Lockable Latching Device Using Shape Memory Alloy Phase Transition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latching mechanisms for storage and transportation devices often require complex mechanical components and lack efficient locking and unlocking functionality, particularly in applications where secure closure and easy access are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A lockable latching device featuring a plunger and annular rotator with shape memory alloy elements that transition between locked and unlocked states, allowing for secure closure and easy opening through thermal activation, decoupling the latching and locking functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical latch mechanisms are used, then the latching function is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to numerous mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical latch mechanism with a shape memory alloy-based system. The shape memory alloy element directly provides both the latching and locking functions through its phase transformation properties, eliminating the need for separate mechanical components such as springs, levers, and cam mechanisms. This substitution of mechanical systems with a smart material-based system resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliability while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the latching mechanism and the locking mechanism. By integrating these two functions into a single component that responds to thermal activation, the patent achieves multi-functionality that reduces the overall number of parts while ensuring reliable operation, thereby resolving the technical contradiction between reliability and complexity.
2Reliability
If conventional latch mechanisms are used, then the closure can be secured, but the unlocking operation becomes complex and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical unlocking mechanisms with a thermally-activated shape memory alloy system. The shape memory alloy element can be triggered to transition from austenite to martensite phase through thermal activation, automatically releasing the latch without requiring complex mechanical operations. This substitution simplifies the unlocking operation while maintaining closure security, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the shape memory alloy material, specifically the temperature-dependent phase transformation between austenite and martensite. By controlling the temperature parameter, the system can transition between locked and unlocked states. This parameter-based control mechanism simplifies the unlocking operation compared to conventional mechanical systems, while the inherent properties of the shape memory alloy ensure reliable closure security.
3Device complexity
If shape memory alloy elements are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the inherent parameter changes in shape memory alloy materials, specifically the temperature-dependent phase transformation properties. By designing the system to exploit these material parameters, the patent reduces device complexity while the manufacturing precision requirements are managed through careful selection of shape memory alloy compositions and controlled heat treatment processes during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transitions in shape memory alloy materials as the core mechanism for both latching and locking functions. The phase transition between austenite and martensite provides predictable and repeatable behavior that can be manufactured with standard precision techniques. The self-regenerating nature of phase transitions in shape memory alloys allows for reliable operation without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing tolerances.
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 device provides a simple, reliable, and efficient mechanism for securing and unlocking closures, enhancing usability and security by using shape memory alloys to control the locking state, thereby simplifying the operation and reducing mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a first element operably connected to the annular latch and formed from a first shape memory alloy that is transitionable between a first austenite crystallographic phase and a first martensite crystallographic phase in response to a first activation signal
Implementation Method 2
transitionable between a first austenite crystallographic phase and a first martensite crystallographic phase in response to a first activation signal
Data Source
AI summary
A lockable latching device includes a body defining a cavity and having a central longitudinal axis, and a plunger disposed within the cavity. The plunger has a first end and a second end and is translatable along the axis between an open position and a closed position. The device includes an annular rotator disposed along the axis and configured for rotating the plunger about the axis. The device also includes an annular latch abutting the rotator that is transitionable between an unlocked state and a locked state. The device includes a first element operably connected to the latch and formed from a first shape memory alloy and a second element operably connected to the latch and formed from a second shape memory alloy.