Non-conductive fluid droplet forming apparatus and method
US7992975B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 2010 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/105
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for forming fluid droplets includes a nozzle channel, a pressurized source of a non-conductive fluid in fluid communication with the nozzle channel, and a stimulation electrode. The pressurized source is operable to form a jet of the non-conductive fluid through the nozzle channel. At least one portion of the stimulation electrode is electrically conductive and contactable with a portion of the non-conductive fluid jet. The at least one electrically conductive and contactable portion of the stimulation electrode is operable to transfer an electrical charge to a region of the portion of the non-conductive fluid jet with the electrical charge stimulating the non-conductive fluid jet to form a non-conductive fluid droplet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.