Shape memory alloy actuators and methods thereof

US11333134B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Hutchinson Technology Incorporated · US

Inventors

• Mark A. Miller · Hutchinson, US
• Nathaniel K. Behning · Hutchinson, US
• Dean E. Myers · Stewart, US
• Michael W. Davis · Elburn, US
• Ryan N. Ruzicka · Dassel, US
• Zachary A. Pokornowski · Cokato, US
• Yasushi Sakamoto · Hutchinson, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 19, 2021
• Grant date: May 17, 2022
• Expiry date: Mar 19, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G03B2205/0076
• WIPO field: Optics
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

SMA actuators and related methods are described. One embodiment of an actuator includes a base; a plurality of buckle arms; and at least a first shape memory alloy wire coupled with a pair of buckle arms of the plurality of buckle arms. Another embodiment of an actuator includes a base and at least one bimorph actuator including a shape memory alloy material. The bimorph actuator attached to the base.