DRIVE MECHANISM USING SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY AND APPARATUS USING THE SAME

摘要

A drive mechanism using shape memory alloy which, even if used repeatedly, is free from the weakening or loss of the shape memorized by the driving member of the shape memory alloy and capable of driving driven members accurately for a long period of time, and an apparatus using this drive mechanism. The ambient temperature is measured by a temperature sensor and an electric current to be supplied to the driving member of the shape memory alloy is controlled according to the measured temperature. The driving member, when heated, is restored to its memorized shape, and moves the driven member to a determined position. When cooled, the driving member returns to its initial shape, and moves the driven member to its initial position.