Polymer valves
US7104517B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 30, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0661
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a method of controlling flow of liquids in a micro channel structure. It comprises providing in said micro channel structure plugs (34) of polymer material in said structure, said polymer material in a first state blocking said channel from liquid flow, and in a second state providing a free path-way (32) for liquid flow. Energy is selectively applied so as to cause said polymer to enter a desired one of said first or second states. It also relates to a micro channel valve system, comprising a plurality of such plugs (34). Additionally it comprises a chemical reactor, comprising a plurality of micro chambers interconnected by micro channels, having a valve system according to the invention.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.