Reconfigurable fixture device and methods of use
US7480975B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 19, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jan 27, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 15, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49998
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fixture device generally includes a base member, a reconfigurable pad comprising a shape memory material configured to selectively conform to a surface contour of a workpiece, and a thermoelectric unit in operative communication with the shape memory material of the reconfigurable pad. A process for operating a fixture device includes passing a current in a first direction through a thermoelectric unit in operative communication with a reconfigurable pad in an amount effective to heat a shape memory material therein to or above a shape setting temperature, contacting a surface of a workpiece with the reconfigurable pad, cooling the shape memory material below the shape setting temperature, and fixturing the workpiece with the fixture device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.