초록 ▼

An actuator for use in actuating a valve to control the flow of fluids through the valve, the valve having a valve member movable between positions opening and closing the valve. The actuator comprises one or more shape memory alloy elements each being transformable from a martensitic to an austenit

An actuator for use in actuating a valve to control the flow of fluids through the valve, the valve having a valve member movable between positions opening and closing the valve. The actuator comprises one or more shape memory alloy elements each being transformable from a martensitic to an austenitic state by applying heat energy to achieve an austenitic transformation. The one or more shape memory alloy elements are connected to the valve member such that austenitic transformation of the one or more shape memory alloy elements induces movement of the valve member from its closing position to its opening position.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. An actuator for use in actuating a valve to control the flow of fluids through the valve, the valve having a valve member movable between positions opening and closing the valve, the actuator comprising:plural shape memory alloy elements, each being transformable from a marten

What is claimed is: 1. An actuator for use in actuating a valve to control the flow of fluids through the valve, the valve having a valve member movable between positions opening and closing the valve, the actuator comprising:plural shape memory alloy elements, each being transformable from a martensitic to an austenitic state by applying heat energy sufficient to achieve an austenitic transformation, whereina first portion and a second portion of the plural shape memory alloy elements are each connected to a respective ratchet mechanism that is operably coupled to the valve member such that austenitic transformation of the plural shape memory alloy elements induces movement of the valve member from its closing position to its opening position, the valve member comprising a flow tube.