of the surface of the liquid, is advantageously between 10 mm and 30 mm (knowing that E > F ); it is located in the near field of said piezoelectric element.
  • the frequency is advantageously between 1 MHz and 5 MHz, for example 3 MHz.
  • the reflection surface 4 must have a high impedance contrast, which makes it possible to produce a very effective acoustic mirror (ie a mirror that reflects almost all of the acoustic energy); it is preferably made of metal.
  • the inventors believe that the focusing of the acoustic waves by a reflective surface makes it possible to shorten the path of the ultrasonic waves in the water, which avoids their unnecessary dispersion in the volume of liquid: thus the entire Acoustic energy is used to produce surface waves, allowing to detach micron-sized droplets from the surface with high efficiency.
  • the Bird 5 a jet of droplets 20 referred to herein as "primary jet nebulization"; it is often accompanied at least for part of its length by a jet of water called an acoustic water jet.
  • the direction of this primary jet of nebulization 20 is determined mainly by the focusing of the acoustic waves; the direction is expressed here by an angle ⁇ relative to the surface of the liquid 5 in the direction opposite to the air flow, defined on the figure 1 (the 0 ° angle corresponding to the horizontal opposite the direction of the air flow F A 180 ° angle horizontally towards the air flow). It can be adapted to the operation of the device, in particular according to the presence or absence of a fan 23.
  • the inventors have found that if the primary fogging jet 20 is directed in the opposite direction of the air flow 13, or at least in a direction which strikes the latter (preferably with an angle ⁇ less than 90 °, as is represented on the figure 1 ), this prevents the largest drops 17 to be carried in the fog 8; they fall back into the tank of the tank 2.
  • the separation effect of large drops that has just been described is particularly effective when the air flow F A is generated by a fan.
  • a fan preferably installed near the air inlet port 12.
  • Such an embodiment is shown on the figure 6 . It is observed in this case that the acoustic jet is carried away by the air flow from the fan; the parabolic shape of the acoustic reflection surface 4 and the shape of the deflector 7 determine a geometry that promotes the blowing of small droplets at the expense of large drops; this enrichment of the mist in small droplets is desirable for the desired result.
  • a deflector surface 7 (preferably made of metal to minimize absorption energy loss) against which the primary spray jet 20 encounters after encountering the air stream 13 is very advantageous for separating the droplets.
  • the fog 11 delivered by the device 1 be composed of very fine droplets, in order to allow rapid evaporation of the fog once deposited on a solid surface or in a small volume.
  • This evaporation ensures rapid cooling of the environment (ie air and the surface on which the fog is deposited) insofar as the enthalpy of evaporation comes from the environment (air and surface on which the fog is deposited).
  • the finer the drops the faster their evaporation and the less stagnant moisture (drops of water) will affect the surface or the volume.
  • the surface of the deflector 7 of the primary jet nebulization serves as deflector of the jet in order to remove at least a portion of the large droplets 17 and spread the nebulization. At the same time this deflector surface 7 also guides the return of water from the acoustic water jet in a zone away from the focal point so as not to disturb the water jet and to reduce its droplet yield.
  • the air flow 13 which passes through the device 1 can also be generated by simple aspiration, the air in the air space below the deflector 7 being driven towards the diffusion system 9 under the effect of the primary jet 20.
  • the device 1 according to the invention does not need a fan, the air flow 13 generated by suction being strong enough for certain types of applications; the speed of said "natural" airflow will generally be lower than with fan.
  • the direction and the power of the primary spray jet play a vital role for the proper functioning of the system, this direction being chosen and controlled by means of the acoustic reflection surface 4, its shape is preferably parabolic, and the parabolic equation is chosen so as to have a primary jet 20 which makes an angle ⁇ of between 95 ° and 175 ° degrees (and preferably between 100 ° and 150 °) relative to the surface 6 of the liquid.
  • a small auxiliary baffle 26 (which may be for example a solid surface or a grid) close to the diffusion outlet to block large parasitic drops; this is schematically shown on the figure 7 .
  • Fi J designates the direction of the primary jet of nebulization 20
  • the symbol F has that of the air flow 13 generated by suction.
  • This figure shows an angle ⁇ which corresponds to (180 ° - ⁇ ).
  • the deflector 7 has a dual function. Its shape and positioning must be such that it can properly orient the primary jet of nebulization 20, and such that it can ensure that the jet of liquid called "acoustic", which accompanies the primary jet of nebulization 20, is oriented in an area that does not disturb the focal point 28 of the acoustic waves in the liquid.
  • the deflector 7 extends in the upstream direction (ie opposite to the air flow) so as to conduct the jet of acoustic liquid outside the zone that extends between the piezoelectric element 3 and the acoustic reflection surface. 4.
  • the device according to the invention comprises an upper portion 29 which integrates in one piece (for example in the form of a cap or dome) the deflector 7 of the primary jet of nebulization which directs the jet of liquid generated by the effect acoustic waves, and which also integrates the auxiliary baffle 26 ; these two baffles may form a single curved inner surface of said shell or cupola, which may extend from the air inlet port 12 to the outlet 21 of the fog.
  • the device also comprises a lower part 30 which integrates the acoustic reflection surface 4 , and which integrates, at the end opposite the air inlet port 12, the piezoelectric element 3 ; this lower part contains the liquid 5 to be sprayed.
  • the deflector 7 has in its lower part, near the liquid surface, a portion 27 having a curvature in the opposite direction, to promote the entry of the air flow in the nebulization cell 22. This is shown on the figure 8 .
  • the nebulizing cell 22 is delimited by the deflector 7 and comprises the acoustic reflection surface 4.
  • the device according to the invention can be installed in a compartment with humidity and / or controlled temperature, such as a refrigerator or a wine cellar.
  • the device 1 according to the invention is installed in a ventilated cold refrigerator can be provided an air inlet in which is passively blown the air flow generated by the central cooling fan of the refrigerator, or a fan 23 can be added which generates a flow of air, preferably in the same direction as the air flow generated by the central cooling fan of the refrigerator.
  • the device 1 can be supplied with water via a hydraulic adapter (anti-drop) 16 ; the water can come from a water reservoir 15 integrated in the device 1 (as shown on the figure 1 ) or an appropriate external power supply (pipes supplied by a remote tank for example).
  • a hydraulic adapter anti-drop
  • the water can come from a water reservoir 15 integrated in the device 1 (as shown on the figure 1 ) or an appropriate external power supply (pipes supplied by a remote tank for example).
  • the water level 6 is automatically controlled via a leveled control tube 14 beveled; this increase in the open section of the tube avoids blocking any air bubbles at the entrance.
  • This tube is equipped with a hydraulic anti-drip adapter; it is advantageous to choose an adapter model suitable for the majority of commercial water bottles.
  • the water supply of the tank 2 can be done in various other ways (not shown in the figures).
  • water can come from a remote tank.
  • the water that feeds the tank 2 may come from the condensate recovery (a filter is advantageously provided for filtering said condensate before its admission into the tank 2 ), or the water which feeds the tank 2 can be taken from the water supply of the refrigerator, if the latter has such a power supply.
  • the system 1 according to the invention has a small total height y , which may be less than 35 mm, preferably less than 30 mm and even more preferably less than 25 mm. This low height opens up completely new application possibilities.
  • the device according to the invention can be installed in the thickness of a horizontal plate 24 of a refrigerator.
  • Such plates are usually either glass or plastic, and if they are glass they include a plastic frame; as a result they have a thickness of about 15 to 25 mm at the frame.
  • the nebulizing device 1 is integrated in at least one plate of a refrigerator, and the outlet orifices 11 are directed downwards to create a controlled humidity atmosphere.
  • said device 1 in the upper wall of the crisper or in a plate inside said tray, and the outlet ports 11 are directed towards the interior of said crisper.
  • Said horizontal plate 24 is preferably removable to be removed from the refrigerator and has for this purpose fastening means 25.
  • the operation of the nebulization system according to the invention can be synchronized with the opening of the refrigerator door and / or the amount of nebulization injected into the refrigerator volume can be controlled by a humidity sensor. (not shown in the figures), with a feedback loop on the nebulizing device.
  • a hygrometric probe which measures the humidity level in the volume of air conditioned by the device 1 according to the invention; a feedback loop makes it possible to regulate the intensity and / or the intermittency of the fog jet 11 produced by the device 1 so as to obtain in said volume of conditioned air a controlled humidity level, preferably constant, and of preferably adjustable via an adjusting member.
  • said liquid 5 comprises a disinfectant, so that the fog jet 11 is able to disinfect at least partially said volume of air and possibly the walls that confine it.
  • said liquid 5 comprises a fragrance or a so-called essential oil, or other flavorant so that the mist jet 11 is able to spread into said volume of air a specific odor.

