WO2005053978A1 - A mist-spraying apparatus - Google Patents

A mist-spraying apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2005053978A1
WO2005053978A1 PCT/GB2004/004799 GB2004004799W WO2005053978A1 WO 2005053978 A1 WO2005053978 A1 WO 2005053978A1 GB 2004004799 W GB2004004799 W GB 2004004799W WO 2005053978 A1 WO2005053978 A1 WO 2005053978A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
air
space
spraying
outlet conduit
atomizing nozzle
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/GB2004/004799
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
David James Dore
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Quill International Industries PLC
Original Assignee
Quill International Industries PLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Quill International Industries PLC filed Critical Quill International Industries PLC
Priority to US10/580,705 priority Critical patent/US20080029614A1/en
Priority to EP04798519A priority patent/EP1689603B1/en
Priority to DE602004020659T priority patent/DE602004020659D1/en
Priority to AT04798519T priority patent/ATE428589T1/en
Publication of WO2005053978A1 publication Critical patent/WO2005053978A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H3/00—Other air-treating devices
    • B60H3/02—Moistening ; Humidity control
    • B60H3/022—Moistening ; Humidity control for only humidifying the air
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
    • B05B12/02—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery
    • 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
    • B05B7/0075—Nozzle arrangements in gas streams

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a mist-spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space.
  • the aim of the invention is to provide a 'dry' mist which can sanitize exposed surfaces within an enclosed space without wetting them.
  • the applications of such an apparatus are varied but the present invention has been designed primarily for use in the sanitization of exposed surfaces within an enclosed space that may be a storage area, a room or the like.
  • such a space may comprise the interior of goods and delivery vehicles, typically those which are used to transport items such as hospital laundry and the like.
  • When such laundry is transported it is common for the same vehicle to be used to pick up dirty laundry at the same time as delivering clean laundry. In such circumstances, the opportunity for cross- contamination to occur is great.
  • Even when dirty laundry is not housed within the same vehicle interior as clean laundry the same vehicle is often used to transport both at separate times so that it is still advantageous for a means to be provided that can sanitize the interior of the vehicle between trips.
  • mist-spraying apparatus is often used to spray biocides of various kinds within these structures.
  • mist-spraying apparatus is often used to spray biocides of various kinds within these structures.
  • mist spraying apparatus can be used for sanitizing an enclosed space and that will substantially fulfill the aforesaid requirement.
  • a mist spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space
  • an air-blowing means with an outlet conduit through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit to circulate within the space
  • a spraying means comprising a pump for delivering liquid from a reservoir to an atomizing nozzle for spraying the liquid into the space in the form of an atomized mist, the atomizing nozzle being located within the outlet conduit so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle are entrained in the airstream emitted by the air-blowing means and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space
  • a control means for controlling operation of the air-blowing means and the spraying means that is adapted to commence operation of the air- blowing means prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle and to continue operation of the air-blowing means after operation of the nozzle has ceased in order to continue circulation of the air and any atomized particles
  • the air-blowing means is used to create an airstream in the space which immediately entrains the atomized particles being emitted by the atomizing nozzle.
  • the particles are rapidly diluted but also evenly distributed into the airstream and are thus applied evenly over all exposed surfaces within the space being sprayed.
  • Circulation of the air before the atomizing nozzle's operation ensures that the particles emitted by the nozzle are always entrained as atomized particles and do not clump together to form droplets, which are wetting and tend to fall uselessly to the floor of the space.
  • recirculation of the air after operation of the nozzle has ceased ensures that all surfaces within the space are reached by the airstream.
  • the length of time that the nozzle operates and that the air is recirculated after nozzle operation has ceased will depend on the nature and concentration of the liquid being sprayed, the size of the enclosed space and the particular application of the apparatus and can be varied as required.
  • the atomizing nozzle is located centrally within the outlet conduit.
  • the outlet conduit has a rectangular cross-sectional profile.
  • the outlet conduit defines a slot so that the airstream emitted into the space is in the form of a slot-jet.
  • the atomizing nozzle is inset within the outlet conduit.
  • the spraying tip of the nozzle is inset by at least 25 mm and by no more than 40 mm into the outlet conduit.
  • the air-blowing means is provided with a source of steam whereby steam is additionally blown into the enclosed space through the outlet conduit.
  • the atomizing nozzle comprises a 6o° solid cone nozzle.
  • the spraying means is adapted is adapted to spray at least 11 litres of liquid per hour at a pressure of 7 x ⁇ os N per m 2 (7 bar).
  • the air-blowing means comprises a cylindrical fan.
  • the apparatus is located in proximity to the ceiling at the top of a wall of the enclosed space.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a mist-spraying apparatus according to the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the exterior of apparatus as shown in
  • Fig. 1 when mounted within the storage area of a delivery vehicle.
  • a mist-spraying apparatus in accordance with the invention comprises an air-blowing means 1 and a spraying means 2.
  • the apparatus is adapted to be located within a housing 3 that can be mounted at a suitable site within an enclosed area, as partially shown in Fig. 2 and as further described below, and connected to a power source.
