A panel (10) having active material based segments (14), wherein the segments define a hinge location that can be selectively stiffened or folded on demand. The active material based segments include an active material such that activation of the active material by an activation device can allow folding of the panel, can effect self-folding of the panel, or can serve to lock the panel into a fixed position when to activated. In this manner, the panel that can be variously stiffened or folded on demand. Other embodiments include forming the panel of the active material such that the panel can be compacted and stowed upon activation of the active material to change the modulus properties thereof.
申请公布号
WO2006104595(A3)
申请公布日期
2007.03.15
申请号
WO2006US05806
申请日期
2006.02.17
申请人
GENERAL MOTORS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
发明人
BROWNE, ALAN, L.;MANKAME, NILESH, D.;JOHNSON, NANCY, L.;KEEFE, ANDREW, C.