Actuator element and method for operating an actuator element

Method for operating an actuator element for moving a movable component on the basis of a control signal, the actuator element comprising:

• an actuator which comprises a shape memory alloy and is designed to shorten or extend itself in the longitudinal extension direction thereof when in an excited state;
• an electronic control unit, which has a carrier element and a plurality of electronic components for exciting the actuator on the basis of a control signal;
• and
• the movable component which is coupled to the actuator and is movable by means of the actuator relative to the carrier element,
• wherein the carrier element defines a dimensionally stable guide portion by means of which the actuator is guided along the longitudinal extension direction thereof such that the actuator runs on a winding path,
• the method comprising the steps of:
• establishing a wireless connection between the actuator element and a transceiver arranged remotely therefrom;
• generating an encrypted token and/or a token for one-time user;
• transmitting a signal with a unique identification code assigned to the actuator element from the actuator element to the transceiver;
• transmitting the token from the transceiver to the actuator element;
• decrypting the token;
• exciting the actuator element for moving the movable component;
• and
• outputting an optical and/or an acoustic and/or a haptic signal.