Abstract: A MEMS device is disclosed having a single microvalve actuator for controlling multiple microvalves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) device in the form of a pressure control valve suitable for controlling the operation of a refrigeration compressor. The pressure control valve is responsive to a reference pressure controlled by a microvalve.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for controlling a variable displacement compressor. The device comprises a microvalve operated control valve. A microvalve device for controlling fluid flow and a micro spool valve for use as a microvalve are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for controlling a variable displacement compressor. The device comprises a microvalve operated control valve. A microvalve device for controlling fluid flow and a micro spool valve for use as a microvalve are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sealable swab is formed of an elongated stem having a swab collection material, such as a wad of cotton-like material or a spoon-shaped or a paddle-shaped end portion on one end. A tubular capsule enclosing and normally sealing the swab collection material within the capsule. The capsule is formed with an open top and a closed bottom within which a central opening is formed. The stem is slideably extended through the opening so that a portion of the stem with the swab collection material is arranged within the capsule. The open upper end of the capsule is closed by a cover that can be manually opened or closed with one-handed motion. When the cap is opened, the stem is moved endwise for moving the sample material outwardly of the capsule so that it may contact and accumulate material to be sampled, or, alternatively, may disperse sample material that was previously applied upon the swab.

Abstract: In a method of controlling an actuator of a microvalve, a controller is provided for supplying a voltage to the actuator. The controller provides an initial voltage to the actuator which is effective to actuate the microvalve. Then, the controller provides a pulsed voltage to the actuator which is effective to continue the actuation of the microvalve.

Abstract: The present invention provides a proportional microvalve having a first, second and third layer, and having high aspect ratio geometries. The first layer defines a cavity with inlet and outlet ports. The second layer, doped to have a low resistivity and bonded between the first and third layers, defines a cavity having a flow area to permit fluid flow between the inlet and outlet ports. The second layer further defines an actuatable displaceable member, and one or more thermal actuators for actuating the displaceable member to a position between and including an open and a closed position to permit or occlude fluid flow. The third layer provides one wall of the cavity and provides electrical contacts for electrically heating the thermally expandable actuators. The thermal actuators and the displaceable member have high aspect ratios and are formed by deep reactive ion etching such that they are displaceable in the plane of the second layer while being very stiff out of the plane.

Abstract: A money clip comprising a generally flat housing having an internal cavity and an elastic band secured to the housing for encircling and holding a wad a paper money between the band and housing. A magnifying glass is normally concealed within the cavity and is pivotally connected to the housing. The magnifying glass may be manually swung outwardly and inwardly of the cavity, to a location adjacent the housing, through an opening formed in the housing. The magnifying glass may be swung outwardly of the housing temporarily and by manually holding the clip with magnifying glass positioned over an object the print on the object may be read by the user, without disturbing the wad of paper money held by the money clip. Thereafter, the magnifying glass may be swung back into the housing cavity.