  • Apparatus that is intended to be used within a vehicle can be adapted to be powered by the vehicle itself by being linked to the vehicle's batteries. Alternatively, it can be provided with its own battery power supply which is adapted to be re-charged when the vehicle is in motion.
  • apparatus for use in buildings and other permanent or semi-permanent structures can be powered from a mains electricity supply.
  • the air blowing means 1 comprises a fan 4 powered by a motor 5 and defines an outlet conduit 6 through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit 7 covered by a grille through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit 6 to circulate within the space.
  • the fan 4 is preferably a cylindrical fan but any suitable blowing means can be employed.
  • a cylindrical fan which is 130 mm across is capable of delivering an airflow of between 1.4 and 1.7 m3 per minute, which is suitable for use in an average-sized vehicle storage space with approximate dimensions of 12m by 3m by 3m (40' x 10' x 10').
  • the outlet conduit 6 is located at the front of the housing 3 and it has been found that an outlet conduit 6 with a rectangular cross-sectional profile provides an airflow pattern that is better at reaching all corners and exposed surfaces within spaces which are rectangular, parallelepipedal spaces than the airflow pattern provided by a circular outlet conduit.
  • the outlet conduit 6 therefore defines a slot 8 so that the airstream emitted into the space is in the form of a slot-jet.
  • the slot 8 preferably has dimensions of 85 mm by 70 mm when used to deliver an airflow as detailed above within the storage area of a delivery vehicle which is long and narrow, as shown in Fig. 2. In this case the slot 8 is orientated with its longer sides vertical but these sides can be disposed horizontally for enclosed spaces which are wider than they are high.
  • the apparatus is preferably located in proximity to the ceiling at the top of a wall of the enclosed space, as shown in Fig. 2. This enables the apparatus to mist-spray the space effectively.
  • the spraying means 2 comprises a pump 9 for delivering liquid from a reservoir 10 to an atomizing nozzle 11 for spraying the liquid into the space in the form of an atomized mist.
  • the atomizing nozzle 11 is located within the outlet conduit 6 so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle are entrained in the airstream emitted by the fan 4 and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space.
  • the atomizing nozzle 11 is located centrally within the outlet conduit 6 and preferably its spraying tip 12 is inset therein.
  • the spraying tip 12 should be inset by a distance 1 at least 25 mm but no more than 40 mm into the outlet conduit 6 to ensure that the atomized particles emitted therefrom are all entrained in the most efficient manner in the airstream.
  • the atomizing nozzle 11 preferably comprises a 6o° solid cone nozzle.
  • such a spraying means should be capable of spraying at least 11 litres of liquid per hour at a pressure of 7 x ios N per m 2 (7 bar). Such a spraying rate is suitable for use in a vehicle storage space as detailed above.
  • a control means 13 is provided for controlling operation of the air- blowing means 1 and the spraying means 2 and is adapted to commence operation of the fan 4 prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle 11 and to continue operation of the fan 4 after operation of the nozzle 11 has ceased. This continues circulation of the air and any atomized particles entrained therein around the space for a predetermined period of time, which may be several minutes, dependent on the size of the enclosed space being treated.
  • This arrangement has two advantages. First, when an atomizing nozzle is operated, the pump 9 switches on and during an very short initial period the pressure of the liquid being discharged by the nozzle 11 rises to a predetermined substantially constant level.
  • the nozzle 11 tends to discharge liquid particles that are not fully atomized. However, these particles can be broken up and entrained fully into the airstream flowing past the nozzle 11 if the airstream has been established prior to operation of the nozzle. Likewise, when the pump 9 is switched off, the nozzle 11 tends to discharge liquid particles but again these can be broken up and entrained within the airstream if the airstream is continued at a constant level for a predetermined time thereafter.
  • control means 13 is provided with an emergency stop button 14, for use in the unfortunate event that the apparatus is remotely operated whilst a person is trapped within the space. To reduce the chances of such an occurrence, the control means 13 is preferably provided with an audible alarm 15 which sounds continuously during operation of the apparatus. In addition, the control means 13 can be linked to locks on the doors of the space to prevent them being opened whilst the apparatus is in use.
  • a float 16 is provided within the reservoir 10 and used to trigger an alarm by making electrical contact with, for example, a block 17 located at the base of the reservoir 10 and linked to the control means.
  • a flashing light for example, or other alarm means can be triggered by the control means 13 to warn operatives that the reservoir 10 should be topped up.
  • the control means 13 can also incorporate or be linked to a recording means 18 which records the time and duration of each operation of the apparatus so that checks can be run to ensure that operatives are using the apparatus appropriately and adequately.
  • the apparatus as described herein can be readily adapted for use in various applications.
  • the liquid being sprayed can also vary as required.
  • the liquid can comprise a sanitizing liquid including biocides and disinfectants.
  • the liquid may comprise a pesticide, fungicide, and/or a foliar feed.
  • the liquid being sprayed comprises a mixture of an oil and aqueous solution. Such a solution produces a more finely atomized spray that an aqueous solution alone.
  • an oil for example in the form of a monopropylene glycol or monoethylene glycol, should be added to the liquid advantageously in a quantity of less than 1 part oil to every 100 parts aqueous solution by volume.
  • the air- blowing means l can be supplied with steam from a suitable source so that steam is additionally blown into the enclosed space.
  • Other gaseous substances could also be supplied to the apparatus for spraying into the enclosed space along with or in place of the steam as appropriate for any particular use of the apparatus.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)
  • Special Spraying Apparatus (AREA)
  • Medicines Containing Material From Animals Or Micro-Organisms (AREA)
  • Medicines That Contain Protein Lipid Enzymes And Other Medicines (AREA)

