Labyrinth barrier with a component made of shape memory material

Abstract

The invention relates to a labyrinth barrier having members constructed from shape memory material, a labyrinth barrier is disclosed and comprises two or more members, each member defining a respective vertical axis. One or more of the members are at least partially constructed from a shape memory material having a first energy state and a second energy state. The members in an initial state are oriented relative to one another by their respective vertical axes to create a flow path that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes. When the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the members are urged toward one another to further constrain the flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to maze-like barriers. More specifically, this disclosure relates to maze-like barriers having two or more components, which are at least partially constructed of shape memory materials. Background Technology

[0002] Labyrinth barriers serve as non-contact seals between two adjacent compartments. For example, when used in an aircraft thrust reverser, a labyrinth barrier creates a tortuous path that restricts fluid flow from the engine core compartment to another thrust reverser compartment. Specifically, compared to axial paths that otherwise connect thrust reverser compartments, a labyrinth barrier creates an alternative circumferential path with reduced drag. Therefore, fluid naturally flows from the engine core compartment toward the alternative path provided by the labyrinth barrier. This alternative configuration relies primarily on vortex formation rather than flow redirection.

[0003] A labyrinthine barrier comprises multiple slender members arranged in an interlaced pattern. It should be understood that gaps exist between the members, resulting in an imperfect seal. These gaps allow the members to interlock without contacting or damaging each other when the labyrinthine barrier is opened or closed. However, if the gaps are too large, the flow constraint is insufficient, which in turn reduces the overall effectiveness of the labyrinthine barrier. Conversely, if the gaps are too small, other problems may arise. For example, the individual members of the labyrinthine barrier may rub against each other or otherwise come into contact with each other. Contact between members can cause structural problems and compromise the effectiveness of the labyrinthine barrier.

[0004] In another approach, a turkey feather seal can be used instead of a labyrinth barrier in the thrust reverser. A turkey feather seal comprises multiple flexible metal segments that overlap each other. These segments are slightly deformable and directly contact the engine exhaust. However, the environment around the engine is highly dynamic and experiences significant vibration, which in turn adversely affects the turkey feather seal. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A labyrinthine barrier is disclosed according to several aspects. The labyrinthine barrier comprises two or more components, each defining its own longitudinal axis, wherein one or more of the components are at least partially constructed of a shape memory material having a first energy state and a second energy state. The components are initially oriented relative to each other via their respective vertical axes to create flow paths that constrain fluid flow in a direction transverse to their respective vertical axes, and as the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the components push towards each other to further constrain the flow paths.

[0006] On the other hand, a labyrinthine barrier arranged along two opposing walls is disclosed. The labyrinthine barrier comprises two or more members, each defining its own vertical axis, wherein each member includes a proximal end and a distal end, and the proximal end of each member is attached to one of the two opposing walls. In an initial state, the members are oriented relative to each other via their respective vertical axes to create a flow path that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to their respective vertical axes. The labyrinthine barrier also includes arms corresponding to one or more members, said members being at least partially constructed of a shape memory material having a first energy state and a second energy state. The arms are fixedly attached to the corresponding members and actuated as the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, pushing the distal end of the corresponding member toward the distal end of the adjacent member to further constrain the flow path.

[0007] In another aspect, a method for restricting flow using a labyrinthine barrier is disclosed. The method includes creating a flow path using two or more components of the labyrinthine barrier. Each component defines a respective vertical axis, and one or more components are constructed at least partially of a shape memory material having a first energy state and a second energy state. The method also includes constraining fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes of the components. The method further includes bringing the shape memory material of the one or more components to the shape memory material's transition temperature. The method also includes pushing the components toward each other as the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state to further constrain the flow path.

[0008] The features, functions, and advantages already discussed can be implemented independently in various examples, or combined in other examples, as can be seen in the description and figures below for further details. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0010] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a thrust reverser for an aircraft, which includes a labyrinthine barrier according to an exemplary example;

[0011] Figure 2 It is based on the exemplary example Figure 1 An enlarged view of the maze-like barrier shown;

[0012] Figure 3 It is based on the exemplary example Figure 2 Enlarged view of two individual components of a portion of the maze-like barrier shown;

[0013] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The diagram illustrates an alternative example of the component, in which... Figure 4A The figure illustrates a component in a first energy state according to an exemplary example, and Figure 4B The diagram illustrates the components after transitioning from a first energy state to a second energy state according to an exemplary example;

[0014] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The diagram illustrates another example of a component, in which... Figure 5A The figure illustrates a component in a first energy state according to an exemplary example, and Figure 5B The diagram illustrates components after they have transitioned from a first energy state to a second energy state, according to an exemplary example.

