Abstract: A process is disclosed for improving the ductility of shape-memory alloy products based on Ti-Ni involving martensitic transformation. The process comprises at least one thermal treatment cycle of alternating hot and cold treatment, wherein the first thermal treatment cycle comprises a cold treatment at a temperature both lower than -50.degree. C. and lower than M.sub.s -50.degree. C., where M.sub.s is the temperature at which martensitic transformation of the product begins, and a hot treatment of the product at a temperature of 700.degree. to 900.degree. C. Each optional subsequent thermal treatment cycle comprises a cold treatment of the product at a temperature both lower than -50.degree. C. and lower than M.sub.s -30.degree. C., and a hot treatment of the product at a temperature of 600.degree. to 900.degree. C.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of conditioning an object in shape-memory material of metallic alloy type.The object formed to final shapes and dimensions constituting the first shape-memory state is submitted to a thermal treatment in order to bring this object to an austenitic crystallographic phase, then to cooling. The object is then submitted in at least one deformation zone to a process of education consisting of imposing on the object, in at least one cycle, a series of thermal and/or mechanical stresses. The stresses are such as to lead to deformation of the object for bringing it to a shape close to its second shape-memory state in a martensitic crystallographic state, then to permit the return of the object to its first shape-memory state, on a return of the object to the austenitic crystallographic state.Application to electric contact elements.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connector thermo-insertable onto a printed circuit card.Contact terminals of the connector have at least one insertable part of a shape-memory material. The insertable part of each of the terminals is shaped to the dimensions of its final use shape after insertion corresponding to its stable shape-memory state, in a manner to ensure mechanical retention and electric contact with the corresponding aperture in the printed circuit. The same insertable part is able to occupy a second memorized or not shape state, in a manner to be able to be introduced and/or withdrawn from its corresponding aperture.Application to connectors for printed circuits in any field of use.