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Thermal microvalves

  • US 8,071,056 B2
  • Filed: 04/29/2005
  • Issued: 12/06/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/15/1995
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A device, comprising:

  • a) a generally planar substrate comprising a main channel connected to a side channel, wherein the main channel and the side channel form a junction;

    b) a mass of meltable material disposed within the side channel and near the junction;

    c) a heating element on the substrate, wherein the heating element is configured to melt the mass of meltable material; and

    d) a movement means comprising an air flow configured in the side channel such that the mass of meltable material is between the movement means and the main channel, wherein the air flow moves the mass of meltable material from the side channel into the main channel when the meltable material is melted.

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