Abstract

A mist-spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space comprises an air-blowing means (1), a spraying means (2) and a control means (13). The air-blowing means (1) defines an outlet conduit (6) through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit (7) through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit (6) to circulate within the space. The spraying means (2) comprises a pump (9) for delivering liquid from a reservoir (10) to an atomizing nozzle (11) for spraying into the space in the form of an atomized mist. The atomizing nozzle (11) is located within the outlet conduit (6) so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle (11) are entrained in the airstream emitted by the air-blowing means (2) and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space. The control means (13) controls operation of the air-blowing means (1) and the spraying means (2) and is adapted to commence operation of the air-blowing means (1) prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle (11) and to continue operation of the air-blowing means (1) after operation of the nozzle (11) has ceased in order to continue circulation of the air and any atomized particles entrained therein around the space for a predetermined period of time.

Description

A MIST-SPRAYING APPARATUS
The present invention relates to a mist-spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space.
The aim of the invention is to provide a 'dry' mist which can sanitize exposed surfaces within an enclosed space without wetting them. The applications of such an apparatus are varied but the present invention has been designed primarily for use in the sanitization of exposed surfaces within an enclosed space that may be a storage area, a room or the like. For example, such a space may comprise the interior of goods and delivery vehicles, typically those which are used to transport items such as hospital laundry and the like. When such laundry is transported it is common for the same vehicle to be used to pick up dirty laundry at the same time as delivering clean laundry. In such circumstances, the opportunity for cross- contamination to occur is great. Even when dirty laundry is not housed within the same vehicle interior as clean laundry, the same vehicle is often used to transport both at separate times so that it is still advantageous for a means to be provided that can sanitize the interior of the vehicle between trips.
Similar requirements exist in other fields. For example, operating theatres are in constant use and whilst new sterile packs of instruments and linen are used for each patient, the surfaces within the theatre itself are not normally sanitized between operations. As many operations cause spillage of blood and other body fluids, the sanitization of exposed surfaces within the theatre between operations would be highly desirable.
Commercial glasshouses and battery hen-houses and the like also need to be sanitized regularly and mist-spraying apparatus is often used to spray biocides of various kinds within these structures. In all of these applications it is a desirable requirement that the mist being sprayed reaches all parts of the enclosed space so that every exposed surface within the space can be treated. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a mist spraying apparatus that can be used for sanitizing an enclosed space and that will substantially fulfill the aforesaid requirement.
According to the present invention there is provided a mist spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space comprising an air-blowing means with an outlet conduit through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit to circulate within the space; a spraying means comprising a pump for delivering liquid from a reservoir to an atomizing nozzle for spraying the liquid into the space in the form of an atomized mist, the atomizing nozzle being located within the outlet conduit so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle are entrained in the airstream emitted by the air-blowing means and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space; and a control means for controlling operation of the air-blowing means and the spraying means that is adapted to commence operation of the air- blowing means prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle and to continue operation of the air-blowing means after operation of the nozzle has ceased in order to continue circulation of the air and any atomized particles entrained therein around the space for a predetermined period of time.
