Monitoring the state of shape memory material components

Abstract

The state of a shape memory material member in an actuator is monitored and controlled to protect the shape memory material member. When activated, the actuator may be configured to change into an operating configuration in which its dimensions (e.g., height) increase. A sensor is configured to acquire sensor data. A portion of the shape memory material member may be operably engaged with the sensor. One or more processors are operably connected to monitor the state of the shape memory material member based on the sensor data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter described herein generally relates to actuators, and more particularly to shape memory material-based actuators.

Background Art

[0002] Some automobiles have actuators in one or more portions of a vehicle seat. These actuators can provide a tactile effect to a seat occupant. Such an effect can provide support and / or comfort to the seat occupant.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system. The system can include an actuator. When actuated, the actuator can be configured to change to an actuated configuration in which its dimensions increase. The actuator can include a shape memory material member. The system can include a sensor configured to acquire sensor data. A portion of the shape memory material member can be operably engaged with the sensor. The system can include one or more processors operably connected to monitor the state of the shape memory material member based on the sensor data.

[0004] In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of monitoring the state of a shape memory material member used in an actuator. A portion of the shape memory material member can be operably engaged with a sensor. The method can include changing the actuator to an actuated configuration. The method can include monitoring the state of the shape memory material member using sensor data acquired by the sensor. The method can include controlling the operating state of the actuator based on the acquired sensor data.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] [Figure 1] An example of a system for monitoring the state of a shape memory material member is shown. [Figure 2] An enlarged view of a portion of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] This is an example of a system for monitoring the state of shape memory material components. [Figure 4] This is an example of a method for monitoring the state of a shape memory material component. [Figure 5A] This is the first example of an actuator. [Figure 5B] This is the first example of an actuator. [Figure 5C] This is the first example of an actuator. [Figure 6A] This is a second example of an actuator. [Figure 6B] This is a second example of an actuator. [Figure 7A] This is a third example of an actuator. [Figure 7B] This is a third example of an actuator. [Figure 8] This is the fourth example of an actuator. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] [Detailed explanation] Some actuators used in vehicles utilize shape memory alloys for operation. Shape memory alloys are prone to excessive stress and / or overheating, which can lead to a shortened lifespan and / or reduced effectiveness of the actuator. Therefore, the configurations described herein concern monitoring the state of a shape memory material member. Such monitoring may be based on sensor data from a sensor operably engaged by the shape memory material member. The state of the shape memory material member may be controlled based on the sensor data.

[0007] Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are intended only as examples. Therefore, certain structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as representative grounds to teach those skilled in the art to employ various aspects of this specification in structures of substantially any appropriate degree of detail. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to provide a clear description of possible embodiments. Various embodiments are shown in Figures 1 to 8, but embodiments are not limited to the illustrated structures or applications.

[0008] Figure 1 shows an example of a system 100 for monitoring the state of a shape memory material member. System 100 may include an actuator 110. Actuator 110 is generally represented because there are various suitable actuators that can function in the configurations specified herein. When actuated, the actuator is configured to change into an operating configuration in which the dimensions of the actuator (e.g., height) increase.

[0009] The actuator 110 may be a shape memory material-based actuator. Therefore, the actuator 110 may include a shape memory material member 120. When an operating input is provided to the shape memory material member 120, the shape memory material member 120 can contract, thereby changing the actuator to an operating configuration in which the dimensions (height) of the actuator increase. In some configurations, the contracting member may be a shape memory material member. The shape memory material member may include shape memory alloys and shape memory polymers. As an example, the contracting member may be a shape memory alloy wire. Various non-limiting examples of suitable actuators are shown in Figures 6 to 9, which will be described in more detail herein.

[0010] The phrase "shape memory material" includes materials that change shape when an operating input is applied and return to substantially their original shape when the operating input is discontinued. Examples of shape memory materials include shape memory alloys (SMAs) and shape memory polymers (SMPs).

[0011] In one or more configurations, the shape memory material component may be a shape memory material wire. For example, the shape memory material component may be a shape memory alloy wire. Thus, when an operating input (i.e., heat) is provided to the shape memory alloy wire(s), the wire(s) may contract. The shape memory alloy wire(s) may be heated by any suitable method currently known or to be developed in the future. For example, the shape memory alloy wire(s) may be heated by the Joule effect by passing an electric current through the wire. In some cases, a configuration for cooling the shape memory alloy wire(s) may be provided as needed to facilitate the wire(s) returning to a non-operating configuration. Naturally, it will be seen that an operating input can be provided to the shape memory alloy wire(s) in other ways. For example, heated air can be blown onto the shape memory alloy wire(s).

[0012] The wire(s) can have any suitable properties. For example, the wire(s) can be a high-temperature wire with an austenite termination temperature of approximately 80°C to 110°C. The wire(s) can have any suitable diameter. For example, the wire(s) can have a diameter of approximately 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, approximately 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, or approximately 0.375 mm to 0.5 mm. In some configurations, the wire(s) can have a stiffness of up to approximately 70 gigapascals. The tensile force of the SMA wire(s) can be approximately 150 MPa to 400 MPa. The wire(s) can be configured to provide an initial moment of approximately 300 to 600 N·mm, or greater than approximately 500 N·mm. Here, the unit Newton-millimeter (N·mm) is the unit of torque (also called moment) in the SI system. One Newton-meter is equal to the torque resulting from a force of one Newton applied perpendicularly to the end of a moment arm one meter long. In various embodiments, the wire(s) may be configured to change phases, moving a shape memory material member from a non-operating position to an operating position in about three seconds or less, about two seconds or less, about one second or less, or about 0.5 seconds or less.

