High frequency uniform droplet maker and method
US9782791B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2016 |
| Grant date | Oct 10, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 13, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05B17/0669
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed for producing substantially uniform droplets. The system includes a fluid reservoir vessel defining a fluid reservoir, a separation membrane at one end of the fluid reservoir, at least one capillary channel at an opposite end of the fluid reservoir, a solution dispenser, and a piezo actuator in contact with a separation membrane. The separation membrane has a thickness greater than about 0.2 mm, and the solution dispenser maintains the fluid reservoir filled with fluid such that the fluid simultaneously contacts the separation membrane and the capillary channel. The solution dispenser maintains the fluid reservoir under pressure to create a fluid stream exiting the capillary. The piezo actuator is in contact with the separation membrane on a side opposite that in contact with the fluid, and the piezo actuator transfers a pressure wave through the fluid in the fluid reservoir to break up the fluid stream into uniform droplets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.