Rotary actuator using shape memory
US5975468A · kind A · utility
21Cited by
7References
12Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 2, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03G7/065
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A rotary actuator includes a bar made of shape memory alloy having ends provided with thermally insulating interface elements for interfacing with elements that are to be rotated relative to each other. An electric heater surrounds the bar and is apt to heat it above its transition temperature to the austenitic domain. The actuator is suitable for deploying or rotating solar panels.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.