Patent ID: 6298662
Filing Date: 2001-10-09
Classification: B64G,E05F,E05Y

Abstract:
A device for controlling a relative rotation between two elements articulated relative to each other around a given axis, the device including a torsion bar made of a bistable shape memory alloy, centered on said axis and connected to each of the elements at points spaced out along said axis, and bar heating means, activation of which generates said relative rotation, under the effect of a change in the metallurgical structure of the alloy, wherein the torsion bar is able to generate an angle of relative rotation between said points on the bar, greater than a pre-set angle of relative rotation to be controlled between the elements, a stop being provided to restrict the angle of relative rotation between the elements to said preset angle, and at least one mechanical fuse being provided between the torsion bar and a first of said elements, to absorb excess relative rotation between said points on the bar, beyond said pre-set angle.