Smart memory alloy control
US7637105B2 · kind B2 · utility
3Cited by
3References
6Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2006 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03G7/066
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a method for improving performance and life of a material adapted to contract when heated to a critical temperature such as shape memory alloy wire (SMA). The method includes the steps of measuring ambient temperature before activation, measuring voltage applied to the SMA wire and/or current flowing in the SMA wire, calculating power and energy required to heat the material from the ambient to the critical temperature and providing the calculated power and energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.