Hence, in the present invention the air-blowing means is used to create an airstream in the space which immediately entrains the atomized particles being emitted by the atomizing nozzle. As a result the particles are rapidly diluted but also evenly distributed into the airstream and are thus applied evenly over all exposed surfaces within the space being sprayed. Circulation of the air before the atomizing nozzle's operation ensures that the particles emitted by the nozzle are always entrained as atomized particles and do not clump together to form droplets, which are wetting and tend to fall uselessly to the floor of the space. Likewise, recirculation of the air after operation of the nozzle has ceased ensures that all surfaces within the space are reached by the airstream. It will be appreciated that the length of time that the nozzle operates and that the air is recirculated after nozzle operation has ceased will depend on the nature and concentration of the liquid being sprayed, the size of the enclosed space and the particular application of the apparatus and can be varied as required.
Preferably, the atomizing nozzle is located centrally within the outlet conduit. Preferably also, the outlet conduit has a rectangular cross-sectional profile.
Preferably also, the outlet conduit defines a slot so that the airstream emitted into the space is in the form of a slot-jet.
Preferably also, the atomizing nozzle is inset within the outlet conduit.
Preferably also, the spraying tip of the nozzle is inset by at least 25 mm and by no more than 40 mm into the outlet conduit.
Preferably also, the air-blowing means is provided with a source of steam whereby steam is additionally blown into the enclosed space through the outlet conduit. Preferably also, the atomizing nozzle comprises a 6o° solid cone nozzle. Preferably also, the spraying means is adapted is adapted to spray at least 11 litres of liquid per hour at a pressure of 7 x ιos N per m2 (7 bar).
Preferably also, the air-blowing means comprises a cylindrical fan.
Preferably also, the apparatus is located in proximity to the ceiling at the top of a wall of the enclosed space.
The present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-
Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a mist-spraying apparatus according to the present invention; and Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the exterior of apparatus as shown in
Fig. 1 when mounted within the storage area of a delivery vehicle.
A mist-spraying apparatus in accordance with the invention comprises an air-blowing means 1 and a spraying means 2. Preferably, as shown in Fig. 2 the apparatus is adapted to be located within a housing 3 that can be mounted at a suitable site within an enclosed area, as partially shown in Fig. 2 and as further described below, and connected to a power source. Apparatus that is intended to be used within a vehicle can be adapted to be powered by the vehicle itself by being linked to the vehicle's batteries. Alternatively, it can be provided with its own battery power supply which is adapted to be re-charged when the vehicle is in motion. Alternatively, apparatus for use in buildings and other permanent or semi-permanent structures can be powered from a mains electricity supply. With particular reference to Fig. 1, the air blowing means 1 comprises a fan 4 powered by a motor 5 and defines an outlet conduit 6 through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit 7 covered by a grille through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit 6 to circulate within the space. The fan 4 is preferably a cylindrical fan but any suitable blowing means can be employed. For example, a cylindrical fan which is 130 mm across is capable of delivering an airflow of between 1.4 and 1.7 m3 per minute, which is suitable for use in an average-sized vehicle storage space with approximate dimensions of 12m by 3m by 3m (40' x 10' x 10').
The outlet conduit 6 is located at the front of the housing 3 and it has been found that an outlet conduit 6 with a rectangular cross-sectional profile provides an airflow pattern that is better at reaching all corners and exposed surfaces within spaces which are rectangular, parallelepipedal spaces than the airflow pattern provided by a circular outlet conduit. The outlet conduit 6 therefore defines a slot 8 so that the airstream emitted into the space is in the form of a slot-jet. The slot 8 preferably has dimensions of 85 mm by 70 mm when used to deliver an airflow as detailed above within the storage area of a delivery vehicle which is long and narrow, as shown in Fig. 2. In this case the slot 8 is orientated with its longer sides vertical but these sides can be disposed horizontally for enclosed spaces which are wider than they are high. Also, the apparatus is preferably located in proximity to the ceiling at the top of a wall of the enclosed space, as shown in Fig. 2. This enables the apparatus to mist-spray the space effectively.
