Self Focusing Acoustic Transducer with Fresnel Reflector/Absorber Lens
- Technology Benefits
- The lens is extremely tolerant of variations in geometry, especially thickness dimensions, which simplifies fabrication.Unlike conventional self-focusing acoustic transducers (SFAT), the electrodes are not patterned in USC's design, which reduces undesirable heat generation and fringe electrical fields that impair performance.Design does not use nozzles, which can become clogged.Consistent droplet size.Directional control.
- *Abstract
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This is a system for dispensing picoliter droplets through acoustic actuation. An acoustic beam directed toward the liquid surface expels liquid droplets without the use of a nozzle. USC's design makes use of an innovative lens to focus the acoustic beam. The lens blocks or absorbs unwanted acoustic waves from the transducer, and focuses the remaining waves on the focal point through near-field wave interference. The lens can be manufactured with wide tolerance on its thickness dimensions. In addition, the lens, combined with an innovative electrode design, renders directional droplet ejection that is stable and precisely controllable. Droplet sizes of 70 to 80 µm have been obtained in tests, and can be reduced further through the use of thinner materials.
- Country/Region
- USA
