Fluid Atomizer, Nozzle Assembly and Methods for Assembling and Utilizing the Same

A method of utilizing a nozzle assembly, comprising the steps of:

• providing a nozzle member having a stem portion and a central passage defined by at least an inner side surface and an inner distal surface;
• assembling the nozzle assembly by inserting a fluid atomizer into the central passage of the nozzle member;
• and
• inserting a distal portion of a spray gun into the central passage of the nozzle member for:
• firstly urging a distal surface of the fluid atomizer adjacent the inner distal surface of the nozzle member then secondly flexing legs of the fluid atomizer in a radially-outward direction in response to an application of an axial force to a proximal surface of the fluid atomizer for radially engaging the legs with the inner side surface of the nozzle member;
• and
• actuating the spray gun for causing a fluid to travel from the spray gun, through the central passage of the nozzle member;
• atomizing the fluid as the fluid travels through the central passage of the nozzle member;
• and
• permitting the fluid to travel beyond the fluid atomizer and out of the nozzle member in an atomized spray pattern.