Shape Memory Alloy Actuator for Vehicle Glove Box
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle glove compartment actuators lack efficient mechanisms for reliably opening and closing the glove box lid, often requiring high forces and complex mechanical systems, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A glove compartment actuator system utilizing a housing, transmission mover, and control system with shape-memory alloy wires that change length in response to power input, allowing the actuator arm to move the latch between closed and open positions, thereby simplifying the mechanism and reducing the required force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical actuators are used to open and close the glove box lid, then the lid can be opened and closed, but high forces and complex mechanical systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators with shape memory alloy (SMA) wires that convert electrical energy directly into mechanical motion through thermal actuation. The control system applies electrical power to the SMA wires, which heat up and change shape to move the actuator arm, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, gears, or motors while maintaining reliable lid operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temperature-dependent shape change properties of shape memory alloy materials. By controlling the temperature of the SMA wires through electrical heating, the actuator can transition between different shapes to drive the latch mechanism, enabling reliable lid opening and closing through controlled parameter changes rather than complex mechanical means
2Reliability
If traditional mechanical actuators are used to open and close the glove box lid, then the lid can be opened and closed, but high operational forces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces force-intensive mechanical actuators with SMA wire actuators that generate motion through thermal expansion and phase transformation. The control system applies electrical power to heat the SMA wires, which naturally expand and contract to move the actuator arm, significantly reducing the operational force required compared to traditional mechanical systems that rely on motors and gear mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If complex mechanical systems are used for the actuator, then the lid can be opened and closed, but the system becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces cumbersome mechanical actuator systems with a compact control system that applies electrical power directly to shape memory alloy wires. The SMA wires convert electrical energy into mechanical motion through thermal actuation, eliminating the need for bulky motors, gears, and linkages. This results in a simpler, more compact actuator system that is easier to operate and integrate into the glove box assembly
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 system effectively opens and closes the glove box lid with a lower operational force, enhancing user accessibility and reducing mechanical complexity, while allowing for repeated use without damage.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of shape-memory alloy wires coupled to the actuator arm and configured to move the actuator arm along the lateral axis in response to changes in length of the plurality of shape-memory alloy wires upon receipt of the input from the control system
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a compartment mounted to a frame of the vehicle. The compartment includes a box coupled to the frame in a fixed position relative to the frame and a latch system coupled to the box to allow a user to access the box. The latch system includes a shape-memory alloy wire guided by a pulley during actuation of the latch system.