Passive safety mechanism utilizing self-fracturing shape memory material

摘要

A system includes a structure having a first structural element and a second structural element. The system also includes a latch configured to releasably secure the first structural element to the second structural element. The latch includes first and second portions. The latch also includes a ball lock configured to hold the first and second portions of the latch together when the ball lock is engaged. The ball lock is also configured to allow the first and second portions of the latch to separate when the ball lock is disengaged. The latch further includes a shape memory material member configured to fracture when exposed to an elevated temperature and thereby disengage the ball lock. The shape memory material member could include an elongated structure that is configured to decrease in length when exposed to the elevated temperature. The elongated structure could have at least one notch.

主权项

1. An apparatus comprising:
a latch comprising:
a first portion comprising a recess;a second portion comprising a projection configured to fit within the recess;a ball lock comprising at least one ball, the ball lock configured to hold the first and second portions of the latch together when the ball lock is engaged and to allow the first and second portions of the latch to separate when the ball lock is disengaged, wherein the ball lock is configured to (i) engage the first and second portions of the latch by holding the at least one ball in at least one opening of the projection while the projection is within the recess when the ball lock is engaged and (ii) disengage from at least one of the first portion or the second portion of the latch when the ball lock is disengaged; anda shape memory material member connected to at least one of the first and second portions of the latch, the shape memory material member configured to fracture when exposed to an elevated temperature and thereby disengage the ball lock.