Fluid Routing Device Shape Memory Alloy Pivot Link
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid routing devices require a significant amount of shape memory alloy wire to alternate a valve assembly between open and closed configurations, leading to inefficiencies in fluid flow path alteration.
Innovation Solution
A fluid routing device incorporating a housing with a pivotable link and a shape memory alloy member, where the link alternates the valve assembly between configurations by pivoting relative to the housing, reducing the required length of shape memory alloy wire needed for actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If linear actuation of the valve plunger by the shape memory alloy wire along the common plane is used, then the valve assembly can be alternated between open and closed configurations, but a greater amount of shape memory alloy wire is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear actuation along a common plane to rotational actuation about a pivot axis. The link rotates between a first position (valve closed) and a second position (valve open), converting the actuation dimension from linear to rotational. This dimensional change reduces the required travel distance of the shape memory alloy wire while maintaining full valve alternation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pivotable link that dynamically changes the mechanical advantage and actuation path during operation. As the link rotates, the relationship between the shape memory alloy wire displacement and valve plunger movement changes, allowing efficient use of the wire's contraction/expansion capability across the full range of motion.
2Reliability
If a greater amount of shape memory alloy wire is used to achieve sufficient contraction and expansion, then the valve assembly can be reliably alternated, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By changing from linear to rotational actuation, the system achieves the same functional outcome (valve alternation) with reduced material quantity. The rotational mechanism allows the link to leverage the shape memory alloy wire's contraction over a shorter distance while still achieving full valve travel through the mechanical advantage of the pivot geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable link acts as an intermediary mechanical element that transforms the limited displacement of the shape memory alloy wire into sufficient valve plunger travel. The link's rotation about the pivot axis amplifies the effect of the wire's contraction, reducing the need for excessive wire length while maintaining reliable valve alternation.
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 pivoting mechanism reduces the amount of shape memory alloy wire required, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in altering the fluid flow path between open and closed configurations.
Implementation Method 1
A shape memory alloy member is mounted to the housing within the interior and extends toward the valve assembly. The shape memory alloy member alternates between a first length in a de-energized state and a second length in an energized state.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject invention provides a fluid routing device for directing the transportation of a fluid including a housing defining first and second corridors selectively fluidly coupled to one another, and a valve assembly capable of alternating between an open configuration fluidly coupling the first and second corridors and a closed configuration fluidly separating the first and second corridors. A shape memory alloy member alternates between a de-energized state and an energized state. A link is pivotably mounted to the housing and is coupled between the valve assembly and the shape memory alloy member. The link pivots between a first position when the shape memory alloy member is in the de-energized state and a second position when the shape memory alloy member is in the energized state which alternates the valve assembly between the closed configuration and the open configuration for selectively fluidly coupling the first and second corridors.