Patent ID: 9541177
Date: 2017-01-10
CPC Classifications: F03G,F16H,Y10T

Claim:
1. A ratcheting shape memory alloy actuator that is configured to adjust an orientation of a first structure relative to a second structure, the actuator comprising: a first bracket that is configured to be operatively coupled to the first structure; a ratcheting assembly that is operatively coupled to the first bracket; a second bracket that is configured to be operatively coupled to the second structure; and a shape memory alloy torque tube that is located between and operatively coupled to the second bracket and to the ratcheting assembly, wherein: (i) the shape memory alloy torque tube applies a first motive force to the ratcheting assembly upon deformation from a first conformation to a second conformation; (ii) responsive to receipt of the first motive force, the ratcheting assembly selectively adjusts the orientation of the first structure relative to the second structure; (iii) the shape memory alloy torque tube applies an opposed second motive force to the ratcheting assembly upon deformation from the second conformation to the first conformation; and (iv) the ratcheting assembly dissipates the second motive force without relative motion between the first structure and the second structure.