Electrically-actuated Element (e.g., Electro-mechanical Transducer) Patents (Class 137/831)
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Patent number: 7537028Abstract: A device for fluid processor comprises a plate-shaped base material, a micro conduit network formed in the base material and formed of a first micro conduit and second micro conduits intersecting with the first micro conduit, a valve provided in each of conduit portions and a valve control mechanism. The valves in the conduit portions are closed, whereby a fluid running route is set, thereby forming a fluid processor that an intended processing is conducted by circulating a fluid through the running route. A fluid suspending cavity is preferably formed at each of the intersections of the micro conduits. A fluid running route setting apparatus is equipped with a conduit portion opening and closing mechanism having a function that individual valve control mechanisms in the device are driven, and the conduit portion opening and closing mechanism is driven by indication of fluid running route setting to a computer.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2003Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: JSR CorporationInventors: Hiroshi Akema, Tsuyoshi Yamakoshi
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Publication number: 20090126813Abstract: An electroosmotic flow pump is filled with a driving liquid exhibiting electroosmotic phenomenon, and a transport liquid capable of noncontact movement through a valve as the driving liquid moves. Since only the driving liquid can pass through an electroosmotic material, even a transport liquid not exhibiting electroosmotic phenomenon can be transported by utilizing the electroosmotic flow pump. Consequently, the electroosmotic flow pump can transport any transport liquid stably so long as the driving liquid exhibits electroosmotic phenomenon.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2006Publication date: May 21, 2009Applicant: Nano Fusion Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ichiro Yanagisawa, Masana Nishikawa
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Patent number: 7448412Abstract: A valve chip may include a substrate having first and second faces and openings between the first and second faces, and a plurality of flexible valve flaps on one of the faces of the substrate with each flexible valve flap being associated with at least one of the openings. The valve chip may be packaged by forming a frame having an opening therein, and securing the valve chip in the opening of the frame. More particularly, the valve chip may be secured in the opening so that central portions of the first and second faces of the substrate are exposed through the opening in the frame and so that a fluid seal is provided between the frame and edges of the substrate. Related valves, valve assemblies, and methods are also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: AFA Controls LLCInventors: William O. Teach, James C. Laski, Paul W. Gibson, Donald C. Harris, Kevin R. Douglas
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Publication number: 20080271799Abstract: The invention relates to a microfluidic regulating device, comprising a first layer having a first microfluidic channel defined therein, a second layer having a second microfluidic channel defined therein, a fluid flow regulating layer disposed between the first and the second microfluidic channel, which layer comprises a movable valve member which in open position allows fluid communication between the first and second channel and in closed position seals against a valve seat, whereby at least part of the valve member and of the valve seat is magnetic. The device is able to store small quantities of liquids at microfluidic cartridges and access these on demand in a well controlled and simple way.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2006Publication date: November 6, 2008Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.Inventors: Reinhold Wimberger-Friedl, Rifat Ata Mustafa Hikmet, Ties Van Bommel, Jacob Marinus Jan Den Toomder, Melike Yavuz
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Publication number: 20080264506Abstract: A system for controlling fluid flow in a microfluidic circuit includes at least one microfluidic channel having a first fluid, a switch element coupled to the microfluidic channel, the switch element comprising at least one inlet, at least one outlet and a second fluid, the second fluid being immiscible with respect to the first fluid. The system also includes an actuator configured to alter the position of the second fluid, such that when in a first position, the second fluid allows the first fluid to flow from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet, and such that when in a second position, the second fluid prevents the first fluid from flowing from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Inventors: Timothy Beerling, Kevin P. Killeen
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Publication number: 20080247264Abstract: An apparatus having a device for moving a liquid comprises a piezoacoustic resonator element (11) having at least one piezoelectric layer (110) and two electrodes (111 and 112) present on the piezoelectric layer (110). The piezoacoustic resonator element (11) is designed such that, owing to a voltage being applied to the piezoelectric layer (110) by means of the electrodes (111 or 112), a volume oscillation of the piezoelectric layer (110) is excited at a resonant frequency. The piezoelectric resonator element (11) can be acoustically coupled in a suitable manner to a liquid for the purpose of transmitting the excited oscillation into the liquid for the purpose of moving the liquid. The apparatus may be in the form of a micromixer or in the form of a micropump and may comprise, in addition, sensor elements (41) for detecting the attachment of substance.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2006Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Reinhard Gabl, Mathias Link, Matthias Schreiter, Jan Weber
