초록 ▼

Actuators utilising shape memory alloy materials are known with regard to gas turbine engines. Such shape memory alloys have been used with respect to deformation provided in vanes and blades as well as nozzle elements in order that variations can be made in engine configuration dependent upon therm

Actuators utilising shape memory alloy materials are known with regard to gas turbine engines. Such shape memory alloys have been used with respect to deformation provided in vanes and blades as well as nozzle elements in order that variations can be made in engine configuration dependent upon thermal cycling. Unfortunately, pedestals in order to provide spacing between the shape memory alloy and an antagonistic bias has resulted in uneven stress distribution as well as a higher thermal mass for the shape memory alloy. An uneven stress distribution will limit operational life whilst a higher thermal mass will result in slower reaction times. By separation of the shape memory alloy or material from its antagonistic bias through use of a slide element, a reduction in thermal mass is achieved and, more importantly, stress differentiation across the actuator is reduced.

대표청구항 ▼

We claim: 1. An actuator for a gas turbine engine, the actuator comprises:a bias;a slide element in contact with the bias; anda shape memory material in direct contact with the slide element and arranged to act against the bias and the slide element, with a the slide element being disposed between t

We claim: 1. An actuator for a gas turbine engine, the actuator comprises:a bias;a slide element in contact with the bias; anda shape memory material in direct contact with the slide element and arranged to act against the bias and the slide element, with a the slide element being disposed between the bias and the shape memory material, the shape memory material being separate from the slide element so that the shape memory material is movable in relation to the slide element, and the shape memory material is movable in relation to the bias.