Description

Domaine technique de l'inventionTechnical field of the invention

L'invention concerne le domaine technique des dispositifs de pulvérisation capables de produire un brouillard de micro-gouttelettes à partir d'un liquide. Les gouttelettes sont générées par un élément piézo-électrique.The invention relates to the technical field of spraying devices capable of producing a mist of micro-droplets from a liquid. The droplets are generated by a piezoelectric element.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

On connait de nombreux dispositifs de pulvérisation de micro-gouttelettes d'un liquide sous l'effet d'ultrasons. Les ultrasons sont générés par un élément piézo-électrique. Ces dispositifs utilisent soit une membrane microperforée, soit un élément piézo-électrique équipé ou non d'une buse à concentration. La taille des gouttelettes générées par ces dispositifs est typiquement comprise entre 1 à 10 µm.Numerous devices for spraying micro-droplets of a liquid under the effect of ultrasound are known. Ultrasound is generated by a piezoelectric element. These devices use either a microperforated membrane or a piezoelectric element with or without a concentrating nozzle. The size of the droplets generated by these devices is typically between 1 and 10 μm.

On connaît dans la littérature de nombreux types des dispositifs de pulvérisation utilisant une membrane microperforée. De tels appareils sont décrit par exemple dans les documents WO 2013/110248 (Nebu Tec), WO 2012/020262 et WO 05/15822 (Technology Partnership), EP 2 244 314 (Zobele Holding), US 2006/213503 et US 2005/224076 (Pari Pharma), WO 2001/85240 (Pezzopane), FR 2 929 861 (L'Oréal), US 8 870 090 (Aptar), WO 2008/058941 (Telemaq), JP 2001/300375 (Panasonic). Certains d'entre eux sont très simples et assez compactes, mais en règle générale les dispositifs utilisant une membrane ont un débit très faible, c'est-à-dire ils produisent une quantité de brouillard très faible. Leur durée de vie est assez limitée (souvent moins de 1000 heures). Cela peut convenir pour certaines utilisations (par exemple pour diffuser des parfums dans une pièce), mais pas pour d'autres. Par ailleurs, ces dispositifs nécessitent une maintenance attentive car la membrane risque de se colmater ; dans ce contexte la qualité d'eau (calcaire, filtré, pH) est importante. Ces systèmes sont également relativement sensibles à la pression d'eau au-dessus de la membrane et à la pression d'air dans le volume de diffusion ; des problèmes de fuite d'eau peuvent apparaître. Ce manque de robustesse des dispositifs utilisant une membrane perforée peut limiter leur intérêt pour certains types d'applications, notamment industrielles et surtout les produits destinés au grand public (frigo, cave électrique), qui nécessitent une durée de vie importante (de l'ordre de 5 à 10 ans) et pour lesquels des procédures d'entretien complexes et fréquentes ne sont pas envisageables.Many types of spray devices using a microperforated membrane are known in the literature. Such devices are described for example in documents WO 2013/110248 (Nebu Tec), WO 2012/020262 and WO 05/15822 (Technology Partnership), EP 2,244,314 (Zobele Holding), US 2006/213503 and US 2005/224076 (Pari Pharma), WO 2001/85240 (Pezzopane) FR 2 929 861 (L'Oreal) US 8,870,090 (Aptar) WO 2008/058941 (Telemaq) JP 2001/300375 (Panasonic). Some of them are very simple and quite compact, but generally devices using a membrane have a very low flow rate, that is to say, they produce a very small amount of fog. Their life is quite limited (often less than 1000 hours). This may be suitable for some uses (for example to diffuse perfumes in a room), but not for others. Moreover, these devices require careful maintenance because the membrane may clog; in this context the quality of water (limestone, filtered, pH) is important. These systems are also relatively sensitive to the water pressure above the membrane and the air pressure in the diffusion volume; water leakage problems may occur. This lack of robustness of devices using a perforated membrane may limit their interest for certain types of applications, especially industrial applications and especially products intended for the general public (fridge, electric cellar), which require a long service life (of the order from 5 to 10 years) and for which complex and frequent maintenance procedures are not possible.

On connaît également des dispositifs de pulvérisation utilisant une cuve pourvue d'une buse à concentration et d'un élément piézo-électrique, comme décrit par exemple dans les documents EP 0 691 162 A1 et EP 0 782 885 A1 (IMRA Europe). Ces dispositifs sont très fiables et sont utilisés couramment pour humidifier et rafraîchir des produits frais sur des étals de vente, comme décrit dans les documents FR 2 899 135 A1 , FR 2 921 551 A1 , WO 2014/023907 A1 , WO 2013/034847 A1 (ARECO), FR 2 690 510 A1 (Techsonic). Leur débit est important et convient pour de nombreuses utilisations techniques et industrielles ; en contrepartie leur consommation électrique est significative (de l'ordre de 10 à 70 W par élément piézo-électrique). Ne comportant pas de membranes perforées, ces dispositifs ne risquent pas d'être perturbés dans leur fonctionnement par des problèmes de colmatage ; ils présentent une durée de vie de 5000 heures en moyenne. En revanche, ces dispositifs ont une certaine taille qui est principalement liée à l'épaisseur d'eau nécessaire pour le bon fonctionnement de l'élément piezo-électrique (généralement de 20 à 35 mm), au diamètre de l'élément piézo-électrique, et aussi à la hauteur de la chambre de diffusion nécessaire pour la création d'un jet acoustique presque vertical et très puissant (généralement de 40 à 100 mm).Spray devices are also known using a vessel provided with a concentrating nozzle and a piezoelectric element, as described for example in the documents EP 0 691 162 A1 and EP 0 782 885 A1 (IMRA Europe). These devices are very reliable and are commonly used to moisten and freshen fresh products on sales stands, as described in the documents FR 2 899 135 A1 , FR 2 921 551 A1 , WO 2014/023907 A1 , WO 2013/034847 A1 (ARECO) FR 2 690 510 A1 (Techsonic). Their flow is important and suitable for many technical and industrial uses; in return, their electrical consumption is significant (of the order of 10 to 70 W per piezoelectric element). Not including perforated membranes, these devices are not likely to be disturbed in their operation by clogging problems; they have a lifespan of 5000 hours on average. On the other hand, these devices have a certain size which is mainly related to the thickness of water necessary for the proper functioning of the piezoelectric element (generally from 20 to 35 mm), to the diameter of the piezoelectric element. , and also at the height of the diffusion chamber necessary for the creation of an acoustic jet almost vertical and very powerful (generally from 40 to 100 mm).

Il existe des dispositifs dont le rendement « débit d'eau / puissance électrique » a été optimisé. Ces systèmes sont généralement équipés des buses agissant comme concentrateurs des ondes acoustiques générées par l'élément piézo-électrique travaillant à très haute fréquence (de l'ordre de quelques MHz), d'une pompe de circulation d'eau, d'un capteur de niveau d'eau, d'un ventilateur et d'une alimentation électrique spécifique. L'intégration de tous ces éléments dans un petit volume reste un point bloquant pour beaucoup d'applications qui nécessitent un système très performant (rapport débit / puissance électrique) et d'une très grande fiabilité (surtout l'élément piezo-électrique, le capteur de niveau d'eau, le ventilateur, la pompe, les générateurs à haute fréquence).There are devices whose efficiency "water flow / electric power" has been optimized. These systems are generally equipped with nozzles acting as concentrators of the acoustic waves generated by the piezoelectric element working at very high frequency (of the order of a few MHz), a water circulation pump, a sensor water level, a fan and a specific power supply. The integration of all these elements in a small volume remains a stumbling block for many applications that require a very powerful system (ratio flow / electric power) and a very high reliability (especially the piezoelectric element, the water level sensor, blower, pump, high frequency generators).