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Patent number: 7367359Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignees: Kelsey-Hayes Company, GE Novasensor, Inc.Inventors: Nadim I. Maluf, Kirt R. Williams, Bert P. Van Drieenhuizen, Edward Nelson Fuller, Richard J. Barron
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Patent number: 7204581Abstract: A magnetostatic actuator uses a ferrofluid slug confined in a cylindrical tube which is wrapped in a conducting coil. By applying a current to the coil, a magnetic field is generated inside the coil. The ferrofluid slug may be attracted to the interior of the coil by the interaction of its magnetic moment with the field generated inside the coil. Movement of the ferrofluid slug in response to the magnetic field may be used to actuate various devices, such as a droplet dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Palo Alto Research Center, IncorporatedInventor: Eric Peeters
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Patent number: 7096888Abstract: A fluidic pulse generator system includes two fluidic diverter valves that are both controlled by a single fluidic pilot valve. The fluidic pilot valve and the two fluidic diverter valves are each adapted to receive a flow of pressurized fluid. The flow of pressurized fluid through the fluidic pilot valve is controlled in response to pressurized fluid flow through a control valve. In turn, the flow of pressurized fluid through the two fluidic diverters valves is simultaneously controlled in response to the flow of pressurized fluid through the fluidic pilot valve.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventors: John F. Thurston, William F. Ryan
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Patent number: 7093617Abstract: A fluidic diverter valve for use in flight control systems that includes a non-spherical shuttle element disposed within a cavity formed in the valve housing. In one embodiment, the shuttle element has a disc-shaped main body with first and second sides that are substantially flat and extend substantially parallel to one another, and a substantially symmetrically shaped peripheral section located between the first and second sides.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventor: Donald J. Christensen
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Patent number: 7080664Abstract: A fluid amplifier is presented. The fluid amplifier comprises at least one control valve for controlling at least one of a first control fluid flow and a second control fluid flow. That is, the control valve has a movable element for selectively opening and closing at least one of the first control stream channel and the second control fluid flow channel. The control valve also includes a diaphragm for isolating the moveable element.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: Crystal Fountains Inc.Inventor: George Ayer
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Patent number: 7069943Abstract: A microfluidic system includes a bubble valve for regulating fluid flow through a microchannel. The bubble valve includes a fluid meniscus interfacing the microchannel interior and an actuator for deflecting the membrane into the microchannel interior to regulate fluid flow. The actuator generates a gas bubble in a liquid in the microchannel when a sufficient pressure is generated on the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Cytonome, Inc.Inventors: John R. Gilbert, Sebastian Böhm, Manish Deshpande
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Patent number: 7000639Abstract: Described herein is a Coanda-effect air distributor for distributing a flow between a number of ducts set downstream. Provided in the area that separates the initial ends of two ducts set downstream is the inlet of a recirculation duct that creates an air circulation that masks the entrance of a duct set downstream when the flow is deviated into the other duct.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per AzioniInventors: Francesco Butera, Marco Biasiotto, Stefano Alacqua
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Patent number: 7000640Abstract: An air-distribution device based upon the Coanda-effect comprises two mobile elements that move in synchronism and in phase opposition for distributing an air flow into two ducts.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per AzioniInventors: Francesco Butera, Marco Biasiotto, Stefano Alacqua
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Patent number: 7000638Abstract: A diverter valve includes a valve bore having a set of valve seats associated with each fluid outlet port. Each set of valve seats is at least partially separated from one another by a flow channel. The valve seat configuration increases the impact area for the valve element. As a result, the impact force upon seating against the valve seats is reduced. Moreover, by including flow channels between the sets of valve seats, the switching force and performance of the valve element is not adversely affected.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International. inc.Inventors: Raymond R. Tseng, Bruce Larsen
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Patent number: 6941967Abstract: An air-distribution system comprises a fluid device that enables deviation of a flow of air that traverses a main duct (6S; 6D) into a first secondary duct (7S, 7C) and a second secondary duct (7C, 7D), exploiting the Coanda effect. The system may be applied in vehicles in general, in particular motor vehicles, or for example in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per AzioniInventors: Francesco Butera, Stefano Alacqua
