Passive safety mechanism utilizing self-fracturing shape memory material
US9334675B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 15, 2012 |
| Grant date | May 10, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/57
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system includes a structure having a first structural element and a second structural element. The system also includes a latch configured to releasably secure the first structural element to the second structural element. The latch includes first and second portions. The latch also includes a ball lock configured to hold the first and second portions of the latch together when the ball lock is engaged. The ball lock is also configured to allow the first and second portions of the latch to separate when the ball lock is disengaged. The latch further includes a shape memory material member configured to fracture when exposed to an elevated temperature and thereby disengage the ball lock. The shape memory material member could include an elongated structure that is configured to decrease in length when exposed to the elevated temperature. The elongated structure could have at least one notch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.