Les tentatives pour miniaturiser ces dispositifs se heurtent au besoin de garder la face active de l'élément piézo-électrique recouverte en permanence d'une couche d'eau suffisamment épaisse pour éviter son échauffement excessif. Par ailleurs, la focalisation des ultrasons par la buse ne peut se faire de manière efficace que dans un liquide et sur une certaine longueur de chemin parcouru par les ondes acoustiques dans le milieu liquide. Pour ces raisons, une épaisseur minimale d'eau de l'ordre de 20 à 35 mm est nécessaire dans les dispositifs selon l'état de la technique ; cette épaisseur dépend quelque peu du diamètre de l'élément piézo-électrique et de la puissance électrique qu'il absorbe.Attempts to miniaturize these devices meet the need to keep the active face of the piezoelectric element permanently covered with a layer of water sufficiently thick to prevent excessive heating. Moreover, the ultrasound focusing by the nozzle can be done effectively only in a liquid and a certain path length traveled by the acoustic waves in the liquid medium. For these reasons, a minimum water thickness of the order of 20 to 35 mm is necessary in devices according to the state of the art; this thickness depends somewhat on the diameter of the piezoelectric element and the electrical power which it absorbs.

Dans tous les cas, même dans un système miniaturisé de ce type, la présence d'une pompe de circulation d'eau et d'un ventilateur s'ajoute à la consommation électrique de l'élément piézo-électrique.In all cases, even in a miniaturized system of this type, the presence of a water circulation pump and a fan is added to the electrical consumption of the piezoelectric element.

Le problème que la présente invention cherche à résoudre est de proposer un dispositif de pulvérisation miniaturisé, et en particulier de très faible hauteur, présentant un débit important, une consommation électrique faible, qui soit d'une grande fiabilité qui n'a pas besoin d'une maintenance fréquente, et qui ne présente pas de risque de colmatage.The problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a miniaturized spraying device, and in particular of very low height, having a high flow rate, a low power consumption, which is of great reliability that does not need to be used. frequent maintenance, and which presents no risk of clogging.

Objets de l'inventionObjects of the invention

Selon l'invention le problème est résolu par un dispositif de nébulisation selon la revendication 1.According to the invention the problem is solved by a nebulizing device according to claim 1.

Ladite surface de réflexion acoustique a avantageusement une forme sensiblement parabolique.Said acoustic reflection surface advantageously has a substantially parabolic shape.

Ledit déflecteur est avantageusement apte à orienter le jet de liquide généré par l'effet desdites ondes acoustiques en dehors de la zone de surface de liquide qui s'étend entre la surface émettrice de l'élément piézo-électrique et ladite surface de réflexion acoustique.Said deflector is advantageously able to orient the jet of liquid generated by the effect of said acoustic waves outside the liquid surface area which extends between the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element and said acoustic reflection surface.

Dans un mode de réalisation le jet primaire de nébulisation fait un angle α compris entre 5° et 85° (et de préférence entre 10° et 60°) par rapport à la surface du liquide.In one embodiment, the primary jet of nebulization makes an angle α of between 5 ° and 85 ° (and preferably between 10 ° and 60 °) relative to the surface of the liquid.

Le point focal des ondes acoustiques réfléchies par la surface de réflexion acoustique se situe avantageusement à une profondeur comprise entre 0 mm et 5 mm et de préférence comprise entre 1 mm et 3 mm au-dessous de la surface du liquide : cela assure un bin rendement de brouillard et une bonne stabilité des conditions de fonctionnement du dispositif.The focal point of the acoustic waves reflected by the acoustic reflection surface is advantageously at a depth of between 0 mm and 5 mm and preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm below the surface of the liquid: this ensures a bin fog yield and good stability of the operating conditions of the device.

Le dispositif selon l'invention peut comprendre un ventilateur qui génère un flux d'air en direction de ladite surface de déflection.The device according to the invention may comprise a fan which generates an air flow towards said deflection surface.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif selon l'invention comporte un déflecteur auxiliaire disposé en aval du jet primaire ; ce déflecteur auxiliaire ralentit le flux de brouillard.According to one embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises an auxiliary deflector disposed downstream of the primary jet; this auxiliary deflector slows the flow of fog.

Avantageusement la hauteur h du liquide dans le dispositif ne dépasse pas 12 mm, de préférence ne dépasse pas 10 mm, et encore plus préférentiellement ne dépasse pas 9 mm.Advantageously, the height h of the liquid in the device does not exceed 12 mm, preferably does not exceed 10 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 9 mm.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif selon l'invention comporte un moyen pour désinfecter périodiquement ou de manière permanente ledit liquide, tel qu'une source de lumière UV ou une résistance chauffante.According to one embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises means for periodically or permanently disinfecting said liquid, such as a UV light source or a heating resistor.

Le dispositif selon l'invention peut être construit de manière très compacte, et en particulier avec une faible hauteur. Avantageusement la hauteur totale du dispositif ne dépasse pas 35 mm, de préférence ne dépasse pas 30 mm, et encore plus préférentiellement ne dépasse pas 25 mm.The device according to the invention can be constructed in a very compact manner, and in particular with a low height. Advantageously, the total height of the device does not exceed 35 mm, preferably does not exceed 30 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 25 mm.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif selon l'invention comprend une partie supérieure qui intègre en une seule pièce (par exemple sous la forme d'une calotte ou coupole) le déflecteur qui oriente le jet de liquide généré par l'effet des ondes acoustique, et qui intègre également le déflecteur auxiliaire ; ces deux déflecteurs peuvent former une seule surface courbée à intérieure de ladite coque ou coupole, qui peut s'étendre de l'orifice d'entrée d'air jusqu'à la sortie du brouillard. Dans ce mode de réalisation le dispositif comprend également une partie inférieure qui intègre la surface réflexion acoustique, et qui intègre, à l'extrémité opposée à l'orifice d'entrée d'air, l'élément piézo-électrique ; cette partie inférieure contient le liquide à nébuliser.In one embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises an upper part which integrates in a single piece (for example in the form of a cap or dome) the deflector which directs the jet of liquid generated by the effect of the waves. acoustic, and which also incorporates the auxiliary deflector; these two deflectors may form a single curved surface to the interior of said shell or cupola, which may extend from the air inlet port to the outlet of the fog. In this embodiment the device also comprises a lower part which integrates the acoustic reflection surface, and which integrates, at the end opposite to the air inlet orifice, the piezoelectric element; this lower part contains the liquid to be sprayed.

Le dispositif selon l'invention peut fonctionner avec différents liquides. Le liquide peut notamment être sélectionné dans le groupe constitué par : l'eau, l'eau contenant au moins un produit désinfectant, l'eau contenant au moins un produit odorant, une solution d'au moins une huile essentielle, une émulsion d'au moins une huile essentielle ; ou un mélange des éléments qui constituent ce groupe.The device according to the invention can operate with different liquids. The liquid may especially be selected from the group consisting of: water, water containing at least one disinfectant product, water containing at least one odorous product, a solution of at least one essential oil, an emulsion of at least one essential oil; or a mixture of the elements that make up this group.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le dispositif est intégré dans un compartiment à température et/ou humidité contrôlée, tel qu'un réfrigérateur, une chambre froide, une armoire à atmosphère contrôlée ou une cave à vin.According to one embodiment of the invention, the device is integrated in a temperature and / or controlled humidity compartment, such as a refrigerator, a cold room, a controlled atmosphere cabinet or a wine cellar.

En particulier grâce à sa faible hauteur, le dispositif selon l'invention peut être intégré dans une plaque horizontale d'un réfrigérateur, et de préférence de manière à ce que le brouillard de gouttelettes soit introduit dans un bac à légumes.In particular, thanks to its low height, the device according to the invention can be integrated into a horizontal plate of a refrigerator, and preferably so that the mist of droplets is introduced into a crisper.

Ainsi, un autre objet de l'invention est une plaque pour réfrigérateur, comportant un dispositif selon l'invention.Thus, another object of the invention is a refrigerator plate, comprising a device according to the invention.

Le dispositif selon l'invention, et en particulier la plaque pour réfrigérateur comprenant ce dispositif, peut comporter un adaptateur hydraulique capable d'accueillir l'embouchure d'une bouteille d'eau de type courant.The device according to the invention, and in particular the refrigerator plate comprising this device, may comprise a hydraulic adapter capable of accommodating the mouth of a water bottle of the current type.

