Importance

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Abstract

A self-regulated actuator is disclosed having a shape-memory element which is heated preferably by passing electrical current therethrough and having a reset mechanism including a circuit-breaking mechanism. The shape-memory element provides the force to retract the actuator when heated. The reset mechanism utilizes a spring-biased latch plunger that resets the actuator as soon as it has retracted a specific distance. The reset mechanism also acts as a circuit-breaking mechanism to electrically interrupt current heating the shape-memory element. The reset mechanism provides near-instant reset time and overcomes the longer wait period otherwise associated with the natural cooling of the shape-memory element. The reset mechanism prevents overheating of the shape-memory element and precludes the necessity for additional hardware to interrupt the circuit after actuation is completed. Also discussed is a self-protection means that protects the shape-memory element from deliberate and accidental overloads and to accommodate the extra motion required for high-cycle design life.

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First Claim