Sma wire end assembly and method of connecting same

Abstract

The application discloses an SMA wire end assembly, which comprises an electric connecting plate, an SMA wire and a reinforcing plate, the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electric connecting plate, an SMA wire protection area is formed on the electric connecting plate around a certain area of the SMA wire, the reinforcing plate is stacked on the electric connecting plate and covers at least a part of the SMA wire protection area, and the reinforcing plate is fixedly connected to the electric connecting plate. The SMA wire end assembly separates the electric connection and the fixation of the SMA wire, guarantees the conduction and the fixation effect respectively, improves the product performance, reduces the process difficulty, fixes the reinforcing plate, enhances the fixation strength of the SMA wire, especially enhances the peeling resistance of the SMA wire, and improves the overall connection effect of the SMA wire end assembly. The application further discloses a SMA wire end assembly connection method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of shape memory alloy technology, and in particular to an SMA wire end assembly and its fixing method. Background Technology

[0002] Shape memory alloy (SMA) is a material made of two or more metallic elements that exhibits shape memory effect (SME) through thermoelastic and martensitic phase transformation and its inverse. SMA can be deformed at relatively low temperatures and can recover its original shape after being heated by electricity, thus enabling electrically controlled shrinkage. Therefore, SMA wire is often used as a drive element in actuation devices.

[0003] Currently, SMA cables are generally assembled and fixed using clamps to achieve electrical connection between the SMA cable and the clamps. That is, the clamps hold the SMA cable outside while achieving electrical connection between the two. However, the existing gripper connection method has the following drawbacks: 1. The SMA wire is clamped inside the gripper, making it difficult to guarantee the electrical connection between them. This is because the contact resistance varies depending on the clamping tightness, the surface treatment of the contact surface, and the slight slippage of the SMA wire under force, and cannot be directly inspected. 2. The SMA wire is fixed by coating it with welding material. This method has good tensile and torsional strength in the plane (above the SMA wire axis), but poor peel strength in the direction intersecting the SMA wire axis. 3. Before connection, the insulation layer on the surface of the SMA wire must be removed, usually by laser or plasma ablation, to ensure the electrical connection effect of the clamping. This increases both the process cost and the risk of SMA wire damage. 4. Electroplating is required at the contact area between the gripper and the SMA wire to improve the electrical connection effect, thus increasing material costs. 5. Achieving fixation and conduction in the same process is difficult, has a low yield, and makes it difficult to quickly achieve large-scale mass production.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an SMA wire end assembly and its connection method that are simple to manufacture, can separate the fixing and conduction processes of SMA wires, and improve product performance, in order to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an SMA wire end assembly that is simple to manufacture and can separate the fixing and conduction processes of the SMA wire, thereby improving product performance.

[0006] Another objective of this invention is to provide a simple SMA wire end assembly connection method that separates the SMA wire fixing and conduction processes, thereby improving product performance.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: an SMA wire end assembly is provided, which includes an electrical connection plate, an SMA wire, and a reinforcing plate. The SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate, and an SMA wire protection area is formed on the electrical connection plate around a certain area of ​​the SMA wire. The reinforcing plate is stacked on the electrical connection plate and covers at least a portion of the SMA wire protection area. The reinforcing plate is fixedly connected to the electrical connection plate.

[0008] Preferably, the electrical connection plate also has a connection area, the connection area including at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and the reinforcing plate is stacked and fixed to the connection area.

[0009] Preferably, the SMA line protection area is formed with a protective layer that wraps around the SMA line, and a connection layer is formed in the connection area. The reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate through the connection layer.

[0010] Preferably, the protective layer and the connecting layer are formed in one step using the same material, or are formed separately using different materials.

[0011] Preferably, the SMA wire is stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate, and at least a portion of the overlapping portion between the two is electrically connected to form an electrical connection area. The portion of the SMA wire that is spaced apart from the electrical connection plate or the portion of the SMA wire that protrudes beyond the electrical connection plate forms a lead-out end. The SMA wire protection area includes the lead-out end and at least a portion of the electrical connection area.

[0012] Preferably, the reinforcing plate is further provided with a connecting portion, and the reinforcing plate is further fixed to the electrical connection plate through the connecting portion.

[0013] Preferably, the connecting portion includes a stepped structure disposed along the edge of the reinforcing plate and / or a through hole and / or a groove formed on the reinforcing plate, and a fixing structure covering the stepped structure and / or a fixing structure filling the through hole and / or the groove is formed between the electrical connecting plate and the reinforcing plate.

[0014] Preferably, the fixing structure is formed by adhesive or solder.

[0015] Preferably, the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and ultrasonic welding; the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate by at least one of adhesive bonding, resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, ultrasonic riveting, bending, and heating.

[0016] Preferably, the reinforcing plate is formed from any one of metal, plastic, or inorganic materials.

[0017] Preferably, the SMA wire is a bare wire, or the SMA wire includes a wire core and an insulating film / insulating layer covering the wire core. The insulating film / insulating layer covers at least the effective working portion of the SMA wire. The effective working portion is the portion of the SMA wire that can generate an effective phase change. For example, when the SMA wire is in contact with or very close to an electrical connection plate, or when the SMA wire is in contact with adhesive, the phase change of the SMA wire will be affected. The portion of the SMA wire other than the contact or close portion mentioned above is the portion that can generate an effective phase change.

[0018] Preferably, the electrical connection plate and the reinforcing plate are provided by at least one strip.

[0019] Correspondingly, the present invention also provides a method for connecting an SMA wire end assembly, which includes the following steps:

[0020] (1) Provide an SMA wire and an electrical connection board, electrically connect the SMA wire to one side of the electrical connection board, and form an SMA wire protection area around a certain area of ​​the electrical connection board;

[0021] (2) Provide a reinforcing plate, stack the reinforcing plate on the electrical connection plate and make it cover at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and fix the reinforcing plate to the electrical connection plate.

[0022] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, step (2) includes the following steps:

[0023] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the following steps are included before step (2):

[0024] A protective layer is formed around the SMA line in the SMA line protection area, and a connecting layer for fixing the reinforcing plate is formed on one side of the electrical connection plate, the connecting layer covering at least a portion of the SMA line protection area.

[0025] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the protective layer and the connecting layer are formed in one step using the same material, or are formed separately using different materials.

[0026] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, step (1) specifically comprises:

[0027] The SMA wire is stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate, and at least a portion of the overlapping portion is electrically connected to form an electrical connection area. The portion of the SMA wire that is spaced apart from the electrical connection plate or the portion of the SMA wire that protrudes beyond the electrical connection plate forms a lead end. The SMA wire protection area includes the lead end and at least a portion of the electrical connection area.

[0028] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, step (2) includes the following steps:

[0029] (21) A reinforcing plate is provided, and a connecting portion is formed on the reinforcing plate;

[0030] (22) The reinforcing plate is stacked on the electrical connection plate and covers at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate;

[0031] (23) A fixing structure is formed in the connecting part, and the fixing structure completely covers the connecting part.

[0032] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, step (21) specifically involves: forming a stepped structure on the edge of the reinforcing plate by etching, extrusion, bending or injection molding, or / and opening through holes or / and grooves on the reinforcing plate to obtain the connection part; step (23) specifically involves: forming the fixing structure that covers the stepped structure and / or fills the through holes or / and grooves by applying glue or solder.

[0033] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, in step (1), the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and ultrasonic welding; in step (2), the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate by at least one of adhesive bonding, resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, ultrasonic riveting, bending, and heating.

