Structural support to underwater vessels using shape memory alloys
US7707957B1 · kind B1 · utility
5Cited by
1References
8Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 23, 2007 |
| Grant date | May 4, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63G8/00
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A supporting arrangement for a vessel for counteracting compressive loads at an operating temperature. The supporting arrangement also provides inertial stiffening of the hull of the vessel as well as acoustic and vibration damping. The supporting arrangement includes a support structure that is made from a shape memory alloy that contacts and presses against the inner walls of the vessel. The supporting arrangement utilizes the shape recovery properties and/or the internal energy properties of the shape memory alloy support structure to provide reinforcing and damping forces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.