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Actuators
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Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys
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Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys

A special issue of Actuators (ISSN 2076-0825).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 July 2019) | Viewed by 44020

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Doron Shilo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory for Nano and Micro Mechanics of Materials, Department of Mechanical Engineering Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
Interests: nano and micro mechanics of materials; mechanical behavior of smart materials; kinetic laws for martensitic and twinning transformations; ultra-fast SMA actuators; micro SMA actuators; ferromagnetic SMA (FSMA) actuators; magnetostrictive composite materials

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Actuators based on shape memory alloys (SMA) provide the highest work per volume amongst all other actuators and are already in use in several medical, automotive, and space applications. The manufacturing of NiTi alloys have reached technological maturity, as nowadays there are numerous companies that manufacture NiTi wires with variety of mechanical properties and transformation temperatures. In addition, new shape memory materials that are based on martensitic transformation demonstrates a promising potential for future actuator applications. In this perspective, we are delighted to announce a new Special Issue on “Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys”. Contributions related (but not limited) to the following topics are particularly encouraged.

  • Novel SMA based actuators.
  • Fabrication, characterization, and implementation of micro actuators based on SMA.
  • New approaches for producing SMA actuators with short actuation time and/or improved energy efficiency.
  • New shape memory materials, including (but not limited to) high temperature SMA, strain glasses, and shape memory ceramics.
  • Thermo-mechanical simulation and experimental characterization of SMA actuators.
  • Control of SMA based actuators.

Dr. Doron Shilo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Actuators is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Shape memory alloys
  • SMA based actuators
  • MEMS actuators
  • High temperature SMA
  • Thermo-mechanical behavior of materials
  • Martensitic phase transformation
  • Simulation and control of SMA actuators