[0034] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, when the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate by brazing, the step (1) of "electrically connecting the SMA wire to the electrical connection plate" specifically means:

[0035] First, place the SMA wire on one side of the electrical connection plate, then apply solder to the electrical connection plate and cover the SMA wire with the solder, so that the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate; or

[0036] First, place the SMA wire on one side of the electrical connection plate. Then, apply solder to the electrical connection plate, covering the SMA wire with the solder. Next, blow hot air onto the solder to electrically connect the SMA wire to the electrical connection plate; or

[0037] First, solder is pre-applied to one side of the electrical connection board to form a pad. Then, the SMA line is placed on the pad. Next, the SMA line and the electrical connection board are heated to make them electrically connected through the pad.

[0038] Preferably, in the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the SMA wire provided in step (1) is a bare wire, or includes a wire core and an insulating layer / insulating film covering the entire wire core. The insulating layer / insulating film covers at least the effective working portion of the SMA wire. The effective working portion is the portion that enables the SMA wire to undergo an effective phase change. For example, when the SMA wire is in contact with or very close to an electrical connection plate, or when the SMA wire is in contact with glue or the like, the phase change of the SMA wire will be affected. The portion of the SMA wire other than the contact portion or the close portion mentioned above is the portion that can undergo an effective phase change.

[0039] Compared with the prior art, the SMA wire end assembly of the present invention, after electrically connecting the SMA wire to the electrical connection plate, then stacking a reinforcing plate on the electrical connection plate and fixing the two together, and with the reinforcing plate at least covering the SMA wire protection area, separates the conduction of the SMA wire to the electrical connection part from its fixation to the electrical connection plate and the reinforcing plate. This not only reduces the difficulty of the process, but also ensures the conduction and fixation effects of the SMA wire, greatly improving the performance of the product. Secondly, the reinforcing plate stacked and fixed on the electrical connection plate strengthens the peel strength of the SMA wire in the cross-axial direction, improving the overall connection effect of the SMA wire end assembly. Furthermore, it is not necessary to distinguish whether the SMA wire has an insulation layer or not. That is, regardless of whether the SMA wire has an insulation layer, it can be directly electrically connected to the electrical connection plate. For SMA wires with an insulation layer, there is no need to remove its insulation layer first, thereby eliminating the risk of damage to the SMA wire caused by removing the insulation layer. This simplifies the molding process, improves the electrical connection effect, and enhances the strength and fatigue life of the SMA wire.

[0040] Correspondingly, the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, since it separates the electrical connection between the SMA wire and the electrical connection part and the fixed connection process between the reinforcing plate and the electrical connection plate, also has the above-mentioned technical effects. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a top view of the electrical connection plate connected to the SMA line in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the electrical connection plate after the connection layer has been formed.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a top view of the SMA wire end assembly in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A sectional view.

[0045] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A sectional view.

[0046] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A sectional view.

[0047] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an alternative implementation method.

[0048] Figure 8a yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an alternative implementation of the SMA line end assembly.

[0049] Figure 8b yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an alternative implementation of the SMA line end assembly.

[0050] Figure 8c yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another alternative implementation of the SMA line end assembly.

[0051] Figure 9 This is a top view of the electrical connection plate connected to the SMA line in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Yes, it's a sectional view.

[0053] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the SMA wire end assembly in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the SMA wire end assembly in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 13 This is a top view of the electrical connection plate connected to the SMA line in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 14 This is a top view of the SMA wire end assembly in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 15This is a cross-sectional view of the SMA wire end assembly in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 16 This is a top view of the SMA wire end assembly in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the SMA wire end assembly in the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the SMA wire end assembly in the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar element reference numerals represent similar elements. First, it should be noted that the directional descriptions involved in this invention, such as up, down, left, right, front, and rear, indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the technical solutions of this application or / and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. The terms "first," "second," etc., described are only used to distinguish technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the sequential relationship of the indicated technical features.

[0062] This invention aims to provide a method for separating the fixed connection and electrical connection of shape memory alloy (SMA) wires, and the resulting end assembly. The following is a description of the method in conjunction with the attached diagram. Figure 1-18 As shown, the SMA wire end assembly 100 and its connection method of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0063] First combine Figure 1-18As shown, the SMA wire end assembly 100 provided by the present invention includes an electrical connection plate 110, an SMA wire 120, and a reinforcing plate 130. The number of the electrical connection plate 110, the SMA wire 120, and the reinforcing plate 130 can be one or more, and no specific limitation is made in this invention. When there is only one electrical connection plate 110, one SMA wire 120, and one reinforcing plate 130, the SMA wire 120 is sandwiched between the stacked electrical connection plates 110 and reinforcing plates 130, and is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110. The reinforcing plate 130 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 to strengthen the fixation of the SMA wire 120. When there are multiple electrical connection plates 110 and reinforcing plates 130, they can be stacked sequentially. The SMA wire 120 is still sandwiched and fixed between an adjacent electrical connection plate 110 and a reinforcing plate 130, and is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110. When there are multiple SMA wires 120, all SMA wires 120 are sandwiched and fixed between an adjacent electrical connection plate 110 and a reinforcing plate 130. The electrical connection method of the SMA wires 120 is the same as that of a single SMA wire 120. The present invention improves the fixing strength of SMA line 120 by setting the reinforcing plate 130, especially the peel strength of SMA line 120 after fixing.

[0064] In this invention, after the SMA wire 120 is fixed between the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130, the SMA wire 120 can be output from both ends or only in one direction. This can be flexibly selected according to the specific product needs and will not affect the function and effect of the SMA wire end assembly 100 of this invention.

[0065] Combined again Figure 1-18 As shown, the structure of the SMA wire 120 itself is not specifically limited in this invention. Specifically, the SMA wire 120 may have only a core without an insulation layer, that is, the SMA wire 120 is a bare wire; or it may have a core and an insulation layer wrapped around it, and the insulation layer may wrap the entire core or only wrap a part of the core.

[0066] When the SMA wire 120 is a bare wire, it can be directly soldered, heated, or electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110. When the SMA wire 120 includes a core and an insulation layer, it can also be electrically connected by soldering, heating, or other methods. This process can cause the insulation layer of the SMA wire 120 to be crushed or melted by heating, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. Therefore, even though the SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer, it is not necessary to remove the insulation layer before connecting it to the electrical connection plate 110. This saves on manufacturing processes, eliminates the risk of damage to the SMA wire 120 from insulation removal, ensures the electrical connection effect of the SMA wire 120, and enhances the strength and fatigue life of the SMA wire 120.

[0067] See below. Figure 1-18 As shown, this invention takes SMA wire 120 as the bare wire, and the number of electrical connection plate 110, SMA wire 120 and reinforcing plate 130 is one each as an example, to describe in detail different embodiments of the SMA wire end assembly 100 and its connection method of the present invention.

[0068] First combine Figure 1-6 As shown, in the first embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly 100 of the present invention, it includes an electrical connection plate 110, an SMA wire 120, and a reinforcing plate 130. Both the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 are planar plate structures. The SMA wire 120 is stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, and both ends of the SMA wire 120 protrude beyond the electrical connection plate 110, i.e., the SMA wire 120 has two outgoing ends. At least a portion of the overlapping portion between the two is electrically connected to form an electrical connection area 120a. (See Figure 110 for details.) Figure 4 Simultaneously, an SMA line protection region 111 is formed on the electrical connection plate 110 around a certain area of ​​the SMA line 120. The SMA line protection region 111 includes at least a portion of the electrical connection region 120a and the outgoing end 120b of the SMA line 120, preferably including all of the electrical connection region 120a and the outgoing end 120b. The outgoing end 120b is either the portion of the SMA line 120 that is spaced apart from the electrical connection plate 110, or the portion of the SMA line 120 that protrudes beyond the electrical connection plate 110.

