FRANGIBLE SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY FIRE SPRINKLER VALVE ACTUATOR

摘要

A temperature-activated valve for a conventional fire sprinkler utilizing a hyperelastic single-crystal shape memory alloy is described. The shape-memory element expands as it is heated, forcing a bolt to break, thereby opening the sprinkler valve. The devices described are less susceptible to accidental breakage than conventional actuators, and have fewer moving parts. Transition temperature of the shape memory alloy can be tuned to a narrow range.

主权项

1. Method of making a thermally-activated sprinkler valve assembly comprising:
tuning a shape-memory element comprising single-crystal shape memory alloy to exert a pre-determined force at a pre-determined temperature; forming a temperature-sensitive actuator by coupling a frangible bolt to the shape-memory element so that the shape-memory element is compressed; and coupling the actuator to a linkage, wherein the linkage is configured to couple with the valve of a fluid passageway having a valved outlet to oppose fluid pressure and maintain the valve closed.