Valve including a shape memory alloy member
US9416878B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 2015 |
| Grant date | Aug 16, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16K31/02
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A valve selectively opens and closes a passageway defined by a port. The valve comprises a body defining outer and inner surfaces; the inner surface defining an inner cavity. A sealing arm extends from the body into the inner cavity and is movable between first and second positions for closing and opening the passageway, respectively. A shape memory alloy member is disposed at least partially along the outer surface and alternates between first and second lengths in de-energized and energized states, respectively. The first length is greater than the second length, which constricts about the body. A leg extends from the body into the inner cavity and is moveable between initial and activated positions in the de-energized and energized states, respectively. The leg engages and moves the sealing arm from the first position to the second position when the leg moves from the initial position to the activated position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.