Magnetic fluid actuator
0301122-94
[DEFINITION]
An actuator that uses magnetic fluid.
[DESCRIPTION]
Magnetic fluid is a colloidal solid-liquid mixed fluid that can be
obtained by dispersing a large amount of fine magnetic particles in the dispersion medium fluid.
When a magnetic field is applied to a flexible container filled with the magnetic fluid, the
container changes its shape depending on the magnetic field strength, wherefrom mechanical output
can be derived. Characteristics of the magnetic fluid actuator are: 1) electrically controllable
and energy can be supplied externally without contact, 2) no mechanical sliders are used, and 3) no
risk of leak of fluid is imposed. Application examples of magnetic fluid actuators to micro-valves
and micro-pumps have been reported.
[References]
(4)(8)(15)
[Related Terms]
Microvalve, Micropump