Matrix of valves
US5203368A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 1992 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/87684
- WIPO fieldOrganic fine chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A matrix of valves being formed using a sandwich of three layers with a pliable membrane interposed between two of the layers. Supply channels and delivery channels are created through etching, routing, or other such means on the middle layer. Each supply channel communicates with all of the delivery channels via a valve location which is opened or closed by pneumatic pressure on the pliable membrane. Movement of the pliable membrane is affected through suction or pressure as communicated via holes in the overlying layer. In this manner, selected supply and delivery lines are connected by appropriate suction being placed on the membrane. Selected valves are simultaneously opened to provide parallel operations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.