The spraying means 2 comprises a pump 9 for delivering liquid from a reservoir 10 to an atomizing nozzle 11 for spraying the liquid into the space in the form of an atomized mist. The atomizing nozzle 11 is located within the outlet conduit 6 so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle are entrained in the airstream emitted by the fan 4 and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space. In order to obtain the most efficient dispersal of the atomized particles within the airstream, the atomizing nozzle 11 is located centrally within the outlet conduit 6 and preferably its spraying tip 12 is inset therein. It has been found that the spraying tip 12 should be inset by a distance 1 at least 25 mm but no more than 40 mm into the outlet conduit 6 to ensure that the atomized particles emitted therefrom are all entrained in the most efficient manner in the airstream. Also, the atomizing nozzle 11 preferably comprises a 6o° solid cone nozzle. Typically, such a spraying means should be capable of spraying at least 11 litres of liquid per hour at a pressure of 7 x ios N per m2 (7 bar). Such a spraying rate is suitable for use in a vehicle storage space as detailed above.
A control means 13 is provided for controlling operation of the air- blowing means 1 and the spraying means 2 and is adapted to commence operation of the fan 4 prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle 11 and to continue operation of the fan 4 after operation of the nozzle 11 has ceased. This continues circulation of the air and any atomized particles entrained therein around the space for a predetermined period of time, which may be several minutes, dependent on the size of the enclosed space being treated. This arrangement has two advantages. First, when an atomizing nozzle is operated, the pump 9 switches on and during an very short initial period the pressure of the liquid being discharged by the nozzle 11 rises to a predetermined substantially constant level. During the period of time wherein the pressure is rising, the nozzle 11 tends to discharge liquid particles that are not fully atomized. However, these particles can be broken up and entrained fully into the airstream flowing past the nozzle 11 if the airstream has been established prior to operation of the nozzle. Likewise, when the pump 9 is switched off, the nozzle 11 tends to discharge liquid particles but again these can be broken up and entrained within the airstream if the airstream is continued at a constant level for a predetermined time thereafter.
Second, continuing to recirculate the air along with entrained particles within the space for a predetermined period even after the nozzle 11 has ceased operation, ensures that all exposed surfaces within the space are reached by the airstream and can be acted upon by the sprayed liquid. The control means 13 is provided with an emergency stop button 14, for use in the unfortunate event that the apparatus is remotely operated whilst a person is trapped within the space. To reduce the chances of such an occurrence, the control means 13 is preferably provided with an audible alarm 15 which sounds continuously during operation of the apparatus. In addition, the control means 13 can be linked to locks on the doors of the space to prevent them being opened whilst the apparatus is in use.
In order to ensure that the reservoir 10 is always adequately filled with liquid to be sprayed, a float 16 is provided within the reservoir 10 and used to trigger an alarm by making electrical contact with, for example, a block 17 located at the base of the reservoir 10 and linked to the control means. When the level of the liquid in the reservoir becomes low, a flashing light, for example, or other alarm means can be triggered by the control means 13 to warn operatives that the reservoir 10 should be topped up.
The control means 13 can also incorporate or be linked to a recording means 18 which records the time and duration of each operation of the apparatus so that checks can be run to ensure that operatives are using the apparatus appropriately and adequately.
It will be appreciated that the apparatus as described herein can be readily adapted for use in various applications. The liquid being sprayed can also vary as required. For example, when spraying soiled laundry, the liquid can comprise a sanitizing liquid including biocides and disinfectants. Alternatively, if used for mist-spraying in glasshouses, the liquid may comprise a pesticide, fungicide, and/or a foliar feed. Preferably, however, the liquid being sprayed comprises a mixture of an oil and aqueous solution. Such a solution produces a more finely atomized spray that an aqueous solution alone. Hence, an oil, for example in the form of a monopropylene glycol or monoethylene glycol, should be added to the liquid advantageously in a quantity of less than 1 part oil to every 100 parts aqueous solution by volume. In a modification of the above apparatus for particular use in a hospital operating theatre or an enclosed space wherein it is desired not only to sanitize exposed surfaces but also to treat air-borne particles, the air- blowing means l can be supplied with steam from a suitable source so that steam is additionally blown into the enclosed space. Other gaseous substances could also be supplied to the apparatus for spraying into the enclosed space along with or in place of the steam as appropriate for any particular use of the apparatus.