[0015] Figure 6A and Figure 6B The figures illustrate a component according to an exemplary example and yet another example of the wall of the component constructed from a shape memory material; and

[0016] Figure 7 It is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of constraining fluid flow using a labyrinthine barrier according to an exemplary example. Detailed Implementation

[0017] This disclosure relates to a labyrinthine barrier having two or more components, which are at least partially constructed of shape memory material, wherein each component defines its own vertical axis. The shape memory material includes a first energy state and a second energy state, wherein the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state at a transition temperature. It should be understood that, depending on the application, the first energy state can be a high-energy state or a low-energy state, and the second energy state depends on the specific first energy state selected. The components are initially oriented relative to each other via their respective vertical axes to create a flow path that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes. As the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the components push towards each other to further constrain the flow path.

[0018] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses.

[0019] refer to Figure 1 This image shows a portion of a thrust reverser 10 for an aircraft 12. The thrust reverser 10 includes a thrust reverser compartment 16 and a labyrinthine barrier 20. The thrust reverser compartment 16 is partially defined by an upper wall 22 and a lower wall 24. The labyrinthine barrier 20 is positioned between the thrust reverser compartment 16 and the engine core compartment 26. Figure 1As seen, the thrust reverser compartment 16 is positioned directly adjacent to the engine core compartment 26. A flow path 30 is shown, originating within the engine core compartment 26, flowing through the labyrinthine barrier 20, and into the compartment 16 of the thrust reverser 10. The labyrinthine barrier 20 includes two or more elongated members 32. One or more members 32 of the labyrinthine barrier 20 are at least partially composed of a shape memory material 34 having a first energy state and a second energy state. Figure 2 (As seen in the diagram). As explained below, the labyrinthine barrier 20 is configured to constrain the flow path 30, or alternatively, to act as a fire barrier by blocking the flow path 30 when the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state. Figure 1 In the example shown, the labyrinth barrier 20 is a fire barrier configured to prevent flames or flammable fluids originating from the engine core compartment 26 from entering the thrust reverser compartment 16.

[0020] although Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the thrust reverser 10, but it should be understood that the labyrinth barrier 20 can be used in a wide variety of other applications, and is not limited to such applications. Figure 1 The example shown is illustrated. Furthermore, the disclosed labyrinthine barrier 20 is not limited to aircraft and can be used in any application requiring a barrier to create a pressure gradient or constrain flow. For example, in one example, the disclosed labyrinthine barrier 20 is employed in a vacuum tube array, sometimes referred to as a hyperloop train.

[0021] Figure 2 This is an enlarged view of the maze-like barrier 20. In the exemplary example shown, the maze-like barrier 20 includes four members 32 arranged in an alternating pattern along two opposing surfaces 38, 40. Specifically, two members 32A are attached to the upper surface 38 of the upper wall 22, and two remaining members 32B are attached to the lower surface 40 of the lower wall 24, wherein the alternating members 32 of the maze-like barrier 20 are attached to the same surfaces 38, 40. Correspondingly, members 33 are arranged to create a flow path 30 with a meandering configuration that constrains flow between two adjacent compartments 16, 26. Each member 32 includes a proximal end 42 and a distal end 44, wherein the members 32 are attached to the upper surface 38 or the lower surface 40 at their respective proximal ends 42.

[0022] In the example, one or more components 32 of the maze-like barrier 20 are all constructed of shape memory material 34. For example, in... Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown, each component 32 is constructed entirely of shape memory material 34. However, as... Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B As seen in another example, only a portion of component 32 is constructed of shape memory material 34, and the remainder of component 32 is constructed of another material, such as steel, titanium, copper-nickel alloys, or composite materials. Shape memory material 34 includes shape memory alloys, shape memory ceramics, and shape memory polymers. Some examples of shape memory alloys include, but are not limited to, nickel-titanium alloys or nickel-copper-aluminum alloys. Some examples of shape memory polymers include, but are not limited to, polytetrafluoroethylene (PFTE), polylactide (PLA), and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). As described above, shape memory material 34 includes a first energy state and a second energy state. Depending on the application, the first energy state is either a low-energy state or a high-energy state. For shape memory alloys, the low-energy state may be referred to as the martensitic state, while the high-energy state may be referred to as the austenitic state.

