Method and apparatus for spatially orienting movable members using shape memory effect alloy actuator

摘要

A method and apparatus for spatially orienting a remote flexible member such as the tip of a borescope to point in a desired direction employs heating to its transition temperature a shape memory efffect SME alloy actuating element coupled to the tip and cable. In one embodiment, an elongated helical spring fabricated from an SME alloy such as NI-TI or CU-ZN-AL is longitudinally disposed between the remote end of a borescope cable, and the borescope tip. An electrical resistance wire heater in contact with the spring and energized by an electrical power source controlled by an observer at the near end of the cable is used to heat a selected part of the spring to the transition temperature of the SME alloy of which it is fabricated, producing a controlled deflection of the borescope tip to point in a direction directed by the observer.