Droplet ejector with oscillating tapered aperture
US6629646B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 7, 1993 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 7, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/15
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A fluid injection device for ejecting fluid droplets in response to electrical signals comprises an oscillating surface that has one or more tapered apertures, each aperture having a first and second opening. The first opening of each aperture is larger than the second opening. The first opening is in surface tension contact with the fluid to be ejected. The fluid interaction with the tapered aperture wall creates cycles of fluid compression and decompression inside the aperture, causing fluid to be drawn from the large opening and ejected out the small opening of the aperture. The device includes a fluid supply nozzle that transports fluid to the oscillating surface at the large opening of the apertures. A discharge valve controls the fluid supply. An electronic wave generator induces oscillation in the tapered aperture containing surface. The device is used to great advantage for fluid atomization and fluid spray.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.