Patent ID: 8156962

Claim:
A microvalve device for controlling fluid flow comprising: a body defining a chamber having first and second ends, the first end being in communication with a source of command pressure, the second end being in communication with a source of load pressure; and a micromachined spool disposed in the chamber between the first and second ends for sliding movement influenced by differential pressure across the micromachined spool, the micromachined spool being movable between a first position, in which allows fluid flow between the source of load pressure and a source of supply pressure, and a second position, which allows fluid flow between the source of load pressure and a pressure vent, the micromachined spool having a closed position intermediate the first position and the second position which restricts fluid flow between the source of load pressure and both the source of supply pressure and the pressure vent, wherein the micromachined spool is moveably connected to the body.