Conformable layer utilizing active material actuation

Abstract

A conformable protective layer, such as a fabric or covering, adapted for overlaying an object or space, and presenting a condition, such as a geometric configuration or stiffness, includes at least one shape memory alloy, electroactive polymer, or similar active material based actuator operable to undergo a reversible change when exposed to and / or removed from an external signal, and is configured such that the change is operable to autonomously modify the condition, or facilitate placement and removal of the layer.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Technical Field[0002]This disclosure generally relates to conformable fabrics, coverings, and methods of donning, applying, or employing the same; and more particularly, to those that utilize shape memory alloy or electroactive polymer actuation to effect functionality.[0003]2. Background Art[0004]Fabrics, coverings, and other protective layers have long been developed to form superjacent layers with, or otherwise overlay an object or space. For example, fabrics and coverings are often employed in clothing and apparel as a means to protect a human wearer, in tent or canopy construction to present a habitable confine; in food storage and consumer goods protection to present various types of wraps; and finally, in automotive and boating settings to protect at least a portion of the vehicle or boat, or its cargo, from harmful exterior elements.[0005]With particular respect to food storage and consumer goods, an air-tight or wrinkle-free fit between t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]In response to the afore-mentioned concerns, the invention presents a shape memory alloy (SMA) or electroactive polymer (EAP) based conformable protective layer (e.g., fit fabric, uniform coverings, etc.). The invention further presents a method of applying an outer protective layer to an object and increasing the superjacent area of engagement therebetween, after application. As such, the invention in many but not all of its embodiments is useful for reducing wrinkles and other anomalies that may form in the outer layer during application, which results in a smoother finish, and improves appearance. Moreover, in this configuration, enhanced structural stiffness in the protective layer is also provided.

[0008]The invention alternatively uses the shape memory and superelastic properties of SMA to create comformable easy-to install fabrics and flexible material coverings that conform either passively or on-demand to the objects upon which they are installed.

[0009]Where the SMA element presents a tether (e.g., tie-down, strap, etc.) for use with the protective layer (such as a tent, or automotive / boating covers), the invention is useful for presenting a cover that is more facilely positioned, tightened, and later removed when no longer in use. Moreover, in this configuration, enhanced structural stiffness in the protective layer is also provided.

[0010]Finally, the invention is useful for presenting a uniform protective layer that more evenly applies surface pressures and tensions upon the applied object, in comparison to purely elastic coverings.

[0011]Generally, the invention concerns a conformable (or reconfigurable) protective layer adapted for overlaying an object or space, so as to present a first condition relative thereto. The layer is formed of at least one SMA or EAP element (e.g., wire for SMA, and roll actuator form for EAP, etc.) operable to undergo a reversible change when exposed to an external signal. The element is configured such that the change is operable to autonomously modify the condition. For example, the condition may be the geometric configuration of the layer, such that modification thereof causes the layer to more tightly and securely overlay the object or space.

Problems solved by technology

Concernedly, however, these types of wraps typically present limited application, and a limited number of uses due to the irreversibility of the polymeric changes.

Concernedly, however, it is appreciated that SMP based reconfigurable fabrics or coverings require substantial energy input for activation, and due to low thermal conductivity rates, result in large cycle times.

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