Shape Memory Alloy Actuators in a Simple Force-Reflecting Teleoperator.
Abstract
A one-degree-of-freedom prototype was constructed to investigate the potential of shape memory alloy (SMA) wires as actuators in force-feedback teleoperated systems. One possible application would be in force-reflecting exoskeletons. A simple on-off system controlled the master and slave actuators of the prototype. The prototype serves as a proof-of-concept model and a foundation for a more sophisticated system with microprocessor-controlled feedback and pulse width modulation (PWM) power sources. Additional experimentation provided data on SMA wire cooling times in air, in a water/glycol mix, and in distilled water. An attempt to use infrared (IR) temperature measurement to improve power control (and thus reduce response time) was not successful.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA289501
Entities
People
- Christopher J. Hasser
- Edgar G. Munday
Organizations
- Armstrong Laboratory