[0023] As explained below, when the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, the components 32 of the labyrinthine barrier 20 push against each other to constrain the flow path 30. Depending on the specific application, the first energy state can be a high-energy state or a low-energy state. Figure 2 As seen, each of the components 32 defines its own vertical axis A, which extends along the length L of the corresponding component 32. Figure 2 The middle figure shows the component 32 in its initial state before the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state. For example, if the maze-like barrier 20 is... Figure 1 As shown, part of the thrust reverser 10, component 32 is in its initial state before the engine (not shown) of the aircraft 12 is running and generating heat.

[0024] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In their initial state, components 32 are oriented relative to each other through their respective vertical axes A to create flow paths 30. For example... Figure 2 As observed, the fluid 52 originating from the engine core compartment 26 and flowing toward the thrust reverser compartment 16 is oriented in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes A of the component 32. In such a manner... Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown, each member 32 is oriented parallel to each other relative to their vertical axis A when in the initial state. However, it should be understood that members 32 can also be arranged and oriented in other ways.

[0025] Figure 3This is an enlarged view of two adjacent components 32 of the maze-like barrier 20, where the initial state is shown in solid lines, and the positions of the components 32 are shown in dashed lines after the shape memory material 34 has transitioned from a first energy state to a second energy state. As the shape memory material 34 transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the dashed lines show the components 32 pushing against each other to constrain the flow path 30. (Reference) Figure 2 and Figure 3 In both examples, after the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, the components 32 are oriented parallel to each other relative to their vertical axis A. In one example, when the shape memory material 34 transitions from a low energy state to a high energy state, the components 32 push towards each other. Alternatively, in another example, when the shape memory material 34 transitions from a high energy state to a low energy state, the components 32 push towards each other.

[0026] Shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state at an activation temperature. In one example, component 32 is heated to the activation temperature of shape memory material 34, wherein shape memory material 34 transitions from a low energy state to a high energy state. For the purposes of this disclosure, when shape memory material 34 is heated, it is not necessary to subject shape memory material 34 to temperatures above normal room temperature, which ranges from about 20 degrees Celsius to 22 degrees Celsius (68-72°F). Instead, the activation temperature of certain types of shape memory materials may be at or below room temperature. Alternatively, in another example, component 32 is cooled or cooled to the activation temperature, wherein shape memory material 34 transitions from a high energy state to a low energy state. For the purposes of this disclosure, when shape memory material 34 is cooled, it is not necessary to subject shape memory material 34 to temperatures below normal room temperature. It should be understood that when shape memory material 34 transitions from the second energy state back to the first energy state, component 32 returns to its initial state.

[0027] refer to Figure 3 When in the initial state, the components 32 of the labyrinth barrier 20 are positioned to create a gap or clearance C. The clearance C is defined as the required distance between two adjacent components 32 when in the initial state. The clearance C is sized to ensure that the components 32 do not come into contact with each other due to environmental factors such as, but not limited to, thermal expansion or vibration during manufacturing and installation or throughout the life of the labyrinth barrier 20. The clearance C is selected based on factors such as, but not limited to, the amount of flow constraint required in the initial state, manufacturing tolerances, installation tolerances, vibrations experienced in the region immediately adjacent to the labyrinth barrier 20, and thermal expansion. For example, installation tolerances allow the thrust reverser 10 ( Figure 1It can be opened and closed without any components 32 coming into contact with each other. It should be understood that the gap C can be larger than the conventional gap that exists between adjacent components in a conventional labyrinth barrier, which is advantageous because it allows more space during manufacturing and installation.

[0028] In one example, when component 32 is in its initial position, shape memory material 34 is in a low-energy state, and the labyrinth barrier 20 is a fire barrier. During operation of aircraft 12, component 32 is heated to the activation temperature of shape memory material 34. In this example, the activation temperature indicates the presence of flames in adjacent areas of the labyrinth barrier 20. For example, in... Figure 1 In the example shown, the adjacent areas are the engine core compartment 26. Therefore, the components 32 push towards each other and come into contact, and the gap C between two adjacent components 32 is eliminated. As a result, the flow path 30 is blocked. However, in some applications where the labyrinthine barrier 20 is not a fire barrier, the components 32 do not come into contact with each other, and the gap C is reduced but not eliminated.