[0069] In addition, a connection region 112 is formed on the electrical connection plate 110. The area of ​​the connection region 112 is larger than the area of ​​the SMA line protection region 111, and the connection region 112 includes at least a portion of the SMA line protection region 111. A reinforcing plate 130 is stacked on the connection region 112, and then the reinforcing plate 130 is fixedly connected to the electrical connection plate 110. At this time, the reinforcing plate 130 is pressed against at least a portion of the SMA line protection region 111. The portion of the reinforcing plate 130 pressed against the SMA line protection region 111 mainly protects the SMA line 120. At the same time, the portion of the reinforcing plate 130 that extends beyond the SMA line protection region 111 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110. By using the reinforcing plate 130 to strengthen the fixing strength of the SMA line 120, the fixing strength of the SMA line 120, especially the peel strength of the SMA line 120, can be improved.

[0070] Combination Figure 1-4 As shown, the electrical connection plate 110 has a first length in the first direction X and a second length in the second direction Y. The first length and the second length can be the same or different. In this embodiment, the electrical connection plate 110 is approximately rectangular; therefore, the first length is greater than its second length. SMA lines 120 are stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, and the axis of the SMA lines 120 extends along the first direction X. The overlapping portion of both forms an electrical connection region 120a. That is, the length of the electrical connection region 120a is equal to the first length of the electrical connection plate 110. See details below. Figure 4 As shown; then, in the electrical connection area 120a, the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110 are electrically connected. After the electrical connection is completed, an electrical connection layer 140 is formed between the two, as shown. Figure 4-6 As shown, the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are electrically connected through the electrical connection layer 140.

[0071] Of course, depending on the different requirements for electrical connection strength, a portion of the overlapping area between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 can be electrically connected, such as... Figure 7 As shown, at this time, the length of the electrical connection region 120a is less than the first length of the electrical connection plate 110.

[0072] Understandably, this embodiment only schematically illustrates one extension direction of the SMA line 120, and the axial direction of the SMA line 120 can of course extend along a second direction or other directions.

[0073] Continue to combine Figure 1 , Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are welded together by at least one of resistance welding, laser welding, and ultrasonic welding. After welding, an electrical connection layer 140 is formed between them. The SMA wire 120 is fixed and electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110 using the electrical connection layer 140. It is worth noting that by using the aforementioned welding method, for the SMA wire 120 with an insulating layer, the insulating layer of the SMA wire 120 can be damaged or melted under pressure or high temperature, thereby fusing the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 to form the electrical connection layer 140. Therefore, before connecting the SMA wire 120 to the electrical connection plate 110, it is not necessary to specifically remove its insulating layer, saving process time and eliminating the risk of damage to the SMA wire 120 caused by removing the insulating layer. This ensures the electrical connection effect of the SMA wire 120 and enhances its strength and fatigue life.

[0074] Of course, the electrical connection between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110 is not limited to the aforementioned method, and other electrical connection methods can be selected as needed.

[0075] Combined again Figures 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA line protection area 111 is an area extending axially along the SMA line 120 and having a certain width, such as... Figure 1-2 The area shown in the rectangular box is the SMA wire protection area 111, which completely includes the electrical connection area 120a and the outgoing terminal 120b. Therefore, the SMA wire protection area 111 completely includes... Figure 4 The electrical connection layer 140 is shown. In this embodiment, the area of ​​the connection region 112 is less than or equal to the area of ​​the electrical connection plate 110. The connection region 112 includes a portion of the SMA wire protection region 111, specifically the portion where the SMA wire protection region 111 overlaps with the electrical connection region 120a, or in other words, the portion of the SMA wire protection region 111 excluding the output terminal 120b. Figure 2 As shown. The reinforcing plate 130 is stacked on the connection area 112 and fixed to the electrical connection plate 110. Therefore, the portion of the reinforcing plate 130 covering the SMA wire 120 provides protection for the SMA wire 120, enhances the fixing strength of the SMA wire 120, and especially enhances the peel strength. See details... Figure 3 As shown.

[0076] The present invention does not impose specific limitations on the size of the reinforcing plate 130. Its area can be greater than, equal to or less than the area of ​​the electrical connection plate 110, as long as it can completely cover the aforementioned connection area 112.

[0077] Combined again Figure 2-3 , Figure 5-6As shown, in this embodiment, a protective layer 150 is formed in the SMA line protection area 111, completely enclosing the SMA line 120. The function of the protective layer 150 is to protect the SMA line 120. Simultaneously, a connecting layer 160 is formed in the connecting area 112. The connecting layer 160 is used to fix the reinforcing plate 130; therefore, at least a portion of the connecting layer 160 overlaps with the connecting layer 150. Typically, to save costs, the protective layer 150 of the SMA line 120 is formed in the SMA line protection area 111 using one material, while the connecting layer 160 is formed in the connecting area 112 using a different material, because the temperature resistance requirements of the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 are different. Of course, it is also feasible to form a single material layer with both protective and connecting functions in the SMA line protection area 111 and the connecting area 112 using the same material in one step.

[0078] See below. Figure 7 As shown, this illustrates another configuration where the connection region 112 includes a portion of the SMA wire protection region 111. In this configuration, the connection region 112 covers only half of the electrical connection plate 110 in the first direction X, while covering the entire electrical connection plate 110 in the second direction Y. When the connection layer 160 is formed on the connection region 112, the connection layer 160 covers only approximately half of the SMA wire protection region 111. Figure 7 (As shown in the dashed box). Therefore, in order to protect the SMA line 120, a protective material is applied to the portion 111a of the SMA line protection area 111 not covered by the connecting layer 160 to form the aforementioned protective layer 150. The material of the protective layer 150 may be the same as or different from that of the connecting layer 160, as specifically described above.

[0079] Continue reading Figure 1-6 As shown, the output terminal 120b in this embodiment will be described. Specifically, since the electrical connection plate 110 has a planar plate structure, the portion of the SMA wire 120 protruding outside the electrical connection plate 110 forms the output terminal 120b. See [reference] Figure 4 As shown, the length of the lead-out end 120b is preferably greater than or equal to 0.1 times the diameter of the SMA wire 120, more preferably 0.1-30 times the diameter of the SMA wire 120. The protective layer 150 preferably completely covers the lead-out end 120b of the SMA wire 120. In this embodiment, the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 of the SMA wire 120 are formed of the same material. See [reference needed] Figure 2-3 , Figure 5-6 As shown, this achieves the aforementioned protective effect. Of course, the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 of the SMA line 120 can be formed from different materials to save costs.

[0080] Continue to combine Figure 1-6As shown, in this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 130 is formed from any of the following materials: metal, plastic, and inorganic materials (e.g., glass), but is not limited to the aforementioned materials. The function of the reinforcing plate 130 is to improve the fixing strength of the SMA wires 120, especially to improve the peel strength of the SMA wires 120 in the direction of their intersection. Therefore, any material that can achieve the above purpose is acceptable.

[0081] Accordingly, the connecting layer 160 can be formed by adhesive or solder. Therefore, the reinforcing plate 130 can be fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by adhesive bonding, or it can be fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and heating. Resistance welding, laser welding, and heating are all conventional methods in the art and will not be described in detail. Brazing will be described in detail later. Among them, heating is only applicable when the reinforcing plate 130 is made of metal. For example, the reinforcing plate 130 can be connected to solder / solder by a heating process, such as in the form of a hot bar.

[0082] Understandably, the reinforcing plate 130 is not limited to being fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by the connecting layer 160. For example, in other embodiments, the two can also be fixed by ultrasonic riveting, bending or other methods.

[0083] The following is combined with Figures 8a-8c As shown, in this invention, the output terminal 120b is not limited to the above-described... Figure 1-6 The position defined herein can also be formed by other structures, as shown in the following examples:

[0084] exist Figure 8a In one alternative embodiment, the electrical connection plate 110 has chamfers 113 with an inclined structure at both ends in the first direction. The chamfers 113 are located on the same side of the electrical connection plate 110. In the thickness direction of the electrical connection plate 110, the chamfers 113 are inclined downward from the side of the electrical connection plate 110. Therefore, after the SMA line 120 is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110, a gap is formed between the SMA line 120 and the chamfer 113. The part of the SMA line 120 corresponding to the chamfer 113 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 completely covers the output end 120b.

