A miniature multichannel piezoelectric pumping apparatus and methods of microdosing infusion introduction and inhalation

摘要

A pumping apparatus has a body portion with a chamber and channels for receiving fluid that has entered the chamber through an opening in the body portion. The chamber is covered by a membrane and the channels terminate in orifices, through which fluid exits the pump. Electrosensitive members, movable in response to electric signals, are positioned on portions of the membrane corresponding to the respective channels, forming micropumps with the respective channels, within the pump body and the respective orifices. A control mechanism controls pumping of this apparatus by sending electrical signals to the electrosensitive members, that force fluid through the respective channels and out the respective orifice for delivery to the desired site. The control mechanism permits movement of at least one of the electrosensitive members independent of the other electrosensitive members, as well as concurrent and simultaneous movement of the electrosensitive members, depending upon the pumping mode desired.