Patent Application
20190184051
Aromatic diffusers are ubiquitous fixtures in homes and offices used to primarily to mask odors in the atmosphere. However, many proponents of essential oil usage tout the benefits of the essential oils beyond the aromatic quality and argue that the oils have properties that clean the air, killing bacteria and viruses, reduce the effects of a sickness, relieve stress, promote sleep, and numerous other positive attributes.
Typical diffusers are counter-top models that are configured to diffuse the essential aroma into the entire room. The counter-top models require access to an electrical supply and are not convenient to move around. The diffused essential oil is disseminated throughout the atmosphere and is not focused for the use or therapeutic needs of an individual person.
What is needed is a diffuser having a compact configuration for easy portability and the ability to distribute therapeutic essential oil aroma directly to an individual user.
The disclosure of the present invention relates to a compact aromatic diffuser or more specifically to a compact aromatic diffuser configured for portability, and most importantly, configured for ease of use by an individual user. The compact aromatic diffuser can be conveniently used as a lightweight portable diffuser that is placed close to a user, may be held by the user proximate the mouth and nose allowing the user to readily inhale the aromatic essential oil, or the diffuser is configured to be used in conjunction with a conventional breathing mask allowing the user to consume the entire diffused airstream and allowing for hands free use.
One embodiment of the present invention or compact aromatic diffuser is comprised of a diffuser body portion configured to house a battery, programmable computer board (PCB) controller, a distribution fan and felt wicking element. The battery may be replaceable but it is contemplated that the battery is a permanent rechargeable. The PCB is configured to provide an on/off function, control the fan speed and may be configured to provide automated functions, such as, an automatic shut down in order to conserve the battery. The body portion having a plurality of intake holes just below the position of the fan. Airflow from the fan is directed over the felt wicking element and out through an exhaust opening. In one embodiment the exhaust opening is configured to be adapted to the intake of a breathing mask, such as the mask used in various medical procedures or a mask configured for use with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. In yet another embodiment the exhaust opening is configured to receive a plurality of adaptor fittings that are configured to fit different medical masks or masks having an intake opening of a different diameter or shape. The adaptor fitting may also be configured to have rounded edges in order to protect the user when the device is placed proximate the user's face.
In one embodiment of the present invention the user will place a few drops of the essential oil on the felt wicking element before turning on the diffuser. In another embodiment the felt wicking element is replaceable, and the user may choose to apply different essential oils or a combination of oils to a plurality of felts which may be interchanged into the diffuser body. The diffuser cavity inside of the diffuser body may include slots, braces or rails configured to hold the felt wicking element in place. A container having multiple compartments may be provided for storing a plurality of felt wicking elements.
Another embodiment of the present invention includes a multi-compartment diffuser cartridge configured to be fitted directly to the diffuser body or connected via an adaptor fitting. The multi-compartment diffuser cartridge configured to have two or more compartments, each compartment having the capacity to store a felt wicking element that is treated with a different essential oil. The cartridge is moveable allowing the user to position one of the compartments over the air exhaust from the compact diffuser, allowing the circulated air to flow over the felt wicking element in that compartment and exit through a vent system. The lid of the cartridge configured to create an air tight seal between corresponding compartments. In one embodiment there are two wicking element compartments, in another embodiment there are three wicking element compartments, in another embodiment there are four wicking element compartments, in another embodiment there are five wicking element compartments, and in yet another embodiment there are more than five wicking element compartments.
In one embodiment the diffuser body, the adaptor fittings, the multi-compartment diffuser cartridge and, possibly other components, are manufactured using a fluorinated plastic or a fluorinated plastic with glass fill formulated to resist degradation from exposure to the essential oil.
The following description of the embodiments can be understood in light of the Figures which illustrate specific aspects of the embodiments and are part of the specification. Together with the following description, the Figures demonstrate and explain the principles of the embodiments. In the Figures the physical dimensions of the embodiment may be exaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals or word descriptions in different drawings represent the same element, and thus their descriptions may be omitted.
It is to be understood that the above mentioned arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present disclosure. Numerous modifications or alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present disclosure has been shown in the drawings and described above with particularity and detail, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein.
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The compact aromatic diffuser 100 can be used to discharge vapor 117 directly into a home, office or automobile is depicted in
