Shape Memory Actuation and Release Devices.
Abstract
Spacecraft require a variety of separation and release devices to accomplish mission related Current off-the-shelf devices such as pyrotechnics, gas-discharge systems, paraffin wax actuators, and other electro-mechanical devices may not be able to meet future design needs. The use of pyrotechnics on advanced lightweight spacecraft, for example, will expose fragile sensors and electronics to high shock levels and sensitive optics might be subject to contamination. Other areas of consideration include reliability, safety, and cost reduction. Shape memory alloys (SMA) are one class of actuator material that provides a solution to these design problems. SMAs utilize a thermally active reversible phase transformation to recover their original heat treated shape (up to 8% strain) or to generate high recovery stresses (>700 Mpa) when heated above a critical transition temperature. NiTiCu alloy actuators have been fabricated to provide synchronized, shockless separation within release mechanisms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADB217171
Entities
People
- B. F. Carpenter
Organizations
- Lockheed Martin