Patent ID: 6137501
Filing Date: 2000-10-24
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A microfluidic printing apparatus responsive to an image file for printing a plurality of pixels on a receiver, comprising:a) a plurality of colorant delivery chambers;b) a plurality of channels for delivering colorants to each colorant delivery chamber;c) a plurality of microfluidic pumps wherein a particular microfluidic pump is associated with each channel and effective when actuated for controlling the flow of colorant through the channel to corresponding colorant delivery chambers;d) first electric drivers each associated with a particular microfluidic pump for actuating its microfluidic pump;e) a plurality of microvalves wherein a particular microvalve is associated with each channel and effective in a closed position to prevent the flow of colorant and in an open position to permit the flow of colorant;f) second electric drivers each associated with a particular microvalve for causing its microvalve to move open to close positions; andg) means for operating the first and the second electric drivers for controlling an amount of colorant delivered to each colorant delivering chamber so that colorant is delivered to the receiver when in contact with the delivery chambers.