Abstract: SMA actuators and related methods are described. One embodiment of an actuator includes a base; a plurality of buckle arms; and at least a first shape memory alloy wire coupled with a pair of buckle arms of the plurality of buckle arms. Another embodiment of an actuator includes a base and at least one bimorph actuator including a shape memory alloy material. The bimorph actuator attached to the base.

Abstract: The application discloses an energy recovery device comprising a drive mechanism; an engine core comprising a plurality of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) elements or Negative Thermal Expansion (NTE) elements fixed at a first end and connected at a second end to the drive mechanism. A block mechanism is positioned between the engine core and the drive mechanism to restrict movement of the drive mechanism until the elements reach a desired temperature.

Abstract: The invention provides an energy recovery method and system comprising a first Shape-Memory Alloy (SMA) or Negative Thermal Expansion (NTE) core and adapted to convert movement of the core into energy in response to a change in temperature, and a fluid provides a temperature change to activate the first core, to generate a power stroke; and a back load is applied to the SMA core with a force higher than a maximum relaxation force of the SMA core. The advantage of the invention is to be able to allow a multistage variable loading regime on an SMA engine to increase the system efficiency. The invention provides a method of transferring large reciprocating forces into a steady rotary motion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for obtaining a solution from a solid product in contact with a liquid is provided. A solid product is housed within a dispenser. A liquid is introduced into contact with the solid product. The solution formed between the solid product and the liquid is collected, and a makeup liquid can be added thereto to further dilute or control the concentration of the formed solution. The amount of makeup liquid added to the solution can be controlled based on the temperature of the liquid to provide an automatic, continuously variable amount of liquid added to the solution. In addition, a method of providing a pressure independent control of the makeup liquid is also provided.

Abstract: A scalable plurality of shape memory alloy (SMA) elements are configured to provide a continuous rotation actuator system. The plurality of SMA elements are coupled to a Ring Gear element, as well as to a Sun Gear element and a provision for thermal cycle return assist of the SMA elements. A plurality of Transmission elements provide for controlled rotary actuation in a desired direction with lock capability that provides for continuous rotary motion even as the SMA elements undergo reciprocating rotary action during their thermal cycling without running into system component rotation limits. The innovation distinguishes over other innovative approaches by way of at least the Ring Gear element, the manner of lock control, and the return assist element.

Abstract: A lens drive device includes a lens holder capable of holding at least one lens and a frame arranged around the holder and holding the holder relatively movable along a light axis of the lens. At least three stopper convex portions protruding toward the frame are formed on an outer circumference of the holder. Stopper concave portions housing each of the stopper convex portions are formed on the frame correspondingly to the stopper convex portions. A convex intersection corner between the first convex end surface and the convex side surface has a chamfering portion or an R curved surface portion to avoid touching a concave intersection corner between the concave bottom surface and the concave side surface.

Abstract: An additive manufacturing apparatus for building an object is provided. The apparatus includes a build chamber having at least one chamber wall, a powder delivery mechanism, and a build platform. The build chamber and build platform defines while in operation a powder bed. At least one surface of the build chamber or build platform is moveable in a manner that is capable of adjusting forces on the object in the powder bed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a valve drive unit that has first and second SMA wires that can be alternatively activated. The valve drive unit further includes a pivoting member pivotably arranged around a pivoting member axis, the pivoting member including a valve driver arranged at a distance from the pivoting member axis. The first and second SMA wires are coupled to the pivoting member such that an activation of the first SMA wire causes the pivoting member to pivot into a first direction and an activation of the second SMA wire causes the pivoting member to pivot into a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. The valve driver is configured to releasably engage a valve driver coupler of a valve unit, such that, in the engaged state, a pivoting of the pivoting member is transmitted to the valve driver coupler via the valve driver.

Abstract: An actuating device and a method for manufacturing an actuating device, where the method includes wrapping a conductive wire (204) around a polymer fiber (202) at a set tension, and heating the polymer fiber and wire to a temperature that exceeds the glass transition temperature of the polymer fiber for a predetermined amount of time to partially embed the conductive wire into the polymer fiber. The method also includes cooling the polymer fiber and wire to below the glass transition temperature resulting in a wired polymer fiber wherein at least part of the conductive wire is embedded in the polymer fiber.

