− A new concept for an actuator array is presented where a vast number of actuators are contained within a small volume and are controlled in a scalable sense. This vast degreeof-freedom system utilizes an array of Shape Memory Alloy wires embedded within a network of fluidic vessels. A Matrix Manifold and Valve (MMV) system routes fluid from hot and cold reservoirs in order to control an array...

in this paper the design of a biped robot actuated with shape memory alloy (sma) springs with minimum degrees of freedom is presented. sma springs are a class of smart materials that are known for their high power to mass and volume ratios. it was shown that utilizing spring type of smas have many advantages as large deformation, smooth motion, silent and clean movement compared to ordinary typ...

Smart actuators, such as shape memory alloy (SMA) and magnetostrictive actuators, exhibit saturation nonlinearity and hysteresis that may be symmetric or asymmetric. The Prandtl–Ishlinskii model employing classical play operators has been used to describe the hysteresis properties of smart actuators that are symmetric in nature. In this study, the application of a generalized play operator capa...

Prestrainend shape memory alloys (SMA) change their length when heated above their transformation temperature. Based on this property various micro-technical actuators have been developed in the past. This paper presents the design of novel macroscopic SMA actuators scalable in force and length. Our design approach allows arranging the point of actuation in any direction and ensures a short coo...

This paper describes the objectives of this project, which are to design artificial limbs that are lightweight, compact and dexterous, that mimic human anatomy and maintain a high lifting capability. The key to satisfying these objectives is the use of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) artificial muscles as actuators. A general methodology to find the placement of SMA wires to achieve desired ranges of ...

Brinson’s one-dimensional constitutive modeling for shape memory alloy (SMA) is extended to consider the asymmetric tensile and compressive behavior as well as the torsional behavior. The incremental finite element method using linear Timoshenko beam elements is formulated by the total Lagrangian approach for the superelastic, large deformation analysis of SMA helical springs. The NiTi helical ...

This paper analyses scale effects for actuator types which are strong candidates for micro-actuation: shape memory alloys (SMAS), electrostatic, electromagnetic and piezoelectric actuators. SMA actuators are studied in detail and compared to the other actuator types on a basis of force, response time, and power densi~. Much of the analysis is based on thermal aspects and scaling effects on both...

Actuators are used to perform a variety of functions in almost every type of electromechanical system, “smart” device, and instrument. Increasingly, in many applications, actuators need to achieve reduced size, mass, power consumption, and cost. Examples of industries that demand novel, miniature, and powerful actuators are medicine, biotechnology, information technology, space, manufacturing, ...

Shape memory alloys (SMA) are widely employed as sensors and actuators. The need for precise control requires reliable modeling techniques involving, e.g., prescribed stresses and temperatures. These parameters are always inherently coupled in SMA. Various models are in use to characterize the non-linear hysteretic behavior of SMA; among them some that do not provide a means to incorporate true...