Papers by Author: Y. Sugimoto

Abstract: The shape-memory composite belt with a TiNi-SMA wire fiber and a polyurethane-SMP sheet matrix was fabricated. The bending actuation characteristics of the belt were investigated by the thermomechanical tests. Residual deflection obtained by cooling under constant maximum deflection is close to the maximum deflection. The residual deflection disappears by heating under no load. Both the rates of shape fixity and shape recovery are close to 100%. Recovery force which appears by heating under constant residual deflection is 93-94% of the maximum force. The model of bending-spring constant of the shape-memory composite belt is proposed and evaluated based on the experimental data.

Abstract: If a shape-memory alloy (SMA) thin strip is applied as an element subjected to torsion, a rotary driving element with a simple mechanism can be developed. The torsion tests were carried out for the SMA thin strip. Torque and recovery torque, both increase in proportion to the angle of twist and temperature. The recoverable strain energy increases in proportion to temperature. The dissipated work decreases slightly with an increase in temperature. A means of opening and closing a door with an element driven by an SMA thin strip is demonstrated.