Patent ID: 6684724
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: B64G,F03G,F16H,Y10T

Abstract:
A shape memory alloy step drive mechanism comprising at least one shape memory alloy element (1) with a fixed end, the other end of the shape memory alloy element being connected to one end of a lever (2), said lever (2) being provided with a pawl (4) which is located to move on the teeth of a ratchet wheel (5) mounted on a main shaft (6) along with the lever (2), a stopper pin (7) which also guides the pawi (4) on the ratchet wheel (5), a bias spring (9) provided on a mandrill on the main shaft (6) for returning the lever (2) to its original position, a detent wheel (8) with at least one detent lever (10) mounted on the main shaft (6) to provide the detent torque required to hold the main shaft (6) in position when the lever (2) returns to its original position and a pair of support brackets (11) for supporting and holding the said components together in an assembly.