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Patent number: 6926036Abstract: A fluidic diverter valve for use in flight control systems that includes a non-spherical shuttle element disposed within a cavity formed in the valve housing. In one embodiment, the shuttle element has a disc-shaped main body with first and second sides that are substantially flat and extend substantially parallel to one another, and a substantially symmetrically shaped peripheral section located between the first and second sides.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventor: Donald J. Christensen
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Patent number: 6877528Abstract: A microfluidic system includes a bubble valve for regulating fluid flow through a microchannel. The bubble valve includes a fluid meniscus interfacing the microchannel interior and an actuator for deflecting the membrane into the microchannel interior to regulate fluid flow. The actuator generates a gas bubble in a liquid in the microchannel when a sufficient pressure is generated on the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Cytonome, Inc.Inventors: John Richard Gilbert, Sebastian Böhm, Manish Deshpande
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Patent number: 6843263Abstract: This specification disclosed a partially closed microfluidic system and a fluid driving method. The microfluidic system is comprised of a substrate with microfluidic elements and a thin film. A feature of this structure is that the thin film is elastic and deformable. It has a single opening corresponding to a vent hole on the substrate, thus forming a partially closed microfluidic system. The substrate is designed to have several positions for micro fluid elements and deformable chambers and uses micro channels to form a complete network. Since the thin film is elastic and deformable, one is able to impose a pressure on the thin film above the deformable chambers in this partially closed microfluidic system to drive the fluid into motion. Once the pressure is released, the fluid flows back to its original configuration.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Yuan-Fong Kuo, Nan-Kuang Yao, Jhy-Wen Wu, Tim Shia, Shaw-Hwa Parng
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Patent number: 6792976Abstract: A fluid distribution system comprised of an inlet duct (1) and two outlet ducts (6 and 7) including deviating means for directing the inlet flow into one or the other outlet ducts (6 and 7) composed of a mobile wall (2) suitable for making the flow adhere to the walls of one duct or the other due to the Coanda effect. In a first position, the mobile wall (2) is incorporated into the side wall (3) of the inlet conduct (1) that extends into one of the two outlet ducts. From this position, the mobile wall (2) can be moved to a second position where its upstream end protrudes inside the duct to create a step-like irregularity (4) on the duct's internal surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per AzioniInventors: Francesco Butera, Marco Biasiotto, Stefano Alacqua
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Patent number: 6561224Abstract: A valve (105) controls fluid flow in a microfluidic system (100). The valve (105) has an input port adapted to receive fluid exerting a predetermined level of pressure on the valve (105) and an output port. The valve (105) has a variable sized aperture disposed perpendicular to the flow of the fluid (119). The aperture varies in size between a relatively small aperture (137) and a relatively large aperture (151). The small aperture (137) prevents the flow of the fluid (119) through the valve (105) responsive to a relatively high level of capillary forces between the fluid (119) and the valve (105) in the small aperture (137). The large aperture (151) permits the flow of the fluid (119) through the valve (105) responsive to a relatively low level of capillary forces between the fluid (119) and the valve (105) in the large aperture (151).Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventor: Steven T. Cho
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Patent number: 6347645Abstract: A fluid dynamic diverter valve is provided which has a valve body with a fluid inlet zone communicating with a fluid diversion zone, which in turn communicates with a fluid outlet zone. In the fluid inlet zone there is at least one inlet for a fluid, at least one air inlet and a venturi passage for guiding the fluid as a jet. In a passage downstream of the venturi passage the air inlet communicates with the fluid jet exiting the venturi passage and the jet enters the diversion zone. Depending on whether the air inlet is blocked or not, the fluid jet either continues straight through the diversion zone to a first outlet from the valve body or, if the air stream is blocked, the jet is diverted to impinge upon a wall in the diversion chamber, the wall being arranged to be directed toward a different one of the outlet openings in the fluid outlet zone.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Vincent Paulraj Gurubatham, Rocco Galli, Claudio Civanelli
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Patent number: 6142444Abstract: A microvalve includes a micromechanically structured chip defining a valve seat with a flow opening therethrough, an elastic suspension device and an edge region. A valve plate is defined by a piezoelectric actuator and is connected to the edge region of the micromechanically structured chip. The longitudinal dimension of the piezoelectric actuator are able to be changed by the application of an electric voltage. A decrease in the longitudinal dimension of the piezoelectric actuator caused by the application of an electric voltage is mechanically converted into a movement of the valve plate relative to the valve seat essentially at a right angle to the longitudinal direction. The connection of the piezoelectric actuator with the edge region of the micromechanically structured chip and the suspension device causes the conversion. Thus, the valve plate will open or close the flow opening in the valve seat.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1999Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventor: Stefan Kluge
