Abstract: The present invention relates to linear actuators comprising an electrically-controlled shape memory alloy coil spring (23) suitable to provide linear displacements in valves, switches, lock systems and provided with a crimped terminal at each extremity, each of said crimped terminals comprising a crimping component (21) and an engaging member (22) suitable to mount the spring (23) into the linear actuator. The invention further discloses the use of said spring (23) with particular geometrical characteristics and crimping system assuring the maximization of the available stroke and fatigue life, structural simplicity, low electrical power requirements and thermal inertia, small size.

Abstract: The present invention relates to linear actuators comprising an electrically-controlled shape memory alloy coil spring (23) suitable to provide linear displacements in valves, switches, lock systems and provided with a crimped terminal at each extremity, each of said crimped terminals comprising a crimping component (21) and an engaging member (22) suitable to mount the spring (23) into the linear actuator. The invention further discloses the use of said spring (23) with particular geometrical characteristics and crimping system assuring the maximization of the available stroke and fatigue life, structural simplicity, low electrical power requirements and thermal inertia, small size.

Abstract: Thermostatic shape memory alloy torsional actuator comprising a torsional shape memory alloy wire (1) connecting a stationary element (2) with a rotatable element (3) so as to move the latter between a rest position and an operating position, and a return element (11) acting on the rotatable element (3) so as to move the latter between said operating position and said rest position, and fluid control thermostatic valves comprising such torsional actuator.

Abstract: Thermostatic shape memory alloy torsional actuator comprising a torsional shape memory alloy wire (1) connecting a stationary element (2) with a rotatable element (3) so as to move the latter between a rest position and an operating position, and a return element (11) acting on the rotatable element (3) so as to move the latter between said operating position and said rest position, and fluid control thermostatic valves comprising such torsional actuator.

Abstract: An airbag module comprises a control unit, a source of electric current managed by the control unit, a container wherein a gas is stored under pressure, and a hollow body with an inlet duct, in which an outlet of the container sealed by a pierceable membrane is tightly fitted, and an outlet duct on which an inflatable bag is tightly assembled. The airbag module further comprises an actuator assembly configured to pierce open the membrane sealing the container, said actuator assembly comprising a piercing member movably restrained to the body and at least one linear shape memory alloy wire actuator member that is electrically connected to the source of electric current and operably restrained to the piercing member so as to cause it to move beyond the pierceable membrane.

Abstract: An airbag module comprises a control unit, a source of electric current managed by the control unit, a container wherein a gas is stored under pressure, and a hollow body with an inlet duct, in which an outlet of the container sealed by a pierceable membrane is tightly fitted, and an outlet duct on which an inflatable bag is tightly assembled. The airbag module further comprises an actuator assembly configured to pierce open the membrane sealing the container, said actuator assembly comprising a piercing member movably restrained to the body and at least one linear shape memory alloy wire actuator member that is electrically connected to the source of electric current and operably restrained to the piercing member so as to cause it to move beyond the pierceable membrane.