Actuators based on the shape memory effect have recently become more and economically important due to many advantages of alloys (SMAs), such as their high energy density. SMAs are usually used control end/maximum positions, thus actuators always move between two positions. The repeatable intermediate positions has so far proven difficult, because in most cases, external sensors necessary deter...

Shape memory materials have been widely used as programmable soft matter for developing multifunctional hybrid actuators. Several challenges of fabrication and effective modelling these actuating systems can be addressed by implementing novel 3D printing techniques simulations to aid the designer. In this study, temperature-dependent recovery an embedded U-shaped Memory Alloy (SMA) shape fixity...

The shape memory alloy (SMA) based actuators are replacing huge and bulky because of its ability to provide high work per unit mass serves as active prismatic joint develop precise robotic manipulators. It also helps in developing a light weight manipulators with simple actuation process. Here, the study presents relationship between contraction Nitinol SMA prings input variables such current t...

This paper describes a new motion control system for actuators based on antagonistic-pair arrangements of electrically-heated SMA elements. Two different controllers have been tested, both of them incorporating a new rapid heating strategy that greatly increases the rate at which the elements can be heated without risk of overheating. Essentially, the current applied to the element is the lesse...

An access device using a combination of a compression coil spring made of NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) and NiTi superelastic strips has been developed. Particular consideration is given to the application of the concept in transanal endocopic microsurgery (TEM), but it could be used in other procedures where tissue expansion is required. In TEM, it could realize the gasless dilation of the rec...

Acknowledgements There are many who have made contributions, both directly and indirectly to the completion of this thesis. I would like to name a few. First of all, I would like to sincerely thank my supervisor, Dr. Roy Featherstone, whose help has been enormous and whose enthusiasm has sparked my own in this wonderful work. His ideas and suggestions had frequently created jigsaw puzzles with ...

In recent years, the growing global interest in the conservation of environment has provided a fresh impetus for research in the area of solar energy utilization. Already, installation of solar energy extraction devices such as solar panels, solar water heaters, solar cookers etc. is becoming popular in urban buildings. Most of these devices consist of a solar receptor that is kept facing the s...

This work presents the development of an innovative shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator principle, which allows high-speed switching cycles through decoupling antagonistically arranged SMA wires. Being optimized for use at high ambient temperatures up to 65 °C, a possible application area is active venting injection molds where it can be used expel air, trapped during mold process. The patented p...