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Patent number: 6131879Abstract: A microvalve has a base element provided with a passage opening, a tappet, a suspension device for guiding the tappet, and a piezoelectric actuator for actuating the tappet. The suspension device guides the tappet relative to the base element in such a way that the passage opening can be closed or opened by the tappet. The longitudinal dimensions of the piezoelectric actuator can be changed by the application of an electric voltage. Longitudinally spaced ends of the piezoelectric actuator are connected to longitudinally spaced ends of the suspension device in such a way that the suspension device provides a way for mechanical translation between the actuator and the tappet.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1999Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventors: Stefan Kluge, Peter Woias
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Patent number: 5983944Abstract: An apparatus is described for producing fluidic jet perturbations for controlling a fluid stream and mix of fluids. The invention is especially applicable to aerodynamic bodies for delaying separation and increasing the maximum angle of attack. The teachings of the invention can easily be converted to produce mechanic or mechanical fluidic effects. The apparatus provides simultaneous perturbations applicable for successive perturbations in the longitudinal direction as well as for segmented requirements. However, the invention may be advantageously used in other applications, such as increasing the angle of divergence in diffusers, controlling and increasing the mixing rate of fluids in the mixing process without adding any mass, and vectoring fluid streams. It can also be applied, among others uses, for a windshield defogger or a vortex generator.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Shaul E. Niv
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Patent number: 5931178Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing high speed interruption of the flow of a very fine, high pressure, high speed water jet 12 of the type used to cut foods, paper, and other goods. The water jet 12 is interrupted by a pivotal blocking bar 22 within a blocker housing. The blocking bar 22 is pivoted in a collar 24b to a first desired position out of the path of water jet 12 or to a second desired position for blocking the path of water jet 12. A pivot arm 28, controlled by an output shaft 30 of a rotary actuator 32, controls the rotation of the blocking bar 22. A high pressured airflow is introduced into the device for controlling the exhaustion of blocked water within the device and for cooling the rotary actuator 32.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1996Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: Design Systems, Inc.Inventors: Craig E. Pfarr, Norman A. Rudy, Darren P. Wattles
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Patent number: 5927335Abstract: A fluidic ball diverter valve for use in aerospace applications for diverting the output of a fluidic amplifier comprises a valve chamber having an inlet and two outlets. The orientation of the outlet valve seats is such that a line of action between the valve seats passing through the center of the valve ball defines an angle less 180 degrees. The orientation of the outlet valve seats permits the entire laminated fluidic amplifier module and at least a portion of the ball diverter valve itself to be mounted within the pressure vessel of the gas generator itself. By moving these components inside the pressure vessel, the pressure differential experienced by the components is substantially less than if the components were mounted outside the pressure vessel. This permits the components to be of substantially lighter construction.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: AlliedSignal Inc.Inventor: Donald Jeffrey Christensen
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Patent number: 5927320Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing high speed interruption of the flow of a very fine, high pressure, high speed water jet 12 of the type used to cut foods, paper, and other goods. The water jet 12 is interrupted by a pivotal blocking bar 22 within a blocker housing. The blocking bar 22 is pivoted in a collar 24b to a first desired position out of the path of water jet 12 or to a second desired position for blocking the path of water jet 12. A pivot arm 28, controlled by an output shaft 30 of a rotary actuator 32, controls the rotation of the blocking bar 22. A high pressured airflow is introduced into the device for controlling the exhaustion of blocked water within the device and for cooling the rotary actuator 32.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Design Systems Inc.Inventors: Craig E. Pfarr, Norman A. Rudy, Darren P. Wattles
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Patent number: 5785815Abstract: Process for damping pressure pulsations and apparatus for performing the process. The process of this invention serves for the damping of pressure pulsations in a fluid, particularly a fiber suspension, flowing in a closed system wherein the pressure pulsations to be damped are measured at a measuring site and compensated at a correction site, with a throttle position being located between the measuring and the correction sites, with the damping of the imparted pressure impulses occurring at the correction site, which pressure impulses are opposite to the measured pressure pulsations, with the time periods thereof being about the same as those of the measured pressure pulsations. Several apparatuses for performing the process are also set forth.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1994Date of Patent: July 28, 1998Assignee: Sulzer-Escher Wyss GmbHInventor: Rudolf Munch
