Self-Contained Pump Using Piezoelectric Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pumps are limited in miniaturization due to the size and efficiency of their pumping mechanisms, hindering their application in future miniaturized industries that require smaller, accurately controlled fluid delivery systems.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained pump design integrating a reservoir, flexible walls, and a piezoelectric actuator-based pumping mechanism for controlled compression and fluid displacement, allowing for precise fluid management in a compact form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional pumping mechanisms are used, then pumping function is achieved, but pump size cannot be miniaturized further
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reservoir, pumping mechanism, and outlet into a single integrated pump structure. The reservoir walls themselves serve as the pumping mechanism through piezoelectric actuators, eliminating the need for separate pumping components and enabling miniaturization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pumping mechanisms with piezoelectric actuators that directly deform the reservoir walls to create pressure gradients. This substitution enables smaller actuator sizes while maintaining pumping functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If pump size is reduced, then miniaturization is achieved, but fluid delivery control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback control mechanisms where the piezoelectric actuators are controlled based on pressure sensors that monitor the fluid pressure within the reservoir. This feedback loop enables precise control of fluid delivery despite the miniaturized size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes piezoelectric materials that change their physical dimensions in response to electrical signals, allowing precise control of the reservoir wall deformation and consequently the fluid pressure and flow rate. This parameter change mechanism enables accurate fluid delivery control in a compact design.
3Productivity
If piezoelectric actuators are added to walls, then pumping efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the piezoelectric actuators directly into the reservoir walls, merging the actuation system with the reservoir structure. This integration improves pumping efficiency while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity by eliminating separate actuator mounting structures.
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
Enables the creation of smaller, more efficient pumps suitable for applications like drug delivery, optical systems, and micro-refrigeration, with precise control over fluid volume and pressure, reducing size and power consumption while maintaining accurate output.
Implementation Method 1
The pumping mechanism may comprise at least one piezoelectric actuator on at least one wall of the reservoir
Implementation Method 2
The self-contained pump may further comprise a flexible membrane over each outlet of the at least one outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained pump is disclosed that is an integrated pump. It has a reservoir, a pumping mechanism, and at least one outlet. The pumping mechanism is for controlled compression of the reservoir to force a required volume of fluid in the reservoir through the at least one outlet.