Patent · US Expired

Method of making a microvalve

US5238223A · kind A · utility

106Cited by
8References
11Claims
0Family size

Assignees

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJun 16, 1992
Grant dateAug 24, 1993
Priority date
Expiry dateJun 16, 2012

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF16K2099/0096
  • 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.