Abstract: A thermally actuated valve assembly. In some embodiments, the assembly includes a source of pressurized fluid, the source having an outlet; a valve at the outlet; a strut maintaining the valve closed against force applied by the pressurized fluid; and a thermal actuator formed at least in part from shape memory material, the thermal actuator being movable from a first shape permitting the strut to maintain the valve closed and a second shape applying force to move the strut, thereby permitting the pressurized fluid to open the valve.

Abstract: Devices and methods of making devices having one or more components made of single crystal shape memory alloy capable of large recoverable distortions, defined herein as “hyperelastic” SMA. Recoverable Strains are as large as 9 percent, and in special circumstances as large as 22 percent. Hyperelastic SMAs exhibit no creep or gradual change during repeated cycling because there are no crystal boundaries. Hyperelastic properties are inherent in the single crystal as formed: no cold work or special heat treatment is necessary. Alloy components are Cu—Al—X where X may be Ni, Fe, Co, Mn. Single crystals are pulled from melt as in the Stepanov method and quenched by rapid cooling to prevent selective precipitation of individual elemental components. Conventional methods of finishing are used: milling, turning, electro-discharge machining, abrasion. Fields of application include aerospace, military, automotive, medical devices, microelectronics, and consumer products.

Abstract: A thin film device and fabrication method providing optimum tear resistance. A thin film layer is formed with a first and second of rows of holes. The holes in each row are spaced-apart along an axis which extends along an edge of the layer. The holes in one row are in overlapping relationship with adjacent holes in the other row. The holes have a diameter which is sufficiently large so that an imaginary line extending perpendicular from any location along the edge will intersect at least one hole, thus preventing further propagation of any tears or cracks which start from the edge.

Abstract: Contraceptive intrauterine devices made of thin film shape memory alloy materials. The devices are formed in three-dimensional shapes which contact uterus tissue of a human or other mammal to prevent conception. In certain embodiments, structural features such as tails, fenestrations, ridges or grooves are formed on the devices to enhance the contraceptive effect.

Abstract: Devices and methods which store and selectively release relatively substantial amounts of energy for enabling individuals to undertake superior performance in locomotion and other physical activities. The different embodiments include a hyperelastic SMA element which stores and releases energy in a differential pulley set, in a hinged knee, and in a pogo stick.

Abstract: A thin film device, such as an intravascular stent, is disclosed. The device is formed of a seamless expanse of thin-film (i) formed of a sputtered nitinol shape memory alloy, defining, in an austenitic state, an open, interior volume, having a thickness between 0.5-50 microns, having an austenite finish temperature Af below 37° C.; and demonstrating a stress/strain recovery greater than 3% at 37° C. The expanse can be deformed into a substantially compacted configuration in a martensitic state, and assumes, in its austenitic state, a shape defining such open, interior volume. Also disclosed is a sputtering method for forming the device.

Abstract: A system and method for incentivizing holders of financial accounts, e.g., credit card account holders, to engage in certain activities with those accounts. Account holders may be provided an up-front incentive based on a commitment to engage in certain account activities in the future. If the account holder fails to satisfy his commitment, at least a portion of the value of the incentive may be charged to a customer account. Rewards provided to an account holder to encourage particular account activities also may include merchandise rewards, discounts and rebates or entries into a lottery type drawing for prizes.