Method of setting and actuating a multi-stable micro valve and adjustable micro valve
US6926246B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 3, 2002 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 9, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/6416
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A micro valve and a method for setting or actuating a micro valve for use in fluidic applications includes cooling an array of actuating members made of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) material. The SMA material is cooled to a temperature equal to or below the temperature at which a transformation from austenitic to martensitic state occurs so that the entire array of SMA actuating members is either fully or partially in the martensitic state. At least one of the actuating member is selected to correspond to a pre-determined opening pressure or flow resistance. Each of the actuating members are heated individually, except the previously selected one, to a temperature equal to or above the temperature at which a transformation from the martensitic state to the austensitic state occurs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.