Micropore Geometry Manipulation by Macroscopic Deformation Based on Shape Memory Effect in Porous PLLA Membrane and its Enhanced Separation Performance.

PubMed

Zhao, Jingxin; Yang, Qiucheng; Wang, Tao; Wang, Lian; You, Jichun; Li, Yongjin

2017-12-20

An effective strategy to tailor the microporous structures has been developed based on the shape memory effect in porous poly(l-lactic acid) membranes in which tiny crystals and amorphous matrix play the roles of shape-fixed phase and reversible-phase, respectively. Our results indicate that not only PLLA membranes but micropores exhibit shape memory properties. The proportional deformations on two scales have been achieved by uniaxial or biaxial tension, providing a facile way to manipulate continuously the size and the orientation degree of pores on microscale. The enhanced separation performance has been validated by taking polystyrene colloids with varying diameters as an example.

Feedforward-Feedback Hybrid Control for Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Actuators Based on the Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii Model

PubMed Central

Zhou, Miaolei; Zhang, Qi; Wang, Jingyuan

2014-01-01

As a new type of smart material, magnetic shape memory alloy has the advantages of a fast response frequency and outstanding strain capability in the field of microdrive and microposition actuators. The hysteresis nonlinearity in magnetic shape memory alloy actuators, however, limits system performance and further application. Here we propose a feedforward-feedback hybrid control method to improve control precision and mitigate the effects of the hysteresis nonlinearity of magnetic shape memory alloy actuators. First, hysteresis nonlinearity compensation for the magnetic shape memory alloy actuator is implemented by establishing a feedforward controller which is an inverse hysteresis model based on Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii operator. Secondly, the paper employs the classical Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control with feedforward control to comprise the hybrid control system, and for further enhancing the adaptive performance of the system and improving the control accuracy, the Radial Basis Function neural network self-tuning Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control replaces the classical Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control. Utilizing self-learning ability of the Radial Basis Function neural network obtains Jacobian information of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator for the on-line adjustment of parameters in Proportion Integration Differentiation controller. Finally, simulation results show that the hybrid control method proposed in this paper can greatly improve the control precision of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator and the maximum tracking error is reduced from 1.1% in the open-loop system to 0.43% in the hybrid control system. PMID:24828010

Feedforward-feedback hybrid control for magnetic shape memory alloy actuators based on the Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii model.

PubMed

Zhou, Miaolei; Zhang, Qi; Wang, Jingyuan

2014-01-01

As a new type of smart material, magnetic shape memory alloy has the advantages of a fast response frequency and outstanding strain capability in the field of microdrive and microposition actuators. The hysteresis nonlinearity in magnetic shape memory alloy actuators, however, limits system performance and further application. Here we propose a feedforward-feedback hybrid control method to improve control precision and mitigate the effects of the hysteresis nonlinearity of magnetic shape memory alloy actuators. First, hysteresis nonlinearity compensation for the magnetic shape memory alloy actuator is implemented by establishing a feedforward controller which is an inverse hysteresis model based on Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii operator. Secondly, the paper employs the classical Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control with feedforward control to comprise the hybrid control system, and for further enhancing the adaptive performance of the system and improving the control accuracy, the Radial Basis Function neural network self-tuning Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control replaces the classical Proportion Integration Differentiation feedback control. Utilizing self-learning ability of the Radial Basis Function neural network obtains Jacobian information of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator for the on-line adjustment of parameters in Proportion Integration Differentiation controller. Finally, simulation results show that the hybrid control method proposed in this paper can greatly improve the control precision of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator and the maximum tracking error is reduced from 1.1% in the open-loop system to 0.43% in the hybrid control system.

Experimental evaluation of shape memory alloy actuation technique in adaptive antenna design concepts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kefauver, W. Neill; Carpenter, Bernie F.

1994-09-01

Creation of an antenna system that could autonomously adapt contours of reflecting surfaces to compensate for structural loads induced by a variable environment would maximize performance of space-based communication systems. Design of such a system requires the comprehensive development and integration of advanced actuator, sensor, and control technologies. As an initial step in this process, a test has been performed to assess the use of a shape memory alloy as a potential actuation technique. For this test, an existing, offset, cassegrain antenna system was retrofit with a subreflector equipped with shape memory alloy actuators for surface contour control. The impacts that the actuators had on both the subreflector contour and the antenna system patterns were measured. The results of this study indicate the potential for using shape memory alloy actuation techniques to adaptively control antenna performance; both variations in gain and beam steering capabilities were demonstrated. Future development effort is required to evolve this potential into a useful technology for satellite applications.

Experimental evaluation of shape memory alloy actuation technique in adaptive antenna design concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kefauver, W. Neill; Carpenter, Bernie F.

1994-01-01

Creation of an antenna system that could autonomously adapt contours of reflecting surfaces to compensate for structural loads induced by a variable environment would maximize performance of space-based communication systems. Design of such a system requires the comprehensive development and integration of advanced actuator, sensor, and control technologies. As an initial step in this process, a test has been performed to assess the use of a shape memory alloy as a potential actuation technique. For this test, an existing, offset, cassegrain antenna system was retrofit with a subreflector equipped with shape memory alloy actuators for surface contour control. The impacts that the actuators had on both the subreflector contour and the antenna system patterns were measured. The results of this study indicate the potential for using shape memory alloy actuation techniques to adaptively control antenna performance; both variations in gain and beam steering capabilities were demonstrated. Future development effort is required to evolve this potential into a useful technology for satellite applications.

High-Temperature Shape Memory Behavior of Semicrystalline Polyamide Thermosets.

PubMed

Li, Ming; Guan, Qingbao; Dingemans, Theo J

2018-05-21

We have explored semicrystalline poly(decamethylene terephthalamide) (PA 10T) based thermosets as single-component high-temperature (>200 °C) shape memory polymers (SMPs). The PA 10T thermosets were prepared from reactive thermoplastic precursors. Reactive phenylethynyl (PE) functionalities were either attached at the chain termini or placed as side groups along the polymer main chain. The shape fixation and recovery performance of the thermoset films were investigated using a rheometer in torsion mode. By controlling the M n of the reactive oligomers, or the PE concentration of the PE side-group functionalized copolyamides, we were able to design dual-shape memory PA 10T thermosets with a broad recovery temperature range of 227-285 °C. The thermosets based on the 1000 g mol -1 reactive PE precursor and the copolyamide with 15 mol % PE side groups show the highest fixation rate (99%) and recovery rate (≥90%). High temperature triple-shape memory behavior can be achieved as well when we use the melt transition ( T m ≥ 200 °C) and the glass transition ( T g = ∼125 °C) as the two switches. The recovery rate of the two recovery steps are highly dependent on the crystallinity of the thermosets and vary within a wide range of 74%-139% and 40-82% for the two steps, respectively. Reversible shape memory events could also be demonstrated when we perform a forward and backward deformation in a triple shape memory cycle. We also studied the angular recovery velocity as a function of temperature, which provides a thermokinematic picture of the shape recovery process and helps to program for desired shape memory behavior.

High-Temperature Shape Memory Behavior of Semicrystalline Polyamide Thermosets

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

We have explored semicrystalline poly(decamethylene terephthalamide) (PA 10T) based thermosets as single-component high-temperature (>200 °C) shape memory polymers (SMPs). The PA 10T thermosets were prepared from reactive thermoplastic precursors. Reactive phenylethynyl (PE) functionalities were either attached at the chain termini or placed as side groups along the polymer main chain. The shape fixation and recovery performance of the thermoset films were investigated using a rheometer in torsion mode. By controlling the Mn of the reactive oligomers, or the PE concentration of the PE side-group functionalized copolyamides, we were able to design dual-shape memory PA 10T thermosets with a broad recovery temperature range of 227–285 °C. The thermosets based on the 1000 g mol–1 reactive PE precursor and the copolyamide with 15 mol % PE side groups show the highest fixation rate (99%) and recovery rate (≥90%). High temperature triple-shape memory behavior can be achieved as well when we use the melt transition (Tm ≥ 200 °C) and the glass transition (Tg = ∼125 °C) as the two switches. The recovery rate of the two recovery steps are highly dependent on the crystallinity of the thermosets and vary within a wide range of 74%–139% and 40–82% for the two steps, respectively. Reversible shape memory events could also be demonstrated when we perform a forward and backward deformation in a triple shape memory cycle. We also studied the angular recovery velocity as a function of temperature, which provides a thermokinematic picture of the shape recovery process and helps to program for desired shape memory behavior. PMID:29742899

Recent Progress on Modeling Slip Deformation in Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sehitoglu, H.; Alkan, S.

2018-03-01

This paper presents an overview of slip deformation in shape memory alloys. The performance of shape memory alloys depends on their slip resistance often quantified through the Critical Resolved Shear Stress (CRSS) or the flow stress. We highlight previous studies that identify the active slip systems and then proceed to show how non- Schmid effects can be dominant in shape memory slip behavior. The work is mostly derived from our recent studies while we highlight key earlier works on slip deformation. We finally discuss the implications of understanding the role of slip on curtailing the transformation strains and also the temperature range over which superelasticity prevails.

Improving the Performance of Electrically Activated NiTi Shape Memory Actuators by Pre-Aging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rathmann1, Christian; Fleczok1, Benjamin; Otibar1, Dennis; Kuhlenkötter, Bernd

2017-06-01

Shape memory alloys possess an array of unique functional properties which are influenced by a complex interaction of different factors. Due to thermal sensitivity, slight changes in temperature may cause the properties to change significantly. This poses a huge challenge especially for the use of shape memory alloys as actuators. The displacement is the key performance indicator, which has to be of equal or better quality compared to conventional actuators. One problem of shape memory alloys is the change in functional fatigue in the first cycles, which makes it rather difficult to design the actuator. Therefore, the reduction of this shakedown effect is crucial. For this reason, this paper investigates the effect of electrical heat treatment as a method for pre-aging. This topic has so far been little investigated so that the investigations focus on identifying important factors and effects by using the design of experiments.

Experimental study of thermo-mechanical behavior of a thermosetting shape-memory polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ruoxuan; Li, Yunxin; Liu, Zishun

2018-01-01

The thermo-mechanical behavior of shape-memory polymers (SMPs) serves for the engineering applications of SMPs. Therefore the understanding of thermo-mechanical behavior of SMPs is of great importance. This paper investigates the influence of loading rate and loading level on the thermo-mechanical behavior of a thermosetting shape-memory polymer through experimental study. A series of cyclic tension tests and shape recovery tests at different loading conditions are performed to study the strain level and strain rate effect. The results of tension tests show that the thermosetting shape-memory polymer will behave as rubber material at temperature lower than the glass transition temperature (Tg) and it can obtain a large shape fix ratio at cyclic loading condition. The shape recovery tests exhibit that loading rate and loading level have little effect on the beginning and ending of shape recovery process of the thermosetting shape-memory polymer. Compared with the material which is deformed at temperature higher than Tg, the material deformed at temperature lower than Tg behaves a bigger recovery speed.

