Hood latch assemblies utilizing active materials and methods of use
US7331616B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 31, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/702
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A latch for engaging and disengaging two opposing surfaces includes a pin disposed on one surface and a gate disposed on an opposite surface; an active material in operative communication with the pin or the gate; an activation device in operative communication with the active material, wherein the activation device is operable to selectively apply an activation signal to the active material and effect a reversible change in a property of the active material, wherein the reversible change results in an engagement or a disengagement of the pin or the gate from the other of the pin or the gate; and a spring in operative communication with the pin or the gate, wherein the spring is configured to provide a force opposite to a force provided by the active material, wherein the activated active material is effective to overcome the force provided by the spring
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.