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Patent number: 5588466Abstract: A magnetostrictive transducer wherein a magnetostrictive layer is applied to a flexible element, for example, a flexible beam. The flexible element is deflected by an external magnetic field. The thin magnetostrictive layer consists of Tb.sub.(1-x) Dy.sub.(x) Fe.sub.2.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1994Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Gerhard Benz, Gottfried Flik, Christoph Treutler, Heinz Friedrich
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Patent number: 5362027Abstract: A valve for regulating the flow of materials which are made up substantially of magnetic particles. The valve includes an outer housing and a core assembly secured within the housing to define an annular flow passage therebetween. The core assembly supports an improved magnet/coil assembly. The magnet/coil assembly includes a permanent magnet positioned between a pair of pole pieces and has an electromagnetic coil surrounding the permanent magnet. When energized, the coil establishes a counteracting magnetic field to cancel the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, which allows an open flow condition in the valve. An annular cavity is defined between the permanent magnet and the coil, which provides for a flux leakage path for the permanent magnet. During an open condition, the flux from the permanent magnet is shunted across the cavity to reduce the flux to be counteracted by the coil's magnetic field and therefore reduce the power consumed by the valve.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1993Date of Patent: November 8, 1994Assignee: Electronics, IncorporatedInventors: Jack M. Champaigne, John J. Wieczorek
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Patent number: 5271431Abstract: A microvalve in multi-layer structure is proposed, where an inlet connector, a return connector and an outlet connector are produced by planar structuring of material layers. The microvalve has a first and a second stage, which is disposed behind the first stage in respect to the flow direction of the fluid. In the first stage the flow direction of the fluid is directed into a cavity formed by two chambers by means of a flexible tongue, which in the position of rest is oriented parallel to the flow direction of the fluid. At least one outlet connector is disposed in the second stage.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1992Date of Patent: December 21, 1993Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Michael Mettner, Thomas Grauer
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Patent number: 5117794Abstract: A bistable fluidic switch is switched from its stable state by a pin inserted in the power nozzle of the bistable fluidic switch, the pin being controlled by an electromagnetic actuator which is controlled from an electronic computer. The fluidic switch element has a cross-over type interaction region and a common outlet leading to a pair of output passageways, one of which returns fuel to the supply tank, and the other of which leads to the air intake manifold of the engine. Air is introduced into the output passageway leading to the engine so as to air atomize the fuel before injection of same into the air intake manifold.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1989Date of Patent: June 2, 1992Assignee: Bowles Fluidics CorporationInventors: Michael D. Leshner, Ernest W. Chesnutis, Jr., Christian Williams, Ronald Stouffer
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Patent number: 5067509Abstract: A gas jet actuator device is described for imparting controlled vibrations o an object to which the device is connected. The device comprises a conduit defining an inlet section which is connectible to a source of gas pressure, and a fork section downstream of the inlet section to define two or more diverging outlet sections disposed at predetermined angles. A nozzle is provided in the conduit upstream of the fork section a predetermined distance therefrom. A switching device is provided to cause a pressurized fluid jet stream from said nozzle to be directed to selected ones of the outlet sections by the Coanda effect to impart a controlled vibration force to an object to which the device is attached.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1990Date of Patent: November 26, 1991Assignee: The Royal Institution for the Advancement of Learning (McGill University)Inventor: Ian W. Hunter
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Patent number: 5040560Abstract: Substantial alteration of the flow conditions in a fluid stream are effected by the application of controlled disturbances to the boundary of or within the stream by one or more piezoelectric actuators. The actuators have resonance frequencies substantially in excess of the unstable frequencies of the stream. The actuators are energized by carrier signals at the resonance frequencies of the actuators, which carrier signals have been modulated at the desired unstable frequency of the stream.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1990Date of Patent: August 20, 1991Inventors: Ari Glezer, Kris J. Nygaard, John M. Wiltse
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Patent number: 4924912Abstract: The invention provides an electrofluidic pin transducer (64) which maintains a stable null setting for a control pin (46). In the control mode of operation, the pin (46) is rotatable in a conventional manner about a first axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (140) of the pin. In the null setting mode, a cam arrangement (120,122,128) is employed to effect rotational movement of the pin (46) about a second axis (136) which is perpendicular to the first axis and parallel to the longitudinal axis (140) of the pin. This arrangement effectively makes control independent on null setting.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1989Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Assignee: Allied-Signal Inc.Inventor: John T. Itamoto