Effect of Graphene Addition on Shape Memory Behavior of Epoxy Resins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Tiffany; Meador, Michael; Miller, Sandi; Scheiman, Daniel

2011-01-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) and composites are a special class of smart materials known for their ability to change size and shape upon exposure to an external stimulus (e.g. light, heat, pH, or magnetic field). These materials are commonly used for biomedical applications; however, recent attempts have been made towards developing SMPs and composites for use in aircraft and space applications. Implementing SMPs and composites to create a shape change effect in some aircraft structures could potentially reduce drag, decrease fuel consumption, and improve engine performance. This paper discusses the development of suitable materials to use in morphing aircraft structures. Thermally responsive epoxy SMPs and nanocomposites were developed and the shape memory behavior and thermo-mechanical properties were studied. Overall, preliminary results from dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that thermally actuated shape memory epoxies and nanocomposites possessed Tgs near approximately 168 C. When graphene nanofiller was added, the storage modulus and crosslinking density decreased. On the other hand, the addition of graphene enhanced the recovery behavior of the shape memory nanocomposites. It was assumed that the addition of graphene improved shape memory recovery by reducing the crosslinking density and increasing the elasticity of the nanocomposites.

Epoxy/Polycaprolactone Systems with Triple-Shape Memory Effect: Electrospun Nanoweb with and without Graphene Versus Co-Continuous Morphology

PubMed Central

Fejős, Márta; Molnár, Kolos; Karger-Kocsis, József

2013-01-01

Triple-shape memory epoxy (EP)/polycaprolactone (PCL) systems (PCL content: 23 wt %) with different structures (PCL nanoweb embedded in EP matrix and EP/PCL with co-continuous phase structure) were produced. To set the two temporary shapes, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the EP and the melting temperature (Tm) of PCL served during the shape memory cycle. An attempt was made to reinforce the PCL nanoweb by graphene nanoplatelets prior to infiltrating the nanoweb with EP through vacuum assisted resin transfer molding. Morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectrometry. Triple-shape memory characteristics were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis in tension mode. Graphene was supposed to act also as spacer between the nanofibers, improving the quality of impregnation with EP. The EP phase related shape memory properties were similar for all systems, while those belonging to PCL phase depended on the structure. Shape fixity of PCL was better without than with graphene reinforcement. The best shape memory performance was shown by the EP/PCL with co-continuous structure. Based on Raman spectrometry results, the characteristic dimension of the related co-continuous network was below 900 nm. PMID:28788342

Biodegradable near-infrared-photoresponsive shape memory implants based on black phosphorus nanofillers.

PubMed

Xie, Hanhan; Shao, Jundong; Ma, Yufei; Wang, Jiahong; Huang, Hao; Yang, Na; Wang, Huaiyu; Ruan, Changshun; Luo, Yanfeng; Wang, Qu-Quan; Chu, Paul K; Yu, Xue-Feng

2018-05-01

In this paper, we propose a new shape memory polymer (SMP) composite with excellent near-infrared (NIR)-photoresponsive shape memory performance and biodegradability. The composite is fabricated by using piperazine-based polyurethane (PU) as thermo-responsive SMP incorporated with black-phosphorus (BP) sheets as NIR photothermal nanofillers. Under 808 nm light irradiation, the incorporated BP sheets with concentration of only 0.08 wt% enable rapid temperature increase over the glass temperature of PU and trigger the shape change of the composite with shape recovery rate of ∼100%. The in vitro and in vivo toxicity examinations demonstrate the good biocompatibility of the PU/BP composite, and it degrades naturally into non-toxic carbon dioxide and water from PU and non-toxic phosphate from BP. By implanting PU/BP columns into back subcutis and vagina of mice, they exhibit excellent shape memory activity to change their shape quickly under moderate 808 nm light irradiaiton. Such SMP composite enable the development of intelligent implantable devices, which can be easily controlled by the remote NIR light and degrade gradually after performing the designed functions in the body. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improvement in the Shape Memory Response of Ti50.5Ni24.5Pd25 High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloy with Scandium Microalloying

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atli, K. C.; Karaman, I; Noebe, R. D.; Garg, A.; Chumlyakov, Y. I.; Kireeva, I. V.

2010-01-01

A Ti(50.5)Ni(24.5)Pd25 high-temperature shape memory alloy (HTSMA) is microalloyed with 0.5 at. pct scandium (Sc) to enhance its shape-memory characteristics, in particular, dimensional stability under repeated thermomechanical cycles. For both Ti(50.5)Ni(24.5)Pd25 and the Sc-alloyed material, differential scanning calorimetry is conducted for multiple cycles to characterize cyclic stability of the transformation temperatures. The microstructure is evaluated using electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and wavelength dispersive spectroscopy. Isobaric thermal cycling experiments are used to determine transformation temperatures, dimensional stability, and work output as a function of stress. The Sc-doped alloy displays more stable shape memory response with smaller irrecoverable strain and narrower thermal hysteresis than the baseline ternary alloy. This improvement in performance is attributed to the solid solution hardening effect of Sc.

The parietal cortices participate in encoding, short-term memory, and decision-making related to tactile shape.

PubMed

Rojas-Hortelano, Eduardo; Concha, Luis; de Lafuente, Victor

2014-10-15

We routinely identify objects with our hands, and the physical attributes of touched objects are often held in short-term memory to aid future decisions. However, the brain structures that selectively process tactile information to encode object shape are not fully identified. In this article we describe the areas within the human cerebral cortex that specialize in encoding, short-term memory, and decision-making related to the shape of objects explored with the hand. We performed event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging in subjects performing a shape discrimination task in which two sequentially presented objects had to be explored to determine whether they had the same shape or not. To control for low-level and nonspecific brain activations, subjects performed a temperature discrimination task in which they compared the temperature of two spheres. Our results show that although a large network of brain structures is engaged in somatosensory processing, it is the areas lining the intraparietal sulcus that selectively participate in encoding, maintaining, and deciding on tactile information related to the shape of objects. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

Superelasticity and cryogenic linear shape memory effects of CaFe 2As 2

DOE PAGES

Sypek, John T.; Yu, Hang; Dusoe, Keith J.; ...

2017-10-20

Shape memory materials have the ability to recover their original shape after a significant amount of deformation when they are subjected to certain stimuli, for instance, heat or magnetic fields. But, their performance is often limited by the energetics and geometry of the martensitic-austenitic phase transformation. We report a unique shape memory behavior in CaFe 2As 2, which exhibits superelasticity with over 13% recoverable strain, over 3 GPa yield strength, repeatable stress–strain response even at the micrometer scale, and cryogenic linear shape memory effects near 50 K. These properties are acheived through a reversible uni-axial phase transformation mechanism, the tetragonal/orthorhombic-to-collapsed-tetragonalmore » phase transformation. These results offer the possibility of developing cryogenic linear actuation technologies with a high precision and high actuation power per unit volume for deep space exploration, and more broadly, suggest a mechanistic path to a class of shape memory materials, ThCr 2Si 2-structured intermetallic compounds.« less

How we categorize objects is related to how we remember them: The shape bias as a memory bias

PubMed Central

Vlach, Haley A.

2016-01-01

The “shape bias” describes the phenomenon that, after a certain point in development, children and adults generalize object categories based upon shape to a greater degree than other perceptual features. The focus of research on the shape bias has been to examine the types of information that learners attend to in one moment in time. The current work takes a different approach by examining whether learners' categorical biases are related to their retention of information across time. In three experiments, children's (N = 72) and adults' (N = 240) memory performance for features of objects was examined in relation to their categorical biases. The results of these experiments demonstrated that the number of shape matches chosen during the shape bias task significantly predicted shape memory. Moreover, children and adults with a shape bias were more likely to remember the shape of objects than they were the color and size of objects. Taken together, this work suggests the development of a shape bias may engender better memory for shape information. PMID:27454236

How we categorize objects is related to how we remember them: The shape bias as a memory bias.

PubMed

Vlach, Haley A

2016-12-01

The "shape bias" describes the phenomenon that, after a certain point in development, children and adults generalize object categories based on shape to a greater degree than other perceptual features. The focus of research on the shape bias has been to examine the types of information that learners attend to in one moment in time. The current work takes a different approach by examining whether learners' categorical biases are related to their retention of information across time. In three experiments, children's (N=72) and adults' (N=240) memory performance for features of objects was examined in relation to their categorical biases. The results of these experiments demonstrated that the number of shape matches chosen during the shape bias task significantly predicted shape memory. Moreover, children and adults with a shape bias were more likely to remember the shape of objects than the color and size of objects. Taken together, this work suggests that the development of a shape bias may engender better memory for shape information. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Improving of Mechanical and Shape-Memory Properties in Hyperbranched Epoxy Shape-Memory Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santiago, David; Fabregat-Sanjuan, Albert; Ferrando, Francesc; De la Flor, Silvia

2016-09-01

A series of shape-memory epoxy polymers were synthesized using an aliphatic amine and two different commercial hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine)s with different molecular weights as crosslinking agents. Thermal, mechanical, and shape-memory properties in materials modified with different hyperbranched polymers were analyzed and compared in order to establish the effect of the structure and the molecular weight of the hyperbranched polymers used. The presence of hyperbranched polymers led to more heterogeneous networks, and the crosslinking densities of which increase as the hyperbranched polymer content increases. The transition temperatures can be tailored from 56 to 117 °C depending on the molecular weight and content of the hyperbranched polymer. The mechanical properties showed excellent values in all formulations at room temperature and, specially, at T_{{g}}^{{E^' with stress at break as high as 15 MPa and strain at break as high as 60 %. The shape-memory performances revealed recovery ratios around 95 %, fixity ratios around 97 %, and shape-recovery velocities as high as 22 %/min. The results obtained in this study reveal that hyperbranched polymers with different molecular weights can be used to enhance the thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy-based SMPs while keeping excellent shape-memory properties.

Rotary actuator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brudnicki, Myron (Inventor)

1995-01-01

Rotary actuators and other mechanical devices incorporating shape memory alloys are provided herein. Shape memory alloys are a group of metals which when deformed at temperatures below their martensite temperatures, resume the shapes which they had prior to the deformation if they are heated to temperatures above their austensite temperatures. Actuators in which shape memory alloys are employed include bias spring types, in which springs deform the shape memory alloy (SMA), and differential actuators, which use two SMA members mechanically connected in series. Another type uses concentric cylindrical members. One member is in the form of a sleeve surrounding a cylinder, both being constructed of shape memory alloys. Herein two capstans are mounted on a shaft which is supported in a framework. Each capstan is capable of rotating the shaft. Shape memory wire, as two separate lengths of wire, is wrapped around each capstan to form a winding around that capstan. The winding on one capstan is so wrapped that the wire is in a prestretched state. The winding on the other capstan is so wrapped that the wire is in a taut, but not a prestretched, state. Heating one performs work in one direction, thus deforming the other one. When the other SMA is heated the action is reversed.

