Electrokinetic actuator to titrate fluid flow
US8231563B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 30, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jul 31, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 29, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M27/006
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An electrokinetic actuator for fluid flow titration including two chambers separated from one another by a porous dielectric disposed therebetween. A plurality of electrodes are disposed about a perimeter of the first and second chambers. Polar electrolyte disposed within the actuator is able to pass through the porous dielectric between the first and second chambers upon the application of an electric field or electric potential to the plural electrodes. A mechanical valve actuation mechanism connected to the second chamber allows for fine titration of fluid flow using electro-osmosis, including full-flow and/or complete cut-off. The polar electrolyte is isolated to prohibit intermixing with a fluid being titrated (such as cerebrospinal fluid).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.