Patent ID: 6382588
Filing Date: 2002-05-07
Classification: F02M,F15C,F16K

Abstract:
A microvalve, comprising:a first silicon substrate formed with a valve seat having a flat edge and an outlet opening bordered by said flat edge, said valve seat further having a connecting stub; a membrane formed from polysilicon pressing against said connecting stub; a second silicon substrate permanently connected to said first silicon substrate, said second silicon substrate having a cavity and an inlet opening formed therein, such that said membrane is lifted off said connecting stub and is pulled into said cavity, thereby forming a connection between said inlet opening and said outlet opening, and setting a contact pressure between said membrane and said flat edge, thereby causing a parallel movement or through-bending of said membrane; said membrane disposed adjacent said cavity; said membrane being electrically conductive and having a first side facing away from said cavity and selectively pressing against said flat edge of said valve seat for closing said outlet opening; said inlet opening and said outlet opening being bounded by said first side of said membrane opposite said cavity; an electrode formed on a side of said cavity distal from said membrane; and a drive circuit electrically connected to and applying a voltage between said electrode and said membrane for selectively moving said membrane into said cavity and lifting said membrane from said flat edge of said valve seat for establishing a communication between said inlet opening and said outlet opening.