Patent ID: 7465382
Filing Date: 2008-12-16
Classification: G01N,G05D

Abstract:
1. A low flow rate precision flow controller comprising: (a) a pneumatic to hydraulic booster connected to a pressure supply for pressurizing a fluid so that it flows out of a fluid outlet; (b) a flowmeter for measuring the flow rate of the fluid between the pneumatic to hydraulic booster and the outlet; and (c) a servo-loop controller in communication with the flowmeter and the pneumatic to hydraulic booster, wherein the servo-loop compares the measured flow rate to a desired flow rate and adjusts the pressure from the pressure supply so that the fluid flows out of the fluid outlet at the desired flow rate, wherein the flow rate of the fluid is controlled solely by the controller adjusting the pressure; wherein the desired flow rate is less than approximately 100 microliters/minute.