Connecting and unlocking mechanism driven by SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) wire

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting and unlocking mechanism driven by a SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) wire, which is provided with a segmented nut, a restraint device of the segmented nut and a driving device of the restraint device, wherein the segmented nut is used for being in threaded connection with a bolt and is totally divided into a plurality of segments; a boss is formed on the outer lateral surface of the segmented nut; the restraint device is arranged outside the segmented nut; a groove capable of being matched with the boss is formed on the inner lateral surface of the restraint device; in a connecting state, the boss is abutted against the restraint device part outside the groove, so that the radial restraint on the segmented nut is kept; in an unlocking state, the boss enters the groove, so that the radial restraint on the segmented nut is loosened; the driving device comprises the SMA wire and a return spring; when the SMA wire is heated to retract, the restraint device is pulled to axially move downward to enter the unlocking state; and the return spring is arranged below the restraint device. In one selectable scheme, when the SMA wire is not heated, the restraint device is pushed to be axially reset upwards to enter the connecting state again. The connecting and unlocking mechanism is complete to unlock and has a high success rate and a high reliability.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 200810119580.0. technical field

[0002] The invention relates to a split nut connection and unlocking mechanism driven by a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire. Background technique

[0003] Many institutions or systems (such as spacecraft) require multiple connection-detachment mechanisms to realize connection and unlocking functions, such as the separation of multi-stage launch vehicles, the deployment of solar wings on satellites or spacecraft, and so on. At present, this unlocking device is mostly an pyrotechnic bolt (also known as an explosive bolt). With the development of technology, especially the emergence of a new generation of small satellites, the problem of shock and pollution caused by explosives is becoming more and more serious. One of the main focuses to solve this problem is to develop a new type of unlocking mechanism using shape memory alloy (SMA) .

[0004] There has been ...

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0030] References to Related Applications This specification refers in its entirety to Chinese Patent Application No. 200710177157.1 "High Temperature Resistant Shape Memory Alloy Wire Fastening Device" submitted by the applicant on November 12, 2007.

[0031] For the application of the present invention, the "shape memory characteristic" of SMA (shape memory alloy) material refers to: the material is stretched and deformed at a certain low temperature, and its deformation cannot be fully restored after unloading, leaving residual deformation. However, as long as it is heated to a higher temperature, the residual deformation disappears and returns to the original unstretched shape, which is manifested as "memorizing the shape at a lower temperature", and a large amount of force is generated during the recovery process. Resilience.

[0032] In engineering, SMA wires and springs are usually combined to form a driving element, that is, the SMA wires and springs are connected to e...

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 200810119580.0. technical field

[0002] The invention relates to a split nut connection and unlocking mechanism driven by a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire. Background technique

[0003] Many institutions or systems (such as spacecraft) require multiple connection-detachment mechanisms to realize connection and unlocking functions, such as the separation of multi-stage launch vehicles, the deployment of solar wings on satellites or spacecraft, and so on. At present, this unlocking device is mostly an pyrotechnic bolt (also known as an explosive bolt). With the development of technology, especially the emergence of a new generation of small satellites, the problem of shock and pollution caused by explosives is becoming more and more serious. One of the main focuses to solve this problem is to develop a new type of unlocking mechanism using shape memory alloy (SMA) .

[0004] There has been ...

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0030] References to Related Applications This specification refers in its entirety to Chinese Patent Application No. 200710177157.1 "High Temperature Resistant Shape Memory Alloy Wire Fastening Device" submitted by the applicant on November 12, 2007.

[0031] For the application of the present invention, the "shape memory characteristic" of SMA (shape memory alloy) material refers to: the material is stretched and deformed at a certain low temperature, and its deformation cannot be fully restored after unloading, leaving residual deformation. However, as long as it is heated to a higher temperature, the residual deformation disappears and returns to the original unstretched shape, which is manifested as "memorizing the shape at a lower temperature", and a large amount of force is generated during the recovery process. Resilience.

[0032] In engineering, SMA wires and springs are usually combined to form a driving element, that is, the SMA wires and springs are connected to e...

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