A bidirectional shape memory alloy folding actuator

This paper presents a low-profile bidirectional folding actuator based on annealed shape memory alloy sheets applicable for meso- and microscale systems. Despite the advantages of shape memory alloys-high strain, silent operation, and mechanical simplicity-their application is often limited to unidi...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Smart materials and structures 2012-06, Vol.21 (6), p.65013-1-8
Main Authors: Paik, Jamie K, Wood, Robert J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Actuators
Exact sciences and technology
General equipment and techniques
Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy
Physics
Servo and control equipment
robots
Citations: Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This paper presents a low-profile bidirectional folding actuator based on annealed shape memory alloy sheets applicable for meso- and microscale systems. Despite the advantages of shape memory alloys-high strain, silent operation, and mechanical simplicity-their application is often limited to unidirectional operation. We present a bidirectional folding actuator that produces two opposing 180° motions. A laser-patterned nickel alloy (Inconel 600) heater localizes actuation to the folding sections. The actuator has a thin ( < 1 mm) profile, making it appropriate for use in robotic origami. Various design parameters and fabrication variants are described and experimentally explored in the actuator prototype.
ISSN:0964-1726
1361-665X
DOI:10.1088/0964-1726/21/6/065013