Claims

l. A mist-spraying apparatus primarily but not exclusively for use in an enclosed space comprising an air-blowing means with an outlet conduit through which air can be blown into the space and an inlet conduit through which air from within the space can be drawn for blowing through the outlet conduit to circulate within the space; a spraying means comprising a pump for delivering liquid from a reservoir to an atomizing nozzle for spraying the liquid into the space in the form of an atomized mist, the atomizing nozzle being located within the outlet conduit so that atomized particles emitted by the atomizing nozzle are entrained in the airstream emitted by the air- blowing means and thereby distributed evenly throughout the space; and a control means for controlling operation of the air-blowing means and the spraying means that is adapted to commence operation of the air-blowing means prior to operation of the atomizing nozzle and to continue operation of the air-blowing means after operation of the nozzle has ceased in order to continue circulation of the air and any atomized particles entrained therein around the space for a predetermined period of time.
2. An apparatus as claimed in Claim l, wherein the atomizing nozzle is -located centrally within the outlet conduit.
3. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein the outlet conduit has a rectangular cross-sectional profile.
4. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the outlet conduit defines a slot so that the airstream emitted into the space is in the form of a slot-jet. 5. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the atomizing nozzle is inset within the outlet conduit.
6. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 6, wherein a spraying tip of the nozzle is inset by at least 25 mm and by no more than 40 mm into the outlet conduit.
7. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 6, wherein the air- blowing means is provided with a source of steam whereby steam is additionally blown into the enclosed space via the outlet conduit.
8. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 7, wherein the atomizing nozzle comprises a 6o° solid cone nozzle.
9. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 8, wherein the spraying means is adapted is adapted to spray at least 11 litres of liquid per hour at a pressure of 7 x 105 N per m2 (7 bar).
10. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 9, wherein the air- blowing means comprises a cylindrical fan.
11. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 10, which is located in proximity close to the ceiling at the top of a wall of the enclosed space.
12. A mist-spraying apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 11, wherein the reservoir contains a mixture of an oil and an aqueous solution.
13. A mist-spraying apparatus as claimed in Claim 12, wherein the oil comprises monopropylene glycol or monoethylene glycol.
4. A mist-spraying apparatus as claimed in Claim 12 or Claim 13, wherein s 1 to 11, wherein the mixture comprises less than 1 part oil to every 100 parts aqueous solution by volume.
PCT/GB2004/004799 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 A mist-spraying apparatus Ceased WO2005053978A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/580,705 US20080029614A1 (en) 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 Mist-Spraying Apparatus
EP04798519A EP1689603B1 (en) 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 A mist-spraying apparatus
DE602004020659T DE602004020659D1 (en) 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 NEBELSPRÜHVORRICHTUNG
AT04798519T ATE428589T1 (en) 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 MIST SPRAY DEVICE

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0328003.9 2003-12-03
GBGB0328003.9A GB0328003D0 (en) 2003-12-03 2003-12-03 A mist-spraying apparatus

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2005053978A1 true WO2005053978A1 (en) 2005-06-16

Family

ID=29764490

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2004/004799 Ceased WO2005053978A1 (en) 2003-12-03 2004-11-17 A mist-spraying apparatus

