Abstract: An actuator system for use in selectively engaging an input to an output. The actuator system includes an input sub-system having an input component configured to connect to an input element which is in turn connected to a work source. The actuator system also includes an output sub-system being connectable to the input sub-system for receiving work from the work source via the input sub-system. The actuator system further includes an actuator sub-system having an active material and an actuating component. The actuator sub-system is configured so that the active material, when activated, causes the actuating component to move from a first state to a second state to disengage the input and output sub-systems. In another embodiment, the present technology includes a pinch-protection system that determines whether a present value for a work-source physical characteristic exceeds a running average by at least a preset offset value.

Abstract: A single input, multi-output drive system adapted for use, for example, with a power seat, includes an input power source, such as a PMDC motor, and at least one transmission further including a plurality of output elements shiftable between engaged and disengaged conditions relative to the source, so as to be selectively driven thereby, and drivenly coupled, for example, to various functions of the power seat, and a plurality of active material actuators drivenly and individually coupled to an associated one of the output elements, and configured to selectively engage the associated output element and input source.

Abstract: A head restraint assembly is provided that is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. The head restraint assembly includes a support member and a deployable member. A link is rotatably mounted with respect to the support member and the deployable member. A shaft is mounted to the link for rotation therewith. The active material is actuatable to rotate the shaft and thereby cause the deployable member to move from its retracted position to its deployed position.

Abstract: A vent assembly is disposed within an interior space of a vehicle for opening and closing fluid communication between the interior space and an exterior of the vehicle. The vent assembly includes a housing defining a plurality of openings and a plurality of vanes disposed in the openings. An actuator mechanism moves the vanes between an open position and a closed position, and includes a shaped memory alloy (SMA) member for actuating the vanes between the open and closed positions. The SMA member is activated when a hatch of the vehicle is open to move the vanes into the open position and thereby open fluid communication between the interior space and the exterior to alleviate excessive air pressure buildup during closure of the hatch.

Abstract: A head restraint assembly is provided that is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. The head restraint assembly includes a support member and a deployable member. A link is rotatably mounted with respect to the support member and the deployable member. A shaft is mounted to the link for rotation therewith. The active material is actuatable to rotate the shaft and thereby cause the deployable member to move from its retracted position to its deployed position.

Abstract: A head restraint assembly is provided that is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. The head restraint assembly includes a support member and a deployable member. A link is rotatably mounted with respect to the support member and the deployable member. A shaft is mounted to the link for rotation therewith. The active material is actuatable to rotate the shaft and thereby cause the deployable member to move from its retracted position to its deployed position.

Abstract: A head restraint assembly is provided that is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. The head restraint assembly includes a support member and a deployable member. A link is rotatably mounted with respect to the support member and the deployable member. A shaft is mounted to the link for rotation therewith. The active material is actuatable to rotate the shaft and thereby cause the deployable member to move from its retracted position to its deployed position.