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

21 pages, 10851 KiB  
Article
Flexible Shape-Memory Alloy-Based Actuator: Mechanical Design Optimization According to Application
by Dorin Copaci, Dolores Blanco and Luis E. Moreno
Actuators 2019, 8(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/act8030063 - 14 Aug 2019
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 11029
Abstract
New robotic applications, among others, in medical and related fields, have in recent years boosted research in the development of new actuators in the search for solutions that are lighter and more flexible than conventional actuators. Shape-Memory Alloy (SMA)-based actuators present characteristics that [...] Read more.
New robotic applications, among others, in medical and related fields, have in recent years boosted research in the development of new actuators in the search for solutions that are lighter and more flexible than conventional actuators. Shape-Memory Alloy (SMA)-based actuators present characteristics that make them an excellent alternative in a wide variety of applications. This paper presents the design, tests (with the control description) and analysis of various configurations of actuators based on SMA wires: flexible SMA actuators, different mechanical design to multiply the displacement and different configurations for actuators with multiple SMA wires. The performance of the actuators has been analyzed using wires of different activation temperatures. The influence of the Bowden sheath of the flexible actuator has been tested, as has the thermal behavior of actuators with several wires. This work has allowed determination of the most effective configuration for the development of a flexible actuator based on SMA, from the point of view of dimensions, efficiency, and work frequency. This type of actuator has been applied in the development of soft robots and light robotic exoskeletons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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13 pages, 1980 KiB  
Article
Applicability of Shape Memory Alloys in Aircraft Interiors
by Antonia Weirich and Bernd Kuhlenkötter
Actuators 2019, 8(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/act8030061 - 09 Aug 2019
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6879
Abstract
This paper evaluates possible applications for SMAs (Shape Memory Alloys) based on the requirements in the field of aircraft interiors. The authors gather requirements regarding industry standards and regulations by detailed literature research and lead user interviews. They develop a classification scheme for [...] Read more.
This paper evaluates possible applications for SMAs (Shape Memory Alloys) based on the requirements in the field of aircraft interiors. The authors gather requirements regarding industry standards and regulations by detailed literature research and lead user interviews. They develop a classification scheme for SMA-based actuators, which consists of SMA-specific technical attributes and requirements. This classification scheme allows one to evaluate the feasibility of using SMA-based systems in aircraft interiors. Furthermore, this paper clusters critical requirements and discusses solutions for limitations of SMAs in aircraft interiors. The authors identify critical and noncritical requirements for the implementation of SMA-based actuators. They suggest solutions for critical requirements in order to improve the possible range of applications for SMAs. The study exclusively regards the field of aircraft interiors and the currently existing industry standards and only indirectly takes laws into account. The evaluated requirements and proposed solutions can be transferred to other areas such as the automotive industry. This structured analysis of the feasibility of SMA-based systems in aircraft interiors is an innovative research work and, therefore, is valuable in order to benefit from the advantageous properties of SMAs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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11 pages, 7209 KiB  
Article
Scalable Bi-Directional SMA-Based Rotational Actuator
by Rouven Britz, Paul Motzki and Stefan Seelecke
Actuators 2019, 8(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/act8030060 - 05 Aug 2019
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5921
Abstract
In industrial applications, rotatory motions and torques are often needed. State-of-the-art actuators are based on either combustion engines, electro-motors, hydraulic, or pneumatic machines. The main disadvantages are the construction space, the high weight, and a large amount of needed peripheral devices. To overcome [...] Read more.
In industrial applications, rotatory motions and torques are often needed. State-of-the-art actuators are based on either combustion engines, electro-motors, hydraulic, or pneumatic machines. The main disadvantages are the construction space, the high weight, and a large amount of needed peripheral devices. To overcome these limitations, compact and light-weight actuator systems can be built by using shape memory alloys (SMAs), which are known for their superior energy density. In this paper, the development of a scalable bi-directional rotational actuator based on SMA wires is presented. The scalability was based on a modular design, which allowed the actuator to be adapted to various application specifications by customizing the rotational angle and the output torque. On the mechanical side, each module enabled a small rotatory motion, which added up to the total angle of the actuator. The SMA wires were arranged in an agonist-antagonist configuration to provide active rotation in both directions. The presented prototype achieved a total rotation of 100°. The modularity of the mechanical concept is also reflected in the electronics, which is discussed in this paper as well. This consideration allows the electronics to be adapted to the mechanics with minimal changes. As a result, a prototype, including the presented mechanical and electronic design, is reported in this study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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16 pages, 9283 KiB  
Article
Multi-Objective Design Optimization of a Shape Memory Alloy Flexural Actuator
by Casey D. Haigh, John H. Crews, Shiquan Wang and Gregory D. Buckner
Actuators 2019, 8(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/act8010013 - 16 Feb 2019
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6144
Abstract
This paper presents a computational model and design optimization strategy for shape memory alloy (SMA) flexural actuators. These actuators consist of curved SMA wires embedded within elastic structures; one potential application is positioning microcatheters inside blood vessels during clinical treatments. Each SMA wire [...] Read more.
This paper presents a computational model and design optimization strategy for shape memory alloy (SMA) flexural actuators. These actuators consist of curved SMA wires embedded within elastic structures; one potential application is positioning microcatheters inside blood vessels during clinical treatments. Each SMA wire is shape-set to an initial curvature and inserted along the neutral axis of a straight elastic member (cast polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS). The elastic structure preloads the SMA, reducing the equilibrium curvature of the composite actuator. Temperature-induced phase transformations in the SMA are achieved via Joule heating, enabling strain recovery and increased bending (increased curvature) in the actuator. Actuator behavior is modeled using the homogenized energy framework, and the effects of two critical design parameters (initial SMA curvature and flexural rigidity of the elastic sleeve) on activation curvature are investigated. Finally, a multi-objective genetic algorithm is utilized to optimize actuator performance and generate a Pareto frontier, which is subsequently experimentally validated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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12 pages, 7016 KiB  
Article
A Novel Actuator System Combining Mechanical Vibration and Magnetic Wheels Capable of Rotational Motion Using Shape Memory Alloy Coils
by Hiroyuki Yaguchi, Izuru Kimura and Shun Sakuma
Actuators 2019, 8(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/act8010004 - 04 Jan 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7356
Abstract
In every country, large steel bridges, such as cable-stayed bridges, are actively being constructed, and the number of such bridges has been progressively increasing. These bridges are often inspected using drones, but inspection techniques have not been established because of strong winds and [...] Read more.
In every country, large steel bridges, such as cable-stayed bridges, are actively being constructed, and the number of such bridges has been progressively increasing. These bridges are often inspected using drones, but inspection techniques have not been established because of strong winds and thunder. Therefore, robots capable of working in difficult environments are desired. In the present study, a prototype of a rotary actuator system combining two iron disks and two electromagnetic-vibration-type actuators was fabricated. A new operation principle was developed that drives the system using the reaction force of the vibration-type actuator. Two shape memory alloy coils and two friction pads were integrated into the system to enable it to carry out turning operations, which were successfully demonstrated. The proposed actuator system can thus move in any direction. In addition, with this actuator system, both slide-on-ceiling and wall-climbing motions are possible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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23 pages, 15948 KiB  
Article
Car Soundproof Improvement through an SMA Adaptive System
by Salvatore Ameduri, Angela Brindisi, Monica Ciminello, Antonio Concilio, Vincenzo Quaranta and Marco Brandizzi
Actuators 2018, 7(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/act7040088 - 13 Dec 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5920
Abstract
The work at hand focuses on an adaptive system aimed at improving the soundproof performance of car door seals at specific regimes (cruise), without interfering with the conventional opening and closing operations. The idea addresses the necessity of increasing seal effectiveness, jeopardized by [...] Read more.
The work at hand focuses on an adaptive system aimed at improving the soundproof performance of car door seals at specific regimes (cruise), without interfering with the conventional opening and closing operations. The idea addresses the necessity of increasing seal effectiveness, jeopardized by aerodynamic actions that strengthen as the speed increases, generating a growing pressure difference between the internal and the external field in the direction of opening the door, and then deteriorating the acoustic insulation. An original expansion mechanism driven by a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire was integrated within the seal cavity to reduce that effect. The smart material was activated (heated) by using the Joule effect; its compactness contributed to the realization of a highly-integrable and modular system (expanding cells). In this paper, the system development process is described together with the verification and validation activity, aimed at proving the functionality of the realized device. Starting from industrial requirements, a suitable solution was identified by considering the basic phenomenon principle and the allowable design parameters. The envisaged system was designed and its executive digital mock-up (CAD, computer-aided design) was released. Prototyping and laboratory tests showed the reliability of the developed numerical models and validated the associated predictions. Finally, the system was integrated within the reference car. To demonstrate the insulation effect, the experimental campaign was carried out in an anechoic room, achieving significant results on the concept value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators Based on Shape Memory Alloys)
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