[0013] Wires(s) can be made from any suitable shape memory material currently known or to be developed in the future. Different materials may be used to achieve various balances, properties, characteristics, and / or qualities. As an example, SMA wires may include nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti, or nitinol). An example of a nickel-titanium shape memory alloy is FLEXINOL (available from Dynaolloy in Irvine, California). Further examples include SMA wires made from Cu-Al-Ni, Fe-Mn-Si, or Cu-Zn-Al.

[0014] When an SMA wire changes phase, for example, at a phase transition temperature T SMABy being heated up to, it can be configured to increase or decrease in length. The utilization of the inherent properties of the SMA wire is achieved by changing the phase or crystal structure change (i.e., twinned martensite, non-twinned martensite, and austenite) that causes the elongation or shortening of the SMA wire in order to provide heat generated by electrical resistance, for example, by using heat through passing an electric current through the SMA wire. In some embodiments, during the phase change, the SMA wire has a temperature of T SMA less than to T SMA When heated from a higher temperature, it may experience a length reduction of about 2% to about 8%, or about 3% to about 6%, and in certain aspects about 3.5%.

[0015] The SMA wire may have a critical temperature. When the critical temperature is reached, the SMA wire cannot generate any more force. Thus, if the SMA wire is heated above the critical temperature, it cannot generate any more force. This inherent property of the SMA wire can be utilized according to the configurations described herein.

[0016] <> In connection with the configurations described herein, other active materials may be used. For example, other shape memory materials may be employed. Shape memory materials (a type of active material, sometimes also called smart materials) include materials or compositions that have the ability to remember their original shape. The original shape can be invoked later by applying an external stimulus such as an activation signal.

[0017] In some embodiments, the shape memory material member is described as being a wire, but it should be understood that the shape memory material member is not limited to being a wire. In fact, it is envisioned that suitable shape memory materials can be employed in various other forms such as thin plates, flat plates, panel plates, strip plates, cables, tubes, or combinations thereof. In some configurations, the shape memory material member may include an insulating coating.

[0018] In some configurations, the actuator 110 may include a single shape memory material member 120. In some cases, one or more portions of the shape memory material member 120 may extend outside the overall envelope of the actuator 110. For example, the shape memory material member 120 may include a first external portion 121 and a second external portion 122. Additionally, a portion of the shape memory material member 120 may extend inside the actuator 110. Thus, the shape memory material member 120 may include an internal portion 123.

[0019] An example of the routing of the shape memory material member 120 is illustrated in FIG. 1. Beginning from the left side of FIG. 1, a first external portion 121 of the shape memory material member 120 may be present. Next, the shape memory material member 120 may be routed with respect to the actuator 110. For example, in some configurations, the shape memory material member 120 may extend substantially linearly within the actuator 110. In other configurations, the shape memory material member 120 may extend non-linearly, such as in a serpentine or zigzag arrangement. The shape memory material member 120 may exit the actuator 110. This portion is the second external portion 122. As will be described in more detail in FIG. 2, in the second external portion, the shape memory material member 120 may operably engage with the sensor 150.

[0020] The shape memory material member may be actuated and / or deactuated using any suitable form of energy and / or from any suitable source. For example, in some configurations, the shape memory material member 120 may be operably connected to a power source (e.g., the power source(s) 340 of FIG. 3). In one or more configurations, the first external portion 121 may be operably connected to receive electrical energy (e.g., input power). For example, the shape memory material member 120 may be operably connected to the power source at an electrical connection 140. In one or more configurations, the second external portion 122 may be operably connected for electrical energy to exit the system 100 (e.g., output power). For example, the shape memory material member 120 may be operably connected to the power source at an electrical connection 141.

[0021] However, it will be found that the configurations described herein are not limited to activating and / or deactivating the shape memory material member 120 based on electrical energy. In fact, as an example, the shape memory material member 120 may be activated and / or deactivated by supplying hot air to the shape memory material member 120 from a heater or other heat source. The heater may be operably positioned relative to the shape memory material member 120.

[0022] A shape memory material member may have multiple mechanically isolated zones. Each mechanically isolated zone does not affect the other mechanically isolated zones. The shape memory material member may be electrically connected throughout its routing. However, if the shape memory material member contracts or expands, such contraction or expansion occurs through all mechanically isolated zones.

[0023] A mechanically isolated zone can be defined by multiple isolation points. In the example shown in Figure 1, there may be four isolation points, including a first isolation point 130, a second isolation point 131, a third isolation point 132, and a fourth isolation point 133. Isolation points 130, 131, 132, and 133 can be defined in any suitable way. For example, isolation points 130, 131, 132, and 133 may be the locations where the shape memory material member 120 is pressed.

