Abstract: A bi-metal actuator includes a shape memory alloy layer thermally actuated, a superelastic alloy layer fixed along to at least a part of the shape memory alloy layer, and at least one deformation sensor. The shape memory alloy layer has an initial shape at or below a transition start temperature TS and a final shape at or above a transition end temperature TE, has transitional shapes between the initial shape and the final shape which is formed according to the temperature between the transition start temperature TS and the transition end temperature TE of the shape memory alloy layer. The at least one deformation sensor is provided along at least a part of the superelastic alloy layer for measuring strain values of the superelastic alloy layer indicating the current form of the shape memory alloy layer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a drug delivery system that specifically carries and releases an active substance to a target organ or tissue.

Abstract: A guiding assembly for catheters comprises two coupling means; a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator which is electrically actuatable by providing resistive heating resulting from an electric current, wherein the SMA actuator is fixed to the two coupling means and at least one part of the SMA actuator is positioned between the two coupling means; a super-elastic alloy (SEA) member fixed to the two coupling means, wherein at least one part of the SEA member is positioned between the two coupling means. The guiding assembly may further comprise at least one deformation sensor for measuring deformation levels of the SMA actuator.

Abstract: A bi-metal actuator includes a shape memory alloy layer thermally actuated, a superelastic alloy layer fixed along to at least a part of the shape memory alloy layer, and at least one deformation sensor. The shape memory alloy layer has an initial shape at or below a transition start temperature TS and a final shape at or above a transition end temperature TE, has transitional shapes between the initial shape and the final shape which is formed according to the temperature between the transition start temperature TS and the transition end temperature TE of the shape memory alloy layer. The at least one deformation sensor is provided along at least a part of the superelastic alloy layer for measuring strain values of the superelastic alloy layer indicating the current form of the shape memory alloy layer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for friction stir spot welding and a method of friction stir spot welding providing a keyhole free welding. The method comprises placing an intermediate piece (5) between at least one first workpiece (3) and at least one second workpiece (4) for forming a sandwich structure (S); pressing the sandwich structure (S) such that the intermediate piece (5) is trapped between the second workpiece (4) and an embossing (E) formed on the first workpiece (3); pressing the embossing (E) by a rotating tool comprising a substantially flat end (6.1) for pressing so as to plasticize the intermediate piece (5), at least one part of each of the first workpiece (3) and the second workpiece (4).

Abstract: A technique facilitates control over one or more well tools coupled to one or more corresponding control modules. Actuation of the control modules and the well tools may be achieved with three control lines connected to the one or more control modules. Transitioning of the control modules to sequential stages and the consequent actuation of the corresponding well tools is achieved by applying a single pressure level selectively through the three control lines.