abstract |
A fluid delivery device (10) operated by a first gas delivery device (12) (e.g. electrochemical pump) that takes advantage of sequential gas production methods. The fluid delivery device includes a container (14) with an interior surface. An first gas delivery device for producing or delivering a first gas is placed in one end of the container. A moveable member (e.g. piston, bladder (18) or membrane) is positioned within the container, which moveable member, together with the container's interior surface and the electrochemical cell, structurally define a fluid-tight chamber. The moveable member may abut a first reactive material. Unreacted material (34), chemically reactive with the either the first gas or the first reactive material to generate a second gas, is contained within the container. This apparatus also includes a reservoir of a liquid, adjacent to the moveable member in such a way that when the moveable member moves, the liquid is displaced out of the reservoir through a spout associated with the end of the container distal to the electrochemical cell. The reactive fluids are generally acids, bases, azides, and peroxides. The invention is useful for, among other things, the controlled delivery of medical fluids, fragrances, insecticides, and lubricants. |