[0024] Isolation points 130, 131, 132, and 133 can create multiple mechanically isolated zones, including a first mechanically isolated zone 160, a second mechanically isolated zone 161, a third mechanically isolated zone 162, a fourth mechanically isolated zone 163, and a fifth mechanically isolated zone 164. Each of these mechanically isolated zones will be described in turn below.

[0025] The first mechanically isolated zone 160 may be defined by a first isolation point 130. The first mechanically isolated zone may include a first external portion 121 of the shape memory material member 120. The first isolation point 130 may be located at or near the position where the shape memory material member 120 enters the actuator.

[0026] A second mechanically isolated zone 161 may be defined between the first isolation point 130 and the second isolation point 131. The second mechanically isolated zone 161 may be defined primarily by a portion, if not all, of the shape memory material member 120 routed within the actuator 110.

[0027] A third mechanically isolated zone 162 may be defined between the second isolation point 131 and the third isolation point 132. The third mechanically isolated zone 162 may be a free-floating zone in which the shape memory material member 120 does not engage with another structure.

[0028] A fourth mechanically isolated zone 163 may be defined between the third isolation point 132 and the fourth isolation point 133. The fourth mechanically isolated zone 163 may be monitored by a sensor. The fourth mechanically isolated zone 163 may be the location where the shape memory material member 120 operably engages with the sensor 150. Further details about this region are described in more detail in Figure 2.

[0029] A fifth mechanically isolated zone 164 may be defined by the fourth isolation point 133 and thereafter. The fifth mechanically isolated zone 164 may include a second external portion 122 of the shape memory material member 120. The fourth isolation point 133 may be located at or near the position where the shape memory material member 120 exits the actuator 110.

[0030] Referring to Figure 2, an enlarged view of a portion of the system 100 in Figure 1 is shown. Specifically, an example of a movable engagement between the sensor 150 and the shape memory material member 120 is shown. "Movable engagement" refers to a configuration in which the operation and / or non-operation of the shape memory material member affects the sensor 150.

[0031] As described above, the sensor 150 may be a force-sensitive resistance sensor 155. The force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 may have a relatively thin and / or substantially flat structure. In one or more configurations, a shape memory material member may be wrapped around the sensor 150. Thus, the shape memory material member 120 may exert force on the sensor 150 when it contracts in response to an operating input (e.g., electrical energy). The force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 may be a resistor that changes its resistance when a force, pressure, or mechanical stress is applied. The resistance varies depending on the amount of force, pressure, or mechanical stress applied. The resistance is proportional to the applied force, pressure, or mechanical stress.

[0032] The shape memory material member 120 can be wrapped around the sensor 150 one or more times. Therefore, one or more coils 125 can be formed by winding the shape memory material member 120 in a coil shape around the sensor 150.

[0033] In some configurations, the sensor 150 can be protected using one or more structures in relation to the sensor 150. For example, a first protective member 170 may be operably connected to one side of the sensor 150. Alternatively, or in addition to this, a second protective member 175 may be operably connected to the opposite side of the sensor 150. The first protective member 170 and the second protective member 175 may be sized, formed, and configured to protect the sensor 150 without interfering with its operation.

[0034] Referring to Figure 3, an example of a system 300 for monitoring the state of a shape memory material member is shown. System 300 may comprise a variety of elements. Some of the possible elements of system 300 are shown in Figure 3 and will be described below. It should be understood that system 300 does not necessarily have all the elements shown in Figure 3 or described herein. System 300 may have any combination of the various elements shown in Figure 3. Furthermore, system 300 may have additional elements in addition to those shown in Figure 3. In some configurations, system 300 may not have one or more of the elements shown in Figure 3. Furthermore, the illustrated elements may be physically separated by a large distance. In fact, one or more of the elements may be located in a location far from the other elements, such as on a remote server or a cloud-based server.

[0035] In addition to the actuator 110, the system 300 may include one or more processors 310, one or more data stores 320, one or more sensors 330, one or more power sources 340, one or more input interfaces 350, one or more output interfaces 360, and / or one or more control modules 370. Each of these elements will be described in turn below.

[0036] As described above, system 300 may comprise one or more processors 310. “Processor” means any component or group of components configured to perform any of the operations described herein, or any form of instructions for performing or causing such operations to be performed. Processor(s) 310 may be one or more general-purpose processors and / or one or more dedicated processors. Suitable processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, DSP processors, and other circuits capable of running software. Further suitable processors include, but are not limited to, central processing units (CPUs), array processors, vector processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic circuits, and controllers. Processor(s) 310 may include at least one hardware circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit) configured to execute instructions contained in program code. In configurations with multiple processors 310, such processors may operate independently of each other, or one or more processors may operate in conjunction with each other.

[0037] System 300 may comprise one or more datastores 320 for storing one or more types of data. The datastores 320 may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory. Examples of suitable datastores 320 include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, magnetic disks, optical disks, hard drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof. The datastores 320 may be components of the processors 310, or the datastores 320 may be operably connected to the processors 310 for use by the processors 310. The term “operably connected” as used throughout this description may include direct or indirect connections, including connections without direct physical contact.

