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Method of making a distributed activator for a two-dimensional shape memory alloy

  • US 6,278,084 B1
  • Filed: 04/12/2000
  • Issued: 08/21/2001
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/05/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method of making a distributed actuator array having a two-dimensional SMA sheet, the method comprising the methods of:

  • a.) providing an insulating layer over the two-dimensional SMA sheet;

    b.) providing a distributed array of heaters over the insulating layer, each to selectively heat a respective portion of the two-dimensional SMA sheet;

    c.) providing electrically isolated feed lines for supplying current to each respective heater of the array;

    d.) providing an array of sensors for deriving angular deflection states of local portions of the two-dimensional SMA sheet;

    e.) providing a control unit;

    f.) providing a storage device to store a set of the angular deflection states for the local portions of the two-dimensional SMA sheet;

    g.) storing in the storage device electrical current values respectively associated with the angular deflection states; and

    h.) providing selected ones of the current values to the control unit to selectably enable the flow of electrical current through ones of the feed lines to achieve an associated one of the angular deflection states.

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