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Patent number: 4842162Abstract: Apparatus and method for dispensing fluid materials wherein the fluid is discharged from a nozzle at a rate controlled by a metering valve having a seat and a stem moveable with respect to the seat to modulate the flow. A servo-actuator connected in a feedback control loop is used to position the valve stem with respect to its seat in accordance with a control signal. The control signal is derived in accordance with the difference between a driving signal representing a desired flow rate and the sum of a pair of feedback signals. One feedback signal represents the actual flow rate while the other feedback signal is correlated to both the relative velocity and position of the stem with respect to the seat. The position-dependent velocity signal is generated by a transducer comprising a magnet and a coil influencable by the field of the magnet as the magnet and coil move relative one another.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1988Date of Patent: June 27, 1989Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventor: Stephen L. Merkel
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Patent number: 4809730Abstract: A converter or valve to modulate fluid flow, that includes a fluid channel to receive the fluid which is delivered to an output. An electrically-energized bender is disposed in close proximity to the output of the fluid channel; the bender is an elongate strip secured at one end and free to move at the other end toward or away from the output to interact with fluid flow from the output. An electric energy source is connected to bias the bender electrically to provide a small, controllable separation between the free end of the bender and the output of the fluid channel to provide an orifice for fluid flow, pumping action, as the bender moves relative to the output, upon a fluid film, separate from the fluid flow, serving either to compress or to expand the fluid film to achieve damping of the bender. The bender, in a modification, is shown in the form of a disc.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1983Date of Patent: March 7, 1989Assignee: University of New HampshireInventors: Charles K. Taft, Timothy S. Burke
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Patent number: 4771204Abstract: In a membrane valve fluid flow control device which includes a pair of superimposed surfaces wherein the membrane is interposed between the surfaces under compression and further serves as a seal. A raised rib portion is provided to impact limited areas of the membrane and localize compression along a narrow band apart from and surrounding valve chambers and any associated openings through the surface. The raised rib portion will localize compression forces along a narrow band on the membrane and limit lateral flow of the membrane material to prevent thickening or bulging of the material over the valve seat area.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1987Date of Patent: September 13, 1988Assignee: Kiwi Coders CorporationInventor: Burton L. Siegal
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Patent number: 4590970Abstract: A pulse width modulated pressure source wherein the path between a fixed pressure source and an output receiving port is interrupted periodically so that the receiving port receives a modulated pressure of a controlled value less than the predetermined pressure source.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1985Date of Patent: May 27, 1986Assignee: Honeywell Inc.Inventor: Richard C. Mott
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Patent number: 4581624Abstract: A microminiature valve having a multilayer integral structure formed on a semiconductor substrate. The valve comprises a semiconductor substrate having inlet and outlet apertures and a raised valve seat. The substrate is overlayed with a nonporous top layer and an intermediate layer. The central portion of the intermediate layer is preferentially etched away to form an enclosed chamber connecting said inlet and outlet ports. The unetched portion of said intermediate layer peripherally supports said top layer above the valve seat. An electrically conductive electrode disposed on the unsupported portion of the top layer permits it to be electrostatically deflected to engage the valve seat and close the valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1984Date of Patent: April 8, 1986Assignee: Allied CorporationInventor: James M. O'Connor
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Patent number: 4554941Abstract: Apparatus for generating a pressure pulse in a fluid comprising a pipe, an opening into said pipe for filling said pipe with fluid, a piston mounted in the pipe, and coupled to a vibrator output. An air bleeder is mounted through said pipe at a location to remove all the air in the pipe as it is filled with fluid and vibrator control apparatus for controlling the frequency and phase of the vibrator and any additional vibrators coupled to a common fluid path.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1984Date of Patent: November 26, 1985Assignee: Conoco Inc.Inventors: Julian B. Coon, Eston F. Petry
