ELECTROKINETIC ACTUATOR TO TITRATE FLUID FLOW

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrokinetic actuator for fluid flow titration including two chambers separated from one another by a porous dielectric disposed therebetween. SOLUTION: A plurality of electrodes are disposed about a perimeter of the first and second chambers. Polar electrolyte disposed within the actuator is able to pass through the porous dielectric between the first and second chambers upon the application of an electric field or electric potential to the plural electrodes. A mechanical valve actuation mechanism connected to the second chamber allows for fine titration of fluid flow using electro-osmosis, including full-flow and/or complete cut-off. The polar electrolyte is isolated to prohibit intermixing with a fluid being titrated (such as cerebrospinal fluid). COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT