Patent ID: 7134639
Filing Date: 2006-11-14
Classification: F15C,F16K,G05D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A bi-stable latching valve for controlling fluid flow through a channel, comprising: a substrate defining an inlet port and an outlet port in communication with the channel; a valve seat stacked on the substrate and comprising a flexible membrane portion having a rim that sealingly contacts the substrate to define a valve chamber in communication with the inlet port and the outlet port for containing a volume of fluid, wherein the valve seat moves between a closed position wherein the valve seat blocks one of said inlet port and said outlet port and an open position to allow fluid flow through the valve chamber to regulate fluid flow through the chamber; an actuator assembly for selectively moving the valve seat between the open position and the closed position, the actuator assembly including a cantilever beam hinged to the substrate and connected to the valve seat for moving the valve seat between the open position and the closed position; and a latching mechanism for latching the valve seat in one of said open position and closed position.