Design of Highly Integrated Systems on the Basis of Programmed Shape Memory Alloy Components

One way to represent the realisation of a system with complex and variable functions is by means of a modular system. Modular systems do not only enable the adoption of the solutions for other applications, but moreover lead to a reduction of the diversity of variants and to a reduction of the development risk. An unsolved problem at modular systems is the increasing system complexity. Additional functions, like the mechanical and electronic coupling of the modules, are responsible for it. Beyond the conventional form of a modular system there is the possibility to create a variable shape memory actuator system only by using the material configuration of one single SMA-component. An emphasizing feature of SMAs is their potential to produce different functional effects, for example thermal shape memory or superelasticity, in one component. Separated from the former point of view a new perspective with extreme integral and standardised set up is opened up. Here it is merely required to complete the structuring and dimensioning of SMA components with function “material programming”. The SMA-component can therefore especially be programmed functionally for the scheduled use case. This programming can be reversible or not reversible in consideration of different configuration possibilities. The structure of such a variable SMA-component can be understood as a “one module” modular system. The components are endued with different regional operating spheres. One area of the various function spheres represents one module. This is an equivalent to the modular system in common design. Through an activation or a setup process the superelastic behaviour can as well as the thermal shape memory be optionally adjusted. Therefore “material programming” can be installed in order to implement active actuators, passive superelastic structures (usable for hinges, clips or dampers) and even a combination of both. Furthermore the transformation with several stages can be implemented by adjusting different transformation temperatures in one specific element. On the one hand the aim of this study is to show a way to develop such components. On the other hand the study gives a review in “one-module” component designs.