[0029] In another approach, only a portion of the component 32, which is part of the maze-like barrier 20, is constructed from shape memory material. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a perspective view of another example of one of the components 132 of the maze-like barrier 20. (In...) Figure 4A In the example shown, component 132 defines its respective cross-sectional profile 150. Cross-sectional profile 150 includes two legs 152A and 152B. One of the legs 152A of component 132 is attached to a structure, such as... Figure 1 The upper wall 22 or lower wall 24 of the thrust reverser 10 shown. One or more shape memory segments 154 constructed of shape memory material 34 extend along their respective cross-sectional profiles 150 of the member 132. The shape memory segments 154 are filaments, ribbons, or sheets of the shape memory material 34. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the example shown, shape memory segment 154 is embedded within component 132. In one example, shape memory segment 154 is attached to component 132. Shape memory segment 154 can be attached to component 132 in a variety of ways. For example, shape memory segment 154 can be mechanically fastened, glued to component 132, or embedded within component 132.

[0030] Figure 4A The figure shows component 132 in its initial state, with legs 152A and 152B oriented at an angle α relative to each other. Figure 4A In the example shown, angle α is 90 degrees, and components 32 are perpendicular to each other. Although Figure 4AThe diagram shows outriggers 152A and 152B oriented perpendicular to each other, but it should be understood that... Figure 4A This is merely exemplary in nature, and the legs 152A and 152B can be configured and oriented relative to each other in a variety of ways. Once the shape memory material 34 reaches its respective transition temperature, the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, and the leg 152B is actuated toward or away from the other leg 152A. Figure 4B In the example shown, outrigger 152B pushes toward the remaining outrigger 152A, thereby reducing angle α.

[0031] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The illustration shows another example of a maze-like barrier 20, wherein at least one component 232 includes a shape memory torque tube 260 constructed of shape memory material 34. Specifically, in the illustrated example, the shape memory torque tube 260 is located at the distal end 44 of the respective component 232. Figure 6A The diagram shows component 232 in its initial state. Once the shape memory material 34 reaches the transition temperature, the shape memory torque tube 260 transforms the torsional force T( Figure 6B ), thereby causing the actuators 232 to move toward each other, which in Figure 6B As shown in the image.

[0032] exist Figure 6A and Figure 6B In another example shown, member 332 is constructed of a material other than shape memory material 34. Instead, member 32 is actuated or pushed toward each other using respective arms 360 constructed of shape memory material 34. In the example shown, two adjacent members 332 are arranged along two opposing walls 22, 24. Each of member 332 includes a proximal end 342 and a distal end 344, wherein the proximal end 342 of member 332 is attached to its respective wall 322, 324. Arm 360 also includes a respective proximal end 362 and a respective distal end 364, wherein the distal end 364 of the corresponding arm 360 is attached to the distal end 344 of member 332. Each of arm 360 is fixedly attached to its respective wall 22, 24 at its proximal end 362.

[0033] In the example shown, each arm 360 corresponds to a component 332. The arm 360 is at least partially constructed of shape memory material 34, wherein the arm 360 is fixedly attached to the corresponding component 332. Figure 2 As seen, the arm is actuated as the shape memory material 34 transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, pushing the distal end 344 of the corresponding component 332 toward the distal end 344 of the adjacent component 332, thereby further constraining the flow path 30 when the shape memory material transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state. Figure 1 (As seen in the text).

[0034] Figure 7 This is an exemplary process flow diagram of a method 400 for actuating a labyrinthine barrier 20. (General reference) Figure 1-7 Method 400 begins at box 402. Within box 402, flow path 30 ( Figure 1 This is created by two or more components 32, each defining its own vertical axis, wherein one or more of said components 32 are at least partially constructed of shape memory material 34. Method 400 can then proceed to box 404.

[0035] In box 404, flow path 30 ( Figure 1 The fluid flow is constrained in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axis A of member 32. In block 404, member 32 is in its initial state. Method 400 can then proceed to block 406.

[0036] In block 406, one or more shape memory materials 34 in component 32 are brought to a transition temperature. The shape memory material 34 may be heated to the transition temperature, or alternatively cooled to the transition temperature. Method 400 may then proceed to block 408.

[0037] In box 408, as the shape memory material transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, the components 32 push against each other to further constrain the flow path 30. Method 400 can then proceed to box 410.

