Patent · US Expired

Method of making a microvalve

US5142781A · kind A · utility

60Cited by
1References
14Claims
0Family size

Assignees

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateAug 13, 1990
Grant dateSep 1, 1992
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 13, 2010

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T29/49419
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A microvalve composed of multiple layers bonded together is distinguished by the fact that all layers are structured only from one side. Prior to bonding of a new layer to the preceding layer, the new layer is homogeneous or unstructured. Only after bonding of the new layer to the preceding layers or wafers is the newly-applied layer provided with a structure, by etching or other profiling method. This simplifies construction, and reduces manufacturing cost, of the microvalve. The valve can be used for either liquid or gaseous media. It is adapted for use, inter alia, as a fuel injection valve or as a pilot control stage of servo-valves used in anti-lock braking systems (ABS). A method of producing a sealed cavity with a residual gas pressure therein, which may have applications other than valve manufacture, is also disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.