Integrated planar SMA device and method
AssigneeStardust Redux LLC
InventorAlex Amelia Kuehn
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Abstract
This disclosure relates generally to a reusable actuating device utilizing multiple integrated planar shape memory alloy elements integrated with independent driver circuits and at least one return spring integrated onto a single multi-layer PCB with a novel layout to create an electrically and mechanically redundant integrated actuator solution uniquely suited for use in low-profile devices that can be utilized by themselves or as an initiator in a staged device to release higher loads. The apparatus of the invention is particularly useful for spacecraft and other vehicular actuation devices.
Claims11
An integrated planar shape memory alloy (SMA) device, comprising:
- a multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB);
- SMA elements;
- an output latch;
- bridge components;
- a return spring;
- and
- driver circuits;
- where said SMA elements, said output latch, said bridge components, said return spring and said driver circuits are mounted on said PCB, and wherein said SMA elements cause said output latch to actuate when a current is applied to said SMA elements,
- wherein said integrated planar SMA device mounts in a housing having a secondary output latch connected by a secondary spring,
- and wherein said secondary output latch connects said output latch;
- and
- wherein said secondary output latch is pressed against said output latch with the help of said secondary spring to press said output latch causing said SMA elements to heat to or beyond their transition temperature by current applied through said driver circuits.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.