Un autre objet de l'invention est un appareil comportant au moins un compartiment à température et/ou humidité contrôlée, tel qu'un réfrigérateur, caractérisé en ce qu'il est équipé d'au moins un dispositif selon l'invention.Another object of the invention is an apparatus comprising at least one compartment with temperature and / or controlled humidity, such as a refrigerator, characterized in that it is equipped with at least one device according to the invention.

Figuresfigures

Les figures 1 à 11 montrent de manière schématique des modes de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention.

  • La figure 1 est un schéma de principe d'un dispositif selon l'invention représenté en coupe verticale.
  • La figure 2 montre trois vues d'un dispositif selon l'invention. La figure 2c montre le dispositif d'en haut, la figure 2b montre une vue frontale, et la figure 2a montre une vue en coupe selon le plan A-A indiqué sur la figure 2c.
  • La figure 3 montre trois autres vues du dispositif de la figures 2 : une vue latérale en perspective (figure 3a) ; une vue (figure 3b) identique à celle de la figure 3a mais dans on ne représente que les composants contenus dans le boitier, ce dernier (représenté en lignes pointillés) étant représenté comme étant transparent ; et une vue analogue à celle de la figure 3b mais d'un autre angle (figure 3c).
  • La figure 4 montre une vue en perspective d'une coupe selon le plan A-A indiqué sur la figure 2c. Le cercle désigne une zone « A » qui est agrandie sur la figure 4b.
  • La figure 5 montre une autre vue en perspective d'une coupe selon le plan A-A indiqué sur la figure 2c. Le cercle désigne une zone « B » qui est agrandie sur la figure 5b.
  • La figure 6 est un schéma de principe d'un autre dispositif selon l'invention représenté en coupe verticale.
  • La figure 7 est un schéma de principe d'un dispositif selon l'invention qui comporte un déflecteur auxiliaire (repère 26).
  • La figure 8 est un schéma de principe d'un dispositif selon l'invention dont le déflecteur présente dans sa parte inférieure une portion à courbure inverse (repère 27).
  • Les figures 9 à 11 montrent de manière schématique une variante du mode de réalisation avec déflecteur auxiliaire : la figure 9 est la représentation en coupe transversale d'une cellule de nébulisation selon l'invention montrée sur la figure 10, alors que les figures 11a et 11b montrent deux autres vues de la même cellule.
The Figures 1 to 11 show schematically embodiments of the device according to the invention.
  • The figure 1 is a block diagram of a device according to the invention shown in vertical section.
  • The figure 2 shows three views of a device according to the invention. The Figure 2c shows the device from above, the figure 2b shows a frontal view, and the figure 2a shows a sectional view along the plane AA indicated on the Figure 2c .
  • The figure 3 shows three other views of the device of the figures 2 : a perspective side view ( figure 3a ); A sight ( figure 3b ) identical to that of the figure 3a but in it represents only the components contained in the housing, the latter (shown in dashed lines) being shown as being transparent; and a view similar to that of the figure 3b but from another angle ( figure 3c ).
  • The figure 4 shows a perspective view of a section along the plane AA indicated on the Figure 2c . The circle designates an area "A" which is enlarged on the figure 4b .
  • The figure 5 shows another perspective view of a section along the plane AA indicated on the Figure 2c . The circle designates an area "B" which is enlarged on the figure 5b .
  • The figure 6 is a block diagram of another device according to the invention shown in vertical section.
  • The figure 7 is a block diagram of a device according to the invention which comprises an auxiliary deflector (reference 26).
  • The figure 8 is a block diagram of a device according to the invention, the deflector has in its lower portion a portion with an inverse curvature (reference 27).
  • The Figures 9 to 11 show schematically a variant of the embodiment with auxiliary deflector: the figure 9 is the cross-sectional representation of a nebulization cell according to the invention shown on the figure 10 , while the Figures 11a and 11b show two other views of the same cell.

Liste des repères utilisés sur les figures : 1 Dispositif selon l'invention 17 Gouttelettes grosses 2 Cuve 18 Gouttelettes fines 3 Elément piézo-électrique 19 Source de lumière UV 4 Surface de réflexion acoustique 20 Jet primaire de nébulisation 5 Liquide 21 Tube de sortie 6 Surface (niveau) du liquide 22 Cellule de nébulisation 7 Déflecteur du jet primaire de nébulisation 23 Ventilateur 8 Brouillard 24 Plaque de réfrigérateur 9 Système (tube) de diffusion 25 Moyen de fixation 10 Orifice de diffusion (nébulisation) 26 Déflecteur auxiliaire 11 Jet de brouillard 27 Portion du déflecteur 7 à courbure inverse 12 Orifice d'entrée d'air 13 Flux d'air 28 Point focal 14 Tube de contrôle de niveau 29 Partie supérieure 15 Réservoir d'eau 30 Partie inférieure 16 Adaptateur hydraulique (anti goutte) List of references used in the figures: 1 Device according to the invention 17 Fat droplets 2 Tank 18 Fine droplets 3 Piezoelectric element 19 UV light source 4 Acoustic reflection surface 20 Primary fogging spray 5 Liquid 21 Outlet tube 6 Surface (level) of the liquid 22 Nebulizer cell 7 Deflector of the primary fogging spray 23 Fan 8 Fog 24 Refrigerator plate 9 Diffusion system (tube) 25 Means of fixation 10 Diffusion orifice (nebulization) 26 Auxiliary deflector 11 Fog spray 27 Portion of deflector 7 with reverse curvature 12 Air inlet port 13 Air flow 28 Focal point 14 Level control tube 29 The top part 15 Water reservoir 30 Lower part 16 Hydraulic adapter (anti-drop)

Description détailléedetailed description

Le dispositif 1 selon l'invention est traversé par un flux d'air 13 qui entre par un orifice d'entrée d'air 12 aménagé avantageusement à l'une des extrémités du dispositif 1, qui traverse la cellule de nébulisation 22 où il se charge en gouttelettes, pour être entraîné dans le système de diffusion de brouillard 9. Un mode de réalisation d'un tel dispositif 1 est montré sur la figure 1 .The device 1 according to the invention is traversed by an air flow 13 which enters through an air inlet opening 12 advantageously arranged at one of the ends of the device 1, which passes through the nebulizing cell 22 where it is located. charge in droplets, to be driven into the fog diffusion system 9. An embodiment of such a device 1 is shown in FIG. figure 1 .

Le système de diffusion de brouillard 9 (nébulisateur) se trouve à proximité de l'autre extrémité du dispositif 1. Il comporte nécessairement au moins un orifice de sortie 10 par lequel sort un jet de brouillard 11 dans l'environnement ciblé. Au coeur du dispositif 1 se trouvent la cuve 2 contenant le liquide à pulvériser 5 et la cellule de nébulisation 22 avec le générateur de gouttelettes qui comprend un élément piézo-électrique 3 dont la surface active plonge dans ledit liquide 5 à pulvériser. L'élément piézo-électrique 3 est disposé de manière à ce que sa surface active soit recouverte au moins partiellement d'une épaisseur de liquide suffisante pour assurer son refroidissement. De préférence ledit élément piézo-électrique 3 est disposé de manière à ce que sa surface active forme un angle ω supérieur compris entre 60° et 95° par rapport à la surface du liquide, de préférence entre 70° et 95°, et encore plus préférentiellement entre 75° et 90°. On préfère une position quasi-verticale de la surface active de l'élément piézo-électrique 3 par rapport à la surface 6 du liquide 5. The mist diffusion system 9 (fogger) is close to the other end of the device 1. It necessarily comprises at least one outlet port 10 through which fog jet 11 emerges in the targeted environment. At the heart of the device 1 are the tank 2 containing the liquid to be sprayed 5 and the nebulization cell 22 with the droplet generator which comprises a piezoelectric element 3 whose active surface is immersed in said liquid 5 to be sprayed. The piezoelectric element 3 is arranged so that its active surface is covered at least partially with a liquid thickness sufficient to ensure its cooling. Preferably said piezoelectric element 3 is arranged so that its active surface forms an angle ω greater than 60 ° and 95 ° with respect to the surface of the liquid, preferably between 70 ° and 95 °, and even more preferably between 75 ° and 90 °. A quasi-vertical position of the active surface of the piezoelectric element 3 with respect to the surface 6 of the liquid 5 is preferred .

