초록 ▼

An electrostatic atomizer comprises a power source for powering a charge injection device, a controller for controlling the net charge injected by the charge injection device, and a sensor for sensing breakdown precursors in the vicinity of the orifice and producing a feedback signal upon the occurr

An electrostatic atomizer comprises a power source for powering a charge injection device, a controller for controlling the net charge injected by the charge injection device, and a sensor for sensing breakdown precursors in the vicinity of the orifice and producing a feedback signal upon the occurrence of the breakdown precursors. The sensor is in communication with the controller and the controller is responsive to the feedback signal so that upon occurrence of the feedback signal, the controller decreases the net charge injected. A method of minimizing corona-induced breakdown in an electrostatic atomizer comprises the steps of providing a fluent material with a net charge to atomize the fluent material, and responding to the occurrence of breakdown precursors by decreasing the net charge of the liquid to avoid corona-induced breakdown.

대표청구항 ▼

[What is claimed is:] [1.]a) a charge injection device for injecting a net charge into a fluent material to thereby atomize the fluent material;b) a power source for powering said charge injection device;c) a controller for controlling the net charge injected by said charge injection device; andd) a

[What is claimed is:] [1.]a) a charge injection device for injecting a net charge into a fluent material to thereby atomize the fluent material;b) a power source for powering said charge injection device;c) a controller for controlling the net charge injected by said charge injection device; andd) a sensor for sensing breakdown precursors in the vicinity of said orifice and producing a feedback signal upon the occurrence of said breakdown precursors, said sensor being in communication with said controller and said controller being responsive to said feedback signal so that upon occurrence of said feedback signal, said controller decreases the net charge injected.