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Device or apparatus for manipulating matter

DC
  • US 6,004,330 A
  • Filed: 03/03/1995
  • Issued: 12/21/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/16/1989
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A device or apparatus for manipulating matter at an intended manipulation temperature in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising:

  • (i) manipulator means at least partially constructed of at least one bent or twisted elongated shape memory alloy member having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and(ii) a barrier material spanning said at least one alloy member, the barrier material being impermeable to the matter manipulated;

    (iii) a hollow housing or cannula capable of initially holding at least the at least one alloy member in a relatively straightened state, and(iv) actuating means for extending the at least one alloy member with said barrier member from the housing to manipulate matter within said space and for withdrawing the at least one alloy member into the housing, the arrangement being such that the at least one alloy member bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at said manipulation temperature and the at least one alloy member becomes relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at said temperature.

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