Shape memory alloy composite flexible substrates
AssigneeEmpire Technology Development LLC
InventorsSung-Wei Chen, Christopher J. Rothfuss
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Abstract
A programmable shape device is described. The device comprises a wire grid made from a shape memory material. The grid is embedded in a transparent polymer. Under normal conditions, the device can be folded into any shape. Upon actuation, the device reverts back to a programmed parent shape. Such a device can be made into one shape during its desired use and another shape during storage or transportation. Methods of making and using a programmable shape device are described.
Claims18
A device with a programmable shape, the device comprising:
- at least one transparent polymer;
- at least one structure comprising a first mesh grid of a plurality of wires made from a first shape memory material and one or more second mesh grids of a plurality of wires made from one or more second shape memory materials embedded in the at least one transparent polymer,
- wherein the first mesh grid made from the first shape memory material has a first temperature-programmed parent shape,
- wherein the first shape memory material has a first transition temperature,
- wherein each of the one or more second shape memory materials has a second transition temperature,
- wherein the first shape memory material and the one or more second shape memory materials are different materials,
- wherein the first transition temperature and the second transition temperature are different, and
- wherein each of the one or more second mesh grids made from the second shape memory materials has a second temperature-programmed parent shape different from the first temperature-programmed parent shape;
- at least one switch configured to control a passage of an electric current through the structure;
- and
- at least one temperature sensor.
A method of manufacturing a programmable shape device, the method comprising:
- assembling a first grid of wires disposed randomly with respect to each other
- wherein each wire has a diameter of about 50 μm or less and comprises a first shape memory material having a first transition temperature;
- assembling a second grid of wires disposed randomly with respect to each other
- wherein each wire has a diameter of about 50 μm or less and comprises a second shape memory material different from the first shape memory material and having a second transition temperature different from the first transition temperature;
- cooling the first and second grids below the respective transition temperatures of the materials,
- bending the first grid into a first parent shape;
- bending the second grid into a second parent shape different from the first parent shape;
- heating the first and second grids above the respective transition temperatures of the materials to affix the parent shapes;
- and
- embedding the first and second grids in a transparent polymer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.