Patent ID: 7611582

Claim:
An apparatus for transferring fluid, the apparatus comprising: a) a fluid transfer component, the fluid transfer component comprising a first surface, a second surface, a non-random pattern of distinct pores, each of the pores defining a pathway between the first and second surfaces, each pathway having a single entry point at the first surface and a single exit point at the second surface, the pores disposed at preselected locations to provide a desired pattern of permeability; b) a fluid receiving component comprising a fluid receiving surface; c) a fluid supply adapted to provide a fluid in contact with and at a constant fluid pressure with the first surface of the fluid transfer component; d) a fluid motivating component adapted to facilitate transport of the fluid from the first surface through the pores to the second surface; and, e) a groove in fluid communication with and extending from at least one of said pores, said groove being disposed upon said second surface.