| abstract |
A capsule is disclosed which includes a flexible outer shell capable of transforming into an asymmetric shape; an internal medium encapsulated by the outer shell, the medium including a plurality of magnetic particles, wherein the magnetic particles can move in response to an applied magnetic field. A valve system includes an in-line valve sized to fit within a flow channel including a capsule having a flexible outer shell containing an internal medium encapsulated by the outer shell, the medium including a plurality of magnetic particles; and a magnetic field source disposed about the exterior wall of the channel. |