Clamping assembly employing a shape memory alloy actuating apparatus
US8522930B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2121/32
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to a miniature precision clamping assembly driven by a shape memory alloy actuator wire (SMA wire) which may be employed within a braking or clutch system. The clamping assembly includes a first clamping element, a second clamping element and an SMA wire connected to the first and second clamping elements by being interwoven through a plurality of pressure amplifiers located on the exterior surfaces of the first and second clamping elements. Both the first and second clamping elements are configured to be positioned about a rotatable shaft and move in translation to the shaft via a transition action of the SMA wire between a clamping and releasing position. By energizing the SMA wire a contracting or compressing action is generated thereby causing the first and second clamping elements to move into engagement with the one shaft for inhibiting rotational movement.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.