Apparatus and method for dispensing small quantities of particles

Abstract From the Canadian patent

There is disclosed an apparatus and method which is capable of dispensing very small (typically less than 5 mg) quantities of particles to a high accuracy in a repeatable way and without undue wastage. Also the need for advanced , particle formulation is reduced. The apparatus comprises a closed loop control system which uses an electro-mechanical actuator to deliver impact energy to a supply of particles initially held on a sieve in a hopper. The impact energy causes a small number of particles to fall through the sieve and onto a weight measuring balance. The weight obtained is scrutinised by a processor to see if further actuations are required. In preferred embodiments the energy …