Dispensing – Including timer – For timing dispensing period
Reexamination Certificate
1999-11-10
2001-08-21
Jacyna, J. Casimer (Department: 3751)
Dispensing
Including timer
For timing dispensing period
C222S052000, C222S649000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06276574
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention generally relates to an apparatus and method for selectively dispensing water in the form of an aerosol from a pressurized container.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Under certain circumstances, the moisture content of air in an enclosed space (also expressed as relative humidity) can reach undesirably low levels, e.g., in air-conditioned or in heated rooms. The extended inhalation of air having such low relative humidity can lead to certain health problems. For example, dry air dehydrates skin and mucous membranes, leading to dry, itchy skin, aching throats, and irritated sinus membranes.
Low relative humidity levels can be of particular concern to persons who travel. Travelers typically have little or no control over the humidity levels of their hotel guestrooms or workrooms.
Thus, a need exists for an apparatus and method, which can be used to supplement the amount of humidity in an enclosed space when, desired. It would be advantageous if such an apparatus utilized relatively simple components, was portable and low in cost.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a solution to the foregoing and other problems by providing an apparatus for selectively dispensing aerosolized water.
In one embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention comprises a pressurized container containing a liquid consisting essentially of water and a propellant capable of aerosolizing the water upon discharge from the container, a valve mounted onto the container capable of moving between discharging and non-discharging positions, and an actuator which is capable of moving the valve between discharging and non-discharging positions.
In a related embodiment, another apparatus of the present invention includes the pressurized container previously described, an electrically-operable actuating means which effects movement of the pressurized container actuator between the discharging and non-discharging positions, and a sensor in electrical connection with the actuating means for detecting the humidity level of the ambient atmosphere, wherein when the sensor detects a certain humidity level, the actuating means moves the aerosol container actuator into the discharging position, thereby providing aerosolized water to be discharged from the container.
The present invention further provides a method for selectively dispensing aerosolized water into the atmosphere to adjust the humidity of the atmosphere. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the steps of sensing the humidity of the atmosphere, and dispensing aerosolized water from a pressurized container which comprises a liquid consisting essentially of water and a propellant capable of aerosolizing the water upon discharge from the container into the atmosphere when the selected humidity is sensed.
These and other features and advantages of the invention will be more readily apparent upon reading the following description of a preferred exemplified embodiment of the invention and upon reference to the accompanying drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5727715 (1998-03-01), McKenna et al.
patent: 5944284 (1999-08-01), Bardel
Jacyna J. Casimer
Leydig , Voit & Mayer, Ltd.
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