Abstract: A micropump utilizes electrically controlled interfacial tension between a mercury column and an electrolyte solution in a capillary tube, and also uses the gas pressure in a confined chamber connected to the capillary tube as the restoring pressure. Accordingly, the pump operates without generating external jitter or noise, in vertical, horizontal, or in any orientation against the gravitational force. In this manner, the flow rate of the pumped fluid can be widely and conveniently controlled. Further, the micropump is small in size and simple in construction, and needs extremely small power consumption.

Abstract: An optical pickup device for reading a multitude of disks. A first optical system for reading a first optical disk by generating a first laser beam, exposing the first laser beam on the first optical disk and receiving a first reflected light from the first optical disk system, and a second optical system for reading a second optical disk by producing a second laser beam, exposing the second laser beam on the second optical disk and receiving a second reflected light from the second optical disk are provided. Reproduction of the multitude of disks without transporting the pickup device can be formed continuously.