[0038] System 300 may comprise one or more sensors 330. “Sensor” means any device, component, and / or system capable of detecting, determining, evaluating, monitoring, measuring, quantifying, acquiring, and / or sensing something. One or more sensors may detect, determine, evaluate, monitor, measure, quantify, acquire, and / or sense in real time. As used herein, “real time” means a level of processing responsiveness that the user or system perceives as sufficiently immediate for a particular process or decision to be made, or that allows the processor to keep pace with any external processing.

[0039] In a configuration where system 300 includes multiple sensors 330, the sensors may operate independently of each other, or two or more sensors may operate in conjunction with each other. In such a case, two or more sensors may form a sensor network. Sensors 330 may be operably connected to processors 310, data stores 320, and / or other elements of system 300 (including any of the elements shown in Figure 1).

[0040] The sensor(s) 330 may include the sensor 150 (e.g., force-sensitive resistance sensor 155) described above in relation to Figure 1. In addition, the sensor(s) 330 may include any suitable type of sensor currently known or to be developed in the future that can acquire information or data about the actuator 110, the shape memory material member 120, or any other part or component of the system 100 in Figure 1 or the system in Figure 2.

[0041] As described above, the system 300 may include one or more power sources 340. As will be discussed later, the power source(s) 340 may be any power source capable of supplying energy to the actuator 110 and / or configured to do so. For example, the power source(s) 340 may include one or more batteries, one or more fuel cells, one or more generators, one or more alternators, one or more solar cells, and combinations thereof. The power source(s) 340 may be any suitable source of electrical energy.

[0042] The system 300 may have one or more input interfaces 350. “Input interface” includes any device, component, system, element, or arrangement, or group thereof, that enables information / data to be input into the machine. An input interface(s) 350 may receive input from a vehicle occupant (e.g., driver or passenger). Any suitable input interface 350 may be used, including, for example, a keypad, gesture recognition interface, voice recognition interface, display, touchscreen, multi-touchscreen, button, joystick, mouse, trackball, microphone, and / or combination thereof.

[0043] System 300 may include one or more output interfaces 360. “Output interface” includes any device, component, system, element, or arrangement, or group thereof, that enables information / data to be presented to a vehicle occupant (e.g., a person, vehicle occupant, etc.). An output interface(s) 360 may present information / data to a vehicle occupant. An output interface(s) 360 may include a display. Alternatively, or in addition to, an output interface(s) 360 may include earphones and / or speakers. Some components of System 300 may function as both components of an input interface(s) 350 and components of an output interface(s) 360.

[0044] System 300 may comprise one or more modules, at least some of which are described herein. A module may be implemented as computer-readable program code that, when executed by a processor, performs one or more of the various operations described herein. One or more modules may be components of processor(s) 310, or one or more modules may run on and / or be distributed among other processing systems to which processor(s) 310 is operationally connected. A module may contain instructions (e.g., program logic) that are executable by one or more processor(s) 310. Alternatively, or in addition to this, one or more datastores 320 may contain such instructions. In some configurations, a module(s) may be located separately from other elements of system 300.

[0045] In one or more configurations, the modules described herein may include artificial intelligence elements or computational intelligence elements, such as neural networks, fuzzy logic, or other machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, in one or more configurations, modules may be distributed among multiple modules. In one or more configurations, two or more of the modules described herein may be combined to form a single module.

[0046] The system 300 may comprise one or more control modules 370. Each control module 370 may contain profiles and logic for controlling the actuator 110. Each control module 370 may use profiles, parameters, or settings, such as actuation profiles, that are loaded into and / or stored in the data store 320. In some configurations, the control modules 370 may be located remotely from other elements of the system 300, such as remote servers, cloud-based servers, or edge servers.

[0047] The control module(s) 370 may be configured to activate or deactivate one or more of the actuators 110. As used herein, “cause” or “causing” means to cause, compel, force, instruct, command, teach, and / or enable, either directly or indirectly, to cause an event or action to occur, or at least to put into a state where such an event or action can occur. For example, the control module(s) 370 may selectively activate or deactivate the actuators 110 in any suitable manner. For example, if the actuator 110 includes a shape memory material member 120, the shape memory material member 120 may be heated by the Joule effect by passing an electric current through the shape memory material member. To this end, the control module(s) 370 may be configured to selectively allow, limit, regulate, alter, and / or prevent the flow of electrical energy from the power source(s) 340 to the shape memory material member 120 of the actuator 110. The control module(s) 370 may be configured to send control signals or commands to one or more elements of the system 200 via the communication network 390.

[0048] The control module(s) 370 may be configured to activate or deactivate the actuator(s) 110 based on various events, conditions, inputs, or other factors. For example, the control module(s) 370 may be configured to activate or deactivate the actuator(s) 110 based on user input. The user may provide input through the input interface(s) 250.

[0049] In some configurations, control module 370 may be configured to operate or deoperate actuator 110. In some cases, control module 370 may be configured to adjust the degree of operation of actuator 110. For example, control module 370 may be configured to set actuator 110 to an operating configuration corresponding to its fully operated position (e.g., extending to its maximum height). Control module 370 may be configured to operate actuator 110 to one or more operating configurations between the deoperated configuration and the fully operated configuration, for example, to an extended position but lower than its maximum height. Control module 370 may be configured to maintain the operating configuration of actuator 110. Control module 270 may be configured to adjust the operating configuration of actuator 110.

