Motion device using shape memory material and method therefor

An apparatus, comprising:

• a shape memory transducer having first, second, and third electrical ports sequentially arranged thereon in a spaced apart manner;
• and
• an electrical circuit operable to selectively energize the shape memory transducer between the first and second electrical ports, or alternatively, between the second and third electrical ports to provide controlled movement of the shape memory transducer.

A method for using a shape memory element to provide for motion control of a controlled item mechanically coupled thereto, the method comprising the steps of:

• positioning the controlled item at a first location by applying electrical current between a first pair of spatially separated points on the shape memory element;
• and
• sequentially positioning the controlled item at a second location different from the first location by applying electrical current between a second pair of spatially separated points on the shape memory element, different from the first pair, on the shape memory element.