Patent ID: 7414512
Filing Date: 2008-08-19
Classification: F03G,G11B

Abstract:
1. An operating device, comprising: a pair of linear members made of a shape memory alloy, and contracting axially due to heat generated by electrification and generating tension in the contracting direction; a movable member supported on a fixing member to be rotatable about a pivot shaft; a pair of drive rods respectively connected to both sides of the movable member with the pivot shaft being disposed between the sides of the movable member; and a power supply circuit for selectively electrifying the linear members, the linear members each having one end connected to the fixing member and the other end connected to the drive rod, the movable member repeatedly operating around the pivot shaft due to selective electrification of the power supply circuit, wherein the movable member comprises a locking unit for locking at rotation stop points in both directions around the pivot shaft, the locking unit including: a cam provided on the movable member, a locking arm having a base end pivotally supported on the fixing member and a leading end provided with a cam following roller which contacts with the cam slidingly, and an elastic member for urging the locking arm in a direction of pressing the cam following roller to the cam, the cam including: a one-side active surface a for applying force received from the cam following roller to the movable member swinging in one direction, and an other-side active surface for applying force received from the cam following roller to the movable member swinging in the other direction.