Les ondes acoustiques émises par ledit élément piézo-électrique 3 sont dirigées vers l'interface liquide / air 6, de préférence par l'intermédiaire d'au moins une surface de réflexion acoustique 4. La distance entre ladite surface et la surface émettrice de l'élément piézo-électrique doit être suffisamment courte pour éviter une trop grande divergence du faisceau d'ondes acoustiques. Typiquement un élément piézo-électrique utilisable dans le dispositif selon l'invention présente un champ proche (i.e. une zone à partir de la surface émettrice où le faisceau d'ondes est approximativement parallèle) d'environ 10 mm à 30 mm.The acoustic waves emitted by said piezoelectric element 3 are directed towards the liquid / air interface 6, preferably via at least one acoustic reflection surface 4. The distance between said surface and the emitting surface of the The piezoelectric element must be sufficiently short to prevent too much divergence of the acoustic wave beam. Typically, a piezoelectric element that can be used in the device according to the invention has a near field (ie a zone from the emitting surface where the wave beam is approximately parallel) of about 10 mm to 30 mm.

On peut par exemple utiliser un élément piézo-électrique d'un diamètre de 10 mm, ce qui permet de réduire la hauteur h de liquide dans la cuve à moins de 12 mm, idéalement entre 10 mm et 12 mm.For example, it is possible to use a piezoelectric element with a diameter of 10 mm, which makes it possible to reduce the height h of liquid in the tank to less than 12 mm, ideally between 10 mm and 12 mm.

Dans un mode de réalisation avantageux la surface de réflexion acoustique 4 présente une forme permettant de focaliser les ondes acoustiques. Elle présente typiquement une forme de calotte ou de coupole, et de préférence une forme parabolique, la concavité de ladite surface de réflexion 4 étant tournée vers l'élément piézo-électrique 3. Elle permet la focalisation des ondes acoustiques sur une zone focale (de préférence un point focal) qui se situe au-dessous de la surface (interface liquide / air) 6 du liquide 5, à une profondeur d de l'ordre de quelques millimètres (ce paramètre est montré sur la figure 7 ). Avantageusement le point focal se situe à une profondeur d comprise entre 0 et 5 mm. Il faut éviter qu'il se situe au-dessus de la surface 6 du liquide 5, car cela entraine une baisse significative du rendement de brouillard. On préfère que le point focal se situe à une profondeur d'au moins 0,5 mm, et encore plus préférentielle d'au moins 1 mm ; cela donne un bon rendement tout en assurant une bonne stabilité des conditions opératoires. Une profondeur compris entre 1 mm et 3 mm est globalement optimale.In an advantageous embodiment, the acoustic reflection surface 4 has a shape that makes it possible to focus the acoustic waves. It typically has a cap or cupola shape, and preferably a parabolic shape, the concavity of said reflection surface 4 being turned towards the piezoelectric element 3. It allows the focusing of the acoustic waves on a focal zone (of preferably a focal point) which lies below the surface (liquid / air interface) 6 of the liquid 5, at a depth d of the order of a few millimeters (this parameter is shown on the figure 7 ) . Advantageously, the focal point is at a depth d of between 0 and 5 mm. It must be avoided that it is above the surface 6 of the liquid 5, because it causes a significant drop in the fog output. It is preferred that the focal point is at a depth of at least 0.5 mm, and still more preferably at least 1 mm; it gives a good performance while ensuring a good stability of the operating conditions. A depth of between 1 mm and 3 mm is globally optimal.

La distance focale F entre le point focal et la surface émettrice de l'élément piézo-électrique 3 est avantageusement comprise entre 8 à 28 mm. La distance E entre la surface émettrice l'élément piézo-électrique 3 et la surface de réflexion acoustique, mesurée au niveau de la surface du liquide, est avantageusement comprise entre 10 mm et 30 mm (sachant que E > F); elle se situe dans le champ proche dudit élément piézo-électrique. La fréquence est avantageusement entre 1 MHz et 5 MHz, par exemple 3 MHz.The focal length F between the focal point and the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element 3 is advantageously between 8 and 28 mm. The distance E between the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element 3 and the acoustic reflection surface, measured at the level of the surface of the liquid, is advantageously between 10 mm and 30 mm (knowing that E > F ); it is located in the near field of said piezoelectric element. The frequency is advantageously between 1 MHz and 5 MHz, for example 3 MHz.

La surface de réflexion 4 doit avoir un fort contraste d'impédance ce qui permet de réaliser un miroir acoustique très efficace (i.e. un miroir réfléchissant quasi la totalité de l'énergie acoustique) ; elle est réalisée de préférence en métal.The reflection surface 4 must have a high impedance contrast, which makes it possible to produce a very effective acoustic mirror (ie a mirror that reflects almost all of the acoustic energy); it is preferably made of metal.

Sans vouloir être liés par cette théorie, les inventeurs pensent que la focalisation des ondes acoustiques par une surface réfléchissante permet de raccourcir le trajet des ondes ultrasons dans l'eau, ce qui évite leur dispersion inutile dans le volume de liquide : ainsi toute l'énergie acoustique est utilisée pour produire les ondes de surfaces, permettant de détacher de la surface des gouttelettes de taille micronique avec un fort rendement.Without wishing to be bound by this theory, the inventors believe that the focusing of the acoustic waves by a reflective surface makes it possible to shorten the path of the ultrasonic waves in the water, which avoids their unnecessary dispersion in the volume of liquid: thus the entire Acoustic energy is used to produce surface waves, allowing to detach micron-sized droplets from the surface with high efficiency.

Ainsi se crée à partir de la interface liquide l air 5 un jet de gouttelettes 20 appelé ici « jet primaire de nébulisation » ; il est accompagné souvent au moins sur une partie de sa longueur d'un jet d'eau appelé jet d'eau acoustique. La direction de ce jet primaire de nébulisation 20 est déterminée surtout par la focalisation des ondes acoustiques ; la direction est exprimée ici par un angle α par rapport à la surface du liquide 5 en direction opposé au flux d'air, défini sur la figure 1 (l'angle 0° correspondant à l'horizontale opposée à la direction du flux d'air FA l'angle 180° à l'horizontale en direction du flux d'air). Elle peut être adaptée au fonctionnement du dispositif, notamment en fonction de la présence ou de l'absence d'un ventilateur 23. Thus is created from the liquid interface the Bird 5 a jet of droplets 20 referred to herein as "primary jet nebulization"; it is often accompanied at least for part of its length by a jet of water called an acoustic water jet. The direction of this primary jet of nebulization 20 is determined mainly by the focusing of the acoustic waves; the direction is expressed here by an angle α relative to the surface of the liquid 5 in the direction opposite to the air flow, defined on the figure 1 (the 0 ° angle corresponding to the horizontal opposite the direction of the air flow F A 180 ° angle horizontally towards the air flow). It can be adapted to the operation of the device, in particular according to the presence or absence of a fan 23.

Les inventeurs ont trouvé que si le jet primaire de nébulisation 20 est dirigé dans le sens inverse du flux d'air 13, ou au moins dans un sens qui heurte ce dernier (de préférence avec un angle α inférieur à 90°, comme cela est représenté sur la figure 1), cela permet d'empêcher les gouttes les plus grosses 17 d'être emportées dans le brouillard 8; elles retombent dans le réservoir de la cuve 2. The inventors have found that if the primary fogging jet 20 is directed in the opposite direction of the air flow 13, or at least in a direction which strikes the latter (preferably with an angle α less than 90 °, as is represented on the figure 1 ), this prevents the largest drops 17 to be carried in the fog 8; they fall back into the tank of the tank 2.

L'effet de séparation des grosses gouttes qui vient d'être décrit est particulièrement efficace lorsque le flux d'air FA est généré par un ventilateur. En effet, dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention on ajoute au dispositif 1 selon l'invention un ventilateur, installé de préférence à proximité de l'orifice d'entrée d'air 12. Un tel mode de réalisation est montré sur la figure 6 . On observe dans ce cas que le jet acoustique est emporté parle flux d'air issu du ventilateur ; la forme parabolique de la surface de réflexion acoustique 4 et la forme du déflecteur 7 déterminent une géométrie qui favorise le soufflage des petites gouttelettes au détriment des grosses gouttes ; cet enrichissement du brouillard en petites gouttelettes est souhaitable en vue du résultat recherché.The separation effect of large drops that has just been described is particularly effective when the air flow F A is generated by a fan. Indeed, in one embodiment of the invention is added to the device 1 according to the invention a fan, preferably installed near the air inlet port 12. Such an embodiment is shown on the figure 6 . It is observed in this case that the acoustic jet is carried away by the air flow from the fan; the parabolic shape of the acoustic reflection surface 4 and the shape of the deflector 7 determine a geometry that promotes the blowing of small droplets at the expense of large drops; this enrichment of the mist in small droplets is desirable for the desired result.