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20080029614A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1689603B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE428589T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602004020659D1 (en)
GB (1) GB0328003D0 (en)
WO (1) WO2005053978A1 (en)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008000921A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-01-03 Renault Trucks Airconditioning system for a vehicle cabin
WO2008050878A1 (en) * 2006-10-26 2008-05-02 Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. Electrostatically atomizing kit for use in a vehicle
WO2012049390A1 (en) * 2010-10-15 2012-04-19 Peugeot Citroën Automobiles SA Device for cooling the air in a chamber
FR2997753A1 (en) * 2012-11-08 2014-05-09 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa DEVICE FOR TREATING AIR BY SPRAYING LIQUID DROPS IN ACCORDANCE WITH A STRATEGY
WO2016001492A1 (en) * 2014-07-04 2016-01-07 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa Air treatment device with piezoelectric element(s) with perforated membrane(s), for delivering air with small drops of liquid
FR3028926A1 (en) * 2014-11-26 2016-05-27 Valeo Systemes Thermiques AERATION DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE
FR3035032A1 (en) * 2015-04-16 2016-10-21 Valeo Systemes Thermiques NEBULIZING DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE COCKPIT AND AIR REFRIGERATING DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH A NEBULIZATION DEVICE

Families Citing this family (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN204994473U (en) 2015-08-03 2016-01-27 上海爱农机电设备有限公司 Portable superfine atomizing machine
US10028497B1 (en) 2017-04-07 2018-07-24 Zap Mosquito Solutions Inc. Misting system
EP4190455B1 (en) * 2018-09-14 2024-07-03 Aisin Corporation Fine water discharge device
US10799839B1 (en) 2018-10-16 2020-10-13 Zap Mosquito Solutions Inc. Multifunctional misting system
US10799838B1 (en) 2018-10-16 2020-10-13 Zap Mosquito Solutions Inc. Multifunctional misting system
CN110920356A (en) * 2019-12-10 2020-03-27 闽江学院 An air purification device based on the Internet of Things
JP7085172B1 (en) * 2020-12-22 2022-06-16 株式会社テックコーポレーション Spray system and spray members
CN116984133A (en) * 2023-07-26 2023-11-03 河南永科智能电力设备有限公司 Spraying power-specific cooling agent cooling device and method for cooling power equipment
US20260041081A1 (en) * 2024-08-07 2026-02-12 Hoda Ballout Skeeter weeper® smart pest control misting system

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0361437A2 (en) * 1988-09-27 1990-04-04 Mazda Motor Corporation Perfume emitting device for use in an automobile
US5570840A (en) * 1994-10-14 1996-11-05 Fourth And Long, Inc. Hand-held spraying apparatus
DE19910261A1 (en) * 1999-03-08 2000-09-28 Schuetze Alfred App Spray valve, e.g. for spraying adhesive or paint, has main body with electromagnetically operated pistons for material and for air with common associated coil for electromagnetic drive
US6449975B1 (en) * 2001-07-11 2002-09-17 Ramiro G. Moreno Self tapping spray nozzle for vehicle ventilation system
DE10134223A1 (en) * 2001-07-13 2003-01-23 Bayerische Motoren Werke Ag Air freshener, especially for a vehicle passenger compartment, has at least two separate air feed regions; air flowing through them can be independently modified by olfactory devices

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4356970A (en) * 1979-05-18 1982-11-02 Coen Company, Inc. Energy saving fuel oil atomizer
US4362274A (en) * 1980-06-27 1982-12-07 Coen Company, Inc. Dual fuel atomizer
JPS6028529Y2 (en) * 1981-09-17 1985-08-29 キヤニヨン株式会社 Pressure accumulating type sprayer
CS242610B1 (en) * 1982-11-19 1986-05-15 Miloslav Sorm Double acting mechanical pump for liquid spray
DE3722470A1 (en) * 1987-07-08 1989-01-19 Pfeiffer Erich Gmbh & Co Kg HAND-OPERATED DISCHARGE DEVICE FOR MEDIA
FR2776947B1 (en) * 1998-04-03 2000-06-09 Parfum Indigo IMPROVED NEBULIZER AND NEBULIZATION CONTROL SYSTEM
US6488219B1 (en) * 1999-07-21 2002-12-03 D. Scott Herr Steam humidifier with pressure variable aperture
US6837447B1 (en) * 2003-05-30 2005-01-04 Lacey Booth Clark Apparatus for adapting air blower to perform liquid dispersal and related method