The role of color in the implicit memory performance of healthy older adults and individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Lloyd-Jones, Toby J

2005-01-01

Although the Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients in this study were severely impaired in recognition performance, their naming performance demonstrated normal priming across transformations in object color. This is evidence for preserved implicit shape-based memory performance in AD patients. For colored-object decision, healthy older adult control participants but not AD patients showed priming for new associations between previously encountered object shapes and colors. The author argues, on the basis of this colored object decision performance, that the deficits present in AD do not allow shape and color to be integrated to form a novel unitized representation that can be used to benefit cognitive performance. 2005 APA

Two-year performance study of porous, thermoset, shape memory polyurethanes intended for vascular medical devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weems, Andrew C.; Boyle, Anthony J.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2017-03-01

The long-term shape-recovery behavior of shape memory polymers has often been shown to be dependent on the length of time the material has been stored in the secondary shape. Typically, recovery performance and shape fixity will decrease with increased time in the secondary shape. In medical materials, a shelf-life is crucial to establish as it sets the upper threshold for device performance in a clinical setting, and a reduction in shape recovery would limit the development of SMP medical devices. Here, we present a two-year study of strain recovery, strain fixity, and shape recovery kinetics for passively and actively actuated SMPs intended for vascular devices. While kinetic experiments using immersion DMA indicate slight material relaxation and a decrease in the time to recovery, these changes are not found for bulk recovery experiments. The results indicate that a two-year shelf-life for these SMPs is very reasonable, as there is no change in the recovery kinetics, strain recovery, or strain fixity associated with this aging time. Further, a thermal accelerated aging test is presented for more rapid testing of the shape memory behavior of these SMPs and is compared with the real time aging results, indicating that this test is a reasonable indicator of the two-year behavior.

Laser shape setting of superelastic nitinol wires: Functional properties and microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuissi, Ausonio; Coduri, Mauro; Biffi, Carlo Alberto

Shape setting is one of the most important steps in the production route of Nitinol Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs), as it can fix the functional properties, such as the shape memory effect and the superelasticity (SE). The conventional method for making the shape setting is performed at 400-500∘C in furnaces. In this work, a laser beam was adopted for performing straight shape setting on commercially available austenitic Nitinol thin wires. The laser beam, at different power levels, was moved along the wire length for inducing the functional performances. Calorimetric, pseudo-elastic and microstructural features of the laser annealed wires were studied through differential scanning calorimetry, tensile testing and high energy X-ray diffraction, respectively. It can be stated that the laser technology can induce SE in thin Nitinol wires: the wire performances can be modulated in function of the laser power and improved functional properties can be obtained.

Functional Performances of CuZnAl Shape Memory Alloy Open-Cell Foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biffi, C. A.; Casati, R.; Bassani, P.; Tuissi, A.

2018-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) with cellular structure offer a unique mixture of thermo-physical-mechanical properties. These characteristics can be tuned by changing the pore size and make the shape memory metallic foams very attractive for developing new devices for structural and functional applications. In this work, CuZnAl SMA foams were produced through the liquid infiltration of space holder method. In comparison, a conventional CuZn brass alloy was foamed trough the same method. Functional performances were studied on both bulk and foamed SMA specimens. Calorimetric response shows similar martensitic transformation (MT) below 0 °C. Compressive response of CuZnAl revealed that mechanical behavior is strongly affected by sample morphology and that damping capacity of metallic foam is increased above the MT temperatures. The shape memory effect was detected in the CuZnAl foams. The conventional brass shows a compressive response similar to that of the martensitic CuZnAl, in which plastic deformation accumulation occurs up to the cellular structure densification after few thermal cycles.

Humidity-activated shape memory effect on plasticized starch-based biomaterials.

PubMed

Sessini, Valentina; Arrieta, Marina P; Fernández-Torres, Alberto; Peponi, Laura

2018-01-01

Humidity-activated shape memory behavior of plasticized starch-based films reinforced with the innovative combination of starch nanocrystals (SNCs) and catechin as antioxidant were studied. In a previous work, we reported the processing of gelatinized starch-based films filled with SNCs and catechin as antioxidant agent, and we observed that this novel combination leads to starch-based film with enhanced thermal and mechanical performance. In this work, the humidity-activated shape memory behavior of the previous developed starch-based films was characterized. The moisture loss as well as the moisture absorption were studied since they are essential parameters in humidity-activated shape memory polymers to fix the temporary shape and to recover the original shape, respectively. Therefore, the effect of the incorporation of SNCs and catechin on the humidity-activated shape memory properties of plasticized starch was also studied. Moreover, the effectiveness of catechin to increase the polymer stability under oxidative atmosphere and the thermo-mechanical relaxation of all the starch-based materials were studied. The combination of plasticized starch matrix loaded with both, SNCs and catechin, leads to a multifunctional starch-based films with increased hydrophilicity and with excellent humidity-activated shape memory behavior with interest for potential biomedical applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring laterality and memory effects in the haptic discrimination of verbal and non-verbal shapes.

PubMed

Stoycheva, Polina; Tiippana, Kaisa

2018-03-14

The brain's left hemisphere often displays advantages in processing verbal information, while the right hemisphere favours processing non-verbal information. In the haptic domain due to contra-lateral innervations, this functional lateralization is reflected in a hand advantage during certain functions. Findings regarding the hand-hemisphere advantage for haptic information remain contradictory, however. This study addressed these laterality effects and their interaction with memory retention times in the haptic modality. Participants performed haptic discrimination of letters, geometric shapes and nonsense shapes at memory retention times of 5, 15 and 30 s with the left and right hand separately, and we measured the discriminability index d'. The d' values were significantly higher for letters and geometric shapes than for nonsense shapes. This might result from dual coding (naming + spatial) or/and from a low stimulus complexity. There was no stimulus-specific laterality effect. However, we found a time-dependent laterality effect, which revealed that the performance of the left hand-right hemisphere was sustained up to 15 s, while the performance of the right-hand-left hemisphere decreased progressively throughout all retention times. This suggests that haptic memory traces are more robust to decay when they are processed by the left hand-right hemisphere.

Selective involvement of superior frontal cortex during working memory for shapes.

PubMed

Yee, Lydia T S; Roe, Katherine; Courtney, Susan M

2010-01-01

A spatial/nonspatial functional dissociation between the dorsal and ventral visual pathways is well established and has formed the basis of domain-specific theories of prefrontal cortex (PFC). Inconsistencies in the literature regarding prefrontal organization, however, have led to questions regarding whether the nature of the dissociations observed in PFC during working memory are equivalent to those observed in the visual pathways for perception. In particular, the dissociation between dorsal and ventral PFC during working memory for locations versus object identities has been clearly present in some studies but not in others, seemingly in part due to the type of objects used. The current study compared functional MRI activation during delayed-recognition tasks for shape or color, two object features considered to be processed by the ventral pathway for perceptual recognition. Activation for the shape-delayed recognition task was greater than that for the color task in the lateral occipital cortex, in agreement with studies of visual perception. Greater memory-delay activity was also observed, however, in the parietal and superior frontal cortices for the shape than for the color task. Activity in superior frontal cortex was associated with better performance on the shape task. Conversely, greater delay activity for color than for shape was observed in the left anterior insula and this activity was associated with better performance on the color task. These results suggest that superior frontal cortex contributes to performance on tasks requiring working memory for object identities, but it represents different information about those objects than does the ventral frontal cortex.

Application of morphological associative memories and Fourier descriptors for classification of noisy subsurface signatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortiz, Jorge L.; Parsiani, Hamed; Tolstoy, Leonid

2004-02-01

This paper presents a method for recognition of Noisy Subsurface Images using Morphological Associative Memories (MAM). MAM are type of associative memories that use a new kind of neural networks based in the algebra system known as semi-ring. The operations performed in this algebraic system are highly nonlinear providing additional strength when compared to other transformations. Morphological associative memories are a new kind of neural networks that provide a robust performance with noisy inputs. Two representations of morphological associative memories are used called M and W matrices. M associative memory provides a robust association with input patterns corrupted by dilative random noise, while the W associative matrix performs a robust recognition in patterns corrupted with erosive random noise. The robust performance of MAM is used in combination of the Fourier descriptors for the recognition of underground objects in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) images. Multiple 2-D GPR images of a site are made available by NASA-SSC center. The buried objects in these images appear in the form of hyperbolas which are the results of radar backscatter from the artifacts or objects. The Fourier descriptors of the prototype hyperbola-like and shapes from non-hyperbola shapes in the sub-surface images are used to make these shapes scale-, shift-, and rotation-invariant. Typical hyperbola-like and non-hyperbola shapes are used to calculate the morphological associative memories. The trained MAMs are used to process other noisy images to detect the presence of these underground objects. The outputs from the MAM using the noisy patterns may be equal to the training prototypes, providing a positive identification of the artifacts. The results are images with recognized hyperbolas which indicate the presence of buried artifacts. A model using MATLAB has been developed and results are presented.

Retrospective cues based on object features improve visual working memory performance in older adults.

PubMed

Gilchrist, Amanda L; Duarte, Audrey; Verhaeghen, Paul

2016-01-01

Research with younger adults has shown that retrospective cues can be used to orient top-down attention toward relevant items in working memory. We examined whether older adults could take advantage of these cues to improve memory performance. Younger and older adults were presented with visual arrays of five colored shapes; during maintenance, participants were presented either with an informative cue based on an object feature (here, object shape or color) that would be probed, or with an uninformative, neutral cue. Although older adults were less accurate overall, both age groups benefited from the presentation of an informative, feature-based cue relative to a neutral cue. Surprisingly, we also observed differences in the effectiveness of shape versus color cues and their effects upon post-cue memory load. These results suggest that older adults can use top-down attention to remove irrelevant items from visual working memory, provided that task-relevant features function as cues.

Development and Characterization of High Performance Shape Memory Alloy Coatings for Structural Aerospace Applications.

PubMed

Exarchos, Dimitrios A; Dalla, Panagiota T; Tragazikis, Ilias K; Dassios, Konstantinos G; Zafeiropoulos, Nikolaos E; Karabela, Maria M; De Crescenzo, Carmen; Karatza, Despina; Musmarra, Dino; Chianese, Simeone; Matikas, Theodore E

2018-05-18

This paper presents an innovative approach, which enables control of the mechanical properties of metallic components by external stimuli to improve the mechanical behavior of aluminum structures in aeronautical applications. The approach is based on the exploitation of the shape memory effect of novel Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) coatings deposited on metallic structural components, for the purpose of relaxing the stress of underlying structures by simple heating at field-feasible temperatures, therefore enhancing their structural integrity and increasing their stiffness and rigidity while allowing them to withstand expected loading conditions safely. Numerical analysis provided an insight in the expected response of the SMA coating and of the SMA-coated element, while the dependence of alloy composition and heat treatment on the experienced shape memory effect were investigated experimentally. A two-phase process is proposed for deposition of the SMA coating in an order that induces beneficial stress relaxation to the underlying structure through the shape memory effect.

