Ultrasonic Liquid Atomizing Spray Systems

Ultrasonic liquid atomizing spray systems have generated considerable attention. It is shown in the prior art that a film of liquid on a surface can be converted into small drops by vibrating the surface at an ultrasonic rate. Prior art teaches that the size of the drops are a function of the vibration frequency and amplitude. Also, prior art shows many ways of introducing the liquid to a vibrating surface. However, problems associated with introducing a sufficient flow of liquid to an ultrasonically vibrating surface in a manner to produce dependable, uniform spray patterns have significantly limited the effectiveness and therefore the commercial acceptance of prior art approaches. Additionally, problems with controlling the flow of ultrasonic energy into the atomizing liquid significantly influences the characteristics of the produced spray and the resultant quality of an applied coating.