Bi-directional fluid ejection systems and methods
US6409311B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/14314
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bi-directional fluid ejector according to the systems and methods of this invention operates on the principle of electrostatic attraction. In various exemplary embodiments, the fluid ejector includes a sealed dual diaphragm arrangement, an electrode arrangement that is parallel and opposite to the sealed diaphragms, and a structure which contains the fluid to be ejected. A diaphragm chamber containing a relatively incompressible fluid is situated behind, and is sealed by, the diaphragms. At least one nozzle hole is formed in a faceplate of the ejector over one of the diaphragms. A drive signal is applied to at least one electrode of the electrode arrangement to generate an electrostatic field between the electrode and a first one of the diaphragms. The first diaphragm is attracted towards the electrode by an electrostatic force into a deformed shape due to the electrostatic field. Upon deforming, pressure is transmitted to a second one of the sealed diaphragms. The transmitted pressure and the relatively incompressible nature of the fluid contained within the sealed diaphragm chamber causes the second diaphragm to deflect in the opposite direction to force fluid through at least …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.