High-Power Shape Memory Alloy Catapult Actuator for High-Speed and High-Force Applications

Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) based shape memory alloy (SMA) wires are already often used in industrial actuator applications. Their high energy density allows to build light-weight systems with forces using small installation spaces. Combined the biocompatibility of NiTi, a huge field applications can be covered by SMA actuated systems. In like emergency brakes or switch disconnectors, which require as well actuation speed, high-power capability NiTi actuators is exploited. The presented work details development and characterization giant power catapult demonstrator, that combines high-speed high-force wires. To illustrate vast force, potential wires, bowling ball launched from its resting position vertically into air For demonstration purposes target altitude for 500 mm chosen. With height overall accelerated mass given, an force F ≅ 920 N needed. instantaneous release designed source results targeted flight peak P 0.5 MW.