La présence d'une surface de déflecteur 7 (de préférence en métal pour minimiser la perte d'énergie par absorption) contre laquelle se heurte le jet primaire de nébulisation 20 après avoir rencontré le flux d'air 13 est très avantageuse pour séparer les gouttelettes grosses 17 du flux des gouttelettes fines 18 qui, lui, est entraîné avec le flux d'air 13 pour former un brouillard 8 qui entre ensuite dans le système de diffusion 9. The presence of a deflector surface 7 (preferably made of metal to minimize absorption energy loss) against which the primary spray jet 20 encounters after encountering the air stream 13 is very advantageous for separating the droplets. large 17 of the flow of the fine droplets 18 which itself is driven with the air flow 13 to form a mist 8 which then enters the diffusion system 9.

Il est en effet souhaitable que le brouillard 11 délivré par le dispositif 1 soit composé de gouttelettes très fines, afin de permettre une évaporation rapide du brouillard une fois déposé sur une surface solide ou dans un petit volume. Cette évaporation assure le rafraîchissement rapide de l'environnement (i.e. de l'air et de la surface sur laquelle le brouillard se dépose) dans la mesure où l'enthalpie d'évaporation provient de l'environnement (air et surface sur laquelle le brouillard s'est déposé). Plus les gouttes sont fines plus leur évaporation sera rapide et moins l'humidité stagnante (gouttes d'eau) fera son effet sur la surface ou dans le volume.It is indeed desirable that the fog 11 delivered by the device 1 be composed of very fine droplets, in order to allow rapid evaporation of the fog once deposited on a solid surface or in a small volume. This evaporation ensures rapid cooling of the environment (ie air and the surface on which the fog is deposited) insofar as the enthalpy of evaporation comes from the environment (air and surface on which the fog is deposited). The finer the drops, the faster their evaporation and the less stagnant moisture (drops of water) will affect the surface or the volume.

La surface du déflecteur 7 du jet primaire de nébulisation sert comme déflecteur du jet dans le but d'éliminer au moins une partie des grosses gouttelettes 17 et de diffuser la nébulisation. En même temps cette surface de déflecteur 7 guide aussi le retour d'eau du jet d'eau acoustique dans une zone loin du point focal afin de ne pas perturber le jet d'eau et de diminuer son rendement en gouttelettes.The surface of the deflector 7 of the primary jet nebulization serves as deflector of the jet in order to remove at least a portion of the large droplets 17 and spread the nebulization. At the same time this deflector surface 7 also guides the return of water from the acoustic water jet in a zone away from the focal point so as not to disturb the water jet and to reduce its droplet yield.

Le flux d'air 13 qui traverse le dispositif 1 peut aussi être généré par simple aspiration, l'air dans l'espace d'air au-dessous du déflecteur 7 étant entraîné vers le système de diffusion 9 sous l'effet du jet primaire de nébulisation 20. En effet, les inventeurs ont trouvé que le dispositif 1 selon l'invention n'a pas besoin d'un ventilateur, le flux d'air 13 généré par aspiration étant suffisamment fort pour certains types d'applications ; la vitesse dudit flux d'air « naturel » sera en règle générale plus faible qu'avec ventilateur.The air flow 13 which passes through the device 1 can also be generated by simple aspiration, the air in the air space below the deflector 7 being driven towards the diffusion system 9 under the effect of the primary jet 20. In fact, the inventors have found that the device 1 according to the invention does not need a fan, the air flow 13 generated by suction being strong enough for certain types of applications; the speed of said "natural" airflow will generally be lower than with fan.

Sans vouloir être liés par cette théorie, les inventeurs pensent que ce constat s'explique par le fait que la vitesse initiale des ondes acoustiques à la surface du liquide est suffisante pour générer des gouttelettes possédant une énergie suffisante pour en transférer une partie aux molécules d'air environnantes. Plus précisément, une partie de cette énergie mécanique est absorbée par l'air sous la forme de chaleur (frottement des molécules), mais aussi sous la forme d'énergie cinétique des molécules de l'air elles-mêmes. Cet effet d'entraînement des molécules de l'air par les gouttelettes du liquide peut expliquer que l'air soit entrainé par les gouttes dont le vecteur de la vitesse est orienté par le déflecteur 7. L'entraînement des grosses gouttes étant peu efficace, elles retombent dans la cuve à un point éloigné du point focal.Without wishing to be bound by this theory, the inventors believe that this observation is explained by the fact that the initial velocity of the acoustic waves on the surface of the liquid is sufficient to generate droplets with sufficient energy to transfer a portion of them to surrounding air. More precisely, some of this mechanical energy is absorbed by the air in the form of heat (friction of the molecules), but also in the form of kinetic energy of the molecules of the air themselves. This entrainment effect of the molecules of the air by the droplets of the liquid can explain that the air is driven by the drops whose velocity vector is oriented by the deflector 7. The entrainment of large drops being inefficient, they fall back into the tank at a point far away from the focal point.

Pour un système sans ventilateur la direction et la puissance du jet primaire de nébulisation jouent un rôle primordial pour le bon fonctionnement du système, cette direction étant choisie et contrôlée par l'intermédiaire de la surface de réflexion acoustique 4 sa forme est de préférence parabolique, et l'équation parabolique est choisie d'une façon à avoir un jet primaire 20 qui fait un angle α compris entre 95° et 175° dégrées (et de préférence entre 100° et 150°) par rapport à la surface 6 du liquide. Dans une variante on ajoute un petit déflecteur auxiliaire 26 (qui peut être par exemple une surface pleine ou une grille) proche de la sortie de diffusion pour bloquer les grosses gouttes parasites ; cela est montré de manière schématique sur la figure 7. Sur cette figure le symbole FiJ désigne la direction du jet primaire de nébulisation 20, le symbole FA celle du flux d'air 13 généré par aspiration. Cette figure montre un angle β qui correspond à (180° - α).For a fanless system, the direction and the power of the primary spray jet play a vital role for the proper functioning of the system, this direction being chosen and controlled by means of the acoustic reflection surface 4, its shape is preferably parabolic, and the parabolic equation is chosen so as to have a primary jet 20 which makes an angle α of between 95 ° and 175 ° degrees (and preferably between 100 ° and 150 °) relative to the surface 6 of the liquid. In a variant is added a small auxiliary baffle 26 (which may be for example a solid surface or a grid) close to the diffusion outlet to block large parasitic drops; this is schematically shown on the figure 7 . In this figure the symbol Fi J designates the direction of the primary jet of nebulization 20, the symbol F has that of the air flow 13 generated by suction. This figure shows an angle β which corresponds to (180 ° - α).

On arrive donc au résultat surprenant que pour le dispositif selon l'invention, il faut adapter la surface de réflexion acoustique 4 à la puissance du flux d'air 13 qui traverse le dispositif et qui entraîne le brouillard généré: avec ventilateur, il vaut mieux avoir un jet primaire qui heurte le flux d'air, alors que sans ventilateur (i.e. avec un flux d'air généré par le jet primaire lui-même, par un effet d'entraînement ou d'aspiration) il est préférable que le jet primaire soit plutôt dans une direction qui suit le flux d'air ; dans le deux cas on observe, par des mécanismes différents, une séparation des grosses gouttes 17 qui retombent dans la cuve 2. L'ajout d'un déflecteur auxiliaire 26 (chicane) en aval du déflecteur 7 renforce la séparation des grosses gouttes dans le mode de réalisation sans ventilateur.We therefore arrive at the surprising result that for the device according to the invention, it is necessary to adapt the acoustic reflection surface 4 to the power of the air flow 13 which passes through the device and which causes the generated fog: with fan, it is better have a primary jet that strikes the flow of air, while without a fan (ie with a flow of air generated by the primary jet itself, by a driving effect or suction) it is preferable that the jet primary in a direction that follows the flow of air; in the two cases we observe, by different mechanisms, a separation of large drops 17 which fall into the tank 2. The addition of an auxiliary deflector 26 (baffle) downstream of the baffle 7 reinforces the separation of large drops in the embodiment without fan.