[0085] exist Figure 8bIn another alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connection plate 110 has a recessed groove 114 at each end in the first direction. The groove 114 passes through both ends of the electrical connection plate 110. After the SMA wire 120 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110, both ends of the SMA wire 120 pass over the groove 114 and protrude outside the electrical connection plate 110. At this time, there is a gap between the SMA wire 120 and the bottom of the groove 114. In this embodiment, the section of the SMA wire 120 corresponding to the groove 114 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 is filled in the groove 114, so the protective layer 150 can completely cover the output end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0086] exist Figure 8c In another alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connection plate 110 is bent at both ends in the first direction. Therefore, both ends of the electrical connection plate 110 have downwardly bent portions 115. After the SMA wire 120 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110, both ends of the SMA wire 120 pass over the two bent portions 115 and protrude outside the electrical connection plate 110. At this time, the SMA wire 120 and the bent portions 115 are also spaced apart. In this embodiment, the section of the SMA wire 120 corresponding to the bent portion 115 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 is formed on the bent portion 115, so the protective layer 150 can completely wrap around the output end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0087] Note that in Figures 8a-8c In the embodiment shown, the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 are both formed from the same material.

[0088] See below. Figure 9-11 As shown, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the main difference from the first embodiment is that the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are electrically connected by brazing. The specific method of brazing will be described in detail below.

[0089] See Figure 9-10 As shown, for the method of electrical connection using brazing, the SMA line 120 is first placed on one side of the electrical connection plate 110. In this embodiment, the axial direction of the SMA line 120 extends along the length direction (first direction X) of the electrical connection plate 110. Then, solder is applied to the electrical connection plate 110 along the SMA line 120, and the solder covers the SMA line 120. For example, solder 140a is sprayed along the SMA line 120, so that the solder 140a covers the SMA line 120, thereby forming an electrical connection layer 140 between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. Figure 11As shown, this method has the highest production efficiency. Alternatively, the SMA line 120 can be placed on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, with the axial direction of the SMA line 120 extending along the length of the electrical connection plate 110, as shown. Figure 9-10 As shown, solder (e.g., solder paste) is then applied to the electrical connection board 110 and the solder covers the SMA line 120. Hot air is then blown onto the solder to form an electrical connection layer 140 between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110. Figure 11 As shown, the SMA line 120 is electrically connected to the electrical connection board 110 in this way, which is the lowest cost method.

[0090] Of course, it is not limited to the above-mentioned electrical connection method. For example, solder can be pre-applied to one side of the electrical connection board 110 to form a pad, and then the SMA line 120 can be placed on the pad. Then, the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110 can be heated to make them electrically connected through the pad. This method has the best strength.

[0091] Combined again Figure 9-11 As shown, in this embodiment, after the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are electrically connected, the reinforcing plate 130 can be fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 using the connecting layer 160. The forming method of the connecting layer 160 and the fixing method of the reinforcing plate 130 are the same as in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again. This additional fixing of the reinforcing plate 130 results in a final structure of the SMA line end assembly 100 that is also the same as in the first embodiment described above.

[0092] Combined again Figure 9-11 As shown, in this embodiment, since brazing is used, solder is added. Besides achieving the electrical connection between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110, the solder can also form a plate-like structure with a certain thickness and size on the electrical connection layer 140 or above the solder joint between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110. This plate-like structure serves as a reinforcing plate 130. In other words, in this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 130 is directly formed using solder. Figure 11 As shown.

[0093] The following is combined with Figure 12-14 As shown, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the main difference between the SMA wire end assembly 100 and the first embodiment is that the structure of the reinforcing plate 130 is different.

[0094] In this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 130 is provided with a connecting portion 131, which further strengthens the fixation between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110. Specifically, the connecting portion 131 is a stepped structure provided along the edge of the reinforcing plate 130. After the reinforcing plate 130 is stacked on the electrical connection plate 110, the two are fixed together by the aforementioned connecting layer 160. A fixing structure 170 is formed outside the stepped structure. The fixing structure 170 completely covers the stepped structure and connects to the connecting layer 160. Preferably, the fixing structure 170 and the connecting layer 160 are formed of the same material, but they can also be formed of different materials. The provision of the connecting portion 131 and the fixing structure 170 can further strengthen the fixation strength between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, thereby further strengthening the fixation strength of the SMA line 120, and especially improving the peel strength of the SMA line 120.

[0095] In this embodiment, the fixing structure 170 and the connecting layer 160 are preferably formed by adhesive or solder, but are not limited thereto. Of course, they can also be formed by other materials with adhesive properties.

[0096] Continue reading Figure 12 , Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, the stepped structure is formed on the edge of the reinforcing plate 130 by methods such as etching, extrusion, bending, and injection molding. The stepped structure can ensure that the position and height of the connecting layer 160 are controllable. In addition, this stepped structure is beneficial for laser welding, resistance welding, and ultrasonic welding, because the aforementioned welding methods all require the two welding objects to be closely connected and also have requirements for the welding thickness. The stepped structure can just meet these requirements.

[0097] In this embodiment, the structure of the other parts of the SMA wire end assembly 100 is the same as that in the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, the electrical connection method between the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 can be any of the methods described in the first and second embodiments, and therefore will not be repeated here. It should be specifically noted that... Figure 12-14 The main purpose is to illustrate the structure of the reinforcing plate 130 and its fixing method with the electrical connection plate 110, therefore Figure 12-14 The same parts as those in the first and second embodiments described above are not shown, such as the part of the connecting layer 160 covering the outgoing end 120b of the SMA line 120.

[0098] See below. Figure 15-16 As shown, in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the main difference between the structure of the SMA wire end assembly 100 and the third embodiment is that the structure of the reinforcing plate 130 is different.

[0099] In this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 130 is also provided with a connecting portion 131, but the connecting portion 131 is a through hole and / or groove formed on the reinforcing plate 130, such as... Figure 15 The method shown has two through holes, but the number of through holes and / or grooves is not necessarily proportional to the number of through holes and / or grooves. Figure 15-16 The reinforcement plate 130 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 via the connecting layer 160. Adhesive or solder is then filled into the through holes and / or grooves to form a fixing structure 170, which is connected to the connecting layer 160. The fixing structure 170 strengthens the fixation between the reinforcement plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, further enhancing the fixation strength of the SMA line 120, and particularly improving the peel strength of the SMA line 120.

[0100] In this embodiment, through holes and / or grooves are machined on the reinforcing plate 130 by methods such as etching, punching, and injection molding for fixing to the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. The fixing method can be adhesive bonding, laser welding, ultrasonic riveting, brazing, resistance welding, etc. The fixing structure 170 is preferably formed of the same material as the connecting layer 160, but is not limited thereto.

[0101] See below. Figure 17 As shown, in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the SMA wire end assembly 100 differs from that in the first embodiment, mainly in that the SMA wire 120 further includes an SMA wire protective layer 122. That is, the SMA wire 120 has a wire core 121 and an SMA wire protective layer 122 wrapped around the wire core 121. The SMA wire protective layer 122 is mainly used to dampen and buffer the SMA wire 120 and reduce the stress on the SMA wire 120. The SMA wire protective layer 122 mentioned here is different from the insulation layer.

[0102] It should be noted that the method of setting the SMA wire protective layer 122 in this embodiment is mainly applicable to implementations where the SMA wire 120 is a bare wire (only having the core 121). The SMA wire protective layer 122 can be formed by the manufacturer before the SMA wire end assembly 100 is fixed, or an SMA wire 120 with the SMA wire protective layer 122 can be purchased directly. In addition, for SMA wires 120 that already have an insulation layer, the SMA wire protective layer 122 in this embodiment is an optional structure, because the insulation layer itself already has a certain shock absorption and buffering effect. Therefore, it is optional to set the SMA wire protective layer 122 according to specific needs. When set, the SMA wire protective layer 122 is located outside the insulation layer.

