Methods of manufacturing highly integrated SMA actuators
AssigneeAlfmeier Prazision AG Baugruppen und Systemlosungen
InventorsPeter E. Von Behrens, Dylan M. Fairbanks
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Abstract
A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator assembly is provided that includes an SMA component. The SMA component is used to impart motion in an output shaft. Also provided is a return force component that provides a variable, tailored return force to the SMA component. Additionally, a variety of protective mechanisms are disclosed and utilized to prevent damage to the internal workings and components within the SMA actuator assembly as well as provide protection and safety for external workings.
Claims27
A shape memory alloy actuator assembly comprising:
- a shape memory alloy component;
- an output shaft coupled to the shape memory alloy component such that contraction of the shape memory alloy component causes output shaft movement;
- two parallel heat sink members extending along opposite sides of the shape memory alloy component configured to control rate of extraction of heat from the shape memory alloy component;
- a return force component coupled to the shape memory alloy component to move the shape memory allow component from a contracted configuration to an extended configuration said return force component providing a tailored return force to the shape memory alloy component;
- and
- a protective mechanism to prevent damage to the shape memory alloy component.
A shape memory alloy actuator assembly, comprising:
- a shape memory alloy component;
- a drive member coupled to the shape memory alloy component;
- two parallel heat sink members extending along opposite sides of the shape memory alloy component configured to control rate of extraction of heat from the shape memory alloy component;
- an output shaft;
- an output member coupled to the output shaft;
- a resilient coupling element having a fixed condition and a deflected condition wherein when the resilient coupling element is in the fixed condition, the output member and the drive member are urged into cooperative movement to transmit the thermoelastic movement of the shape memory alloy component to the output shaft and when the resilient coupling element is in a deflected condition the output member and the drive member are allowed to move relative to one another;
- and
- a protective mechanism positioned within the shape memory alloy actuator assembly to prevent damage to the shape memory alloy component.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.