[0050] The control module(s) 370 may be configured to receive sensor data from the sensor(s) 150. The control module(s) 370 may be configured to analyze the sensor data. For example, if the sensor(s) is a force-sensitive resistance sensor(s) 155, the control module(s) 370 may be configured to detect the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor(s) 155, or the change in resistance measured by the force-sensitive resistance sensor(s) 155.

[0051] As described above, the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 stops changing once the shape memory material member 120 reaches its critical temperature, even if it is heated beyond that critical temperature. Therefore, when the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 stops changing, the control module(s) 370 can recognize that the shape memory material member has reached its critical temperature and that the actuator 110 is in its maximum operating configuration.

[0052] It is not necessary to know the measured value of the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155. Rather, the control module(s) 370 only needs to monitor changes in electrical resistance. The control module(s) 370 may be configured to perform one or more actions when it detects that the resistance is no longer changing. For example, the control module(s) 370 may interrupt the supply of electrical energy to the shape memory material member(s) 120. Alternatively, the control module(s) 370 may maintain the current state of the actuator(s) 110. Thus, no additional power is supplied to the shape memory material member(s) 120. In this way, no additional power is supplied to the shape memory material member(s) 120, and therefore nothing is wasted.

[0053] It will be found that the configurations described herein are not limited to monitoring force-sensitive resistance sensors or changes in resistance. In fact, the configurations described herein may be configured to monitor the state of the shape memory material member 120 based on any sensor data. Such monitoring may be based on any parameter, characteristic, or indicator. The control module 370 may be configured to determine when at least one indicator is met based on feedback from one or more of the sensors 150.

[0054] Various elements of System 200 may be linked communicatively to one or more other elements via one or more communication networks 290. As used herein, the term “communicatively linked” may include communication channels, buses, routes, or direct or indirect connections via other components or systems. “Communication network” means one or more components designed to transmit and / or receive information from one source to another. The datastores 220 and / or one or more other elements of System 200 may include and / or run appropriate communication software that enables the various elements to communicate with each other via the communication networks and perform the functions disclosed herein.

[0055] One or more communication networks 390 may be implemented as, or include, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a wireless network, a mobile network, a virtual private network (VPN), the Internet, a hardwired communication bus, and / or one or more intranets, without limitation. The communication network 390 may further be implemented as, or include, one or more wireless networks, whether short-range (e.g., a local wireless network built using Bluetooth® or one of the IEEE 802 wireless communication protocols, e.g., 802.11a / b / g / i, 802.15, 802.16, 802.20, Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), or WPA2) or long-range (e.g., mobile, cellular, and / or satellite-based wireless networks; such as GSM®, TDMA, CDMA, WCDMA® networks). The communication network 390 may include wired communication links and / or wireless communication links. The communication network 390 may include any combination of the above-mentioned networks and / or other types of networks.

[0056] Having described various potential systems, apparatus, elements, and / or components of System 200, various methods will now be described. Various possible steps of such methods will now be described. While the methods described may be applicable to the configurations described above, it should be understood that the methods may be performed in other suitable systems and configurations. Furthermore, the methods may include other steps not shown herein, and in fact, the methods are not limited to including all steps shown. The blocks shown herein as part of a method are not limited to a specific temporal order. In fact, some blocks may be performed in an order different from the order shown, and / or at least some of the blocks shown may occur simultaneously.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4, an example of a method 400 for monitoring the state of a shape memory material member is shown. In block 410, the actuator 110 can be changed into an operating configuration. Such a change can be performed by a processor(s) 310 and / or a control module(s) 370. For example, the processor(s) 310 and / or a control module(s) 370 can supply electrical energy from a power source(s) 340 to multiple actuators 110. More specifically, the processor(s) 310 and / or a control module(s) 370 can supply electrical energy from a power source(s) 340 to the shape memory material member(s) 120 of the actuator 110. As a result, the shape memory material member(s) 120 can contract, thereby changing the actuator 110 into an operating configuration in which the height of the actuator 110 can increase. The change can be performed automatically, in response to user input (e.g., provided in an input interface(s) 350), or by any other suitable method. Method 400 may be followed by block 420.

[0058] In block 420, the state of the shape memory material member 120 may be monitored. Monitoring may be performed by control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310 based on sensor data acquired by sensor(s) 150 (e.g., force-sensitive resistance sensor(s) 155). In one or more configurations, control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310 may monitor the resistance of sensor(s) 150 and / or changes in the resistance measured by sensor(s) 150. In a particular configuration, control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310 may monitor when the resistance of sensor(s) 150 and / or changes in the resistance measured by sensor(s) 150 stop. Method 400 may continue in block 430.

[0059] In block 430, the operating configuration of the actuator 110 can be controlled based on the monitored state of the shape memory material member 120. Control can be performed by control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310. For example, if the resistance of sensor 150 and / or the change in resistance measured by sensor 150 stops, control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310 may interrupt the supply of electrical energy to the shape memory material member 120. As another example, if the resistance of sensor 150 and / or the change in resistance measured by sensor 150 stops, control module(s) 370 may maintain the current state of the actuator 110. Thus, control module(s) 370 and / or processor(s) 310 may maintain the supply of electrical energy to the shape memory material member 120 at the current level.