Thermally Activated Composite with Two-Way and Multi-Shape Memory Effects

PubMed Central

Basit, Abdul; L’Hostis, Gildas; Pac, Marie José; Durand, Bernard

2013-01-01

The use of shape memory polymer composites is growing rapidly in smart structure applications. In this work, an active asymmetric composite called “controlled behavior composite material (CBCM)” is used as shape memory polymer composite. The programming and the corresponding initial fixity of the composite structure is obtained during a bending test, by heating CBCM above thermal glass transition temperature of the used Epoxy polymer. The shape memory properties of these composites are investigated by a bending test. Three types of recoveries are conducted, two classical recovery tests: unconstrained recovery and constrained recovery, and a new test of partial recovery under load. During recovery, high recovery displacement and force are produced that enables the composite to perform strong two-way actuations along with multi-shape memory effect. The recovery force confirms full recovery with two-way actuation even under a high load. This unique property of CBCM is characterized by the recovered mechanical work. PMID:28788316

Development and Characterization of High Performance Shape Memory Alloy Coatings for Structural Aerospace Applications

PubMed Central

Exarchos, Dimitrios A.; Dalla, Panagiota T.; Tragazikis, Ilias K.; Zafeiropoulos, Nikolaos E.; Karabela, Maria M.; De Crescenzo, Carmen; Karatza, Despina; Matikas, Theodore E.

2018-01-01

This paper presents an innovative approach, which enables control of the mechanical properties of metallic components by external stimuli to improve the mechanical behavior of aluminum structures in aeronautical applications. The approach is based on the exploitation of the shape memory effect of novel Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) coatings deposited on metallic structural components, for the purpose of relaxing the stress of underlying structures by simple heating at field-feasible temperatures, therefore enhancing their structural integrity and increasing their stiffness and rigidity while allowing them to withstand expected loading conditions safely. Numerical analysis provided an insight in the expected response of the SMA coating and of the SMA-coated element, while the dependence of alloy composition and heat treatment on the experienced shape memory effect were investigated experimentally. A two-phase process is proposed for deposition of the SMA coating in an order that induces beneficial stress relaxation to the underlying structure through the shape memory effect. PMID:29783626

Direct-write fabrication of 4D active shape-changing behavior based on a shape memory polymer and its nanocomposite (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Hongqiu; Zhang, Qiwei; Yao, Yongtao; Liu, Liwu; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2017-04-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs), a typical class of smart materials, have been witnessed significant advances in the past decades. Based on the unique performance to recover the initial shape after going through a shape deformation, the applications of SMPs have aroused growing interests. However, most of the researches are hindered by traditional processing technologies which limit the design space of SMPs-based structures. Three-dimension (3D) printing as an emerging technology endows design freedom to manufacture materials with complex structures. In present article, we show that by employing direct-write printing method; one can realize the printing of SMPs to achieve 4D active shape-changing structures. We first fabricated a kind of 3D printable polylactide (PLA)-based SMPs and characterized the overall properties of such materials. Results demonstrated the prepared PLA-based SMPs presenting excellent shape memory effect. In what follows, the rheological properties of such PLA-based SMP ink during printing process were discussed in detail. Finally, we designed and printed several 3D configurations for investigation. By combining 3D printing with shape memory behavior, these printed structures achieve 4D active shape-changing performance under heat stimuli. This research presents a high flexible method to realize the fabrication of SMP-based 4D active shape-changing structures, which opens the way for further developments and improvements of high-tech fields like 4D printing, soft robotics, micro-systems and biomedical devices.

Load carrying capacity of RCC beams by replacing steel reinforcement bars with shape memory alloy bars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajoria, Kamal M.; Kaduskar, Shreya S.

2016-04-01

In this paper the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams with smart rebars under two point loading system has been numerically studied, using Finite Element Method. The material used in this study is Super-elastic Shape Memory Alloys (SE SMAs) which contains nickel and titanium. In this study, different quantities of steel and SMA rebars have been used for reinforcement and the behavior of these models under two point bending loading system is studied. A comparison of load carrying capacity for the model between steel reinforced concrete beam and the beam reinforced with S.M.A and steel are performed. The results show that RC beams reinforced with combination of shape memory alloy and steel show better performance.

Retrieval practice enhances the accessibility but not the quality of memory.

PubMed

Sutterer, David W; Awh, Edward

2016-06-01

Numerous studies have demonstrated that retrieval from long-term memory (LTM) can enhance subsequent memory performance, a phenomenon labeled the retrieval practice effect. However, the almost exclusive reliance on categorical stimuli in this literature leaves open a basic question about the nature of this improvement in memory performance. It has not yet been determined whether retrieval practice improves the probability of successful memory retrieval or the quality of the retrieved representation. To answer this question, we conducted three experiments using a mixture modeling approach (Zhang & Luck, 2008) that provides a measure of both the probability of recall and the quality of the recalled memories. Subjects attempted to memorize the color of 400 unique shapes. After every 10 images were presented, subjects either recalled the last 10 colors (the retrieval practice condition) by clicking on a color wheel with each shape as a retrieval cue or they participated in a control condition that involved no further presentations (Experiment 1) or restudy of the 10 shape/color associations (Experiments 2 and 3). Performance in a subsequent delayed recall test revealed a robust retrieval practice effect. Subjects recalled a significantly higher proportion of items that they had previously retrieved relative to items that were untested or that they had restudied. Interestingly, retrieval practice did not elicit any improvement in the precision of the retrieved memories. The same empirical pattern also was observed following delays of greater than 24 hours. Thus, retrieval practice increases the probability of successful memory retrieval but does not improve memory quality.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sypek, John T.; Yu, Hang; Dusoe, Keith J.

Shape memory materials have the ability to recover their original shape after a significant amount of deformation when they are subjected to certain stimuli, for instance, heat or magnetic fields. But, their performance is often limited by the energetics and geometry of the martensitic-austenitic phase transformation. We report a unique shape memory behavior in CaFe 2As 2, which exhibits superelasticity with over 13% recoverable strain, over 3 GPa yield strength, repeatable stress–strain response even at the micrometer scale, and cryogenic linear shape memory effects near 50 K. These properties are acheived through a reversible uni-axial phase transformation mechanism, the tetragonal/orthorhombic-to-collapsed-tetragonalmore » phase transformation. These results offer the possibility of developing cryogenic linear actuation technologies with a high precision and high actuation power per unit volume for deep space exploration, and more broadly, suggest a mechanistic path to a class of shape memory materials, ThCr 2Si 2-structured intermetallic compounds.« less

3D Printing of a Thermoplastic Shape Memory Polymer using FDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Zhiyang; Weiss, R. A.; Vogt, Bryan

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) change from a temporary shape to its permanent shape when exposed to an external stimulus. The shape memory relies on the presence of two independent networks. 3D printing provides a facile method to fabricate complex shapes with high degrees of customizability. The most common consumer 3D printing technology is fused deposition modeling (FDM), which relies on the extrusion of a thermoplastic filament to build-up the part in a layer by layer fashion. The material choices for FDM are limited, but growing. The generation of an SMP that is printable by FDM could open SMPs to many new potential applications. In this work, we demonstrate printing of thermally activated SMP using FDM. Partially neutralized poly(ethylene-co-r-methacrylic acid) ionomers (Surlyn by Dupont) was extruded into filaments and used as a model thermoplastic shape memory material. The properties of the SMP part can be readily tuned by print parameters, such as infill density or infill direction without changing the base material. We discuss the performance and characteristics of 3D printed shapes compared to their compression molded analogs.

Reconfigurable Photonic Crystals Enabled by Multistimuli-Responsive Shape Memory Polymers Possessing Room Temperature Shape Processability.

PubMed

Fang, Yin; Leo, Sin-Yen; Ni, Yongliang; Wang, Junyu; Wang, Bingchen; Yu, Long; Dong, Zhe; Dai, Yuqiong; Basile, Vito; Taylor, Curtis; Jiang, Peng

2017-02-15

Traditional shape memory polymers (SMPs) are mostly thermoresponsive, and their applications in nano-optics are hindered by heat-demanding programming and recovery processes. By integrating a polyurethane-based shape memory copolymer with templating nanofabrication, reconfigurable/rewritable macroporous photonic crystals have been demonstrated. This SMP coupled with the unique macroporous structure enables unusual all-room-temperature shape memory cycles. "Cold" programming involving microscopic order-disorder transitions of the templated macropores is achieved by mechanically deforming the macroporous SMP membranes. The rapid recovery of the permanent, highly ordered photonic crystal structure from the temporary, disordered configuration can be triggered by multiple stimuli including a large variety of vapors and solvents, heat, and microwave radiation. Importantly, the striking chromogenic effects associated with these athermal and thermal processes render a sensitive and noninvasive optical methodology for quantitatively characterizing the intriguing nanoscopic shape memory effects. Some critical parameters/mechanisms that could significantly affect the final performance of SMP-based reconfigurable photonic crystals including strain recovery ratio, dynamics and reversibility of shape recovery, as well as capillary condensation of vapors in macropores, which play a crucial role in vapor-triggered recovery, can be evaluated using this new optical technology.

A New Strategy to Prepare Polymer-based Shape Memory Elastomers.

PubMed

Song, Shijie; Feng, Jiachun; Wu, Peiyi

2011-10-04

A new strategy that utilizes the microphase separation of block copolymer and phase transition of small molecules for preparing polymer-based shape memory elastomer has been proposed. According to this strategy, a novel kind of shape memory elastomer comprising styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene (SEBS) and paraffin has been prepared. Because paraffins are midblock-selective molecules for SEBS, they will preferentially enter and swell EB blocks supporting paraffins as an excellent switch phase for shape memory effect. Microstructures of SEBS/paraffin composites have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy, polarized light microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The composites demonstrate various phase morphologies with regard to different paraffin loading. It has been found that under low paraffin loading, all the paraffins precisely embed in and swell EB-rich domains. While under higher loading, part of the paraffins become free and a larger-scaled phase separation has been observed. However, within wide paraffin loadings, all composites show good shape fixing, shape recovery performances, and improved tensile properties. Compared to the reported methods for shape memory elastomers preparation, this method not only simplifies the fabrication procedure from raw materials to processing but also offers a controllable approach for the optimization of shape memory properties as well as balancing the rigidity and softness of the material. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Working memory can enhance unconscious visual perception.

