On-chip fluid recirculation pump for micro-fluid applications
US8814293B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 13, 2012 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 1, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/12
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A micro-fluid ejection head has fluid ejection elements formed as thin film layers on a substrate. Fluid flow features on the substrate channel fluid from a fluid source to ejection chambers surrounding the ejection elements. A pump on the substrate circulates the fluid from the source to the ejection chambers and back again to the source. The flow refreshes the fluid in the chambers to minimize deleterious effects of evaporation. A controller coordinates the flow rate of the pump and other variables to optimize system productivity. Other embodiments contemplate pump locations, pump types, pump enumeration, and fluidic features, such as pathways, diffusers, chokes and dimensions, to name a few.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.