[0060] As described above, the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 stops changing once the shape memory material member 120 reaches its critical temperature, even if it is heated beyond that critical temperature. Therefore, when the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155 stops changing, the control module(s) 370 can recognize that the shape memory material member has reached its critical temperature and that the actuator 110 is in its maximum operating configuration.

[0061] It is not necessary to know the measured value of the resistance of the force-sensitive resistance sensor 155. Rather, the control module(s) 370 only needs to monitor changes in electrical resistance. The control module(s) 370 may be configured to perform one or more actions when it detects that the resistance is no longer changing. For example, the control module(s) 370 may interrupt the supply of electrical energy to the shape memory material member(s) 120. Alternatively, the control module(s) 370 may maintain the current state of the actuator(s) 110. Thus, no additional power is supplied to the shape memory material member(s) 120. In this way, no additional power is supplied to the shape memory material member(s) 120, and therefore nothing is wasted.

[0062] Method 400 may terminate. Alternatively, Method 400 may return to block 410 or another block. Method 400 may be repeated at any appropriate time, such as at an appropriate time or when any appropriate event or condition occurs.

[0063] As described above, the configurations described herein may be used in connection with the possibility of multiple actuators. The actuators may be substantially identical to one another, or one or more actuators may differ from the others in one or more respects. Figures 5 to 8 show some non-limiting examples of suitable actuators.

[0064] Figures 5A to 5C show an example of an actuator 500 suitable for use in connection with the configuration described herein. Basic details of the actuator 500 will now be described. Additional details of the actuator 500 are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,960,793, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0065] Actuator 500 is shown here together with the outer shell 510, hinge assembly 520, and input response element 30. Actuator 600 may have a first dimension 540 and a second dimension 550.

[0066] The input response element 530 may include one or more elements that can transition from a first configuration to a second configuration. The transition of the input response element 530 from the first configuration to the second configuration displaces the hinge assembly 520 relative to the outer shell 510, causing a change in the shape of the outer shell 510. In some embodiments, the input response element 530 may include an SMM wire 532. The SMM wire 532 may be a shape memory alloy.

[0067] Figure 5A shows an example of the actuator 500 in a non-operating configuration. When heated, the SMM wire 532 may contract, moving the hinge assembly 520 closer to each other. As a result, the actuator 500 can change from a non-operating configuration to an operating configuration, as shown in Figure 5C. In the operating configuration, the second dimension 550 of the actuator may increase, and the first dimension 540 of the actuator 500 may decrease.

[0068] Figures 6A and 6B show another example of actuator 600 suitable for use in connection with the configuration described herein. Basic details of actuator 600 will now be described. Additional details of actuator 600 are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 729,522, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 6A shows an example of actuator 600 in a non-operating state, and Figure 6B shows an example of actuator 600 in an operating state.

[0069] The actuator 600 may include a first end cap 610 and a second end cap 620. The first end cap 610 and the second end cap 620 may be spaced apart. The actuator 600 may include a first external member 640 and a second external member 650. The first external member 640 and the second external member 650 may have an arched shape.

[0070] The actuator 600 may include one or more shape memory material members 680. The shape memory material members 680 may be operably connected to a first end cap 610 and a second end cap 620. The phrase “shape memory material” includes materials that change shape when an operating input is provided to them, and return to substantially their original shape when the operating input is interrupted. Examples of shape memory materials include shape memory alloys (SMAs) and shape memory polymers (SMPs).

[0071] In one or more configurations, the shape memory material member 680 may be a shape memory material wire. For example, the shape memory material member 680 may be a shape memory alloy wire. Thus, when an operating input (i.e., heat) is applied to the shape memory alloy wire(s), the wire(s) may contract. The shape memory alloy wire(s) may be heated by any suitable method currently known or to be developed in the future. For example, the shape memory alloy wire(s) may be heated by the Joule effect by passing an electric current through the wire(s). In some cases, a configuration for cooling the shape memory alloy wire(s) may be provided as needed to facilitate the wire(s) returning to a non-operating configuration.

[0072] As described above, Figure 6B shows an example of the actuator 600 in operation. When an operating input (e.g., electrical energy) is provided to the shape memory material member(s) 680, the shape memory material member(s) 680 may contract. This contraction causes the shape memory material member(s) 680 to pull the first end cap 610 and the second end cap 620 closer to each other in a direction corresponding to the first dimension 690.

[0073] As a result, both ends of the first external member 640 may be attracted to each other in the direction corresponding to the first dimension 690, and both ends of the second external member 650 may be attracted to each other in the direction corresponding to the first dimension 690. Consequently, the first external member 640 and the second external member 650 may bend outward in an arc shape so as to move away from each other in the direction corresponding to the second dimension 695. It will be found that the first dimension 690 (i.e., width) of the actuator 600 may decrease, and the second dimension 695 (i.e., height) of the actuator 600 may increase.

