Shape Memory Actuator Height Increase via Serpentine Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuators using shape memory materials face challenges in efficiently converting activation inputs into directional movement, particularly in achieving a height increase in the actuator configuration.
Innovation Solution
The actuator design incorporates a first and second outer body member with pivotably connected portions, along with one or more shape memory material members. When an activation input is provided, the shape memory material members contract, causing the actuator to move in a direction different from the contraction direction, and morph into an activated configuration with increased height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If shape memory material members are used to convert activation inputs into directional movement, then the actuator can achieve height increase, but the direction of movement is difficult to control precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by routing the shape memory material members through a serpentine path that converts contraction in one dimension into height increase in another dimension. The members extend between endcaps and are routed through guides to create a mechanical advantage system where linear contraction transforms into vertical actuation motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components including guide structures, endcaps, and body members that mediate between the shape memory material contraction and the desired directional movement. These intermediaries translate the material's shrinkage into controlled height increase while decoupling the strength requirements of body members from the tension in shape memory material members.
2Strength
If the strength of body members is increased to handle higher loads, then the actuator can withstand greater forces, but the tension in shape memory material members increases
Solution Approach 1:
The serpentine routing configuration creates a mechanical advantage system where the force is distributed across multiple segments of the shape memory material members. This dimensional transformation of the force path reduces the tension required in individual material members while maintaining the structural strength of body members for load handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the force transmission path by dividing it into multiple sections through the serpentine routing between endcaps and guides. This segmentation allows the total load to be distributed across multiple segments of shape memory material members, reducing the tension burden on each individual member while preserving overall system strength.
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
This design effectively converts activation inputs into directional movement and height increase, offering a compact and efficient actuation mechanism that decouples the strength of the body members from the tension in the shape memory material members.
Implementation Method 1
Shape memory alloys change shape when an activation input is provided to the material. When the activation input is discontinued, the material returns to its original shape.
Implementation Method 2
When an activation input is provided to the one or more shape memory material members, the one or more shape memory material members can contract
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator can include one or more shape memory material members. When an activation input is provided to the one or more shape memory material members, the one or more shape memory material members contract, which causes the actuator to morph into an activated configuration. A height of the actuator increases in the activated configuration. The actuator can include a first outer body member and a second outer body member. The first outer body member can include a first portion and a second portion pivotably connected to each other. One or more processors can be operatively connected to selectively activate the one or more shape memory material members.