Shape Memory Tank Cap Unlocking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unlocking devices for motor vehicle flaps, such as tank caps, are expensive, require significant maintenance, and occupy too much space, limiting their installation to non-movable locations and restricting the flap's mobility.
Innovation Solution
A flap with a hinge device and a locking/unlocking mechanism utilizing a shape memory actuator that allows the flap to move between closed and open positions, with a movable securing part that can alternate between locked and unlocked positions using a shape memory material, reducing space requirements and enabling installation directly on the flap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a servomotor with gears is used as an unlocking device, then the locking function is reliable, but the device occupies too much space and requires significant maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional servomotor with a shape memory alloy actuator that uses thermal-mechanical coupling instead of complex mechanical components. The shape memory alloy element changes shape in response to temperature changes, directly actuating the locking mechanism without requiring gears, motors, or other mechanical transmission components, thereby dramatically reducing space requirements while maintaining reliable locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters of the actuation system by using temperature as the control parameter instead of electrical power. The shape memory alloy undergoes phase transformation at specific temperatures, converting thermal energy directly into mechanical motion. This parameter change eliminates the need for complex mechanical drive systems and reduces the overall device volume.
2Reliability
If a servomotor with gears is used as an unlocking device, then the locking function is reliable, but the device requires significant maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical wear components such as gears, bearings, and motor brushes by using a shape memory alloy actuator. The solid-state nature of the shape memory alloy means there are no moving parts subject to friction, wear, or mechanical failure, dramatically reducing maintenance requirements while preserving the reliability of the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy actuator is inherently self-regulating through its phase transformation properties. When heated, it automatically returns to its memorized shape, providing self-actuating functionality without requiring external control mechanisms or maintenance interventions. This self-service characteristic reduces the need for periodic maintenance while maintaining reliable operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the unlocking device is arranged on the movable tank cap, then design freedom is improved, but the device requires more space on the flap
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical actuation systems with compact shape memory alloy elements that can be integrated directly into the flap structure. This substitution enables the unlocking device to be mounted on the movable flap itself rather than on fixed vehicle body parts, providing design freedom while occupying minimal space on the flap.
Solution Approach 2:
The unlocking device components are nested within the flap structure, with the shape memory alloy actuator integrated into the existing flap geometry. The securing part and retaining element are arranged to utilize the available space efficiently, allowing the device to be mounted on the movable flap without significantly increasing its volume.
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 solution reduces the number of components on the vehicle, enhances design flexibility, and simplifies maintenance by allowing the flap to be replaced if defective, while maintaining secure locking and easy operation.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator (1) with at least one shape memory element (2) which, when triggered, changes its shape along its longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a flap with an attached release device. The flap can be, for example, a vehicle fuel filler cap or a glove compartment lid. The flap has a hinge mechanism to allow it to move relative to a support, such as a vehicle, between a closed and an open position, with an opening being at least partially covered in a closed position. Furthermore, the flap has a release device with an actuator comprising a shape-memory material, wherein the release device includes a movable locking element that can be moved by the actuator between at least one locked position and at least one unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the flap can be moved between the open and closed positions.In the locked position, the locking element is engaged with a retaining element that is fixed to the carrier in such a way that the flap cannot be moved from the closed position to the open position.