Apparatus and method of controlling phase transformation temperature of a shape memory alloy
US8741076B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 13, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03G7/066
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A device and method for controlling a phase transformation temperature of a shape memory alloy is provided. The device includes a primary wire composed of the shape memory alloy. The primary wire defines first and second ends, the first end being attached to a fixed structure and the second end being able to displace. An activation source is thermally coupled to the wire and is operable to selectively cause the primary wire to reversibly transform from a Martensitic phase to an Austenitic phase during a cycle. A loading element is operatively connected to the primary wire and configured to selectively increase a tensile load on the primary wire when an ambient temperature is at or above a threshold temperature, thereby increasing the phase transformation temperature of the primary wire.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.