Bi-stable Panel Actuated by Shape Memory Alloy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input devices, such as switches, often lack reliable mechanisms for providing visual and tactile cues of operational states, especially when states are changed by controllers based on elapsed time or temperature, and current electromechanical solutions are unreliable, heavy, expensive, and limited in repositioning capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable bi-stable device featuring an elastically deformable panel under compressive force, with a shape memory alloy (SMA) or piezo actuator that can move between two stable positions, allowing for manual or system-controlled actuation, providing visual and tactile cues and enabling multiple position configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electromechanical or electromagnetic devices such as solenoids are used to reposition a switch based on system input, then the switch can be repositioned, but the device becomes unreliable, heavy, expensive to manufacture, and has excessive space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromechanical solenoids with a purely mechanical bi-stable mechanism using elastic deformation of a panel. The panel's elastic properties enable it to snap between two stable positions without requiring electromagnetic actuators, thereby eliminating the weight, cost, and space issues associated with solenoids while maintaining repositioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic elastic panel that can deform and snap between two stable positions. This dynamic mechanical system allows the switch to reposition itself based on elastic energy storage and release, eliminating the need for heavy electromechanical actuators while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electromechanical or electromagnetic devices such as solenoids are used to reposition a switch, then the switch can be repositioned, but the device becomes expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive electromechanical solenoids with a simple elastic panel mechanism. The panel's ability to snap between positions relies on elastic deformation rather than electromagnetic actuation, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the repositioning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple elastic panel that can be manufactured at low cost using conventional materials and processes. This eliminates the need for expensive electromechanical components, making the device economically viable for mass production.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electromechanical or electromagnetic devices such as solenoids are used to reposition a switch, then the switch can be repositioned, but the device has excessive space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky electromechanical solenoids with a compact elastic panel mechanism. The panel's snap-action design allows for significant space savings while maintaining the ability to reposition between two stable states, making the device suitable for compact applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic elastic panel mechanism requires minimal space compared to electromechanical actuators. The panel's ability to store and release elastic energy enables repositioning in a compact form factor, eliminating the excessive space requirements of solenoids.
4Reliability
If a simple mechanical retention mechanism is used to retain the switch in the 'in' position, then the switch can be retained, but it cannot provide visual and tactile cues when the operational state is changed by inputs other than operator actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamic elastic panel that can be actuated by either manual force or controlled by a system (such as a controller responding to temperature or time inputs). The panel's bi-stable nature provides reliable state retention, while its responsiveness to both manual and automated actuation enables integration with controllers for enhanced adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic panel mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides reliable state retention through its bi-stable design, accepts both manual and automated actuation inputs, and can be integrated with visual and tactile feedback mechanisms. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between reliability and controller integration capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables reliable, efficient, and versatile user input devices that can change operational states without manual intervention, offering visual and tactile feedback while reducing material costs and space requirements, and allowing for multiple position configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator member capable of moving the panel from a first position to a second position
Implementation Method 2
a piezoelectric actuator member capable of moving the panel from a first position to a second position
Implementation Method 3
an elastically deformable panel laterally disposed between and connected to one or more mounting members
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable bi-stable device includes an elastically deformable panel laterally disposed between and connected to one or more mounting members directly or indirectly connected to opposing ends of the panel, with the panel maintained under compressive force along at least one vector extending between the opposing ends. The compressive force deforms the panel into a one of two stable deformed positions, with the device disposed such that the panel may be moved between each of the two stable deformed positions by application of manual force to one of two opposing faces of the panel. A first shape memory alloy (SMA) or piezo actuator member is connected to the panel, the actuator member being capable of moving the panel from a first one of the two stable deformed positions to a second one of the two stable deformed positions.