Piezoelectric pipetting device
US6232129A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 3, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 3, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/2575
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A piezoelectric actuated device for acquiring and dispensing fluid samples is described. Fluid samples are acquired or drawn up into the device by dipping the tip into a fluid and applying an alternating current electrical signal to the piezoelectric element. Removing the tip from the fluid and applying another electrical signal causes drops of fluid to be ejected for non-contact dispensing. The device optionally incorporates a second piezoelectric element functioning as a sensor to detect if it is empty, plugged or working properly. An optional heater, temperature sensor and feedback circuitry regulate the temperature of the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.