PubMed

Pan, Yi; Cheng, Qiu-Ping; Luo, Qian-Ying

2012-06-01

We demonstrate that unconscious processing of a stimulus property can be enhanced when there is a match between the contents of working memory and the stimulus presented in the visual field. Participants first held a cue (a colored circle) in working memory and then searched for a brief masked target shape presented simultaneously with a distractor shape. When participants reported having no awareness of the target shape at all, search performance was more accurate in the valid condition, where the target matched the cue in color, than in the neutral condition, where the target mismatched the cue. This effect cannot be attributed to bottom-up perceptual priming from the presentation of a memory cue, because unconscious perception was not enhanced when the cue was merely perceptually identified but not actively held in working memory. These findings suggest that reentrant feedback from the contents of working memory modulates unconscious visual perception.

Monkeys recall and reproduce simple shapes from memory.

PubMed

Basile, Benjamin M; Hampton, Robert R

2011-05-10

If you draw from memory a picture of the front of your childhood home, you will have demonstrated recall. You could also recognize this house upon seeing it. Unlike recognition, recall demonstrates memory for things that are not present. Recall is necessary for planning and imagining, and it can increase the flexibility of navigation, social behavior, and other cognitive skills. Without recall, memory is more limited to recognition of the immediate environment. Amnesic patients are impaired on recall tests [1, 2], and recall performance often declines with aging [3]. Despite its importance, we know relatively little about nonhuman animals' ability to recall information; we lack suitable recall tests for them and depend instead on recognition tests to measure nonhuman memory. Here we report that rhesus monkeys can recall simple shapes from memory and reproduce them on a touchscreen. As in humans [4, 5], monkeys remembered less in recall than recognition tests, and their recall performance deteriorated more slowly. Transfer tests showed that monkeys used a flexible memory mechanism rather than memorizing specific actions for each shape. Observation of recall in Old World monkeys suggests that it has been adaptive for over 30 million years [6] and does not depend on language. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Insight into the Effects of Reinforcement Shape on Achieving Continuous Martensite Transformation in Phase Transforming Matrix Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xudong; Ren, Junqiang; Wang, Xiaofei; Zong, Hongxiang; Cui, Lishan; Ding, Xiangdong

2017-12-01

A continuous martensite transformation is indispensable for achieving large linear superelasticity and low modulus in phase transforming metal-based composites. However, determining how to accurately condition the residual martensite in a shape memory alloy matrix though the reinforcement shape to achieve continuous martensite transformation has been a challenge. Here, we take the finite element method to perform a comparative study of the effects of nanoinclusion shape on the interaction and martensite phase transformation in this new composite. Two typical samples are compared: one reinforced by metallic nanowires and the other by nanoparticles. We find that the residual martensite within the shape memory alloy matrix after a pretreatment can be tailored by the reinforcement shape. In particular, our results show that the shape memory alloy matrix can retain enough residual martensite phases to achieve continuous martensite transformation in the subsequent loading when the aspect ratio of nanoreinforcement is larger than 20. In contrast, the composites reinforced with spherical or low aspect ratio reinforcement show a typical nonlinear superelasticity as a result of a low stress transfer-induced discontinuous martensite transformation within the shape memory alloy matrix.

Modeling and optimization of shape memory-superelastic antagonistic beam assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tabesh, Majid; Elahinia, Mohammad H.

2010-04-01

Superelasticity (SE), shape memory effect (SM), high damping capacity, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility are the properties of NiTi that makes the alloy ideal for biomedical devices. In this work, the 1D model developed by Brinson was modified to capture the shape memory effect, superelasticity and hysteresis behavior, as well as partial transformation in both positive and negative directions. This model was combined with the Euler beam equation which, by approximation, considers 1D compression and tension stress-strain relationships in different layers of a 3D beam assembly cross-section. A shape memory-superelastic NiTi antagonistic beam assembly was simulated with this model. This wire-tube assembly is designed to enhance the performance of the pedicle screws in osteoporotic bones. For the purpose of this study, an objective design is pursued aiming at optimizing the dimensions and initial configurations of the SMA wire-tube assembly.

Superhydrophobic Surface With Shape Memory Micro/Nanostructure and Its Application in Rewritable Chip for Droplet Storage.

PubMed

Lv, Tong; Cheng, Zhongjun; Zhang, Dongjie; Zhang, Enshuang; Zhao, Qianlong; Liu, Yuyan; Jiang, Lei

2016-09-21

Recently, superhydrophobic surfaces with tunable wettability have aroused much attention. Noticeably, almost all present smart performances rely on the variation of surface chemistry on static micro/nanostructure, to obtain a surface with dynamically tunable micro/nanostructure, especially that can memorize and keep different micro/nanostructures and related wettabilities, is still a challenge. Herein, by creating micro/nanostructured arrays on shape memory polymer, a superhydrophobic surface that has shape memory ability in changing and recovering its hierarchical structures and related wettabilities was reported. Meanwhile, the surface was successfully used in the rewritable functional chip for droplet storage by designing microstructure-dependent patterns, which breaks through current research that structure patterns cannot be reprogrammed. This article advances a superhydrophobic surface with shape memory hierarchical structure and the application in rewritable functional chip, which could start some fresh ideas for the development of smart superhydrophobic surface.

Controlled Shape Memory Behavior of a Smectic Main-Chain Liquid Crystalline Elastomer

DOE PAGES

Li, Yuzhan; Pruitt, Cole; Rios, Orlando; ...

2015-04-10

Here, we describe how a smectic main-chain liquid crystalline elastomer (LCE), with controlled shape memory behavior, is synthesized by polymerizing a biphenyl-based epoxy monomer with an aliphatic carboxylic acid curing agent. Microstructures of the LCEs, including their liquid crystallinity and cross-linking density, are modified by adjusting the stoichiometric ratio of the reactants to tailor the thermomechanical properties and shape memory behavior of the material. Thermal and liquid crystalline properties of the LCEs, characterized using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis, and structural analysis, performed using small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering, show that liquid crystallinity, cross-linking density, and network rigiditymore » are strongly affected by the stoichiometry of the curing reaction. With appropriate structural modifications it is possible to tune the thermal, dynamic mechanical, and thermomechanical properties as well as the shape memory and thermal degradation behavior of LCEs.« less

Controlled Shape Memory Behavior of a Smectic Main-Chain Liquid Crystalline Elastomer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Yuzhan; Pruitt, Cole; Rios, Orlando

Here, we describe how a smectic main-chain liquid crystalline elastomer (LCE), with controlled shape memory behavior, is synthesized by polymerizing a biphenyl-based epoxy monomer with an aliphatic carboxylic acid curing agent. Microstructures of the LCEs, including their liquid crystallinity and cross-linking density, are modified by adjusting the stoichiometric ratio of the reactants to tailor the thermomechanical properties and shape memory behavior of the material. Thermal and liquid crystalline properties of the LCEs, characterized using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis, and structural analysis, performed using small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering, show that liquid crystallinity, cross-linking density, and network rigiditymore » are strongly affected by the stoichiometry of the curing reaction. With appropriate structural modifications it is possible to tune the thermal, dynamic mechanical, and thermomechanical properties as well as the shape memory and thermal degradation behavior of LCEs.« less

Effect of in vitro degradation of poly(D,L-lactide)/beta-tricalcium composite on its shape-memory properties.

PubMed

Zheng, Xiaotong; Zhou, Shaobing; Yu, Xiongjun; Li, Xiaohong; Feng, Bo; Qu, Shuxin; Weng, Jie

2008-07-01

The in vitro degradation characteristic and shape-memory properties of poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA)/beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP) composites were investigated because of their wide application in biomedical fields. In this article, PDLLA and crystalline beta-TCP were compounded and interesting shape-memory behaviors of the composite were first investigated. Then, in vitro degradation of the PDLLA/beta-TCP composites with weight ratios of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1 was performed in phosphate buffer saline solution (PBS) (154 mM, pH 7.4) at 37 degrees C. The effect of in vitro degradation time for PDLLA/beta-TCP composites on shape-memory properties was studied by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, gel permeation chromatography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The changes of structural morphology, glass transition temperature (T(g)), molecular weight, and weight loss of composites matrix and pH change of degradation medium indicated that shape-memory effects at different degradation time were nonlinearly influenced because of the breaking down of polymer chain and the formation of degradation products. Furthermore, the results from XRD and FTIR implied that the degradation products, for example, hydroxyapatite (HA), calcium hydrogen phosphate (CaHPO(4)), and calcium pyrophosphate (Ca(2)P(2)O(7)) phases also had some effects on shape-memory properties during the degradation. 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Automatic selection of irrelevant object features through working memory: evidence for top-down attentional capture.

PubMed

Soto, David; Humphreys, Glyn W

2009-01-01

Recent research has shown that the contents of working memory (WM) can guide the early deployment of attention in visual search. Here, we assessed whether this guidance occurred for all attributes of items held in WM, or whether effects are based on just the attributes relevant for the memory task. We asked observers to hold in memory just the shape of a coloured object and to subsequently search for a target line amongst distractor lines, each embedded within a different object. On some trials, one of the objects in the search display could match the shape, the colour or both dimensions of the cue, but this object never contained the relevant target line. Relative to a neutral baseline, where there was no match between the memory and the search displays, search performance was impaired when a distractor object matched both the colour and the shape of the memory cue. The implications for the understanding of the interaction between WM and selection are discussed.

Visuomotor learning in cerebellar patients.

PubMed

Timmann, D; Shimansky, Y; Larson, P S; Wunderlich, D A; Stelmach, G E; Bloedel, J R

1996-11-01

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate that patients with pathology affecting substantial regions of the cerebellum can improve their performance in a series of two-dimensional tracing tasks, thus supporting the view that this type of motor behavior can be acquired even when the integrity of this structure is compromised. Eight patients with chronic, isolated cerebellar lesions and eight age- and sex-matched healthy controls were tested. Three patients had mild, five had moderate upper limb ataxia. The experiment was divided into two parts. In the first, subjects traced an irregularly shaped outline over 20 consecutive trials ('Trace 1' task). Next, subjects were asked to redraw the object without any underlying template as a guide ('Memory 1' task). In the second part of the study, subjects were asked to trace a different, irregularly shaped outline over 20 consecutive trials ('Trace 2' task). Next, they were required to redraw it by memory with its axis rotated 90 degrees ('Memory 2' task). In each of the memory tasks the template was placed over the drawn image after each trial and shown to the subjects. The error of performance was determined by calculating three different measurements, each focused on different aspects of the task. Based on these measurements, the cerebellar patients showed improvement in both memory tasks. In the 'Memory 1' task the calculated error decreased significantly for the patients with mild ataxia. In the 'Memory 2' task all cerebellar patients improved their performance substantially enough to reduce significantly the magnitude of all three error measurements. The experiments demonstrate that patients with cerebellar lesions are capable of improving substantially their performance of a complex motor task involving the recall of memorized shapes and the visuomotor control of a tracing movement.

