Marman clamp with a shape memory alloy actuator
US9732776B2 · kind B2 · utility
2Cited by
15References
11Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 10, 2014 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 19, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/642
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A Marman clamp is disclosed. The Marman clamp includes a release mechanism with either pins or tubes formed with a shape memory alloy. The release mechanism opens and closes the clamp depending on the temperature of the pins or tubes. The temperature of the pins or tubes may be based on whether a space vehicle including the clamp is in a direct line of sight of radiation from the sun. Alternatively, a heat source may control the temperature of the pins or tubes. The Marman clamp may also open and close as a result of an independent force applied to the release mechanism.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.