Patent ID: 6540203
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: B60T,F15C,F16K

Abstract:
A microvalve device for controlling fluid flow comprising:a body having a chamber, a first pilot port, and a second pilot port, a first primary port and a second primary port formed therein, each of said ports being in fluid communication with said chamber and being adapted for connection with one of a plurality of fluid sources; a first microvalve, said first microvalve being a pilot valve movably disposed in said chamber and supported by said body for fully opening and at least partially closing said first and second pilot ports; an actuator operably coupled to said pilot valve for moving said pilot valve; a second microvalve that is a slider valve movably disposed in said chamber for movement between a first position and a second position whereby positioning said second microvalve is controlled by positioning said pilot valve; and said slider valve further defining a first end and a second end, said first end being in fluid communication with said first and second pilot ports when said first and second pilot ports are open and said second end being in fluid communication with said first primary port, said slider valve variably restricting fluid flow between said primary ports when moving between said first and second positions.