Abstract: This assembly comprises a cup containing a thermally-expandable material, a piston designed to move in translation along an axis (X-X) under the action of the thermally-expandable material, a guide (40) for guiding the piston and intended to be fixed to the cup, and a buffer (60) made of an elastomer material and designed to be interposed between the thermally-expandable material and the piston. The guide is provided with a bore (41) that is intended to be centered on the axis and comprises a first bore portion (41.2) having a constant cross-section, a second bore portion (41.1) provided to receive the piston and having a cross-section that is both constant and smaller than that of the first bore portion, and a third bore portion (41.3) that continuously connects the first and second bore portions.

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 apparatus having an optical structure, ridges and an electrostatic actuator with a cantilever electrode is described, wherein the ridges connect the optical structure to a supporting structure and the electrostatic drive is implemented to deflect the optical structure.

Abstract: A movable device includes an actuator element that deforms about an actuator axis in response to increase or decrease in energy of the actuator element. A driven body is coupled to the actuator element on the actuator axis and turned by deformation of the actuator element. A guide mechanism guides turning of the driven body about a turning axis coaxial with the actuator axis such that torsional deformation of the actuator element is directly transferred to the turning of the driven body.

Abstract: An actuator device that includes a first actuating segment of an artificial muscle fiber, where one end of the first actuating segment is connected to a first terminal and the other end of the first actuating segment is connected to a second terminal. The device also includes a second actuating segment of an artificial muscle fiber, where one end of the second actuating segment is connected to a third terminal and the other end of the second actuating segment is connected to a fourth terminal. The device also includes a paddle disposed on both the first and second actuating segments and a heating provision disposed on the first and second actuating segments. The heating provision independently provides energy in the form of heat to the first and second actuating segments, and the actuator device moves rotates the paddle to a desired position through activating the first or second actuating segments.

Abstract: A SMA-driven rotary actuator comprises as actuating elements two U-shaped SMA wires (3) connected in an antagonistic configuration to a rotating input member (1) coupled to an oppositely rotating output member (2), preferably through a geared coupling, which is connected to a shaft (4) of a user device.

Abstract: A flexible drill bit comprising: a proximal shaft portion for connecting to a source of turning; a distal cutting tip portion for boring into a material; and an intermediate shaft portion extending between the proximal shaft portion and the distal cutting tip portion, the intermediate shaft portion being characterized by (i) sufficient longitudinal flexibility so as to permit the flexible drill bit to be passed along a curve, and (ii) sufficient torsional strength to permit the flexible drill bit to bore into the material. Apparatus for drilling a hole in material, the apparatus comprising: an angled drill guide comprising a curved distal section, a less-curved proximal section, and a lumen extending therebetween, wherein the less-curved proximal section comprises a flat extending therealong for reducing the effective diameter of the less-curved proximal section so as to minimize interference between the angled drill guide and the side wall of an access cannula.

Abstract: A moveable joint including a first member and a second member moveably connected to the first member, a shape-memory-alloy member coupled to the first member and engageable with the second member, and a biasing member configured to bias the second member from a first position relative to the first member towards a second position relative to the first member. Movement of the second member between the first position and the second position is limited by the shape-memory-alloy member such that the position of the second member relative to the first member is determined by the shape of the shape-memory-alloy member.

Abstract: A mixing unit with a mixer tap for mixing two fluids and a method for manufacturing the mixer tap for mixing fluids are disclosed. The mixing unit has a cartridge, which is provided with a coupling base having an inlet for a first inflow, an inlet for a second inflow, and an outlet for an outflow obtained by mixing the inflows. The mixing unit also has a housing designed to be placed in a coupled position with the coupling base. The housing is designed to change the rate of the first inflow and/or second inflow on the basis of the temperature of the outflow. The mixing unit also includes an attachment for attaching a housing to the coupling base. The attachment allows for movement of the additional housing, in relation to the cartridge, between the coupled position and a separated position.

Abstract: The friction driven linear motor includes a slide element with a portion with a pair of parallel straight sides. The slide element is contiguous with a zig-zag spring-like element, which is contiguous with an anchor block, which is contiguous with a MEMS substrate. The zig-zag spring-like element deforms as the slide element moves away from the anchor block. There are opposing pairs of v-beam thermal actuators. Each actuator includes a projecting cantilever beam with an end tip cycled to impinge, angularly, the slide element and extend, therein frictionally pushing the slide. A modulating current ohmically cycles the actuator from retraction to braking to pushing. At high frequencies the cantilever beam never fully retracts. The entire linear motor is composed of and is etched on a MEMS substrate.