Estimation of aneurysm wall stresses created by treatment with a shape memory polymer foam device

PubMed Central

Hwang, Wonjun; Volk, Brent L.; Akberali, Farida; Singhal, Pooja; Criscione, John C.

2012-01-01

In this study, compliant latex thin-walled aneurysm models are fabricated to investigate the effects of expansion of shape memory polymer foam. A simplified cylindrical model is selected for the in-vitro aneurysm, which is a simplification of a real, saccular aneurysm. The studies are performed by crimping shape memory polymer foams, originally 6 and 8 mm in diameter, and monitoring the resulting deformation when deployed into 4-mm-diameter thin-walled latex tubes. The deformations of the latex tubes are used as inputs to physical, analytical, and computational models to estimate the circumferential stresses. Using the results of the stress analysis in the latex aneurysm model, a computational model of the human aneurysm is developed by changing the geometry and material properties. The model is then used to predict the stresses that would develop in a human aneurysm. The experimental, simulation, and analytical results suggest that shape memory polymer foams have potential of being a safe treatment for intracranial saccular aneurysms. In particular, this work suggests oversized shape memory foams may be used to better fill the entire aneurysm cavity while generating stresses below the aneurysm wall breaking stresses. PMID:21901546

Object-based Encoding in Visual Working Memory: Evidence from Memory-driven Attentional Capture.

PubMed

Gao, Zaifeng; Yu, Shixian; Zhu, Chengfeng; Shui, Rende; Weng, Xuchu; Li, Peng; Shen, Mowei

2016-03-09

Visual working memory (VWM) adopts a specific manner of object-based encoding (OBE) to extract perceptual information: Whenever one feature-dimension is selected for entry into VWM, the others are also extracted. Currently most studies revealing OBE probed an 'irrelevant-change distracting effect', where changes of irrelevant-features dramatically affected the performance of the target feature. However, the existence of irrelevant-feature change may affect participants' processing manner, leading to a false-positive result. The current study conducted a strict examination of OBE in VWM, by probing whether irrelevant-features guided the deployment of attention in visual search. The participants memorized an object's colour yet ignored shape and concurrently performed a visual-search task. They searched for a target line among distractor lines, each embedded within a different object. One object in the search display could match the shape, colour, or both dimensions of the memory item, but this object never contained the target line. Relative to a neutral baseline, where there was no match between the memory and search displays, search time was significantly prolonged in all match conditions, regardless of whether the memory item was displayed for 100 or 1000 ms. These results suggest that task-irrelevant shape was extracted into VWM, supporting OBE in VWM.

Design of membrane actuators based on ferromagnetic shape memory alloy composite for the synthetic jet actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yuanchang; Taya, Minoru; Kuga, Yasuo

2004-07-01

A new membrane actuator based on our previous diaphragm actuator was designed and constructed to improve the dynamic performance. The finite element analysis was used to estimate the frequency response of the composite membrane which will be driven close to its resonance to obtain a large stroke. The membrane is made of ferromagnetic shape memory alloy (FSMA) composite including a ferromagnetic soft iron pad and a superelastic grade of NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA). The actuation mechanism for the FSMA composite membrane of the actuator is the hybrid mechanism that we proposed previously. This membrane actuator is designed for a new synthetic jet actuator package that will be used for active flow control technology on airplane wings. Based on the FEM results, the new membrane actuator system was assembled and its static and dynamic performance was experimentally evaluated including the dynamic magnetic response of the hybrid magnet.

Application of Taguchi method to optimization of surface roughness during precise turning of NiTi shape memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalczyk, M.

2017-08-01

This paper describes the research results of surface quality research after the NiTi shape memory alloy (Nitinol) precise turning by the tools with edges made of polycrystalline diamonds (PCD). Nitinol, a nearly equiatomic nickel-titanium shape memory alloy, has wide applications in the arms industry, military, medicine and aerospace industry, and industrial robots. Due to their specific properties NiTi alloys are known to be difficult-to-machine materials particularly by using conventional techniques. The research trials were conducted for three independent parameters (vc, f, ap) affecting the surface roughness were analyzed. The choice of parameter configurations were performed by factorial design methods using orthogonal plan type L9, with three control factors, changing on three levels, developed by G. Taguchi. S/N ratio and ANOVA analyses were performed to identify the best of cutting parameters influencing surface roughness.

Mechanical properties of shape memory polymers for morphing aircraft applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keihl, Michelle M.; Bortolin, Robert S.; Sanders, Brian; Joshi, Shiv; Tidwell, Zeb

2005-05-01

This investigation addresses basic characterization of a shape memory polymer (SMP) as a suitable structural material for morphing aircraft applications. Tests were performed for monotonic loading in high shear at constant temperature, well below, or just above the glass transition temperature. The SMP properties were time-and temperature-dependent. Recovery by the SMP to its original shape needed to be unfettered. Based on the testing SMPs appear to be an attractive and promising component in the solution for a skin material of a morphing aircraft. Their multiple state abilities allow them to easily change shape and, once cooled, resist large loads.

Poly(glycerol sebacate urethane)-cellulose nanocomposites with water-active shape-memory effects.

PubMed

Wu, Tongfei; Frydrych, Martin; O'Kelly, Kevin; Chen, Biqiong

2014-07-14

Biodegradable and biocompatible materials with shape-memory effects (SMEs) are attractive for use as minimally invasive medical devices. Nanocomposites with SMEs were prepared from biodegradable poly(glycerol sebacate urethane) (PGSU) and renewable cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). The effects of CNC content on the structure, water absorption, and mechanical properties of the PGSU were studied. The water-responsive mechanically adaptive properties and shape-memory performance of PGSU-CNC nanocomposites were observed, which are dependent on the content of CNCs. The PGSU-CNC nanocomposite containing 23.2 vol % CNCs exhibited the best SMEs among the nanocomposites investigated, with the stable shape fixing and shape recovery ratios being 98 and 99%, respectively, attributable to the formation of a hydrophilic, yet strong, CNC network in the elastomeric matrix. In vitro degradation profiles of the nanocomposites were assessed with and without the presence of an enzyme.

Multi-shape memory polymers achieved by the spatio-assembly of 3D printable thermoplastic building blocks.

PubMed

Li, Hongze; Gao, Xiang; Luo, Yingwu

2016-04-07

Multi-shape memory polymers were prepared by the macroscale spatio-assembly of building blocks in this work. The building blocks were methyl acrylate-co-styrene (MA-co-St) copolymers, which have the St-block-(St-random-MA)-block-St tri-block chain sequence. This design ensures that their transition temperatures can be adjusted over a wide range by varying the composition of the middle block. The two St blocks at the chain ends can generate a crosslink network in the final device to achieve strong bonding force between building blocks and the shape memory capacity. Due to their thermoplastic properties, 3D printing was employed for the spatio-assembly to build devices. This method is capable of introducing many transition phases into one device and preparing complicated shapes via 3D printing. The device can perform a complex action via a series of shape changes. Besides, this method can avoid the difficult programing of a series of temporary shapes. The control of intermediate temporary shapes was realized via programing the shapes and locations of building blocks in the final device.

Shape-memory effect by specific biodegradable polymer blending for biomedical applications.

PubMed

Cha, Kook Jin; Lih, Eugene; Choi, Jiyeon; Joung, Yoon Ki; Ahn, Dong Jun; Han, Dong Keun

2014-05-01

Specific biodegradable polymers having shape-memory properties through "polymer-blend" method are investigated and their shape-switching in body temperature (37 °C) is characterized. Poly(L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) and poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) are dissolved in chloroform and the films of several blending ratios of PLCL/PLGA are prepared by solvent casting. The shape-memory properties of films are also examined using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Among the blending ratios, the PLCL50/PLGA50 film shows good performance of shape-fixity and shape-recovery based on glass transition temperature. It displays that the degree of shape recovery is 100% at 37 °C and the shape recovery proceeds within only 15 s. In vitro biocompatibility studies are shown to have good blood compatibility and cytocompatibility for the PLCL50/PLGA50 films. It is expected that this blended biodegradable polymer can be potentially used as a material for blood-contacting medical devices such as a self-expended vascular polymer stents and vascular closure devices in biomedical applications. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Memory updating in sub-clinical eating disorder: differential effects with food and body shape words.

PubMed

Fenton, Olivia; Ecker, Ullrich K H

2015-04-01

The present study investigated how eating disorder (ED) relevant information is updated in working memory in people with high vs. low scores on a measure of eating disorder pathology (the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, EDE-Q). Participants performed two memory updating tasks. One was a neutral control task using digits; the other task involved food words and words relating to body-shape, and provided measures of updating speed and post-updating recall. We found that high EDE-Q participants (1) showed no sign of general memory updating impairment as indicated by performance in the control task; (2) showed a general recall deficit in the task involving ED-relevant stimuli, suggesting a general distraction of cognitive resources in the presence of ED-related items; (3) showed a relative facilitation in the recall of food words; and (4) showed quicker updating toward food words and relatively slower updating toward body-shape-related words. Results are discussed in the context of cognitive theories of eating disorders. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ageing and feature binding in visual working memory: The role of presentation time.

PubMed

Rhodes, Stephen; Parra, Mario A; Logie, Robert H

2016-01-01

A large body of research has clearly demonstrated that healthy ageing is accompanied by an associative memory deficit. Older adults exhibit disproportionately poor performance on memory tasks requiring the retention of associations between items (e.g., pairs of unrelated words). In contrast to this robust deficit, older adults' ability to form and temporarily hold bound representations of an object's surface features, such as colour and shape, appears to be relatively well preserved. However, the findings of one set of experiments suggest that older adults may struggle to form temporary bound representations in visual working memory when given more time to study objects. However, these findings were based on between-participant comparisons across experimental paradigms. The present study directly assesses the role of presentation time in the ability of younger and older adults to bind shape and colour in visual working memory using a within-participant design. We report new evidence that giving older adults longer to study memory objects does not differentially affect their immediate memory for feature combinations relative to individual features. This is in line with a growing body of research suggesting that there is no age-related impairment in immediate memory for colour-shape binding.

Perceptual Organization and Operative Thought: A Study of Coherence in Memory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heindel, Patricia; Kose, Gary

Examined in three studies were the influence of perceptual organization on children's memory and the relationship between operational thought and memory performance. In the first study, 72 children at 5, 7, and 9 years of age were given a series of Piagetian tasks and a memory task. Subjects were presented with 10 color-shape pairs depicted in…

Shape memory polymer medical device

DOEpatents

Maitland, Duncan [Pleasant Hill, CA; Benett, William J [Livermore, CA; Bearinger, Jane P [Livermore, CA; Wilson, Thomas S [San Leandro, CA; Small, IV, Ward; Schumann, Daniel L [Concord, CA; Jensen, Wayne A [Livermore, CA; Ortega, Jason M [Pacifica, CA; Marion, III, John E.; Loge, Jeffrey M [Stockton, CA

2010-06-29

A system for removing matter from a conduit. The system includes the steps of passing a transport vehicle and a shape memory polymer material through the conduit, transmitting energy to the shape memory polymer material for moving the shape memory polymer material from a first shape to a second and different shape, and withdrawing the transport vehicle and the shape memory polymer material through the conduit carrying the matter.

