Liquid discharging apparatus and magneto-shape-memory type valve

摘要

A liquid discharge apparatus, such as a nebulizer discharges liquid droplets by supplying the liquid to a vibrating element having a plurality of openings. A valve between a reservoir for the liquid and the element has a flexible tube extending toward the element. The tube extends through the magnetic field of a magnetic coil. A stopper in the tube is formed of magneto-shape-memory material. Energization of the magnetic coil establishes a flow channel configuration in the stopper by distorting the stopper to allow liquid to flow to the vibrating element. The apparatus may include an electrode for measuring, in conjunction with the vibrating clement, an impedance indicative of the amount of liquid provided to the element. The impedance so measured may be used to control the supply of liquid from the reservoir. In another embodiment of the valve, the valve is placed in the reservoir and an actuator formed of magneto-shape-memory material located outside the tube is used to operate the valve.