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AssigneeGM Global Technology Operations LLC
InventorsAlan L. Browne, Norman K. Bucknor, Michael R. Leslie
Estimating the term…
A method comprises applying a thermal activation signal to a conduit comprising a shape memory polymer, causing a change in at least one property of the shape memory polymer, and regulating fluid flow through the conduit by the change in the at least one property of the shape memory polymer. A conduit comprises a shape memory polymer in an amount effective to regulate fluid flow through the conduit by a change in at least one property of the shape memory polymer caused by application of a thermal activation signal. The conduits and methods disclosed herein may find use as drinking utensils, respirator tubes, pump intake tubes, motor vehicle cooling system bypass hoses, motor vehicle engine oil filter bypass hoses, or motor vehicle powertrain fluid circulation hoses.
An intermediate conduit section formed of a single layer wall, presenting a first longitudinal profile and a first open cross-sectional flow area, and comprising a shape memory polymer in an amount effective to reconfigure the profile and area so as to present a second profile and open area and thereby regulate fluid flow through the conduit section, by a change in at least one property of the shape memory polymer caused by application of a thermal activation signal.
A drinking utensil including a cylindrical section presenting a first longitudinal profile and a first open cross-sectional flow area and comprising a shape memory polymer in an amount effective to reconfigure the profile and area so as to present a second profile and open area and thereby regulate flow of a drinkable fluid through the drinking utensil, by a change in at least one property of the shape memory polymer caused by application of a thermal activation signal.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.