Abstract: Methods for manufacturing an endodontic instrument or device, such as an endodontic file for use in performing root canal therapy on a tooth, are disclosed. The method may include the steps of: (a) providing a wire or wire blank comprising a nickel titanium alloy that has been heat-treated at a heat-treat temperature and has an angle greater than 5 degrees of permanent deformation after torque at 45 degrees of flexion tested in accordance with ISO Standard 3630 Part 1: General requirements and test methods and (b) removing material from the wire or wire blank to form an endodontic instrument or device. The method may include the steps of: (a) providing a wire or wire blank comprising a nickel titanium alloy at a first temperature; and (b) removing material from the wire or wire blank at a second temperature above the first temperature to form an endodontic instrument or device.

Abstract: An engine turning “clock work” motor including two shape memory alloy (SMA) torque tube actuators, ratcheting mechanisms, and gearing. The gearing communicates the SMA torque tube actuators with a common gear that applies torque to a shaft, so that while one torque tube is heated and applying torque, the other torque tube is relaxed (using a cooling mechanism). The ratchet prevents the relaxing torque tube from applying torque in the incorrect direction.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for supporting an elongated slender member having a high axial compression stress state during a change in length of the member.

Abstract: A wind turbine blade includes a first blade segment and a second blade segment extending in opposite directions from a chord-wise joint. Each of the blade segments having a pressure side shell member, a suction side shell member. The blade further including a coupling component extending spanwise and structurally connecting the first blade segment and the second blade segment. A thermal actuation component is coupled to the coupling component and passively actuated in response to a change in thermal conditions so as to provide for aeroelastic tailoring and pitch control to the wind turbine blade.

Abstract: A power-assist apparatus includes a shape-memory alloy (SMA) rod, a power source, an actuator, and a differential gearbox. The SMA rod configured to rotate at an end of the SMA rod. The power source is coupled to the SMA rod. The actuator coupled to an openable apparatus. The differential gearbox is coupled between the actuator and the SMA rod. The differential gearbox converts the rotation of the SMA rod to motion of the actuator.

Abstract: An energy recovery device comprising a drive mechanism; an engine comprising a plurality of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Negative Thermal Expansion (NTE) elements fixed at a first end by a holder element and connected at a second end to a drive mechanism wherein a compensation mechanism is positioned and adapted to combat the shrinkage of the SMA or NTE elements encountered in heating cycles.

Abstract: A method of determining a system compressibility value of a medical membrane pump drive is provided which includes moving to a first and second pressure level and detecting a first and second operating parameter value of the membrane pump drive. The system compressibility value is determined on the basis of the detected operating parameter values and the membrane of the membrane pump drive is supported at a rigid surface during the determination of the system compressibility value.

Abstract: Disclosed is a loop linked smart morphing actuator. The actuator includes a first area morphed in a first pattern and a second area morphed in a second pattern according to an external signal. The first area includes a first unit cell morphed in a first direction. The second area includes a second unit cell morphed in a second direction. The first unit cell and the second unit cell may be configured in a loop type knit structure. The second direction is opposite to the first direction, the second pattern is a pattern which has a symmetrical relationship with the first pattern and is provided opposite to the first pattern. In regard to a structure or a shape, provided is an actuator including a knit structure for realizing various driving forms which cannot be predicted through predetermined first and second patterns or a simple combination thereof.

Abstract: Shape memory alloy actuators with heat transfer structures, actuated assemblies including the shape memory alloy actuators, and methods of manufacturing the same are disclosed herein. The shape memory alloy actuators include a shape memory alloy torque tube and a heat transfer structure. The actuated assemblies include a base structure, an attached component, and a shape memory alloy actuator that operatively attaches the attached component to the base structure. The methods include providing a shape memory alloy torque tube, providing a heat transfer structure, applying a dimension-modifying force to the heat transfer structure, combining the heat transfer structure with the shape memory alloy torque tube, and releasing the dimension-modifying force.

Abstract: Evaporation-driven engines are disclosed herein. An example engine can include a water source having a high humidity zone proximate the surface of the water source, a supporting structure, and a hygroscopic material disposed on the supporting structure and configured to generate mechanical force in response to a changing relative humidity. The hygroscopic material can be repeatedly exposed to the high humidity zone and removed from the high humidity zone thereby causing the hygroscopic material to generate mechanical force.