[0103] The structure and molding method of the other parts of the SMA wire end assembly 100 in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment above, and will not be described again.

[0104] See below. Figure 18 As shown, in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the SMA wire end assembly 100 differs from that in the first embodiment above mainly in that the SMA wire 120 further includes an insulating film 123, which at least wraps around the effective working portion of the SMA wire 120 to achieve insulation of the SMA wire 120.

[0105] In this embodiment, the effective working portion of the SMA line 120 is the portion capable of causing an effective phase transition in the SMA line 120. Specifically, when the SMA line 120 comes into contact with other components, contact portions and non-contact portions are formed on the SMA line 120. Simultaneously, the phase transition of the SMA line 120 is affected, allowing the non-contact portions on the SMA line 120 to undergo an effective phase transition. Therefore, these non-contact portions constitute its effective working portion. It should be noted that the term "contact" here includes direct contact and near proximity.

[0106] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the SMA line 120 is in contact with or very close to the electrical connection plate 110, or when the SMA line 120 is in contact with adhesive or the like, these contact or close portions on the SMA line 120 are the aforementioned contact portions. The portions on the SMA line 120 other than the contact portions are the non-contact portions, that is, the portions that can generate an effective phase change. These non-contact portions form the effective working portions, and an insulating film 123 is wrapped around the effective working portions. See details below. Figure 18 As shown, the insulation of the SMA wire 120 is achieved through the insulating film 123.

[0107] Continue reading Figure 18 As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA wire 120 is clamped and fixed between the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130. Therefore, the portion fixed between the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 forms the aforementioned contact portion, and the portion of the SMA wire 120 protruding outside the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 forms the effective working portion. The insulating film 123 at least covers the effective working portion of the SMA wire 120.

[0108] Combined again Figure 1-18 As shown, in the above embodiments of the present invention, the SMA wire 120 is used as a bare wire for explanation. In order to achieve insulation of the SMA wire 120, in addition to the above-mentioned method of setting the insulating film 123, insulation can also be performed on other metal parts on the product containing the SMA wire end assembly 100 that may come into contact with the SMA wire 120.

[0109] It should also be noted that although the above embodiments are all described with SMA wire 120 as bare wire, for embodiments where SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer, i.e., SMA wire 120 includes a wire core and an insulation layer wrapped around the wire core, the structure and connection method of the SMA wire end assembly 100 can be the same as described above. Figure 1-17 The same applies to any of the embodiments shown, and therefore will not be described again. Furthermore, since the SMA line 120 already has an insulation layer, it is not necessary to add another one. Figure 18 The insulating film shown.

[0110] Combined again Figure 1-18 As shown, the SMA wire end assembly 100 of the present invention can have its electrical connection plate 110 and reinforcing plate 130 provided by at least one strip, achieving mass production using the strip. Specifically, when the electrical connection plate 110 and reinforcing plate 130 are provided by one strip, the strip typically has multiple plates, and the reinforcing plate 130 and electrical connection plate 110 are formed by directly bending the plates, and then the stacked electrical connection plate 110 and reinforcing plate 130 are fixedly connected. When the electrical connection plate 110 and reinforcing plate 130 are provided by two or more strips, the strip providing the reinforcing plate 130 is stacked on the strip providing the electrical connection plate 110, and the reinforcing plates 130 are stacked one-to-one on the electrical connection plate 110, and then the stacked electrical connection plate 110 and reinforcing plate 130 are fixedly connected. This achieves multi-point continuous batch fixing and welding, thereby improving the connection efficiency of the SMA wire end assembly 100.

[0111] Let's combine them again below. Figure 1-18 As shown, the SMA wire end assembly connection method provided by this invention separates the fixing process of the SMA wire 120 from the electrical connection process, thereby ensuring the effectiveness of both the fixing and electrical connections. The SMA wire end assembly connection method of this invention specifically includes the following steps:

[0112] S01. Provide an SMA line 120 and an electrical connection plate 110, electrically connect the SMA line 120 to one side of the electrical connection plate 110, and form an SMA line protection area 111 on the electrical connection plate 110 around a certain area of ​​the SMA line 120.

[0113] S02. Provide a reinforcing plate 130, stack the reinforcing plate 130 on the electrical connection plate 110, and cover at least a portion of the SMA line protection area 111, and fix the reinforcing plate 130 to the electrical connection plate 110.

[0114] In the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the structure of the SMA wire 120 itself is not specifically limited. The SMA wire 120 may have only a wire core without an insulation layer, that is, the SMA wire 120 may be a bare wire, or it may have a wire core and an insulation layer wrapped around it. The insulation layer may wrap the entire wire core or only wrap a part of the wire core.

[0115] Combination Figure 4-6 , Figure 12-15 As shown, in step S01 above, the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 can be electrically connected by heating, welding, or other means. Welding can be at least one of resistance welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, and brazing. After the electrical connection is completed using the aforementioned methods, an electrical connection layer 140 is formed between the two. The SMA wire 120 is fixed and electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110 using the electrical connection layer 140. Using the aforementioned electrical connection method, when the SMA wire 120 is a bare wire, it can be directly fused and fixed to the electrical connection plate 110. However, for the SMA wire 120 with an insulation layer, when the electrical connection is achieved by heating, welding, or other methods, the insulation layer of the SMA wire 120 can be crushed or melted by heating under pressure or high temperature, thereby fusion and connecting the SMA wire 120 to the electrical connection plate 110. Therefore, even if the SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer, it is not necessary to remove the insulation layer before connecting the SMA wire 120 to the electrical connection plate 110, which saves process time, eliminates the risk of damage to the SMA wire 120 caused by removing the insulation layer, ensures the electrical connection effect of the SMA wire 120, and enhances the strength and fatigue life of the SMA wire 120.

[0116] See below. Figure 1-18 As shown, taking SMA wire 120 as the bare wire, and with one electrical connection plate 110, one SMA wire 120, and one reinforcing plate 130 as an example, different embodiments of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0117] First combine Figure 1-6 As shown, in the first embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, it includes the following steps:

[0118] S11. Provide an SMA wire 120 and an electrical connection plate 110. Stack the SMA wire 120 on one side of the electrical connection plate 110 and electrically connect at least a portion of the overlapping portion to form an electrical connection area 120a. An SMA wire protection area 111 is formed on the electrical connection plate 110 around a certain area of ​​the SMA wire 120. The SMA wire protection area 111 includes at least a portion of the electrical connection area 120a and the outgoing end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0119] See details Figure 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the electrical connection plate 110 has a first length in the first direction X and a second length in the second direction Y. The first length and the second length can be the same or different. In this embodiment, the electrical connection plate 110 is approximately rectangular; therefore, the first length is greater than its second length. SMA lines 120 are stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, and the axis of the SMA lines 120 extends along the first direction X. The overlapping portion of both forms an electrical connection region 120a. That is, the length of the electrical connection region 120a is equal to the first length of the electrical connection plate 110. See details below. Figure 4 As shown. After electrical connection, an electrical connection layer 140 is formed between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110, as follows. Figure 4-6 As shown, the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are electrically connected through the electrical connection layer 140, which is located within the entire electrical connection area 120a.

[0120] Of course, depending on the different requirements for electrical connection strength, a portion of the overlapping area between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 can be electrically connected, such as... Figure 7 As shown, at this time, the length of the electrical connection region 120a is less than the first length of the electrical connection plate 110.

[0121] Combined Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are welded together by at least one of resistance welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, and brazing. After welding, an electrical connection layer 140 is formed between the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. The electrical connection layer 140 is used to fix and electrically connect the SMA wire 120 to the electrical connection plate 110. However, it is not limited to forming the electrical connection layer 140. For example, forming multiple solder joints between the two can also achieve the fixation and electrical connection of the SMA wire 120.