Shape memory polymers

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S.; Bearinger, Jane P.

2017-08-29

New shape memory polymer compositions, methods for synthesizing new shape memory polymers, and apparatus comprising an actuator and a shape memory polymer wherein the shape memory polymer comprises at least a portion of the actuator. A shape memory polymer comprising a polymer composition which physically forms a network structure wherein the polymer composition has shape-memory behavior and can be formed into a permanent primary shape, re-formed into a stable secondary shape, and controllably actuated to recover the permanent primary shape. Polymers have optimal aliphatic network structures due to minimization of dangling chains by using monomers that are symmetrical and that have matching amine and hydroxl groups providing polymers and polymer foams with clarity, tight (narrow temperature range) single transitions, and high shape recovery and recovery force that are especially useful for implanting in the human body.

Shape memory polymers

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S.; Bearinger, Jane P.

2015-06-09

New shape memory polymer compositions, methods for synthesizing new shape memory polymers, and apparatus comprising an actuator and a shape memory polymer wherein the shape memory polymer comprises at least a portion of the actuator. A shape memory polymer comprising a polymer composition which physically forms a network structure wherein the polymer composition has shape-memory behavior and can be formed into a permanent primary shape, re-formed into a stable secondary shape, and controllably actuated to recover the permanent primary shape. Polymers have optimal aliphatic network structures due to minimization of dangling chains by using monomers that are symmetrical and that have matching amine and hydroxyl groups providing polymers and polymer foams with clarity, tight (narrow temperature range) single transitions, and high shape recovery and recovery force that are especially useful for implanting in the human body.

Shape memory alloy TiNi actuators for twist control of smart wing designs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jardine, A. Peter; Kudva, Jayanth N.; Martin, Christopher A.; Appa, Kari

1996-05-01

On high performance military aircraft, small changes in both wing twist and wing camber have the potential to provide substantial payoffs in terms of additional lift and enhanced maneuverability. To achieve the required wing shape, actuators made of smart materials are currently being studied under an ARPA/WL contract for a subscale model of a fighter aircraft. The use of the shape memory alloy TiNi for wing twist actuation was investigated using shape memory effect (SME) torque tube actuator configurations. The actuator configurations were sized to fit inside a 16% scale model of an aircraft wing and the torque's supplied to the wing were similarly calculated from full-scale requirements. The actuator systems were tested in a conventional laboratory setting. Design and calibration of the actuators for wing twist are discussed.

Short term memory for single surface features and bindings in ageing: A replication study.

PubMed

Isella, Valeria; Molteni, Federica; Mapelli, Cristina; Ferrarese, Carlo

2015-06-01

In the present study we replicated a previous experiment investigating visuo-spatial short term memory binding in young and older healthy individuals, in the attempt to verify the pattern of impairment that can be observed in normal elderly for short term memory for single items vs short term memory for bindings. Assessing a larger sample size (25 young and 25 older subjects), using a more appropriate measure of accuracy for a change detection task (A'), and adding the evaluation of speed of performance, we confirmed that old normals show a decline in short term memory for bindings of shape and colour that is of comparable extent, and not major, to the decline in memory for single shapes and single colours. The absence of a specific deficit of short term memory for conjunctions of surface features seems to distinguish cognitive ageing from Alzheimer's Disease. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhanced photomechanical response of a Ni-Ti shape memory alloy coated with polymer-based photothermal composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perez-Zúñiga, M. G.; Sánchez-Arévalo, F. M.; Hernández-Cordero, J.

2017-10-01

A simple way to enhance the activation of shape memory effects with light in a Ni-Ti alloy is demonstrated. Using polydimethylsiloxane-carbon nanopowder (PDMS+CNP) composites as coatings, the one-way shape memory effect (OWSME) of the alloy can be triggered using low power IR light from a laser diode. The PDMS+CNP coatings serve as photothermal materials capable to absorb light, and subsequently generate and dissipate heat in a highly efficient manner, thereby reducing the optical powers required for triggering the OWSME in the Ni-Ti alloy. Experimental results with a cantilever flexural test using both, bare Ni-Ti and coated samples, show that the PDMS+CNP coatings perform as thermal boosters, and therefore the temperatures required for phase transformation in the alloy can be readily obtained with low laser powers. It is also shown that the two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) can be set in the Ni-Ti alloy through cycling the TWSME by simply modulating the laser diode signal. This provides a simple means for training the material, yielding a light driven actuator capable to provide forces in the mN range. Hence, the use of photothermal coatings on Ni-Ti shape memory alloys may offer new possibilities for developing light-controlled smart actuators.

Fatigue design curve of a TiNi/Al shape memory alloy composite for aircraft stringer design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Young-Chul; Jo, Young-Jik; Baek, Seok-Heum; Furuya, Yasubumi

2009-05-01

In this study, a TiNi/Al6061 shape memory alloy (SMA) composite was fabricated by the hot press method, and pressed by a roller for its strength improvement using the shape memory fiber shrinkage phenomenon. These two kinds of specimens were fabricated with 0% and 5% volume ratio and 0%, 10 % and 20% reduction ratio of TiNi alloy fiber, respectively. A fatigue test has been performed to evaluate the fatigue life for the fabricated TiNi/Al SMA composite as an S-N curve. The results from the Goodman diagram is able to illustrate the failure criterion and fatigue limit between tensile and bending fatigue strength in the fatigue characterization of TiNi/Al SMA composites.

Crystallographic Characterization on Polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga Alloys with Strong Preferred Orientation.

PubMed

Li, Zongbin; Yang, Bo; Zou, Naifu; Zhang, Yudong; Esling, Claude; Gan, Weimin; Zhao, Xiang; Zuo, Liang

2017-04-27

Heusler type Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys can demonstrate excellent magnetic shape memory effect in single crystals. However, such effect in polycrystalline alloys is greatly weakened due to the random distribution of crystallographic orientation. Microstructure optimization and texture control are of great significance and challenge to improve the functional behaviors of polycrystalline alloys. In this paper, we summarize our recent progress on the microstructure control in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga alloys in the form of bulk alloys, melt-spun ribbons and thin films, based on the detailed crystallographic characterizations through neutron diffraction, X-ray diffraction and electron backscatter diffraction. The presented results are expected to offer some guidelines for the microstructure modification and functional performance control of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys.

Bistable resistive memory behavior in gelatin-CdTe quantum dot composite film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vallabhapurapu, Sreedevi; Rohom, Ashwini; Chaure, N. B.; Du, Shengzhi; Srinivasan, Ananthakrishnan

2018-05-01

Bistable memory behavior has been observed for the first time in gelatin type A thin film dispersed with functionalized CdTe quantum dots. The two terminal device with the polymer nanocomposite layer sandwiched between an indium tin oxide coated glass plate and an aluminium top electrode performs as a bistable resistive random access memory module. Butterfly shaped (O-shaped with a hysteresis in forward and reverse sweeps) current-voltage response is observed in this device. The conduction mechanism leading to the bistable electrical switching has been deduced to be a combination of ohmic and electron hopping.

Nitrogen narcosis and tactile shape memory in low visibility.

PubMed

van Wijk, Charles H; Meintjes, W A J

2014-01-01

Commercial diving often occurs in low visibility, where divers are reliant on their tactile senses. This study examined the effect of nitrogen narcosis on tactile memory for shapes as well as the influence of psychological and biographical factors on this relationship. This crossover study tested 139 commercial divers in a dry hyperbaric chamber at 101.325 and 607.95 kPa (1 and 6 atmospheres absolute/atm abs). Divers memorized shapes while blindfolded, using their tactile senses only. Delayed recall was measured at the surface after each dive. Psychological and biographical data were also collected. A significant effect of hyperbaric pressure on tactile memory was demonstrated, and a further effect of sequence of testing found. Thus, divers' delayed shape recall deteriorated by 8% after learning material at depth, compared to learning on the surface. There were also significant but small effects of psychological and biographical markers on tactile memory performance, with lower trait anxiety associated with better recall, and lower education associated with poorer recall. The findings emphasize the importance of utilizing other forms of recording of events or objects at depth, particularly in conditions of low visibility during deeper diving, to aid memory encoding and subsequent recall at the surface.

Shape memory polymer foams for endovascular therapies

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2017-03-21

A system for occluding a physical anomaly. One embodiment comprises a shape memory material body wherein the shape memory material body fits within the physical anomaly occluding the physical anomaly. The shape memory material body has a primary shape for occluding the physical anomaly and a secondary shape for being positioned in the physical anomaly.

Shape memory polymer foams for endovascular therapies

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S [Castro Valley, CA; Maitland, Duncan J [Pleasant Hill, CA

2012-03-13

A system for occluding a physical anomaly. One embodiment comprises a shape memory material body wherein the shape memory material body fits within the physical anomaly occluding the physical anomaly. The shape memory material body has a primary shape for occluding the physical anomaly and a secondary shape for being positioned in the physical anomaly.

Shape memory polymer foams for endovascular therapies

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2015-05-26

A system for occluding a physical anomaly. One embodiment comprises a shape memory material body wherein the shape memory material body fits within the physical anomaly occluding the physical anomaly. The shape memory material body has a primary shape for occluding the physical anomaly and a secondary shape for being positioned in the physical anomaly.

Feature bindings are maintained in visual short-term memory without sustained focused attention.

PubMed

Delvenne, Jean-François; Cleeremans, Axel; Laloyaux, Cédric

2010-01-01

Does the maintenance of feature bindings in visual short-term memory (VSTM) require sustained focused attention? This issue was investigated in three experiments, in which memory for single features (i.e., colors or shapes) was compared with memory for feature bindings (i.e., the link between the color and shape of an object). Attention was manipulated during the memory retention interval with a retro-cue, which allows attention to be directed and focused on a subset of memory items. The retro-cue was presented 700 ms after the offset of the memory display and 700 ms before the onset of the test display. If the maintenance of feature bindings - but not of individual features - in memory requires sustained focused attention, the retro-cue should not affect memory performance. Contrary to this prediction, we found that both memory for feature bindings and memory for individual features were equally improved by the retro-cue. Therefore, this finding does not support the view that the sustained focused attention is needed to properly maintain feature bindings in VSTM.

Scoliosis correction with shape-memory metal: results of an experimental study.