Abstract: A system is provided for cross engine coordination during gas turbine engine motoring. The system includes a first gas turbine engine of a first engine system, a first air turbine starter of the first engine system, a first starter air valve of the first engine system, and a controller. The controller is operable to command the first starter air valve to control delivery of compressed air to the first air turbine starter during motoring of the first gas turbine engine, monitor cross engine data of a second gas turbine engine of a second engine system to detect a present condition or a commanded action that modifies an aspect of the compressed air received at the first starter air valve, and command an adjustment to the first engine system to compensate for the modified aspect of the compressed air based on the cross engine data.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ammunition disabler with a material capable of being selectively changed in response to an energy wave for preemptively disabling ammunition. In at least one embodiment, the ammunition disabler includes a material selectively structurally changeable from an operative state to a deactivated state upon exposure to an energy wave is provided, where the material is positioned at least partially between the firing pin and the priming compound when the ammunition is chambered within the firearm (with the priming compound positioned between the material and the propellant), and related systems, methods and uses. The material may be contained within the primer cup with the priming compound. The material may be positioned adjacent to the priming compound in direct or indirect contact or in close proximity. The material may be positioned externally from the primer cup.

Abstract: An actuator (12) includes a moving member (18) pivotally connected to a base unit (14) for rotation about an axis. The driving force for rotation of the moving member (18) relative to the base unit (14) is provided by a pair of antagonistically operating shape memory alloy (SMA) wires (48, 50) and transmitted via a torsional spring (56). An endoscope, or a snake-like robot (66), may include one or more of the actuators (12).

Abstract: This actuator includes: a holder; a slider; a wire; and a pair of electrode units. The slider is slidably held by the holder. The wire is a member that is locked at the slider, the wire causing the slider to slide by contracting in at least a line length direction when being energized. One end of the wire is bonded to one of the electrode units, and the other end of the wire is bonded to the other of the electrode units.

Abstract: The invention provides an energy recovery device comprising a plurality of Shape Memory Alloy (SMAs) or Negative Thermal Expansion (NTE) elements arranged as a plurality of wires positioned substantially parallel with each other to define a core wherein the wires are selected to have different dimensions such that the plurality of wires are activated at substantially the same time in response to a temperature change.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for supporting an elongated slender member having a high axial compression stress state during a change in length of the member.

Abstract: A rear view element folding device is disclosed for approaching at least one pivot position of an element housing relative to an element foot that can be mounted on the motor vehicle. The rear view element folding device locks or unlocks at least one resting position of the element housing relative to the element foot. A method for triggering such a rear view element folding device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an actuator, comprising a fiber and a temperature regulator capable of at least one of heating and cooling the fiber. The fiber is twisted around a longitudinal axis thereof. The fiber is folded so as to have a shape of a cylindrical coil. The fiber is formed of linear low-density polyethylene. The following mathematical formula (I) is satisfied: D/d<1 (I), where D represents a mean diameter of the cylindrical coil; and d represents a diameter of the fiber.

Abstract: An actuator includes a first actuator fiber and a second actuator fiber that are connected to plate members, a frame member provided at a fixed distance from the plate member; and a controller that controls temperature of the first actuator fiber and temperature of the second actuator fiber. Each of the first actuator fiber and the second actuator fiber is wound spirally and stretches or contracts when temperature thereof is changed. Stretch or contraction of the first actuator fiber or the second actuator fiber based on the control of the temperature causes the plate member to be locked to the frame member or to be unlocked from the frame member.

Abstract: A thermal energy harvesting system employs a hot flow conduit and a cold flow conduit with a flow routing device interruptibly interconnecting the hot flow conduit and cold flow conduit with a flow casing. At least one shape memory actuator (SMA) tube is in fluid contact with the flow casing and fixed at a first end. The flow routing device sequentially supplies hot flow from the hot flow conduit and cold flow from the cold flow conduit inducing rotation of the at least one SMA tube at a second end. A generator or alternator is operably connected to the second end of the at least one SMA tube.

