SMA Locking Device for Vehicle Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices for energy storage systems in vehicles require significant installation space, are mass-intensive, and have complex, failure-prone emergency unlocking mechanisms, and can be inefficient due to electric motor-based actuators that may remain in incorrect positions.
Innovation Solution
A locking device utilizing a shape memory alloy (SMA) adjusting element that changes shape in response to control signals to engage or disengage a locking element, reducing installation space requirements and eliminating the need for separate emergency unlocking devices by using SMA's temperature-dependent properties for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric motor and gear mechanism are used to displace the locking pin, then the locking device can be reliably operated, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electric motor and gear mechanism with a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator that uses thermal-mechanical coupling to directly displace the locking pin. The SMA element changes its shape in response to temperature changes, eliminating the need for complex mechanical transmission components while maintaining reliable locking operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temperature-dependent shape change properties of shape memory alloy to actuate the locking mechanism. By changing the temperature parameter of the SMA material, the locking pin is displaced between locked and unlocked positions, replacing the need for motor-driven mechanical systems.
2Ease of operation
If a mechanical emergency unlocking device is provided, then the supply device can be unlocked manually in case of defect, but the device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the locking device self-service capable by using the shape memory alloy's inherent thermal response properties. The SMA actuator can be activated by temperature changes from the environment or controlled heating, eliminating the need for separate mechanical emergency unlocking devices while maintaining the ability to unlock in case of defects.
3Ease of operation
If an electric motor is used to displace the locking pin, then the locking device can be controlled, but the motor is blocked if the locking pin is blocked, causing deactivation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electric motor with a shape memory alloy actuator that responds to thermal stimuli. The SMA material continues to function even when mechanically blocked because its shape memory effect is driven by temperature changes rather than continuous mechanical force, allowing it to overcome blockages and reliably position the locking pin.
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-based locking device is more space-efficient, lighter, and cost-effective, with the ability to securely lock or unlock without energy expenditure, and provides a reliable, space-saving solution for protecting energy storage interfaces against unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
the adjusting device has an adjusting element made of a shape memory alloy, the shape change of which makes it possible to adjust the locking element between the locking position and the release position
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device for an energy storage device of a motor vehicle, includes a locking element, which is adjustable based on a control signal, by an adjusting device between a locking position, in which the locking element engages with a latch receptacle, and a release position, in which the locking element is out of engagement with the latch receptacle. The adjusting device has an adjusting element made of a shape memory alloy. The shape change enables the locking element to be adjustable between the locking position and the release position.