Abstract: Multiple embodiments of ferromagnetic shape memory alloy (FSMA) based torque actuators are described. These torque actuators include a magnetic trigger and an FSMA member, which when actuated by the magnetic trigger, produces a torque for rotating a member. Examples of magnetic triggers include hybrid magnetic triggers having at least one electromagnet and at least one permanent magnet. The FSMA member can be configured as a coil (or plate) spring and can be fabricated of a true FSMA alloy (i.e., an alloy that exhibits both ferromagnetic and shape memory properties) or of an FSMA composite that includes a ferromagnetic portion and an SMA portion. Several embodiments include a central orifice in which the FSMA member and an axial rod configured to rotate when actuated are disposed; the magnetic trigger system is disposed about the periphery of the orifice.

Abstract: Linear actuators (also known as an inchworm actuator) including a magnetically actuatable shape memory alloy (SMA) are described. The linear actuators include a bar and an actuator assembly, configured to achieve a linear displacement of the actuator assembly relative to the bar. A hybrid magnetic trigger including an electromagnet and a permanent magnet is used to selectively attract the magnetically actuatable SMA toward the magnetic trigger. The motion of the magnetically actuatable SMA can be converted to a linear displacement. The magnetically actuatable SMA can be implemented using a SMA exhibiting both ferromagnetic and SMA properties, or by a ferromagnetic mass coupled with an SMA (i.e., a ferromagnetic SMA composite). Linear actuators including bars incorporating a ratchet mechanism, and featureless bars are described. A hydraulic system incorporating actuators including magnetically actuatable SMA membranes is also disclosed.

Abstract: A spoked wheel assembly includes a wheel hub with right and left end flanges spaced apart from each other along an axis, a wheel rim around the hub, left spokes respectively coupled to the left end flange at left spoke mounting holes and to the rim at spoke mounting points, and right spokes respectively coupled to the right end flange at right spoke mounting holes and to the rim at other ones of the spoke mounting points. The right and left spokes are arranged alternately in one of a first spoke pair disposed along substantially parallel planes and a second spoke pair disposed along intersecting planes. Thus, the rigidity of the rim in the direction of the axis can be increased.

Abstract: A spoked wheel assembly includes a wheel hub with right and left end flanges spaced apart from each other along an axis, a wheel rim around the hub, left spokes respectively coupled to the left end flange at left spoke mounting holes and to the rim at spoke mounting points, and right spokes respectively coupled to the right end flange at right spoke mounting holes and to the rim at other ones of the spoke mounting points. The right and left spokes are arranged alternately in one of a first spoke pair disposed along substantially parallel planes and a second spoke pair disposed along intersecting planes. Thus, the rigidity of the rim in the direction of the axis can be increased.