Abstract: Aircraft that use a shape memory alloy to extend or retract landing gear are provided. The present invention includes aircraft that contain a first retractable landing gear and a first shape memory alloy. The first retractable landing gear in the aircraft may be moveable from a first position to a second position while the first shape memory alloy may be changeable from a first configuration to a second configuration, the first shape memory alloy being in physical communication with the first retractable landing gear. Aircraft in accord with the present invention may also include a lock positioned to secure the first retractable landing gear in a retracted position and/or a second retractable landing gear coupled to the aircraft. This second retractable landing gear may also be moveable from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: Shape memory actuators for use with repetitive motion devices are provided. The present invention includes a method of urging a working end of a repetitive motion work arm into a work surface in which the working end is positioned to repetitively move across. This method may include providing a work arm having a working end positioned to repetitively move about a predetermined path of a work surface. This method may also include repetitively moving the working end of the work arm about the predetermined path of the work surface and urging the working end of the work arm into the work surface by activating a shape memory alloy actuator in physical communication with the work arm. The present invention also includes a method of urging a wiper blade towards a non-opaque surface of a motor vehicle.

Abstract: Shape memory alloy actuators for aircraft landing gear are provided. In one embodiment a retractable aircraft landing gear system is provided. This embodiment includes a shape memory spring strut having a first end and a second end wherein the shape memory spring strut is extendable from a first length to a second length and the shape memory spring strut contains a shape memory alloy. This embodiment also includes a shape memory spring strut activation line connected to the shape memory spring strut wherein the shape memory spring strut activation line may be configured to activate the shape memory spring strut and a longitudinal connecting member having a first segment and a second segment wherein the first segment is in pivotal contact with the first end of the shape memory spring strut and the second segment supports a wheel rotatably mounted on a pin. The connecting member may be moveable along a line of travel from an extended position to a retracted position in this embodiment.

Abstract: An apparatus and method warn drivers of a hazardous condition experienced by another driver. The apparatus generally includes a warning indicator, such as for example a strobe light, coupled to a vehicle warning controller. The vehicle warning controller is connected between a power source and a plurality of vehicle detecting circuits which detect the activation of a safety device. Vehicle detecting circuits can include an antilock braking system (ABS) detecting circuit, an airbag deployment detecting circuit, a rollover protection detecting circuit and an obstacle detector detecting circuit. When at least one of the vehicle's detecting circuits detects the activation of a safety device due to a hazardous condition, a signal is sent to the vehicle warning controller. The warning indicator is activated in response to a signal from the vehicle's warning controller. Therefore, driver intervention is alleviated in warning other motorists of potential danger.

Abstract: An apparatus and method warn drivers of a hazardous condition experienced by another driver. The apparatus generally includes a warning indicator, such as for example a strobe light, coupled to a vehicle warning controller. The vehicle warning controller is connected between a power source and a plurality of vehicle detecting circuits which detect the activation of a safety device. Vehicle detecting circuits can include an antilock braking system (ABS) detecting circuit, an airbag deployment detecting circuit, a rollover protection detecting circuit and an obstacle detector detecting circuit. When at least one of the vehicle's detecting circuits detects the activation of a safety device due to a hazardous condition, a signal is sent to the vehicle warning controller. The warning indicator is activated in response to a signal from the vehicle's warning controller. Therefore, driver intervention is alleviated in warning other motorists of potential danger.