Multi-channel Micropump with Variable Rigidity Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional micropump structures require multiple pumps or external flow adjusting valves to mix fluids at different proportions, making the pumping system complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel fluid conveying apparatus with a single pressure chamber and actuator, incorporating multiple inlet and outlet channels and valve structures of varying rigidity, allowing for efficient mixing and distribution of fluids without increasing overall dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional micropump structure with mono-pressure chamber and mono-flow conduit is used, then the structure is simple, but the flow rate and mixing capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure chamber is segmented into multiple independent working chambers (first pressure chamber, second pressure chamber, etc.), each capable of independent fluid conveyance. This segmentation allows parallel fluid processing, significantly increasing the overall flow rate without requiring multiple external pumps, thus improving productivity while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each working chamber is designed with universal functionality to handle different fluids through the same basic structure. The chambers can independently convey different fluids (e.g., first fluid and second fluid) with different viscosities, enabling mixing and proportioning functions within a single integrated pump system, thereby increasing productivity without adding external mixing devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If valve structures of the same rigidity are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the flow distribution and mixing precision are poor
Solution Approach 1:
Different valve structures are assigned different rigidity characteristics tailored to their specific functions. For example, valve structures controlling fluids with different viscosities have optimized rigidity values to ensure precise flow distribution. This local quality differentiation improves manufacturing precision for flow control while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized valve design patterns.
3Productivity
If the number of working chambers is increased, then the flow rate increases, but the overall dimensions of the apparatus increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple working chambers are arranged in a nested or compact configuration where chambers are positioned adjacent to each other in a space-efficient manner. The valve structures and fluid conduits are integrated shared components that serve multiple chambers simultaneously, allowing the apparatus to achieve high flow rates through multiple chambers without proportionally increasing the overall apparatus volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The working chambers are arranged in a multi-dimensional compact layout rather than a simple linear extension. By utilizing vertical stacking or radial arrangement of chambers around a central actuator, the design increases flow rate capacity through multiple chambers while maintaining compact overall dimensions, effectively using spatial efficiency to resolve the contradiction between productivity and volume.
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 significantly increases flow rate and lift, enabling efficient mixing and distribution of fluids, reducing complexity and enhancing performance in applications requiring higher flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
Upon a voltage acting on two poles located at top and bottom of the micro-actuator 14, an electric field will be effected to bend the micro-actuator 14
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel fluid conveying apparatus, for delivering a fluid, includes a valve seat, a valve cover, a valve membrane, a plurality of temporary-deposit chambers, and an actuating device. The valve seat includes at least one inlet channel and at least one outlet channel. The valve cover is arranged on the valve seat. The valve membrane is interposed between the valve seat and the valve cover and includes a plurality of valve structures made of the same material with the same thickness, wherein at least one of the valve structures has a rigidity different from those of other valve structures. The plurality of temporary-deposit chambers is interposed between the valve membrane and the valve cover and between the valve membrane and the valve seat. The actuating device is, having a periphery, fixed to the valve cover.