Abstract: An SMA actuator (10) comprising SMA wires (31, 32) in which the wire arrangement is asymmetrical, allowing a greater range of motion from a rest position in a first direction than in a second direction, which may be opposite or orthogonal to the first direction. Where the directions are opposite, the angle between a principal axis and the wires providing motion in the first direction may be different from the angle between the principal axis and the wires providing motion in the second direction.

Abstract: Broadly speaking, the present techniques provide specific arrangements of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wires in SMA actuation apparatuses. In one arrangement, a single straight shape memory alloy actuator wire may be used, which may be inclined at an acute angle greater than 0 degrees with respect to a plane normal to the movement direction. In another arrangement, two straight lengths of shape memory alloy actuator wire may be used, where the SMA wires may be inclined at an acute angle greater than 0 degrees with respect to a plane normal to the movement direction.

Abstract: Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present techniques provide an actuator that comprises segments of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire that can be used to deliver a relatively large output stroke. In particular, two segments of SMA actuator wire may be mechanically coupled together around a corner of a static component of the actuator such that a displacement (e.g. contraction) of one segment causes a displacement (e.g. contraction) of the other segment. In this way, the displacement of each segment combines in an additive manner to generate a large output stroke that is able to move a moveable component of the actuator.

Abstract: Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present techniques provide apparatuses and methods for controlling the position and/or orientation of a moveable component of an actuator, using at least two shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wires and at least one sensor for sensing position/orientation of the moveable component.

Abstract: Picture Hanging Position Finder And Wall Marking Device has an elongated adjustable vertical support with a hanger at the top to accept and hold a wire or bracket for a framed picture or other hanging object, wherein the device may lean against a wall with the back of the vertical support held flush against the wall, and with the bottom of the vertical support elevated above any wall baseboard, and held in place by forward and laterally extending legs which reach down to a horizontal floor. As such, a picture can be suspended from the vertical support, and the device can be moved to any location against a wall, and the height can adjusted and locked in place, so that a user may view the picture from a distance as if it were hung on the wall in order to choose a desirable location for the picture. The device then has a means for marking the wall for the installation of a permanent hanger at the precise location from where the picture had been temporarily suspended.