Abstract: A plurality of wire elements for use in an energy recovery device comprising Shape Memory Alloy or other Negative Thermal Expansion (NTE) material, wherein at least one wire element is fixed at one end and free to move at a second end, such that the wire elements are arranged adjacently and are in friction or interference contact with each other and are secured at the outer perimeter of wires utilising a securing means. In such arrangement, during the operation of the bundle arrangement in a heat engine system, the plate elements act to transmit the aggregated force generation of the wire grouping and thus usefully recover and transmit power.

Abstract: A flexible drill bit comprising: a proximal shaft portion for connecting to a source of turning; a distal cutting tip portion for boring into a material; and an intermediate shaft portion extending between the proximal shaft portion and the distal cutting tip portion, the intermediate shaft portion being characterized by (i) sufficient longitudinal flexibility so as to permit the flexible drill bit to be passed along a curve, and (ii) sufficient torsional strength to permit the flexible drill bit to bore into the material. Apparatus for drilling a hole in material, the apparatus comprising: an angled drill guide comprising a curved distal section, a less-curved proximal section, and a lumen extending therebetween, wherein the less-curved proximal section comprises a flat extending therealong for reducing the effective diameter of the less-curved proximal section so as to minimize interference between the angled drill guide and the side wall of an access cannula.

Abstract: Described herein is a motor comprising a first rotatable member and an anchor, spaced apart from the first rotatable member. The motor also comprises a belt, in tension about the first rotatable member and the anchor. The belt is co-rotatably engaged with the first rotatable member. Further, the belt is made from a shape-memory alloy. Additionally, the motor comprises a thermal regulation device, positioned between spaced-apart first and second portions of the belt. The thermal regulation device is also configured to concurrently cool the first portion of the belt to contract the first portion of the belt and heat the second portion of the belt to expand the second portion of the belt. Concurrent contraction and expansion of the first and second portions of the belt cause rotation of the belt.

Abstract: A coil-forming laying head system including a laying pathway structure defining an elongated hollow pathway adapted to transport elongated materials therein, the laying pathway structure having a flexibility of at least about 50 mm at 23° C.

Abstract: An actuator includes a drum defining a longitudinal axis and having axially opposed first and second end portions that are rotatable relative to one another about the longitudinal axis. A shape memory element is wrapped around the drum and extends from the first end portion of the drum to the second end portion of the drum to actuate relative rotation of the first and second end portions of the drum about the longitudinal axis by activation of the shape memory element.

Abstract: A data center includes computing devices, an air handling system, a heat engine, and a generator. Air moved by the air handling system flows across heat-producing components in the computing devices in the data center. Heat from air that has flowed over the heat-producing components heats a hot section of the heat engine. The heat engine generates mechanical work based on a temperature differential between a hot section of the heat engine and a cold section of the heat engine. The generator generates electricity from the mechanical work generated by the heat engine.

Abstract: A scalable multi-element shape memory alloy (SMA) rotary motor employs a plurality of SMA tubes. A ratcheting gear transmission couples the plurality of SMA tubes in parallel to a common output. A controller provides power to a plurality of heaters associated with each of the plurality of SMA tubes, sequentially heating selected heaters to provide continuous rotational motion of the common output.

Abstract: An automated thermally actuated valve utilizing a thermally expansive substance to substantially close the valve at a first temperature and a spring to open the valve at a second, lower temperature. A method of utilizing an automated thermally actuated valve to balance and manage hot water supply in a piping system.

Abstract: A method, system and program product comprise applying a source of heat to a heatable object for a first predetermined period of time. The applying is conveyed by a terminal device. The heatable object is positionable within a sensing range of a motion detector. The applying of the heat source is stopped for a second predetermined period of time. The stopping enables the heatable object to cool in which a cycle of the applying and the stopping with motion of said heatable object is detectable by the motion detector.

Abstract: A slack compensator includes a stator fixedly attachable to a base and a shuttle. The shuttle is selectably movable from a first position on the stator to a second position on the stator. The shuttle is selectably releasably attached to the stator in the first position. The shuttle is to be permanently captured upon reaching the second position. The slack compensator is attachable to an SMA wire for removing slack that develops in the SMA wire during a plurality of break-in cycles.

Abstract: A motor includes a rotor module and a stator module. The rotor module includes electro-active polymer modules which change their physical size depending on electrical activation or deactivation. The stator module includes a base and a plurality of magnets mounted on two fixing plates of the base. The rotor module comprises a rotor and a coil. Precise displacement by the motor is obtained by electrically activating or deactivating the electro-active polymer modules.