[0122] In this embodiment, the aforementioned welding method allows the SMA wire 120 to be directly fused and fixed to the electrical connection plate 110. Of course, for the SMA wire 120 with an insulating layer, the aforementioned welding method can cause the insulating layer of the SMA wire 120 to be damaged or melted under pressure or high temperature, thereby fusing the SMA wire 120 with the electrical connection plate 110 to form the electrical connection layer 140. Therefore, before step S11, it is not necessary to specifically remove the insulating layer of the SMA wire 120, saving on the molding process and eliminating the risk of damage to the SMA wire 120 from removing the insulating layer, ensuring the electrical connection effect of the SMA wire 120, and enhancing the strength and fatigue life of the SMA wire 120.

[0123] Of course, the way in which the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110 are electrically connected is not limited to that in this embodiment, and other electrical connection methods can be selected as needed.

[0124] Continue reading Figure 1-6 As shown, in this embodiment, since the electrical connection plate 110 has a planar plate structure, the section of the SMA wire 120 protruding outside the electrical connection plate 110 forms the output terminal 120b. (See Figure 110 for details.) Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, the length of the output end 120b is preferably greater than or equal to 0.1 times the diameter of the SMA wire 120, and more preferably 0.1-30 times the diameter of the SMA wire 120.

[0125] Combination Figures 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA line protection area 111 is an area extending axially along the SMA line 120 and having a certain width, such as... Figure 1-2 The area shown in the rectangular box is defined as follows, and the SMA wire protection area 111 completely includes the electrical connection area 120a and the outgoing terminal 120b. Therefore, the SMA wire protection area 111 naturally completely includes... Figure 4 The electrical connection layer 140 shown.

[0126] S12. A protective layer 150 is formed in the SMA line protection area 111, which completely wraps around the SMA line 120, and a connection layer 160 is formed in a certain area on the electrical connection plate 110. The area covered by the connection layer 160 forms a connection area 112, and the connection area 112 includes at least a portion of the protective layer 150.

[0127] Combination Figure 2-3 , Figure 5-6 As shown, in this embodiment, a protective layer 150 is formed in the SMA wire protection area 111 that completely surrounds the SMA wire 120. That is, the protective layer 150 surrounds the electrical connection area 120a and the output end 120b of the SMA wire 120. Figure 4 As shown, the protective layer 150 is used to protect the SMA line 120; at the same time, the connecting layer 160 is used to fix the reinforcing plate 130. Therefore, the connecting layer 160 will overlap with the connecting layer 150 at least in part.

[0128] Typically, to save costs, a protective layer 150 for the SMA wire 120 is formed from one material in the SMA wire protection area 111, while a connecting layer 160 is formed from a different material in the connecting area 112, because the temperature resistance requirements of the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 are different. Alternatively, a single material layer serving both protective and connecting functions can be formed in both the SMA wire protection area 111 and the connecting area 112, which is also feasible. Figure 2-6 The embodiments shown are formed using the same material.

[0129] In this embodiment, the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 are formed from the same material, see [reference]. Figure 2-3 , Figure 5-6 As shown, it is preferably formed by adhesive or solder, but is not limited thereto. The protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 of the SMA line 120 can of course be formed by different materials. For example, the protective layer 150 can be formed by other materials with protective and temperature resistance requirements, while the connecting layer 160 can be formed by other materials with adhesive properties.

[0130] S13. Provide a reinforcing plate 130, and stack the reinforcing plate 130 on the connection area 112 so that the reinforcing plate 130 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 through the connection layer 160.

[0131] Continue to combine Figure 1-6 As shown, in this embodiment, the portion of the reinforcing plate 130 covering the SMA line 120 is intended to protect the SMA line 120. The portion between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, excluding the SMA line protection area 111, mainly enhances the fixing strength of the SMA line 120, especially the peel strength.

[0132] In this embodiment, the size of the reinforcing plate 130 is not specifically limited. Its area can be greater than, equal to or less than the area of ​​the electrical connection plate 110, as long as it can completely cover the aforementioned connection area 112.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 130 is preferably formed from any of the following materials: metal, plastic, and inorganic materials (e.g., glass), but is not limited to the aforementioned materials. The function of the reinforcing plate 130 is to improve the fixing strength of the SMA wires 120, especially to improve the peel strength of the SMA wires 120 in the direction of their intersection. Therefore, any material that can achieve the above purpose is acceptable.

[0134] Combined again Figure 1-6As shown, in the first embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the reinforcing plate 130 can be fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by adhesive bonding, or it can be fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and heating. Resistance welding, laser welding, and heating are all conventional methods in the art and will not be described in detail. Brazing will be described in detail later. Among them, heating is only applicable when the reinforcing plate 130 is made of metal. For example, the reinforcing plate 130 is connected to solder / solder by a heating process, such as in the form of a hot bar.

[0135] Understandably, the reinforcing plate 130 is not limited to being fixed to the electrical connection plate 110 by the connecting layer 160. For example, in other embodiments, the two can also be fixed by ultrasonic riveting, bending or other methods.

[0136] See below. Figure 7 As shown, this illustrates another configuration where the connection region 112 includes a portion of the SMA wire protection region 111. In this configuration, the connection region 112 covers only half of the electrical connection plate 110 in the first direction X, while covering the entire electrical connection plate 110 in the second direction Y. When the connection layer 160 is formed on the connection region 112, the connection layer 160 covers only approximately half of the SMA wire protection region 111. Figure 7 (As shown in the dashed box). Therefore, in order to protect the SMA line 120, it is necessary to continue to coat the portion 111a of the SMA line protection area 111 not covered by the connecting layer 160 with protective material to form the aforementioned protective layer 150. The material of the protective layer 150 may be the same as or different from that of the connecting layer 160, as specifically described above.

[0137] The following is combined with Figures 8a-8c As shown, in this invention, the output terminal 120b is not limited to the above-described... Figure 1-6 The position defined herein can also be formed by other structures for the output terminal 120b, as shown in the following examples:

[0138] exist Figure 8a In an alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connection plate 110 has chamfers 113 with inclined structures formed at both ends of the first direction. The chamfers 113 are located on the same side of the electrical connection plate 110. After the SMA line 120 is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate 110 in the thickness direction of the electrical connection plate 110, a gap is formed between the SMA line 120 and the chamfer 113. The part of the SMA line 120 corresponding to the chamfer 113 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 completely covers the output end 120b.

[0139] exist Figure 8bIn another alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connection plate 110 has a recessed groove 114 at each end in the first direction. The groove 114 passes through both ends of the electrical connection plate 110. After the SMA wire 120 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110, both ends of the SMA wire 120 pass over the groove 114 and protrude outside the electrical connection plate 110. At this time, there is a gap between the SMA wire 120 and the bottom of the groove 114. In this embodiment, the section of the SMA wire 120 corresponding to the groove 114 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 is filled in the groove 114, so the protective layer 150 can completely cover the output end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0140] exist Figure 8c In another alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connection plate 110 is bent at both ends in the first direction. Therefore, both ends of the electrical connection plate 110 have downwardly bent portions 115. After the SMA wire 120 is fixed to the electrical connection plate 110, both ends of the SMA wire 120 pass over the two bent portions 115 and protrude outside the electrical connection plate 110. At this time, the SMA wire 120 and the bent portions 115 are also spaced apart. In this embodiment, the section of the SMA wire 120 corresponding to the bent portion 115 is defined as the output end 120b. The protective layer 150 is formed on the bent portion 115, so the protective layer 150 can completely wrap around the output end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0141] Note that in Figures 8a-8c In the embodiment shown, the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 are both formed from the same material.

