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Shape memory alloy actuator

  • US 7,992,795 B2
  • Filed: 11/30/2007
  • Issued: 08/09/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/30/2006
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A shape memory alloy actuator, comprising:

  • a first shape memory alloy object and a second shape memory alloy object;

    a movable member to which the first shape memory alloy object and a second shape memory alloy object attach;

    the movable member being movable between a first position and a second position;

    a bias element attached to the movable member, wherein the bias element applies a stress to the first shape memory alloy object when the movable member is in the first position and applies a stress to the second shape memory alloy object when the movable member is in the second position, wherein in the first position the second shape memory alloy object is not subject to stress from the bias element and in the second position the first shape memory alloy object is not subject to stress from the bias element; and

    the bias element is generally coaxial with the first shape memory alloy object when the movable member is in the first position and generally coaxially with the second shape memory alloy object when the movable member is in the second position.

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