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0361437A2 (en) * 1988-09-27 1990-04-04 Mazda Motor Corporation Perfume emitting device for use in an automobile
US5570840A (en) * 1994-10-14 1996-11-05 Fourth And Long, Inc. Hand-held spraying apparatus
DE19910261A1 (en) * 1999-03-08 2000-09-28 Schuetze Alfred App Spray valve, e.g. for spraying adhesive or paint, has main body with electromagnetically operated pistons for material and for air with common associated coil for electromagnetic drive
US6449975B1 (en) * 2001-07-11 2002-09-17 Ramiro G. Moreno Self tapping spray nozzle for vehicle ventilation system
DE10134223A1 (en) * 2001-07-13 2003-01-23 Bayerische Motoren Werke Ag Air freshener, especially for a vehicle passenger compartment, has at least two separate air feed regions; air flowing through them can be independently modified by olfactory devices

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008000921A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-01-03 Renault Trucks Airconditioning system for a vehicle cabin
WO2008050878A1 (en) * 2006-10-26 2008-05-02 Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. Electrostatically atomizing kit for use in a vehicle
WO2012049390A1 (en) * 2010-10-15 2012-04-19 Peugeot Citroën Automobiles SA Device for cooling the air in a chamber
FR2966225A1 (en) * 2010-10-15 2012-04-20 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa DEVICE FOR REFRESHING THE AIR OF AN ENCLOSURE
CN103238030A (en) * 2010-10-15 2013-08-07 标致·雪铁龙汽车公司 Device for cooling air in chamber
CN103238030B (en) * 2010-10-15 2016-09-14 标致·雪铁龙汽车公司 The air-cooling apparatus in cabin
FR2997753A1 (en) * 2012-11-08 2014-05-09 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa DEVICE FOR TREATING AIR BY SPRAYING LIQUID DROPS IN ACCORDANCE WITH A STRATEGY
WO2016001492A1 (en) * 2014-07-04 2016-01-07 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa Air treatment device with piezoelectric element(s) with perforated membrane(s), for delivering air with small drops of liquid
FR3028926A1 (en) * 2014-11-26 2016-05-27 Valeo Systemes Thermiques AERATION DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE
WO2016083207A1 (en) * 2014-11-26 2016-06-02 Valeo Systemes Thermiques Ventilation device, in particular for a vehicle passenger compartment
FR3035032A1 (en) * 2015-04-16 2016-10-21 Valeo Systemes Thermiques NEBULIZING DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE COCKPIT AND AIR REFRIGERATING DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH A NEBULIZATION DEVICE

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20080029614A1 (en) 2008-02-07
DE602004020659D1 (en) 2009-05-28
GB0328003D0 (en) 2004-01-07
ATE428589T1 (en) 2009-05-15
EP1689603A1 (en) 2006-08-16
EP1689603B1 (en) 2009-04-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1689603B1 (en) A mist-spraying apparatus
US6946021B2 (en) Air cleaner
KR101360981B1 (en) Space disinfection
US10213803B1 (en) Destratification aerosol generator
US4601886A (en) Air treatment apparatus
KR102347706B1 (en) Air sterilizer with scrubbing device
US10322431B1 (en) Stratification detection and aerosol distribution system
KR20210001365U (en) Decontamination system for space and surface with scrubbing device
WO2012147221A1 (en) Air freshener
KR102629915B1 (en) Sterilizing device and Sterilizing system
JP2006288453A (en) Air treatment device
KR20220040276A (en) Apparatus for epidemic prevention and fine dust removal by spraying with mist of fine particlulate matter
JP2001033070A (en) Humidifier
KR20210132904A (en) Decontamination system for space and surface with scrubbing device
JP2007162997A (en) Dry fog generator
KR20160100868A (en) Evaporation humidifier
KR102355430B1 (en) Micro bubble high pressure sprayer
JPH11514247A (en) Fumigation device using fluids
KR102493428B1 (en) Virus clear apparatus for spraying ultra-fine grained in moisture oversaturated state
KR200421890Y1 (en) Improved phytoncide volatilizer
CN217049010U (en) Treatment facility, ventilation system and air conditioning system
JPH07170897A (en) Insecticidal method and apparatus used for the same method
KR102787258B1 (en) Apparatus for Providing Air Blower and Scrubbing
KR102585603B1 (en) Quarantine disinfection and odor reducing system using IoT
KR20220041496A (en) Entrance Sterilization System

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BW BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE EG ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NA NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): BW GH GM KE LS MW MZ NA SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2004798519

Country of ref document: EP

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 2004798519

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 10580705

Country of ref document: US

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 10580705

Country of ref document: US