Separation device using a shape memory alloy retainer
AssigneeHughes Electronics Corporation
InventorsBradley K. Lortz, Allan Tang
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A retainer made from a shape memory alloy (SMA) is utilized in a separation device that is particularly useful for space applications. Upon being heated to a restoration temperature, the retainer changes from a constricted state to an expanded state. In its constricted state, the retainer surrounds and captures a plurality of securing segments to secure an object. To release the secured object, the retainer is heated to its restoration temperature with an electrical heater, causing the retainer to return to its expanded state and allow the securing segments to move apart and release the secured object.
Claims23
An apparatus for releasably securing a workpiece, comprising:
- a segmented securing device having a plurality of segments mounted in a movable relationship such that when moved together said segments secure a workpiece and when moved apart said segments release the workpiece, and
- a retainer having constricted and expanded states, said retainer in its constricted state capturing said segments to secure the workpiece, and in its expanded state allowing said segments to move apart to release the workpiece, said retainer returning to its expanded state from its constricted state when heated to a restoration temperature.
An apparatus for releasably securing a workpiece comprising:
- a segmented securing device having a plurality of segments mounted in a movable relationship such that when moved together said segments secure a workpiece and when moved apart said segments release the workpiece, said segmented securing device comprising a segmented nut having a threaded opening for engaging with a threaded workpiece,
- a retainer having constricted and expanded states, said retainer in its constricted state capturing said segments to secure the workpiece, and in its expanded state allowing said segments to move apart to release the workpiece, said retainer returning to its expanded state from its constricted state when heated to a restoration temperature, said retainer comprising a hollow cylinder surrounding said securing device,
- a base having an upper surface supporting said segments and tapering away from said segments to urge said segments outward as said retainer expands, said base having an opening for inserting a workpiece into said securing device, and
- an electrical resistance-type heater mounted in thermal transfer contact with said retainer to heat said retainer to said restoration temperature.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.