Patent ID: 8220259
Filing Date: 2012-07-17
Classification: F03G

Abstract:
1. An actuator, comprising: a shape memory alloy element configured to change shape such that changing shape causes the actuator to actuate; a power circuit configured to provide along the shape memory alloy element a first power signal to cause the shape memory alloy element to be in a pre-actuated state and a second power signal to cause the shape memory alloy to change from the pre-actuated state to an actuated state; a control circuit configured to control the power circuit to provide the first and second power signals; wherein the actuator is configured such that the actuator actuates within about 100 ms of the signal being provided to the shape metal alloy element, the shape metal alloy element being capable of changing shape to actuate the actuator within 100 ms for at least about 1 million cycles.