Le déflecteur 7 a une double fonction. Sa forme et son positionnement doivent être tel qu'il puisse orienter convenablement le jet primaire de nébulisation 20, et tel qu'il puisse assurer que le jet de liquide dit « acoustique », qui accompagne le jet primaire de nébulisation 20, soit orienté dans une zone qui ne perturbe pas le point focal 28 des ondes acoustiques dans le liquide. Avantageusement le déflecteur 7 se prolonge en direction amont (i.e. opposée au flux d'air) de manière à conduire le jet de liquide acoustique en dehors de la zone qui s'étend entre l'élément piézo-électrique 3 et la surface de réflexion acoustique 4. The deflector 7 has a dual function. Its shape and positioning must be such that it can properly orient the primary jet of nebulization 20, and such that it can ensure that the jet of liquid called "acoustic", which accompanies the primary jet of nebulization 20, is oriented in an area that does not disturb the focal point 28 of the acoustic waves in the liquid. Advantageously, the deflector 7 extends in the upstream direction (ie opposite to the air flow) so as to conduct the jet of acoustic liquid outside the zone that extends between the piezoelectric element 3 and the acoustic reflection surface. 4.

Dans un mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 9 à 11 , le dispositif selon l'invention comprend une partie supérieure 29 qui intègre en une seule pièce (par exemple sous la forme d'une calotte ou coupole) le déflecteur 7 du jet primaire de nébulisation qui oriente le jet de liquide généré par l'effet des ondes acoustique, et qui intègre également le déflecteur auxiliaire 26 ; ces deux déflecteurs peuvent former une seule surface courbée à intérieure de ladite coque ou coupole, qui peut s'étendre de l'orifice d'entrée d'air 12 jusqu'à la sortie 21 du brouillard. Dans ce mode de réalisation le dispositif comprend également une partie inférieure 30 qui intègre la surface 4 réflexion acoustique, et qui intègre, à l'extrémité opposée à l'orifice d'entrée d'air 12, l'élément piézo-électrique 3 ; cette partie inférieure contient le liquide 5 à nébuliser.In an embodiment illustrated on the Figures 9 to 11 , the device according to the invention comprises an upper portion 29 which integrates in one piece (for example in the form of a cap or dome) the deflector 7 of the primary jet of nebulization which directs the jet of liquid generated by the effect acoustic waves, and which also integrates the auxiliary baffle 26 ; these two baffles may form a single curved inner surface of said shell or cupola, which may extend from the air inlet port 12 to the outlet 21 of the fog. In this embodiment the device also comprises a lower part 30 which integrates the acoustic reflection surface 4 , and which integrates, at the end opposite the air inlet port 12, the piezoelectric element 3 ; this lower part contains the liquid 5 to be sprayed.

Dans un mode de réalisation le déflecteur 7 présente dans sa partie inférieure, à proximité de la surface de liquide, une portion 27 présentant une courbure en sens inverse, pour favoriser l'entrée du flux d'air dans la cellule de nébulisation 22. Cela est montré sur la figure 8.In one embodiment the deflector 7 has in its lower part, near the liquid surface, a portion 27 having a curvature in the opposite direction, to promote the entry of the air flow in the nebulization cell 22. This is shown on the figure 8 .

Dans le dispositif 1 selon l'invention, la cellule de nébulisation 22 est délimitée par le déflecteur 7 et comprend la surface de réflexion acoustique 4. In the device 1 according to the invention, the nebulizing cell 22 is delimited by the deflector 7 and comprises the acoustic reflection surface 4.

Le dispositif selon l'invention peut être installé dans un compartiment à humidité et/ou température contrôlée, tel qu'un réfrigérateur ou une cave à vin.The device according to the invention can be installed in a compartment with humidity and / or controlled temperature, such as a refrigerator or a wine cellar.

Dans le cas où le dispositif 1 selon l'invention est installé dans un réfrigérateur à froid ventilé on peut soit prévoir une entrée d'air dans laquelle est soufflé de manière passive le courant d'air généré par le ventilateur central de brassage du réfrigérateur, ou on peut ajouter un ventilateur 23 qui génère un flux d'air, de préférence dans la même direction que le flux d'air généré par le ventilateur central de brassage du réfrigérateur.In the case where the device 1 according to the invention is installed in a ventilated cold refrigerator can be provided an air inlet in which is passively blown the air flow generated by the central cooling fan of the refrigerator, or a fan 23 can be added which generates a flow of air, preferably in the same direction as the air flow generated by the central cooling fan of the refrigerator.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention la cuve 2 comporte un système de désinfection qui peut notamment être:

  • soit une source de lumière 19 ultra-violette (UV) (la lumière étant représentée par les flèches sur la figure 1) apte à désinfecter au moins partiellement le liquide 5 qu'elle contient ; le fonctionnement de cette source de lumière UV 19 peut être permanent ou intermittent ;
  • soit une résistance chauffante capable de chauffer l'eau temporairement à une température suffisante pour la désinfecter, par exemple par choc thermique.
In a particular embodiment of the invention, the tank 2 comprises a disinfection system which can notably be:
  • is a light source 19, ultraviolet (UV) light (the light being represented by the arrows in figure 1 ) capable of at least partially disinfecting the liquid 5 that it contains; the operation of this UV light source 19 may be permanent or intermittent;
  • or a heating resistor capable of temporarily heating the water to a temperature sufficient to disinfect it, for example by thermal shock.

Le dispositif 1 peut être alimenté en eau par l'intermédiaire d'un adaptateur hydraulique (anti goutte) 16 ; l'eau peut provenir d'un réservoir d'eau 15 intégré au dispositif 1 (comme montré sur la figure 1) ou d'une alimentation externe appropriée (tuyaux alimenté par un réservoir déporté par exemple).The device 1 can be supplied with water via a hydraulic adapter (anti-drop) 16 ; the water can come from a water reservoir 15 integrated in the device 1 (as shown on the figure 1 ) or an appropriate external power supply (pipes supplied by a remote tank for example).

Dans un mode de réalisation le niveau d'eau 6 est automatiquement contrôlé via un tube de contrôle de niveau 14 coupé en biseau ; cette augmentation de la section ouverte du tube évite de bloquer d'éventuelles bulles d'air à l'entrée. Ce tube est équipé d'un adaptateur hydraulique anti-goutte ; on peut choisir avantageusement un modèle d'adaptateur adapté à la majorité des bouteilles d'eau du commerce.In one embodiment the water level 6 is automatically controlled via a leveled control tube 14 beveled; this increase in the open section of the tube avoids blocking any air bubbles at the entrance. This tube is equipped with a hydraulic anti-drip adapter; it is advantageous to choose an adapter model suitable for the majority of commercial water bottles.

L'alimentation en eau de la cuve 2 peut se faire de différentes autres manières (non montrées sur les figures). A titre d'exemple, l'eau peut provenir d'un réservoir déporté. Dans le cas où le dispositif 1 est implanté dans un réfrigérateur, l'eau qui alimente la cuve 2 peut provenir de la récupération de condensat (un filtre est avantageusement prévu pour filtrer ledit condensat avant son admission dans la cuve 2), ou encore l'eau qui alimente la cuve 2 peut être prélevée sur l'alimentation en eau du réfrigérateur, si ce dernier dispose d'une telle alimentation.The water supply of the tank 2 can be done in various other ways (not shown in the figures). For example, water can come from a remote tank. In the case where the device 1 is implanted in a refrigerator, the water that feeds the tank 2 may come from the condensate recovery (a filter is advantageously provided for filtering said condensate before its admission into the tank 2 ), or the water which feeds the tank 2 can be taken from the water supply of the refrigerator, if the latter has such a power supply.

Le système 1 selon l'invention présente une faible hauteur y totale, qui peut être inférieure à 35 mm, de préférence inférieure à 30 mm et encore plus préférentiellement inférieure à 25 mm. Cette faible hauteur ouvre des possibilités d'application tout à fait nouvelles.The system 1 according to the invention has a small total height y , which may be less than 35 mm, preferably less than 30 mm and even more preferably less than 25 mm. This low height opens up completely new application possibilities.