[0074] Figures 7A and 7B show an example of an actuator 700 suitable for use in the configuration described herein. Basic details of the actuator 700 will now be described. Additional details of the actuator 700 are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 329,217, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] The actuator 700 may include a first external body member 710, a second external body member 730, a first end cap 760, a second end cap 770, and a shape memory material member 780. The first external body member 710 may include a first portion 712 and a second portion 714. The first portion 712 and the second portion 714 may be operably connected to each other so that they can move relative to each other. In one or more configurations, the first portion 712 and the second portion 714 may be swivelably connected to each other. For example, the first portion 712 and the second portion 714 may be swivelably connected to each other by one or more hinges. The first portion 712 and the second portion 714 may be positioned at an angle to each other. As a result, the first external body member 710 may have a substantially V-shape.

[0076] The second external body member 730 may include a first portion 732, a second portion 734, and a base 736. In one or more configurations, each of the first portion 732 and the second portion 734 may be pivotably connected to the base 736. For example, the first portion 732 may be pivotably connected to the base 736 by one or more hinges, and the second portion 734 may be pivotably connected to the base 736 by one or more hinges. The first portion 732 and the second portion 734 may be located on either side of the base 736.

[0077] The actuator 700 may include a first end cap 760 and a second end cap 770. The first end cap 760 and the second end cap 770 may be spaced apart. The actuator 700 may include one or more shape memory material members 780. The shape memory material member(s) 780 may extend between the first end cap 760 and the second end cap 770 in any suitable manner. The shape memory material member(s) 780 may be operably connected to the first end cap 760 and the second end cap 770.

[0078] Figure 7A shows an example of the actuator 700 in a non-operated configuration. Here, the shape memory material member(s) 780 are not actuated. Figure 7B shows an example of the actuator 700 in an actuated configuration. When an actuated input (e.g., electrical energy) is provided to the shape memory material member(s) 780, the shape memory material member(s) 780 may contract. This contraction causes the shape memory material member(s) 780 to pull the first end cap 760 and the second end cap 770 closer together in the direction corresponding to the first dimension 790. As a result, the first external body member 710 and the second external body member 730 may extend outward so as to move away from each other in the direction corresponding to the second dimension 795. It will be observed that when transitioning from a non-operated state to an actuated state, the first dimension 790 (i.e., width) of the actuator 700 may decrease, and / or the second dimension 795 (i.e., height) of the actuator 700 may increase. Furthermore, it will be found that the actuator 700 can apply force in an out-of-plane direction, or otherwise in a direction different from the contraction direction of the shape memory material member(s) 780.

[0079] Figure 8 shows an example of an actuator 800 suitable for use in the configuration described herein. Basic details of the actuator 800 will now be described. Additional details of the actuator 800 are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 329,217, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0080] The actuator 800 may include a first external body member 810, a second external body member 830, and one or more shape memory material members 880. The actuator 800 includes a first end cap 860 and a second end cap 870. The first end cap 860 and the second end cap 870 shown in Figure 8 are different from the first end cap 760 and the second end cap 770 shown in Figures 7A to 7B.

[0081] Figure 8 shows an example of the actuator 800 in a non-operated configuration. Here, the shape memory material member(s) 880 is not operated. When an operating input (e.g., electrical energy) is provided to the shape memory material member(s) 880, the shape memory material member(s) 880 may contract. This contraction causes the shape memory material member(s) 880 to pull the first end cap 860 and the second end cap 870 closer together in the direction corresponding to the first dimension 890. As a result, the first external body member 810 and the second external body member 830 may extend outward so as to move away from each other in the direction corresponding to the second dimension 895. It will be observed that when transitioning from a non-operated state to an operated state, the first dimension 890 (i.e., width) of the actuator 800 may decrease, and / or the second dimension 895 (i.e., height) of the actuator 800 may increase.

[0082] The various embodiments of the actuators shown in Figures 5 to 8 are examples only and are not intended to be limiting. Other actuators are described in U.S. Patent Publications 2023 / 0191953 and 2023 / 0136197, and U.S. Patents 11,370,330, 11,285,844, and 11,091,060, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0083] The configurations described herein may be used in any application in which a shape memory material-based actuator is used. For example, the configurations described herein may be used in connection with a seat actuator or other actuator in a vehicle. "Vehicle" means any form of transport, including powered or power-driven transport. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle may be an automobile. Although the configurations described herein are described in relation to automobiles, it will be found that the embodiments are not limited to automobiles. In some embodiments, the vehicle may be a ship, aircraft, spacecraft, or any other form of transport. However, it will be found that the configurations described herein are not limited to vehicle applications. For example, the configurations described herein may be used in connection with an office chair, chair, massage chair, gaming chair, recliner, or any other seat structure that is currently known or may be developed in the future. Naturally, the configurations are not limited to seat applications.

[0084] It will be found that the configurations described herein can offer numerous advantages, including one or more of the advantages mentioned herein. For example, the configurations described herein may enable indirect measurement of the maximum operating state of the shape memory material member. The configurations described herein enable such indirect measurement using inexpensive sensors. The configurations described herein do not require calibration. The configurations described herein may protect the shape memory material member from overheating and / or excessive stress. The configurations described herein may help maximize the service life of the shape memory material member. The configurations described herein may facilitate improved performance of the actuator.

[0085] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible embodiments of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for performing a specified logical function. Note that in some alternative embodiments, the functions shown in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or blocks may be executed in reverse order depending on the functions involved.

