Abstract

This oscillating construction for an ultrasonic atomizing inhaler includes an oscillation element which is excited to vibrate ultrasonically, and this oscillation element has two adjoining regions which have substantially different vibrational characteristics. Liquid supply is made to one of the regions, and the oscillation for atomization takes place in the other region, according to the particular frequency of ultrasonic excitation of the oscillation element which is appropriately chosen. The region to which liquid is supplied has a resonance frequency which is different from that of the region for atomization, and substantially no atomization takes place in the liquid supply region. Therefore, even when the load imposed on the oscillation element by liquid thereon changes, as for example if the amount of the liquid thereon has changed, oscillation of a constant frequency continues in the atomization region, and thereby proper atomization is maintained. Thus, there is provided an ultrasonic atomizer which effects proper supply of liquid to be atomized, which does not cause oversupply or undersupply of liquid to be atomized, and which further can handle fluids of various different viscosities, including even quite viscous liquid, and is not wasteful of atomization liquid. Thus, this ultrasonic atomizer is not uneconomical during use. Further, it is not prone to dribbling of atomization liquid, and thus is not liable to cause a mess.