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention le dispositif selon l'invention peut être installé dans l'épaisseur d'une plaque horizontale 24 d'un réfrigérateur. De telles plaques sont en général soit en verre soit en plastique, et si elles sont en verre elles comportent un cadre en plastique ; de ce fait elles présentent au niveau du cadre une épaisseur d'environ 15 à 25 mm. Selon l'invention, on intègre le dispositif 1 de nébulisation dans au moins une plaque d'un réfrigérateur, et on dirige les orifices de sortie 11 vers le bas pour y créer une atmosphère d'humidité contrôlée. Dans une variante de mode de réalisation on intègre ledit dispositif 1 dans la paroi supérieure du bac à légumes ou dans une plaque à l'intérieur dudit bac, et les orifices de sortie 11 sont dirigées vers l'intérieur dudit bac à légumes. Ce mode de réalisation est montré de manière schématique sur la figure 6, en relation avec la variante qui comporte un ventilateur 23, mais il peut évidemment aussi être réalisé sans ventilateur, comme montré sur la figure 1. Ladite plaque horizontale 24 est de préférence amovible pour être retirée du réfrigérateur et présente à cette fin des moyens de fixation 25. In one embodiment of the invention the device according to the invention can be installed in the thickness of a horizontal plate 24 of a refrigerator. Such plates are usually either glass or plastic, and if they are glass they include a plastic frame; as a result they have a thickness of about 15 to 25 mm at the frame. According to the invention, the nebulizing device 1 is integrated in at least one plate of a refrigerator, and the outlet orifices 11 are directed downwards to create a controlled humidity atmosphere. In an alternative embodiment includes said device 1 in the upper wall of the crisper or in a plate inside said tray, and the outlet ports 11 are directed towards the interior of said crisper. This embodiment is schematically shown on the figure 6 , in connection with the variant which includes a fan 23, but it can obviously also be done without a fan, as shown on the figure 1 . Said horizontal plate 24 is preferably removable to be removed from the refrigerator and has for this purpose fastening means 25.

Dans un mode de réalisation avantageux le fonctionnement du système de nébulisation selon l'invention peut être synchronisé avec l'ouverture de la porte du réfrigérateur et/ou la quantité de nébulisation injectée dans le volume du réfrigérateur peut être contrôlée par une sonde d'hygrométrie (non montrée sur les figures), avec une boucle de rétroaction sur le dispositif de nébulisation.In an advantageous embodiment, the operation of the nebulization system according to the invention can be synchronized with the opening of the refrigerator door and / or the amount of nebulization injected into the refrigerator volume can be controlled by a humidity sensor. (not shown in the figures), with a feedback loop on the nebulizing device.

Dans d'autres modes de réalisation on prévoit une sonde hygrométrique qui mesure le taux d'humidité dans le volume d'air conditionné par le dispositif 1 selon l'invention ; une boucle de rétroaction permet de réguler l'intensité et/ou l'intermittence du jet de brouillard 11 produit par le dispositif 1 de manière à obtenir dans ledit volume d'air conditionné un taux d'humidité contrôlé, de préférence constant, et de préférence réglable par l'intermédiaire d'un organe de réglage.In other embodiments, a hygrometric probe is provided which measures the humidity level in the volume of air conditioned by the device 1 according to the invention; a feedback loop makes it possible to regulate the intensity and / or the intermittency of the fog jet 11 produced by the device 1 so as to obtain in said volume of conditioned air a controlled humidity level, preferably constant, and of preferably adjustable via an adjusting member.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation ledit liquide 5 comporte un produit désinfectant, de manière à ce que le jet de brouillard 11 soit apte à désinfecter au moins partiellement ledit volume d'air et possiblement les parois qui le confinent.In another embodiment said liquid 5 comprises a disinfectant, so that the fog jet 11 is able to disinfect at least partially said volume of air and possibly the walls that confine it.

Dans encore un autre mode de réalisation ledit liquide 5 comporte une fragrance ou une huile dite essentielle, ou un autre produit odorant, de manière à ce que le jet de brouillard 11 soit apte à répandre dans ledit volume d'air une odeur spécifique.In yet another embodiment said liquid 5 comprises a fragrance or a so-called essential oil, or other flavorant so that the mist jet 11 is able to spread into said volume of air a specific odor.

Claims (15)

  1. Nebulisation device (1) capable of generating a mist of droplets of a liquid from a liquid (5) contained in a tank (2),
    said device (1) comprising:
    - a piezoelectric element (3) able to emit acoustic waves into said liquid (5),
    - an acoustic reflection surface (4) immersed in said liquid (5), able to focus the acoustic waves emitted by said piezoelectric element (3) onto a focal zone to create a jet of mist (20) referred to as "primary nebulisation jet",
    - a deflector (7) of the primary nebulisation jet (20),
    - a mist diffusing system (9) via which said mist of droplets leaves said device (1),
    - the emitting face of said piezoelectric element (3) forming with the surface (6) of said liquid (5) forming the liquid/air interface an angle ω between 60° and 95°, preferably between 70° and 95° and even more preferably between 75° and 90°,
    - the focal zone being situated beneath said surface (6) of the liquid (5) forming the liquid (5) / air interface characterised in that:
    - said deflector (7) being able to orient said jet in a direction substantially the opposite of the direction in which the acoustic waves are emitted by the piezoelectric element and in the direction of said mist diffusing system (9).
  2. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that said acoustic reflection surface (4) has a substantially parabolic shape.
  3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said deflector (7) is able to orient the jet of liquid generated by the effect of said acoustic waves outside of the zone of the liquid surface that extends between the emitting surface of the piezoelectric element (3) and said acoustic reflection surface (4).
  4. Device according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the primary nebulisation jet (20) forms an angle α between- 5° and 85° (and preferably between 10° and 60°) with respect to the surface of the liquid.
  5. Device according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the focal point of the acoustic waves reflected by the acoustic reflection surface (4) is located at a depth between 0 mm and 5 mm and preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm beneath the surface (6) of the liquid.
  6. Device according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that it comprises a fan (23) that generates a flow of air (13) in the direction of said deflection surface (7).
  7. Device according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that it comprises an auxiliary deflector (26) arranged downstream of the primary jet (20) which slows down the flow of mist.
  8. Device according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the height h of the liquid (5) does not exceed 12 mm, preferably does not exceed 10 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 9 mm.
  9. Device according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that it comprises a means for periodically or permanently disinfecting said liquid (5), such as a source of UV light (19) or a heating resistance.
  10. Device according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that its total height does not exceed 35 mm, preferably does not exceed 30 mm, and even more preferably does not exceed 25 mm.
  11. Device according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that it is integrated into a temperature and/or humidity-controlled compartment, such as a refrigerator, a cold room, a controlled atmosphere cabinet or a wine cellar.
  12. Device according to claim 11 characterised in that it is integrated into a horizontal plate of a refrigerator, and preferably in such a way that the mist of droplets is introduced into a vegetable compartment.
  13. Plate for refrigerator, comprising a device according to any of claims 1 to 12.
  14. Plate for refrigerator according to claim 13, characterised in that said device comprises a hydraulic adaptor capable of receiving the mouth of a commonplace bottle of water.
  15. Apparatus comprising at least one temperature and/or humidity-controlled compartment, such as a refrigerator, characterised in that it is provided with at least one device according to any of claims 1 to 12.
EP15808754.4A 2014-12-05 2015-11-26 Compact spraying device Active EP3227622B1 (en)

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FR1402792A FR3029431A1 (en) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 COMPACT SPRAY DEVICE
FR1551558A FR3029432B1 (en) 2014-12-05 2015-02-24 COMPACT SPRAY DEVICE
PCT/FR2015/053236 WO2016087752A1 (en) 2014-12-05 2015-11-26 Compact spray device

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EP3227622B1 true EP3227622B1 (en) 2018-08-29

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FR3064502A1 (en) * 2017-03-28 2018-10-05 Areco Finances Et Technologie - Arfitec COMPACT NEBULIZATION DEVICE AND NEBULIZATION ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE
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FR3029432B1 (en) 2016-12-23
WO2016087752A1 (en) 2016-06-09
FR3029432A1 (en) 2016-06-10
FR3029431A1 (en) 2016-06-10
EP3227622A1 (en) 2017-10-11

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