Patent ID: 11603828

Abstract:
An actuator for a vehicle seat can be configured to prevent overstress of a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire. The actuator can include a first body member and a second body member pivotably connected to each other. The actuator can include an overstress post and an overstress contact plate operatively connected to the overstress post. Thus, movement of the overstress post causes movement of the overstress contact plate. The actuator can include an overstress contact pin. The actuator can include an SMA wire operatively connected to one of the body members and to the overstress post. When activated, the SMA wire can shrink, causing one of the body members to pivot relative to the other body member and causing the overstress contact plate to move toward the overstress contact pin. If the overstress contact plate contacts the overstress contact pin, the SMA wire can be deactivated.