초록 ▼

A shape-memory alloy initially configured to have engaging potential for a lance, guillotine or pin connected thereto is wrapped in a heating element powered by current from a water activated battery. When the alloy reaches a specific temperature it silently reverts to a predetermined shape. The rev

A shape-memory alloy initially configured to have engaging potential for a lance, guillotine or pin connected thereto is wrapped in a heating element powered by current from a water activated battery. When the alloy reaches a specific temperature it silently reverts to a predetermined shape. The reversion force is used to displace a lance to pierce a gas cylinder seal to allow inflation of a float and to cut a retaining loop or withdraw a pin to payout a preset length of hydrophone suspension cable.

대표청구항 ▼

A buoy comprising in combination: a casing; deployable means releasably stored within said casing, said deployable means comprises an inflatable float; shape-memory means, transformable to a predetermined shape by heating, mounted within said casing and operatively connected to release said deployab

A buoy comprising in combination: a casing; deployable means releasably stored within said casing, said deployable means comprises an inflatable float; shape-memory means, transformable to a predetermined shape by heating, mounted within said casing and operatively connected to release said deployable means adjacent thereto for deployment thereof when transformed, said shape-memory means comprises actuator means mounted within said casing, connected to the float, and having a cavity, an input port leading into the cavity, and two output ports communicating between the cavity and the float, pressurized gas means connected to the input port and having a rupturable seal for retaining the gas, and shape-memory lance means disposed within the cavity for penetrating the seal when heated, said shape-memory lance means comprises a shape-memory alloy, a coil wrapped around the alloy, and a lance secured to the alloy, said alloy having a first shape positioning the lance to penetrate the seal and a second shape when heated such that the lance penetrates the seal; and condition responsive means within said casing for heating and transforming said shape-memory means, said condition responsive means comprises energizing means electrically connected to the shape-memory lance means for heating the shape-memory alloy.