Droplet Control via Electric Field Repulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing droplet discharge apparatuses face challenges in reducing droplet volume to a minute volume and controlling the position of discharged droplets effectively.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus is designed with a first and second electrode forming a strong electric field at the discharge tip, using a potential difference to create a repulsive force between droplets of the same polarity, allowing for precise control of droplet motion and volume reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional droplet discharge apparatuses are used, then droplets can be discharged, but droplet volume cannot be reduced to a minute volume and position control is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical discharge methods with an electric field-based system. Electrodes generate electric fields that act on droplets, enabling both volume reduction through electric field-induced fragmentation and position control through electric force manipulation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the droplet system by applying electric fields. By controlling voltage parameters and electric field strength, the system achieves minute droplet volumes and precise position control through modifications in electrical parameters rather than mechanical adjustments
2Volume of moving object
If strong electric field is applied to reduce droplet volume, then droplet volume decreases to minute size, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic or pulsed electric field application rather than continuous strong fields. By applying electric fields in controlled cycles, the system achieves droplet volume reduction through periodic fragmentation while reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous high-voltage application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes energy usage by dynamically adjusting electric field parameters. Through controlled changes in voltage magnitude and application duration, the system achieves the desired droplet volume reduction with minimized energy input, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption from continuously strong fields
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus successfully reduces droplet volume to a small size and controls the position of discharged droplets through repulsive forces, achieving precise droplet manipulation and consistent droplet repulsion phenomena.
Implementation Method 1
The first electrode and the second electrode may form an electric field at an end of the discharge tip by forming a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode
Implementation Method 2
controlling the position of a droplet using a repulsive force of the same polarity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for controlling droplet motion in an electric field by reducing volume of a single droplet to a very small volume using a strong electric field and controlling a position of a droplet using a repulsive force of the same polarity, and a method of the same. The apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a first electrode, an insulator disposed above the first electrode, a discharge tip disposed above the insulator by a predetermined distance and dividing a transferred fluid into a small volume of a droplet, and a second electrode contacting the fluid supplied through the discharge tip. The first electrode and the second electrode may form an electric field at an end of the discharge tip by forming a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode.