US 12,480,481 B2
Shape memory alloy (SMA) bimorph actuators with reduced wire exit angle
Ryan N. Ruzicka, Waconia, MN (US)
Assigned to Hutchinson Technology Incorporated, Hutchinson, MN (US)
Filed by Hutchinson Technology Incorporated, Hutchinson, MN (US)
Filed on Apr. 10, 2024, as Appl. No. 18/631,960.
Application 18/631,960 is a continuation of application No. 18/142,471, filed on May 2, 2023, granted, now 11,982,263.
Prior Publication US 2024/0369047 A1, Nov. 7, 2024
This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.
Int. Cl. F03G 7/06 (2006.01); G03B 5/00 (2021.01); G03B 13/36 (2021.01)
CPC F03G 7/06143 (2021.08) [G03B 5/00 (2013.01); G03B 13/36 (2013.01); G03B 2205/0007 (2013.01); G03B 2205/0076 (2013.01)] 18 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator comprising:
a first actuator arm comprising:
a first fixed end configured to be fixed to a base;
a first free end;
a first beam connecting the first fixed end and the first free end, wherein the first beam comprises a first side and a second side; and
a first SMA wire electrically connected to the first fixed end and the first free end at the second side of the beam comprising a side configured to be directed toward the base; and
a second actuator arm comprising:
a second fixed end configured to be fixed to the base;
a second free end;
a second beam connecting the second fixed end and the second free end, wherein the second beam comprises a first side and a second side; and
a second SMA wire electrically connected to the second fixed end and the second free end at the second side of the second beam.