Carol Livermore-Clifford

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Carol Livermore-Clifford**

Introduction

Carol Livermore-Clifford is a notable inventor based in Framingham, Massachusetts. With a total of three patents to her name, she has made significant contributions to the field of microvalve technology. Her work is characterized by innovative designs that enhance the functionality and efficiency of microvalve systems.

Latest Patents

One of Livermore-Clifford's latest inventions is a **sealable microvalve that can be repeatedly opened and sealed**. This patent introduces a substantially leak-free design that utilizes a block with a through via and a sealing plate. A unique sealing material is applied to create a secure gap between the block and the sealing plate, which can be melted with heat and solidified when heat is absent. The process involves applying heat through a resistive heater to close the microvalve and subsequently removing the heat to create a sealed state. When needing to open the valve, heat is again applied to melt the sealing material, allowing for the actuator to move the block and sealing plate apart.

Additionally, she developed a **single-use, permanently-sealable microvalve**. This device features a through via located in an island structure, which is supported on a thermally-insulating membrane and framed accordingly. The unique design encompasses meltable sealing material around the through via and a heater element positioned on the island structure to seal the material over the via.

Career Highlights

Throughout her impressive career, Carol Livermore-Clifford has worked with prestigious institutions such as the **Massachusetts Institute of Technology** and **Northeastern University**. Her experience in these academic settings has allowed her to refine her innovative ideas and contribute to groundbreaking research in microvalve technology.

Collaborations

Carol's collaborations with prominent individuals like Chenye Yang and Akintunde Ibitayo Akinwande have further enriched her work. These partnerships have fostered a robust exchange of ideas and have led to advancements in their shared areas of research.

Conclusion

Carol Livermore-Clifford stands out not just for her patents, but for her commitment to innovation in the realm of microvalve technology. Her inventions demonstrate a blend of creativity and engineering principles that are poised to make a lasting impact in various applications. As technology continues to evolve, her contributions are sure to play a pivotal role in shaping future advancements.