On the functional characteristics of pseudoelastic adaptive resetting of shape memory actuators in the field of automotive applications

Shape memory alloys are thermally activated smart materials. Due to their ability to change into a previously imprinted actual shape by means of thermal activation, they are suitable as actuators for mechatronical systems. Despite the advantages shape memory alloy actuators provide (lightweight actuators, lower costs, and so on), these elements are seldom integrated by engineers into automotive systems. One reason for this phenomenon among others is the varying dynamic behavior at different ambient temperatures. A methodical approach through the problem definition, as well as the presentation of different solutions using adaptive resetting, introduces experimental results on the behavior of these actuator systems. This article presents different solutions and longtime experiments compared to conventional shape memory alloy actuators at automotive conditions. It concentrates on the possibility of utilization of a pseudoelastic resetting element working in combination with a shape memory alloy actuator.