Abstract: An excess flow valve (EFV) is disclosed that has an efficient and durable construction. The EFV is efficient in terms of both size and cost. It is durable partly due to a design with few parts and also because of optional all metal construction. In some embodiments, an intumescent material is included that expands to close off the valve by pressing the valve plug into sealing engagement with the valve seat and permanently stopping the flow of gas when a pressure differential or flow velocity threshold is exceeded.

Abstract: A phacoemulsification handpiece is provided for ophthalmic surgery. The phacoemulsification handpiece includes a housing having a cavity positioned at a distal end of the housing. The phacoemulsification handpiece further includes a horn positioned within the cavity. An irrigation line is coupled to the housing and is exterior to the housing. A port is coupled between the irrigation line and the cavity and the port is configured to direct fluid into the cavity to a side of the horn (e.g., without directly impinging on the horn, etc.).

Abstract: A method of spraying an aerosol spray, comprising providing a grounded nozzle and an electrode separated by a predetermined distance; placing the electrode at a high electrical potential relative to the nozzle, thereby creating an electric field between the nozzle and the electrode; ejecting a liquid from the nozzle towards the electrode to atomize the ejected liquid into aerosol droplets or particles, so that in the applied electric field between the nozzle and the electrode the aerosol droplets or particles obtain an induced electric charge; and forming a directed spray of aerosol droplets or particles having a desired shape and with sufficient momentum and electric charge so that the directed spray of aerosol droplets or particles is deposited on a target.