Shape memory alloy actuator for inflation device

An inflation device comprising:

• a shell adapted to be coupled to an inflation canister;
• a pin positioned within the shell, wherein the pin is adapted to open a seal of the inflation canister;
• and
• a moveable element comprising a shape memory alloy, wherein the moveable element is moveable from a first position to a second position responsive to electrical energy sent through the moveable element, wherein while the moveable element is in the first position, the pin is restrained from opening the seal of the inflation canister, and wherein while the moveable element is in the second position, the pin is moveable within the shell independently from the moveable element to open the seal of the inflation canister.

A method of activating an inflation device comprising an inflation canister, a shell coupled to the inflation canister, a pin positioned within the shell and adapted to open a seal of the inflation canister, a restraining element secured within the shell to restrain the pin from opening the seal, and a moveable element comprising a shape memory allow, the method comprising:

• supplying an electrical energy through the shape memory alloy of the moveable element;
• moving the moveable element from a first position to a second position responsive to the electrical energy;
• unsecuring the restraining element within the shell;
• and
• releasing the pin to open the seal of the inflation canister.