Micromachined two-dimensional array droplet ejectors
US6474786B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 5, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/15
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A droplet ejector including a cylindrical reservoir closed at one end with an elastic membrane including at least one aperture. A bulk actuator at the other end for actuating the fluid for ejection through the aperture.Also disclosed is a micromachined two-dimensional array droplet ejector. The ejector includes a two-dimensional array of elastic membranes having orifices closing the ends of cylindrical fluid reservoirs. The fluid in the ejectors is bulk actuated to set up pressure waves in the fluid which cause fluid to form a meniscus at each orifice. Selective actuation of the membranes ejects droplets. In an alternative mode of operation, the bulk pressure wave has sufficient amplitude to eject droplets while the individual membranes are actuated to selectively prevent ejection of droplets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.