[0038] It should be understood that the box 410 is optional and used when the labyrinth barrier 20 is a fire barrier. In the box 410, the members 32 push against each other to block the flow path 30, which... Figure 3 As shown in the diagram. Method 400 can then terminate.

[0039] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed labyrinth barrier offers various technical effects and benefits. Specifically, gaps exist between the components of the labyrinth barrier, and these gaps are sized to ensure that the components do not come into contact with each other due to thermal expansion or vibration during manufacturing and installation or throughout the life of the labyrinth barrier 20. However, once the shape memory material of the components transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, the components of the labyrinth barrier push towards each other to further constrain the flow. Accordingly, the components of the disclosed labyrinth barrier are sized to avoid contact problems between the components in the initial state, but the shape memory material allows the components to still be able to block fluid flow when needed. Thus, the disclosed labyrinth barrier overcomes some of the problems faced by conventional barriers by providing sufficient gaps during manufacturing, installation, or operation, while also constraining or blocking fluid flow as the shape memory material transitions between phases.

[0040] Furthermore, this disclosure includes examples as described in the following terms.

[0041] Clause 1. A maze-like barrier (20) comprising:

[0042] Two or more components (32), each defining its own vertical axis, wherein one or more of the components (32) are at least partially constructed of shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state, and the components (32) are initially oriented relative to each other through their respective vertical axes to create a flow path (30) that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to their respective vertical axes, and when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the components (32) push towards each other to further constrain the flow path (30).

[0043] Clause 2. The maze barrier (20) as described in Clause 1, wherein the shape memory material (34) comprises a low-energy state and a high-energy state.

[0044] Clause 3. The labyrinthine barrier (20) as described in Clause 2, wherein when the shape memory material (34) transitions from a low energy state to a high energy state, the components (32) push towards each other.

[0045] Clause 4. The labyrinthine barrier (20) as described in Clause 2, wherein when the shape memory material (34) transitions from a high-energy state to a low-energy state, the components (32) push towards each other.

[0046] Clause 5. A labyrinthine barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-4, wherein when the shape memory material (34) transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, the components (32) contact each other to block the flow path (30).

[0047] Clause 6. A labyrinthine barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-5, wherein the components (32) are oriented parallel to each other in the initial state.

[0048] Clause 7. The maze-like barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-6, wherein one or more of the components (32) are all constructed of shape memory material (34).

[0049] Clause 8. A labyrinthine barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-7, wherein each of the members (32) defines a respective cross-sectional profile (150).

[0050] Clause 9. The labyrinthine barrier (20) as described in Clause 8, wherein one or more shape memory segments (154) extend along the respective cross-sectional profile (150) of one or more of the members (32).

[0051] Clause 10. The maze-like barrier (20) as described in Clause 9, wherein one or more shape memory segments (154) are fitted into at least one of the components (32).

[0052] Clause 11. The maze-like barrier (20) as described in Clause 9, wherein one or more shape memory segments (154) are attached to at least one of the components (32).

[0053] Clause 12. The labyrinthine barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-11, wherein at least one of the components (32) comprises a shape memory torque tube (260) disposed at a distal end (44).

[0054] Clause 13. The maze barrier (20) according to any one of Regulations 1-12, wherein the shape memory material (34) is at least one of shape memory alloy, shape memory ceramic and shape memory polymer.

[0055] Clause 14. The labyrinthine barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-13, wherein the shape memory material (34) transitions from a low energy state to a high energy state at an activation temperature.

[0056] Clause 15. The labyrinth barrier (20) as described in Clause 14, wherein the activation temperature indicates the flame present in the adjacent area of ​​the labyrinth barrier (20).

[0057] Clause 16. The labyrinth barrier (20) according to any one of Clauses 1-15, the shape memory material (34) is a shape memory alloy, and the first energy state is the martensitic state and the second energy state is the austenitic state.

