초록 ▼

In a bistable shape memory effect, SME, mechanism having first and second opposing shape memory effect, SME, elements (16, 20) moving an actuator (12) along a travel stroke between respective first and second positions upon heating of the respective SME element above its transition temperature mecha

In a bistable shape memory effect, SME, mechanism having first and second opposing shape memory effect, SME, elements (16, 20) moving an actuator (12) along a travel stroke between respective first and second positions upon heating of the respective SME element above its transition temperature mechanical frictional retainers are provided for holding the actuator at the end of its travel stroke, including after cooling of the respective SME element and return repose movement thereof. One embodiment provides a detent retainer (38, 40, 42, 44, 46). Another embodiment provides a friction wedge retainer (12a, 12b, 14a, 14b, 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d). Another embodiment provides a resiliently biased friction member (50, 52) and a lost motion coupling (56, 58) between the actuator and the SME elements.

대표청구항 ▼

A bistable shape memory effect, SME, mechanism comprising: a housing; an actuator in said housing for actuation along a travel stroke between first and second positions; a first SME element in said housing and coupled to said actuator and moving said actuator to said first position upon heating of s

A bistable shape memory effect, SME, mechanism comprising: a housing; an actuator in said housing for actuation along a travel stroke between first and second positions; a first SME element in said housing and coupled to said actuator and moving said actuator to said first position upon heating of said first SME element above its transition temperature; a second SME element in said housing and coupled to said actuator and moving said actuator to said second position upon heating of said second SME element above its transition temperature; retaining means mechanically frictionally holding said actuator at the end of its travel stroke in one of said positions until actuated to the other position by heating of the respective SME element.