Patent ID: 8938965
Filing Date: 2015-01-27
Classification: B60K,B60Y,F03G,Y02E,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A thermal-powered reciprocating-force motor, comprising: a shutter switchable between a first position adapted to allow passage of solar energy and a second position adapted to block passage of solar energy; an actuator having opposing ends, said actuator including a shape memory alloy (SMA) that changes in length as a function of temperature, said actuator coupled to said shutter for controlling switching thereof between said first position and said second position based on length of said SMA, said actuator positioned with respect to said shutter such that (i) solar energy is adapted to impinge on said SMA when said shutter is in said first position wherein said SMA experiences contraction in length until said shutter is switched to said second position, and (ii) solar energy is adapted to be impeded from impingement on said SMA when said shutter is in said second position wherein said SMA experiences extension in length; an elastic member coupled to each of said opposing ends of said actuator for applying a force to said SMA that aids in said extension in length until said shutter is switched to said first position; and reflective material directly in contact with said shutter for reflecting said solar energy towards said actuator when said shutter is in said first position and for reflecting said solar energy away from said actuator when said shutter is in said second position.