[0142] See below. Figure 9-11 As shown, in the first embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, if the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 are electrically connected by brazing in step S11, then step S11 can be implemented in any of the following ways:

[0143] S111. First, place the SMA wire 120 on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, for example... Figure 9-10 In the illustrated embodiment, the SMA line 120 extends axially along the length direction (first direction X) of the electrical connection plate 110, but is not limited thereto; then, solder is applied to the electrical connection plate 110, and the solder covers the SMA line 120, for example, by spraying solder 140a along the SMA line 120, thereby forming an electrical connection layer 140 between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110, achieving electrical connection between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. Figure 11 As shown, this method has the highest production efficiency; or

[0144] S111ˋ, First place the SMA wire 120 on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, such as Figure 9-10 In the illustrated embodiment, the SMA line 120 extends axially along the length direction (first direction X) of the electrical connection plate 110, but is not limited thereto; then, solder (e.g., solder paste) is applied to the electrical connection plate 110 and covers the SMA line 120; then, hot air is blown onto the solder to form an electrical connection layer 140 between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110, as shown. Figure 11 As shown, this method electrically connects the SMA cable 120 to the electrical connection board 110, which is the lowest cost approach; or

[0145] S111ˋˋ First, solder is pre-applied to one side of the electrical connection board 110 to form a pad. Then, the SMA line 120 is placed on the pad. Next, the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection board 110 are heated to make them electrically connected through the pad. This method has the best strength.

[0146] Combined again Figure 9-11 As shown, in this embodiment, solder is added because brazing is used. Besides achieving the electrical connection between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110, the solder can also form a plate-like structure of a certain thickness and size above the electrical connection layer 140 or solder joint between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110. This plate-like structure serves as a reinforcing plate 130. In other words, the reinforcing plate 130 in this embodiment is directly formed using solder. The overall structure after forming the reinforcing plate 130 is as follows: Figure 11 As shown, therefore, the above steps S12-S13 are no longer necessary.

[0147] The following is combined with Figure 12-16 As shown, in the second embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the main difference from the first embodiment is only that the structure of the reinforcing plate 130 is different. The SMA wire end assembly connection method in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0148] S21. Provide a reinforcing plate 130, and form a connecting portion 131 on the reinforcing plate 130;

[0149] See Figure 12 , Figure 14 As shown, in one specific implementation of this embodiment, a stepped structure is formed on the edge of the reinforcing plate 130 by methods such as etching, extrusion, bending, and injection molding. This stepped structure is the connecting portion 131. Figure 15-16In another specific implementation shown, through holes and / or grooves are machined on the reinforcing plate 130 by methods such as etching, punching, and injection molding. These through holes and / or grooves constitute the connecting portion 131. Figure 15 The method shown has two through holes, but the number of through holes and / or grooves is not necessarily the same. Figure 15-16 The limitations are as follows. Of course, stepped structures and holes and / or grooves can also be formed on the reinforcing plate 130 at the same time.

[0150] S22. Provide an SMA wire 120 and an electrical connection plate 110, stack the SMA wire 120 on one side of the electrical connection plate 110, and electrically connect at least a portion of the overlapping portion to form an electrical connection area 120a. An SMA wire protection area 111 is formed on the electrical connection plate 110 around a certain area of ​​the SMA wire 120. The SMA wire protection area 111 includes at least a portion of the electrical connection area 120a and the outgoing end 120b of the SMA wire 120.

[0151] In this embodiment, the electrical connection method between the SMA line 120 and the electrical connection plate 110 is the same as that in step S11 of the first embodiment above, so it will not be described again; at the same time, the outgoing terminal 120b is also the same as that in the first embodiment above.

[0152] S23. A protective layer 150 is formed in the SMA line protection area 111, which completely wraps around the SMA line 120, and a connection layer 160 is formed in a certain area on the electrical connection plate 110. The area covered by the connection layer 160 forms a connection area 112, and the connection area 112 includes at least a portion of the protective layer 150.

[0153] In this embodiment, the method of forming the protective layer 150 and the connecting layer 160 is the same as in step S12 of the first embodiment described above, and will not be described again. Additionally, in this embodiment, the outgoing end 120b of the SMA line 120 is also the same as in the first embodiment described above.

[0154] S24. The reinforcing plate 130 with the connecting part 131 is stacked on the connecting area 112, so that the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connecting plate 110 are fixed together by the connecting layer 160.

[0155] In this embodiment, for the specific implementation of the connecting part 131 as a stepped structure, the stepped structure can ensure that the position and height of the connecting layer 160 are controllable; in addition, this stepped structure is beneficial to laser welding, resistance welding, ultrasonic welding, etc., because the aforementioned welding methods all require the two welding objects to be closely connected and also have requirements on the welding thickness, and the stepped structure can just meet these requirements.

[0156] S25. A fixing structure 170 is formed outside the connecting part 131, the fixing structure 170 completely covers the connecting part 131 and connects to the connecting layer 160.

[0157] More specifically, for Figure 12-14 In the embodiment described, a fixing structure 170 is formed outside the stepped structure. The fixing structure 170 completely covers the stepped structure and connects to the connecting layer 160. The fixing structure 170 and the connecting layer 160 are preferably formed from the same material, preferably with glue or solder, but can also be formed from different materials. The connection portion 131 and the fixing structure 170 enhance the fixing strength between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, thereby further enhancing the fixing strength of the SMA wire 120, especially improving the peel strength of the SMA wire 120.

[0158] for Figure 15-16 In one embodiment, adhesive or solder is filled into the through-hole and / or groove to form a fixing structure 170, which is connected to the connecting layer 160. The fixing structure 170 strengthens the bond between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, further enhancing the bond strength of the SMA wire 120 and improving its peel strength. Of course, the fixing structure 170 and the connecting layer 160 can also be formed from different materials.

[0159] See below. Figure 17 As shown, in the third embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the difference from the first embodiment is only that the following steps are included before step S11:

[0160] S10. An SMA line protective layer 122 is formed on the outside of the SMA line 120, wherein the SMA line protective layer 122 covers at least a portion of the SMA line 120.

[0161] like Figure 17 As shown, an SMA wire protective layer 122 is wrapped around the SMA wire 120. This is mainly applicable to implementations where the SMA wire 120 is a bare wire (only having the wire core 121). The SMA wire protective layer 122 can provide shock absorption and buffering for the SMA wire 120 and reduce the impact of stress on the SMA wire 120.

[0162] The SMA wire protection layer 122 mentioned here is different from the insulation layer. For the SMA wire 120 which has its own insulation layer, the SMA wire protection layer 122 described in this embodiment is an optional structure. Since the insulation layer itself has a certain shock absorption and buffering effect, it is possible to choose whether to set the SMA wire protection layer 122 according to specific needs. When set, the SMA wire protection layer 122 is located outside the insulation layer.

[0163] The other steps of the SMA wire end assembly connection method in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and will not be described again.

[0164] See below. Figure 18 As shown, in the fourth embodiment of the SMA wire end assembly connection method of the present invention, the difference from the first embodiment described above is that the following steps are included before step S11:

[0165] S10. An insulating film 123 is formed on the outside of the SMA line 120, the insulating film 123 covering at least the effective working portion of the SMA line 120.

[0166] In this embodiment, the effective working portion of the SMA line 120 is the portion capable of causing an effective phase transition in the SMA line 120. Specifically, when the SMA line 120 comes into contact with other components, contact portions and non-contact portions are formed on the SMA line 120. Simultaneously, the phase transition of the SMA line 120 is affected, allowing the non-contact portions on the SMA line 120 to undergo an effective phase transition. Therefore, these non-contact portions constitute its effective working portion. It should be noted that the term "contact" here includes direct contact and near proximity.

[0167] See details Figure 18 As shown, when the SMA line 120 is in contact with or very close to the electrical connection plate 110, or when the SMA line 120 is in contact with adhesive or the like, these contact or close-proximity portions on the SMA line 120 are the aforementioned contact portions. The portions on the SMA line 120 other than the contact portions are the non-contact portions, that is, the portions that can generate an effective phase change. These non-contact portions form the effective working portions, and an insulating film 123 is wrapped around the effective working portions. See details below. Figure 18 As shown, the insulation of the SMA wire 120 is achieved through the insulating film 123.