[0058] Clause 17. A maze-like barrier (20) arranged along two opposing walls (22, 24), said maze-like barrier (20) comprising:

[0059] Two or more components (332), each defining its own vertical axis, wherein each component (332) includes a proximal end (342) and a distal end (344), and the proximal end (344) of each component (32) is attached to one of two opposing walls (22, 24), and wherein the components (32) are initially oriented relative to each other through their respective vertical axes to create a flow path (30) that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to their respective vertical axes, and

[0060] An arm (360) corresponding to one or more of the components (332) is at least partially constructed of shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state, wherein the arm (360) is fixedly attached to the corresponding component and actuated as the shape memory material (34) changes from the first energy state to the second energy state to push the distal end (344) of the corresponding component toward the distal end (344) of the adjacent component (332), thereby further constraining the flow path (30) when the shape memory material (34) changes from the first energy state to the second energy state.

[0061] Clause 18. A method (400) for restricting flow through a maze-like barrier (20), the method (400) comprising:

[0062] A flow path (30) is created by two or more components (32) of a maze-like barrier (20), wherein each component (32) defines its own vertical axis, and one or more of the components (32) are at least partially constructed of shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state;

[0063] Constrain fluid flow in directions transverse to the respective vertical axes of the components (32);

[0064] To bring one or more of the shape memory materials (34) in the component (32) to the transition temperature of the shape memory material (34); and

[0065] As the shape memory material (34) transitions from a first energy state to a second energy state, it pushes the components (32) toward each other to further constrain the flow path (30).

[0066] Clause 19. The method (400) described in accordance with Clause 18 further includes:

[0067] The components (32) push each other toward each other to block the flow path (30).

[0068] Clause 20. The shape memory material (34) described in accordance with Clause 18 or Clause 19 is at least one of shape memory alloy, shape memory ceramic and shape memory polymer.

[0069] The descriptions in this disclosure are merely exemplary in nature, and variations thereof that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are intended to fall within its scope. Such variations should not be considered as a departure from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising a labyrinth barrier (20) and two opposing walls, the system comprising: two or more members (32) each defining a respective vertical axis, wherein the members (32) are at least partially constructed from a shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state, and the members (32) are oriented relative to one another in an initial state by their respective vertical axes to create a flow path (30) that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes, such that two adjacent members are disposed along two opposing walls, the adjacent members (32) are urged toward one another to further constrain the flow path (30) when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state; and wherein the members (32) are oriented parallel relative to one another in an initial state, and the members (32) are oriented parallel to one another relative to their vertical axes after the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the shape memory material (34) comprises a low energy state and a high energy state.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the adjacent members (32) are urged toward one another when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the low energy state to the high energy state.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the adjacent members (32) are urged toward one another when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the high energy state to the low energy state.

5. The system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the adjacent members (32) contact one another to block the flow path (30) when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state.

6. The system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein at least one of the members (32) includes a shape memory torque tube (260) disposed at a proximal end (42).

7. The system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the shape memory material (34) transitions from a low energy state to a high energy state at an activation temperature.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the activation temperature is indicative of a flame present in an adjacent region of the labyrinth barrier (20).

9. A labyrinth barrier (20) disposed along two opposing walls (22, 24), the labyrinth barrier (20) comprising: two or more members (332), each member defining a respective vertical axis, wherein each member (332) includes a proximal end (342) and a distal end (344), and the proximal end (344) of each of the members (32) is attached to one of the two opposing walls (22, 24), and wherein the members (32) are oriented relative to each other in an initial state by their respective vertical axes to create a flow path (30) that constrains fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes; and an arm (360) corresponding to one or more of the members (332), the arm being at least partially constructed from a shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state, wherein the arm (360) is fixedly attached to a corresponding member and actuates as the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state to push a distal end (344) of the corresponding member toward the distal end (344) of an adjacent member (332) to further constrain the flow path (30) when the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state.

10. A method (400) for restricting flow through a labyrinth barrier (20), the method (400) comprising: creating a flow path (30) through two or more members (32) of the labyrinth barrier (20), wherein each member (32) defines a respective vertical axis, and the members (32) are at least partially constructed from a shape memory material (34) having a first energy state and a second energy state; constraining fluid flow in a direction transverse to the respective vertical axes of the members (32); bringing the shape memory material (34) of two adjacent members disposed along two opposing walls to a transition temperature of the shape memory material (34); and as the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the adjacent members (32) push toward each other to further constrain the flow path (30); and wherein the members (32) are oriented parallel relative to each other in an initial state, and after the shape memory material (34) transitions from the first energy state to the second energy state, the members (32) are oriented parallel to each other relative to their vertical axes.

11. The method (400) of claim 10, further comprising: the adjacent members (32) being pushed toward each other to block the flow path (30).

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