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Patent number: 4475519Abstract: A fuel injection system is proposed which serves to inject fuel into the combustion chambers of internal combustion engines. The fuel injection system includes at least one inlet and one outlet line each for the fuel, at least one pump piston to supply the fuel to an injection valve, and at least one apparatus to adjust a parameter of the injection system, such as instant of injection, or quantity of injection, or both. Furthermore, the fuel injection system includes an electro-fluidic transducer which can be controlled by an electronic control device, the electro-fluidic transducer acting to adjust the desired parameter.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1981Date of Patent: October 9, 1984Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Franz Eheim, Wolfgang Fehlmann
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Patent number: 4450375Abstract: A piezoceramic bender cooperates with an impacting member, membrane and valve seat to provide a novel piezoelectric transducer arrangement for achieving desired rapid and accurate control of fluids under pressure in a variety of different applications, such as, computer printing, fluidics, etc. The bender is advantageously isolated from the fluid in operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1982Date of Patent: May 22, 1984Assignee: KIWI Coders CorporationInventor: Burton L. Siegal
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Patent number: 4441526Abstract: An analog electro-fluidic signal transducer utilizing one or a tandem series of laminar proportional amplifiers. The transducer has input passages at a varying pressure differential produced by movements of a piezoelectric bender bimorph between opposed nozzles in a pressurized chamber. The pressure in the chamber and the excursion of the bender between the nozzles relative to the nozzle diameters are limited to minimize turbulence and achieve a pressure differential between the input passages that varies proportionally to or as an analog of a voltage applied to the bender. The pressure differential between the input passages is amplified by the amplifier or plural amplifiers in tandem series.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1981Date of Patent: April 10, 1984Inventors: Charles K. Taft, Benjamin M. Herrick
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Patent number: 4418721Abstract: A high capacity fluidic valve is disclosed which is useful for creating psure pulses in a drill string for communicating diagnostic information from the bottom of a well bore to the surface during drilling. The device of the present invention comprises essentially a vortex chamber having an element therein which is capable of rapidly changing the flow through the chamber from radial to vortical. Flow throttling action in the valve is produced by the vortical flow in the chamber, thereby producing pressure pulses in the fluid stream flowing through the valve.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1981Date of Patent: December 6, 1983Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Allen B. Holmes
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Patent number: 4393897Abstract: A fluid outlet structure includes cavities formed in both inner sidewalls of the outlet having control fluid passages from which control fluid is jetted toward a center of the outlet to deflect fluid flowing through the outlet. According to the invention, the fluid outlet structure comprises one or more supplementary fluid control members including supplementary cavities having respective supplementary control fluid passages, and communicating pipes for communicating the cavities in the sidewalls and supplementary cavities of the supplementary fluid control members having the fluid passages opening in the same directions, thereby obtaining deflected fluid flows with great deflecting angles.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1980Date of Patent: July 19, 1983Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Tokyo Sokuhan Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masao Izumi, Hiroshi Yoshida, Yukio Yoshikawa
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Patent number: 4393898Abstract: A fluid passing through a nozzle operative on the principle of wall effect of fluidic devices is variously deflected. A pair of control valves are provided at control fluid passages for supplying control jets into the throat portion of the nozzle in order to control the deflection of fluid flowing therethrough. A continuous straightforward flow is generated by simultaneous opening of said control valves.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1980Date of Patent: July 19, 1983Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masao Izumi, Hiroshi Yoshida, Yukio Yoshikawa
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Patent number: 4391299Abstract: An electro-hydraulic (EH) actuator for converting electrical inputs into hydraulic output signals is described. The actuator features a pressure balanced design which permits operation at high absolute pressures without performance degradation. Internal portions of the EH actuator are filled with a non-conducting fluid, while a flexible diaphragm provides a movable interface between the fluid and the environment in order to equalize the internal and external pressures on the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1980Date of Patent: July 5, 1983Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Allen B. Holmes
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Patent number: H221Abstract: A ramjet fuel control system that provides a regulated fuel pressure of a predetermined differential between the fuel pump pressure and the inlet pressure to a metering valve. The differential regulator uses a spool valve and sleeve in which the sleeve has ports positioned to prevent hydrodynamic flow force while the sleeve metering valve spool has rectangular ports so that the metering area which is uncovered by the spool is linearly related to the stroke of the valve spool.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1985Date of Patent: February 3, 1987Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Donald W. Chapin, John F. Thurston