Shape memory actuator e.g. for vehicle central locking of doors and boot - has electrically-operated shape memory wires connected to points on opposite side of lever pivot point and surrounded by cooling liquid in container.

摘要

Shape memory wires (1, 2) fixed to the top wall of a housing (3) receive actuating current via connections (4, 5). The lower ends of the wires (1, 2) are connected to respective sides of a lever (6). The longer arm of the lever is coupled to a link rod (8) which is connected to an actuating rod (9), which extends externally of the housing via bellows (10). The actuating rod is shifted to its upper position by current passing through one wire (2), which shortens when heated. The other wire is heated by current to lower the actuating rod. The housing is filled with liquid for quickly cooling the shape memory wires. USE/ADVANTAGE - E.g. for space craft. Fast switch cycle.