[0086] The systems, components, and / or processes described herein may be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, and may be implemented centrally in a single processing system or distributed across several interconnected processing systems with different elements. Any type of processing system or other device adapted to perform the methods described herein is suitable. A typical combination of hardware and software may be a processing system having computer-readable program code that, when loaded and executed, controls the processing system to perform the methods described herein. The systems, components, and / or processes may also be incorporated into a computer-readable storage device, such as a computer program product or other data program storage device, which tangibly contains a program of machine-executable instructions for performing the methods described herein and the processes described herein. These elements may also be incorporated into an application product that has all the features enabling the implementation of the methods described herein and, when loaded into a processing system, can perform these methods.

[0087] Furthermore, the configurations described herein may take the form of a computer program product contained in one or more computer-readable media, for example, that store computer-readable program code. Any combination of one or more computer-readable media can be used. A computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. The phrase “computer-readable storage medium” means a non-temporary storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium may be, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples (non-exclusive list) of computer-readable storage media include: electrical connections with one or more wires, portable computer diskettes, hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital multipurpose disks (DVDs), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. In the context of this specification, a computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium capable of containing or storing a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0088] As used herein, the terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more. As used herein, the term “plural” is defined as two or more. As used herein, the term “another” is defined as at least two or more. As used herein, the terms “including” and / or “having” are defined as “comprising” (i.e., non-restrictive). The term “or” is intended to mean inclusive “or” rather than exclusive “or”. As used herein, the phrase “at least one of… and…” refers to and encompasses one or more any and all possible combinations of the related enumerated items. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes A only, B only, C only, or any combination thereof (e.g., AB, AC, BC, or ABC). As used herein, the terms “substantially” or “about” include the term they modify and any slight difference therefrom. Thus, the term “substantially parallel” means just parallel and any slight difference therefrom. "Slight deviations from that" may include 15 degrees / percent / unit or less, 14 degrees / percent / unit or less, 13 degrees / percent / unit or less, 12 degrees / percent / unit or less, 11 degrees / percent / unit or less, 10 degrees / percent / unit or less, 9 degrees / percent / unit or less, 8 degrees / percent / unit or less, 7 degrees / percent / unit or less, 6 degrees / percent / unit or less, 5 degrees / percent / unit or less, 4 degrees / percent / unit or less, 3 degrees / percent / unit or less, 2 degrees / percent / unit or less, or 1 degree / percent / unit or less. In some cases, "substantially" may include being within normal manufacturing tolerances.

[0089] Aspects of this specification may be embodied in other forms without departing from their gist or essential characteristics. Therefore, please refer to the appended claims, rather than the above specification, to understand the scope of this specification.

Claims

1. It is a system, The system comprises an actuator configured to change into an operating configuration in which the dimensions increase when activated, the actuator includes a shape memory material member, and the system further comprises: The device comprises a sensor configured to acquire sensor data, and a portion of the shape memory material member is operably engaged with the sensor. A system further comprising one or more processors operably connected to monitor the state of the shape memory material member based on the aforementioned sensor data.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the shape memory material member includes an external portion that extends outside the actuator.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the portion of the shape memory material member extending outside the actuator is operably engaged with the sensor.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the external portion of the shape memory material member is wrapped around the sensor, and when the shape memory material member contracts, the characteristics of the sensor change.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the sensor is a force-sensitive resistance sensor.

6. The system according to claim 4, further comprising one or more protective members operably connected to the sensor, wherein the protective members protect the sensor from the shape memory material member.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the shape memory material member is a shape memory alloy.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the shape memory material member is a wire.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are configured to control the state of the shape memory material member using the sensor data.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein monitoring the state of the shape memory material member includes monitoring changes in the resistance of the sensor.

11. The system according to claim 9, wherein when at least one indicator based on sensor data is met, one or more processors are configured to interrupt the supply of energy to the shape memory material member.

12. The system according to claim 9, wherein when at least one indicator based on sensor data is met, one or more processors are configured to substantially maintain the supply of energy to the shape memory material member at the current level.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein the shape memory material member includes a plurality of mechanically isolated zones, and the plurality of mechanically isolated zones are defined by a plurality of isolation points along the shape memory material member.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of isolation points are regions to which the shape memory material member is pressed.

15. The system according to claim 13, wherein the shape memory material member operably engages with the sensor in a zone outside the actuator among the plurality of mechanically isolated zones.

16. A method for monitoring the state of a shape memory material member used in an actuator, wherein a part of the shape memory material member is operably engaged with a sensor, The actuator is changed to an operating configuration, The state of the shape memory material member is monitored using the sensor data acquired by the aforementioned sensor. A method comprising controlling the operating state of the actuator based on the acquired sensor data.

17. The aforementioned sensor is a force-sensitive resistance sensor, The method according to claim 16, wherein monitoring the state of the shape memory material member includes monitoring a change in the resistance of the sensor.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein controlling the operating state of the actuator based on the acquired sensor data includes interrupting the supply of energy to the shape memory material member when at least one indicator based on the sensor data is met.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein controlling the operating state of the actuator based on the acquired sensor data includes substantially maintaining the supply of electrical energy to the shape memory material member when at least one indicator based on the sensor data is met.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein the portion of the shape memory material member that operably engages with the sensor is wrapped around the sensor.

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