Shape memory alloy actuator
US7481054B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 26, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jan 27, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2129/14
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A shape memory alloy actuator includes a housing, a plunger, a shaft, a resilient member, and a shape memory alloy component. The plunger is slidably but non-rotatably received in the housing and has a first locking component. The shaft has a second locking component. The resilient member is positioned to slidably urge the plunger into a disengagement position of the first and second locking components allowing rotation of the shaft. The shape memory alloy component is positioned to slidably urge the plunger into an engagement position of the first and second locking components, when the shape memory alloy component is heated, preventing rotation of the shaft. In one application, the first and second locking components are interdigitable vehicle-parking-brake latch teeth.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.