Shape Memory Alloy Separating Apparatus for Safe Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Explosive bolts used for actuating or coupling objects are hazardous due to the risk of shock loads and debris from explosions, which can damage machinery or interfere with optics.

Innovation Solution

A separating apparatus formed from a shape memory alloy, pre-strained to couple objects, which separates upon application of heat, eliminating the need for explosive forces by utilizing the alloy's shape memory effect to release the objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If explosive bolts are used to couple and release objects, then the objects can be securely attached and rapidly released, but shock loads and debris from the explosion can damage machinery and interfere with optics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverelease speedVSAvoidshock load and debris damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical/explosive system with a shape memory alloy-based mechanical system. The separating apparatus uses heat-activated shape memory alloy members that undergo phase transformation to generate separation force, eliminating explosives and their associated shock loads and debris while maintaining the ability to securely couple and release objects

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the phase transition properties of shape memory alloys. The alloy members transition from austenite to martensite phase when cooled, enabling them to deform and hold objects in a coupled state. Upon heating, they transform back to austenite phase, generating the force needed to separate and release the objects without explosive shock

Inventive Principle:

Principle #36Phase transitions

2Speed

If explosive bolts are used for actuating objects, then rapid actuation can be achieved, but the explosives pose safety hazards and may exert large shock loads that damage fragile machinery

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveactuation speedVSAvoidsafety and machinery integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the explosive actuation system with a shape memory alloy actuator system. The SMA-based separating apparatus provides rapid actuation through heat-induced phase transformation while eliminating the safety hazards and shock loads associated with explosives, thereby improving both speed and reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the activation parameter from chemical explosion to thermal stimulation. By controlling the temperature of the shape memory alloy members through heating or cooling, the system achieves rapid actuation while maintaining safety and protecting fragile machinery from damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 shape memory alloy apparatus provides a safer and more reliable method for actuating or releasing objects by generating kinetic energy through heat-induced separation, reducing the risk of damage and debris, and offering a more reliable mechanism compared to traditional explosive bolts.

Implementation Method 1

a pre-strained member formed from a shape memory alloy that is configured to separate upon application of heat

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS8418455B2Shape memory alloy separating apparatuses

Publication Date: 2013.04.16 RAYTHEON CO

AI summary

Embodiments of separating apparatuses are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. In an embodiment, a separating apparatus is provided that comprises a pre-strained member formed from a shape memory alloy that is configured to separate upon application of heat.