Patent ID: 7114702

Claim:
A slide valve, for separation of two subsequent modules or chambers, having separately adjustable pressure levels, wherein said modules are adapted for coating units, comprising: a housing; an opening transfixing said housing, having a cross-sectional area and a circumference; a slide plate, disposed within said housing, having an area greater than said cross-sectional area of said opening, said slide plate having a first side and a second side, and being bidirectionally moveable between an inactive position wherein said opening is completely uncovered, and an operating position wherein said opening is completely covered; a first sealing surface integrated within said housing for engaging said first side of said slide plate; a second sealing surface integrated within said housing for engaging said second side of said slide plate; a first closing drive integrated within said housing, disposed between said first sealing surface and said opening, and operable to engage said first surface of said slide plate in said operating position wherein said second surface of said slide plate is forced against said second sealing surface; a second closing drive integrated within said housing, disposed between said second sealing surface and said opening, and operable to engage said second surface of said slide plate in said operating position wherein said first surface of said slide plate is forced against said first sealing surface; wherein said first closing drive and second closing drive function in unison or independently from each other.