SMA Actuator Assembly Power Conditioning Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator technologies, such as solenoids, have high power requirements and are inefficient, especially in portable applications, and rely on series battery configurations, which can fail if any battery is compromised, and there is a need for actuators that are backwards-compatible with existing systems and adaptable for renewable energy sources.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory alloy (SMA) materials actuated by an electronic power source, with an accompanying electronic circuit to condition electrical power, allowing the SMA actuator assembly to be integrated into existing systems and powered by renewable sources, such as photovoltaic systems, while minimizing power consumption and avoiding damage from corrosive fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solenoid actuators are used, then actuation function is achieved, but power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the actuation mechanism from electromagnetic (solenoid) to thermal (SMA), fundamentally altering the energy conversion parameter. Shape memory alloys respond to thermal energy rather than electrical energy, enabling operation from low-power sources like batteries and solar cells while maintaining actuation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic field-based solenoid system with a thermally-actuated SMA system. This substitution eliminates the need for high-current electromagnetic coils and replaces them with resistive heating elements that can be powered from much lower power sources
2Power
If series battery configuration is used, then voltage is increased, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power source configuration from series to parallel battery arrangements. Parallel configuration maintains voltage at individual battery levels while providing redundant current paths, so if one battery fails, others can still supply power to the SMA actuator
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the power system with parallel battery redundancy built in advance, cushioning against the risk of battery failure. This preemptive design ensures continuous operation even when individual batteries are compromised, eliminating the single-point-failure vulnerability of series configurations
3Use of energy by moving object
If SMA actuators are used, then power efficiency is improved, but compatibility with existing systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the SMA actuator system with universal power input capabilities that can accept various voltage sources (batteries, solar cells, wall adapters). The electronic control circuitry provides multi-functionality by conditioning power from different sources to match SMA requirements, enabling deployment across diverse existing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic control circuitry as an intermediary between the power source and SMA actuator. This intermediary conditions and regulates power from various sources (different voltages, AC/DC) to the precise parameters needed by the SMA, enabling compatibility with existing infrastructure while maintaining power efficiency
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 SMA actuator assembly provides a power-efficient and reliable solution that is compatible with existing infrastructure, reducing implementation costs and enabling the use of renewable energy sources, while maintaining actuator functionality even if individual power sources fail.
Implementation Method 1
an improved design for and methods of manufacturing and using an actuator or sensor apparatus which is actuated by thermally or electrically activated filament(s), such as a shape memory alloy (SMA) material
Implementation Method 2
an electronic circuit configured to condition electrical power provided by the power source so as to be suitable for use with the SMA actuator assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Power-efficient actuator apparatus and methods. In one exemplary embodiment, the actuator assembly utilizes a shape memory alloy (SMA) filament driven by an electronic power source to induce movement in the underlying assembly to actuate a load (e.g., water valve). In addition, a circuit board is included which allows the actuator assembly to be readily incorporated or retrofit into a wide range of systems such that the signal characteristics of the supply line can, among other applications, be conditioned in order to protect the SMA filament. Furthermore, the circuit board can also readily be adapted for use with “green” power sources such as photovoltaic systems and the like. Methods for manufacturing and utilizing the aforementioned actuator assembly are also disclosed.