Device for merging fluid drops or jets
US7946692B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2009 |
| Grant date | May 24, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 2, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/095
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A device and method of controlling fluid flow are provided. The method includes providing a moving fluid including a fluid flow characteristic; providing a fluid control device including a fluid control surface, the fluid control surface including a pattern; causing the fluid to contact the fluid control surface of the fluid control device; and causing the fluid to interact with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device using the pattern of the fluid control surface that, when activated, causes adjacent fluid drops to merge or coalesce while the fluid is in contact with the pattern of the fluid control device such that the fluid flow characteristic of the fluid after interacting with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device is different from the fluid flow characteristic of the fluid before interaction with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.