Composite Shape Memory Structure for Multiple Reversible Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shape memory materials are limited to two distinct shape transitions and require external loads or specific stimuli, restricting their versatility and application in complex structures.
Innovation Solution
A composite structure using multiple reversible two-way shape memory materials, constructed through bonding or cladding techniques, allowing for multiple shape memory transitions by incorporating polymers, elastomers, or metal alloys, and integrating them into a base matrix or flexible substrates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shape memory materials are combined to enable multiple shape transitions, then the number of reversible shape transitions increases from 2 to n+1 to 2n, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase due to bonding or cladding multiple materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple two-way shape memory materials into a single composite structure through bonding or cladding techniques. This merging approach allows the structure to exhibit multiple reversible shape transitions (n+1 to 2n transitions) while maintaining a unified functional unit, resolving the contradiction by integrating complexity into a cohesive system rather than treating it as separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction by bonding or cladding multiple shape memory materials with different transition temperatures to a substrate or to each other. This composite approach enables the structure to achieve multiple shape transitions (improving adaptability) while the bonding/cladding methodology provides a systematic framework that manages the inherent complexity through standardized joining techniques
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shape memory materials are bonded or cladded together to form composite structures, then multiple shape transitions are achieved, but the manufacturing precision and ease of manufacture decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the manufacturing process into distinct stages: first bonding or cladding individual shape memory materials to a substrate or to each other, then assembling the composite structure. This segmentation allows each material to be processed and attached separately, improving manufacturing precision while enabling multiple shape transitions through systematic assembly rather than attempting to process all materials simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses bonding agents or cladding layers as intermediary elements between shape memory materials and substrates or between different materials. These intermediaries facilitate the joining process, reducing direct complexity in the manufacturing procedure while enabling the creation of multi-material composite structures that achieve multiple shape transitions
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
Enables n+1 to 2n reversible shape memory transitions, enhancing the material's ability to adapt to various stimuli, expanding applications in biomedical devices, aerospace, and self-healing surfaces without damaging the surrounding environment.
Implementation Method 1
Shape memory materials are stimuli responsive materials. Shape memory functionality is the ability of a material to transition from a first shape to a second shape after application of an external stimulus.
Implementation Method 2
The shape memory materials can include reversible polymers, elastomers, or metals. A first physical shape of the structure exists when the first shape memory material has the first initial state and the second shape memory material has the second initial state.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed aspects relate to a structure which includes shape memory materials having transition triggers to transition the shape memory materials between initial states and transitioned states. A first physical shape of the structure exists when the first shape memory material has the first initial state and the second shape memory material has the second initial state. A second physical shape of the structure exists when the first shape memory material has the first transitioned state and the second shape memory material has the second initial state. A third physical shape of the structure exists when the first shape memory material has the first transitioned state and the second shape memory material has the second transitioned state. The physical shapes of the structure are reversible in nature. In embodiments, the shape memory materials are bonded to a flexible substrate or are clad together.