[0168] Continue reading Figure 18 As shown, in this embodiment, the SMA wire 120 is clamped and fixed between the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130. Therefore, the portion fixed between the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 forms the aforementioned contact portion, and the portion of the SMA wire 120 protruding outside the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 forms the effective working portion. The insulating film 123 at least covers the effective working portion of the SMA wire 120, and the insulating film 123 achieves insulation of the SMA wire 120.

[0169] It should also be noted that although the above embodiments are all described with SMA wire 120 as a bare wire, for embodiments where SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer, that is, SMA wire 120 includes a wire core and an insulation layer wrapped around the wire core, the connection method of the SMA wire end assembly is the same as described above. Figure 1-17 The same applies to any of the embodiments shown, and therefore will not be described again. Furthermore, since the SMA line 120 already has an insulation layer, it is not necessary to add another one. Figure 18 The insulating film shown.

[0170] In summary, because the SMA wire end assembly 100 of the present invention electrically connects the SMA wire 120 to the electrical connection plate 110, and then stacks the reinforcing plate 130 on the electrical connection plate 110 and fixes the two together, and the reinforcing plate 130 at least covers the SMA wire protection area 111, the conductivity between the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection portion 131 and its fixation with the electrical connection plate 110 and the reinforcing plate 130 are separated. This not only reduces the difficulty of the process, but also ensures the conductivity and fixation effect of the SMA wire 120, greatly improving the performance of the product; secondly, the stacking and fixing to the electrical connection portion 110... The reinforcing plate 130 on plate 110 enhances the peel strength of SMA wire 120 in the cross-axial direction, improving the overall connection effect of SMA wire end assembly 100. Furthermore, it is not necessary to distinguish whether SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer. That is, regardless of whether SMA wire 120 has an insulation layer, it can be directly electrically connected to electrical connection plate 110. For SMA wire 120 with an insulation layer, it is not necessary to remove its insulation layer first, thereby eliminating the risk of damage to SMA wire 120 caused by removing the insulation layer. This simplifies the molding process, improves the electrical connection effect, and enhances the strength and fatigue life of SMA wire 120.

[0171] Correspondingly, the SMA wire end assembly 100 connection method of the present invention separates the electrical connection between the SMA wire 120 and the electrical connection part 131 and the fixed connection process between the reinforcing plate 130 and the electrical connection plate 110, and therefore also has the above-mentioned technical effects.

[0172] The above-disclosed embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Therefore, any equivalent variations made in accordance with the claims of the present invention are still within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An SMA wire termination assembly, characterized in that, The device includes an electrical connection plate, an SMA wire, and a reinforcing plate. The SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate, and an SMA wire protection area is formed on the electrical connection plate around a certain area of ​​the SMA wire. The reinforcing plate is stacked on the electrical connection plate and covers at least a portion of the SMA wire protection area. The reinforcing plate is fixedly connected to the electrical connection plate. The SMA wire is stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate, and at least a portion of the overlapping portion between the two is electrically connected to form an electrical connection area. The portion of the SMA wire that is spaced apart from the electrical connection plate or the portion of the SMA wire that protrudes beyond the electrical connection plate forms a lead end. The SMA wire protection area includes the lead end and at least a portion of the electrical connection area.

2. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical connection board also has a connection area, which includes at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and the reinforcing plate is stacked and fixed to the connection area.

3. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The SMA line protection area is formed with a protective layer that wraps around the SMA line, and a connection layer is formed in the connection area. The reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate through the connection layer.

4. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The protective layer and the connecting layer can be formed in one step using the same material, or formed separately using different materials.

5. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The reinforcing plate is also provided with a connecting part, and the reinforcing plate is further fixed to the electrical connection plate through the connecting part.

6. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The connecting portion includes a stepped structure provided along the edge of the reinforcing plate and / or a through hole and / or a groove formed on the reinforcing plate, and a fixing structure formed between the electrical connecting plate and the reinforcing plate that covers the stepped structure and / or fills the through hole and / or the groove.

7. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The fixing structure is formed by glue or solder.

8. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and ultrasonic welding; the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate by at least one of adhesive bonding, resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, ultrasonic riveting, bending, and heating.

9. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The reinforcing plate is formed from either metal or plastic.

10. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The reinforcing plate is formed from inorganic materials.

11. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The SMA wire is a bare wire, or the SMA wire includes a core and an insulation layer covering the core, wherein the insulation layer covers at least the effective working portion of the SMA wire.

12. The SMA wire termination assembly as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The electrical connection plate and the reinforcing plate are provided by at least one strip.

13. A method for connecting an SMA wire end assembly, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: (1) Provide an SMA wire and an electrical connection board, electrically connect the SMA wire to one side of the electrical connection board, and form an SMA wire protection area around a certain area of ​​the electrical connection board; (2) Provide a reinforcing plate, stack the reinforcing plate on the electrical connection plate and make it cover at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and fix the reinforcing plate to the electrical connection plate; The specific steps (1) are as follows: The SMA wire is stacked on one side of the electrical connection plate, and at least a portion of the overlapping portion is electrically connected to form an electrical connection area. The portion of the SMA wire that is spaced apart from the electrical connection plate or the portion of the SMA wire that protrudes beyond the electrical connection plate forms a lead end. The SMA wire protection area includes the lead end and at least a portion of the electrical connection area.

14. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The following steps are included before step (2): A protective layer is formed in the SMA line protection area to completely cover the SMA line, and a connecting layer for fixing the reinforcing plate is formed on one side of the electrical connection plate, the connecting layer covering at least a portion of the SMA line protection area.

15. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The protective layer and the connecting layer can be formed in one step using the same material, or formed separately using different materials.

16. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 13, characterized in that, Step (2) includes the following steps: (21) A reinforcing plate is provided, and a connecting portion is formed on the reinforcing plate; (22) The reinforcing plate is stacked on the electrical connection plate and covers at least a portion of the SMA line protection area, and the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate; (23) A fixing structure is formed in the connecting part, and the fixing structure completely covers the connecting part.

17. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The specific steps (21) are as follows: forming a stepped structure on the edge of the reinforcing plate by etching, extrusion, bending or injection molding and / or opening through holes and / or grooves on the reinforcing plate to obtain the connecting part; The specific step (23) is to form a fixing structure that is wrapped around the stepped structure and / or filled in the through hole and / or groove by means of glue or solder.

18. The SMA wire end assembly connection method according to any one of claims 13-15, characterized in that, In step (1), the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate by at least one of resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, and ultrasonic welding. In step (2), the reinforcing plate is fixed to the electrical connection plate by at least one of the following methods: adhesive bonding, resistance welding, brazing, laser welding, ultrasonic riveting, bending, and heating.

19. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 18, characterized in that, When the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection board by brazing, the step (1) of "electrically connecting the SMA wire to the electrical connection board" specifically means: First, place the SMA wire on one side of the electrical connection plate, then apply solder to the electrical connection plate and cover the SMA wire with the solder, so that the SMA wire is electrically connected to the electrical connection plate; or First, place the SMA wire on one side of the electrical connection plate. Then, apply solder to the electrical connection plate, covering the SMA wire with the solder. Next, blow hot air onto the solder to electrically connect the SMA wire to the electrical connection plate; or First, solder is pre-applied to one side of the electrical connection board to form a pad. Then, the SMA line is placed on the pad. Next, the SMA line and the electrical connection board are heated to make them electrically connected through the pad.

20. The SMA wire end assembly connection method as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The SMA wire provided in step (1) is a bare wire, or includes a wire core and an insulation layer covering the entire wire core, wherein the insulation layer covers at least the effective working portion of the SMA wire.

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