Clamping assembly employing a shape memory alloy actuating apparatus

摘要

The present disclosure relates to a miniature precision clamping assembly driven by a shape memory alloy actuator wire (SMA wire) which may be employed within a braking or clutch system. The clamping assembly includes a first clamping element, a second clamping element and an SMA wire connected to the first and second clamping elements by being interwoven through a plurality of pressure amplifiers located on the exterior surfaces of the first and second clamping elements. Both the first and second clamping elements are configured to be positioned about a rotatable shaft and move in translation to the shaft via a transition action of the SMA wire between a clamping and releasing position. By energizing the SMA wire a contracting or compressing action is generated thereby causing the first and second clamping elements to move into engagement with the one shaft for inhibiting rotational movement.