PubMed

Wever, D J; Elstrodt, J A; Veldhuizen, A G; v Horn, J R

2002-04-01

The biocompatibility and functionality of a new scoliosis correction device, based on the properties of the shape-memory metal nickel-titanium alloy, were studied. With this device, the shape recovery forces of a shape-memory metal rod are used to achieve a gradual three-dimensional scoliosis correction. In the experimental study the action of the new device was inverted: the device was used to induce a scoliotic curve instead of correcting one. Surgical procedures were performed in six pigs. An originally curved squared rod, in the cold condition, was straightened and fixed to the spine with pedicle screws. Peroperatively, the memory effect of the rod was activated by heating the rod to 50 degrees C by a low-voltage, high-frequency current. After 3 and after 6 months the animals were sacrificed. The first radiographs, obtained immediately after surgery, showed in all animals an induced curve of about 40 degrees Cobb angle - the original curve of the rod. This curve remained constant during the follow-up. The postoperative serum nickel measurements were around the detection limit, and were not significantly higher compared to the preoperative nickel concentration. Macroscopic inspection after 3 and 6 months showed that the device was almost overgrown with newly formed bone. Corrosion and fretting processes were not observed. Histologic examination of the sections of the surrounding tissues and sections of the lung, liver, spleen and kidney showed no evidence of a foreign body response. In view of the initiation of the scoliotic deformation, it is expected that the shape-memory metal based scoliosis correction device also has the capacity to correct a scoliotic curve. Moreover, it is expected that the new device will show good biocompatibility in clinical application. Extensive fatigue testing of the whole system should be performed before clinical trials are initiated.

Lesions affecting the right hippocampal formation differentially impair short-term memory of spatial and nonspatial associations.

PubMed

Braun, Mischa; Weinrich, Christiane; Finke, Carsten; Ostendorf, Florian; Lehmann, Thomas-Nicolas; Ploner, Christoph J

2011-03-01

Converging evidence from behavioral and imaging studies suggests that within the human medial temporal lobe (MTL) the hippocampal formation may be particularly involved in recognition memory of associative information. However, it is unclear whether the hippocampal formation processes all types of associations or whether there is a specialization for processing of associations involving spatial information. Here, we investigated this issue in six patients with postsurgical lesions of the right MTL affecting the hippocampal formation and in ten healthy controls. Subjects performed a battery of delayed match-to-sample tasks with two delays (900/5,000 ms) and three set sizes. Subjects were requested to remember either single features (colors, locations, shapes, letters) or feature associations (color-location, color-shape, color-letter). In the single-feature conditions, performance of patients did not differ from controls. In the association conditions, a significant delay-dependent deficit in memory of color-location associations was found. This deficit was largely independent of set size. By contrast, performance in the color-shape and color-letter conditions was normal. These findings support the hypothesis that a region within the right MTL, presumably the hippocampal formation, does not equally support all kinds of visual memory but rather has a bias for processing of associations involving spatial information. Recruitment of this region during memory tasks appears to depend both on processing type (associative/nonassociative) and to-be-remembered material (spatial/nonspatial). Copyright © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

New design strategy for reversible plasticity shape memory polymers with deformable glassy aggregates.

PubMed

Lin, Tengfei; Tang, Zhenghai; Guo, Baochun

2014-12-10

Reversible plasticity shape memory (RPSM) is a new concept in the study of shape memory performance behavior and describes a phenomenon in which shape memory polymers (SMPs) can undergo a large plastic deformation at room temperature and subsequently recover their original shape upon heating. To date, RPSM behavior has been demonstrated in only a few polymers. In the present study, we implement a new design strategy, in which deformable glassy hindered phenol (AO-80) aggregates are incorporated into an amorphous network of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) cured with zinc diacrylate (ZDA), in order to achieve RPSM properties. We propose that AO-80 continuously tunes the glass transition temperature (Tg) and improves the chain mobility of the SMP, providing traction and anchoring the ENR chains by intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions. The RPSM behavior of the amorphous SMPs is characterized, and the results demonstrate good fixity at large deformations (up to 300%) and excellent recovery upon heating. Large energy storage capacities at Td in these RPSM materials are demonstrated compared with those achieved at elevated temperature in traditional SMPs. Interestingly, the further revealed self-healing properties of these materials are closely related to their RPSM behavior.

Surface Control of Cold Hibernated Elastic Memory Self-Deployable Structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sokolowski, Witold M.; Ghaffarian, Reza

2006-01-01

A new class of simple, reliable, lightweight, low packaging volume and cost, self-deployable structures has been developed for use in space and commercial applications. This technology called 'cold hibernated elastic memory' (CHEM) utilizes shape memory polymers (SMP)in open cellular (foam) structure or sandwich structures made of shape memory polymer foam cores and polymeric composite skins. Some of many potential CHEM space applications require a high precision deployment and surface accuracy during operation. However, a CHEM structure could be slightly distorted by the thermo-mechanical processing as well as by thermal space environment Therefore, the sensor system is desirable to monitor and correct the potential surface imperfection. During these studies, the surface control of CHEM smart structures was demonstrated using a Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC) actuator developed by the NASA LaRC and US Army ARL. The test results indicate that the MFC actuator performed well before and after processing cycles. It reduced some residue compressive strain that in turn corrected very small shape distortion after each processing cycle. The integrated precision strain gages were detecting only a small flat shape imperfection indicating a good recoverability of original shape of the CHEM test structure.

Recognition memory across the lifespan: the impact of word frequency and study-test interval on estimates of familiarity and recollection

PubMed Central

Meier, Beat; Rey-Mermet, Alodie; Rothen, Nicolas; Graf, Peter

2013-01-01

The goal of this study was to investigate recognition memory performance across the lifespan and to determine how estimates of recollection and familiarity contribute to performance. In each of three experiments, participants from five groups from 14 up to 85 years of age (children, young adults, middle-aged adults, young-old adults, and old-old adults) were presented with high- and low-frequency words in a study phase and were tested immediately afterwards and/or after a one day retention interval. The results showed that word frequency and retention interval affected recognition memory performance as well as estimates of recollection and familiarity. Across the lifespan, the trajectory of recognition memory followed an inverse u-shape function that was neither affected by word frequency nor by retention interval. The trajectory of estimates of recollection also followed an inverse u-shape function, and was especially pronounced for low-frequency words. In contrast, estimates of familiarity did not differ across the lifespan. The results indicate that age differences in recognition memory are mainly due to differences in processes related to recollection while the contribution of familiarity-based processes seems to be age-invariant. PMID:24198796

Nanoscale Design of Nano-Sized Particles in Shape-Memory Polymer Nanocomposites Driven by Electricity

PubMed Central

Lu, Haibao; Huang, Wei Min; Liang, Fei; Yu, Kai

2013-01-01

In the last few years, we have witnessed significant progress in developing high performance shape memory polymer (SMP) nanocomposites, in particular, for shape recovery activated by indirect heating in the presence of electricity, magnetism, light, radio frequency, microwave and radiation, etc. In this paper, we critically review recent findings in Joule heating of SMP nanocomposites incorporated with nanosized conductive electromagnetic particles by means of nanoscale control via applying an electro- and/or magnetic field. A few different nanoscale design principles to form one-/two-/three- dimensional conductive networks are discussed. PMID:28788303

Nonlinear correlations impair quantification of episodic memory by mesial temporal BOLD activity.

PubMed

Klamer, Silke; Zeltner, Lena; Erb, Michael; Klose, Uwe; Wagner, Kathrin; Frings, Lars; Groen, Georg; Veil, Cornelia; Rona, Sabine; Lerche, Holger; Milian, Monika

2013-07-01

Episodic memory processes can be investigated using different functional MRI (fMRI) paradigms. The purpose of the present study was to examine correlations between neuropsychological memory test scores and BOLD signal changes during fMRI scanning using three different memory tasks. Twenty-eight right-handed healthy subjects underwent three paradigms, (a) a word pair, (b) a space-labyrinth, and (c) a face-name association paradigm. These paradigms were compared for their value in memory quantification and lateralization by calculating correlations between the BOLD signals in the mesial temporal lobe and behavioral data derived from a neuropsychological test battery. As expected, group analysis showed left-sided activation for the verbal, a tendency to right-sided activation for the spatial, and bilateral activation for the face-name paradigm. No linear correlations were observed between neuropsychological data and activation in the temporo-mesial region. However, we found significant u-shaped correlations between behavioral memory performance and activation in both the verbal and the face-name paradigms, that is, BOLD signal changes were greater not only among participants who performed best on the neuropsychological tests, but also among the poorest performers. The figural learning task did not correlate with the activations in the space-labyrinth paradigm at all. We interpreted the u-shaped correlations to be due to compensatory hippocampal activations associated with low performance when people try unsuccessfully to remember presented items. Because activation levels did not linearly increase with memory performance, the latter cannot be quantified by fMRI alone, but only be used in conjunction with neuropsychological testing. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved.

Memory binding and white matter integrity in familial Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

Saarimäki, Heini; Bastin, Mark E.; Londoño, Ana C.; Pettit, Lewis; Lopera, Francisco; Della Sala, Sergio; Abrahams, Sharon

2015-01-01

Binding information in short-term and long-term memory are functions sensitive to Alzheimer’s disease. They have been found to be affected in patients who meet criteria for familial Alzheimer’s disease due to the mutation E280A of the PSEN1 gene. However, only short-term memory binding has been found to be affected in asymptomatic carriers of this mutation. The neural correlates of this dissociation are poorly understood. The present study used diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging to investigate whether the integrity of white matter structures could offer an account. A sample of 19 patients with familial Alzheimer’s disease, 18 asymptomatic carriers and 21 non-carrier controls underwent diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological and memory binding assessment. The short-term memory binding task required participants to detect changes across two consecutive screens displaying arrays of shapes, colours, or shape-colour bindings. The long-term memory binding task was a Paired Associates Learning Test. Performance on these tasks were entered into regression models. Relative to controls, patients with familial Alzheimer’s disease performed poorly on both memory binding tasks. Asymptomatic carriers differed from controls only in the short-term memory binding task. White matter integrity explained poor memory binding performance only in patients with familial Alzheimer’s disease. White matter water diffusion metrics from the frontal lobe accounted for poor performance on both memory binding tasks. Dissociations were found in the genu of corpus callosum which accounted for short-term memory binding impairments and in the hippocampal part of cingulum bundle which accounted for long-term memory binding deficits. The results indicate that white matter structures in the frontal and temporal lobes are vulnerable to the early stages of familial Alzheimer’s disease and their damage is associated with impairments in two memory binding functions known to be markers for Alzheimer’s disease. PMID:25762465

Memory binding and white matter integrity in familial Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Parra, Mario A; Saarimäki, Heini; Bastin, Mark E; Londoño, Ana C; Pettit, Lewis; Lopera, Francisco; Della Sala, Sergio; Abrahams, Sharon

2015-05-01

Binding information in short-term and long-term memory are functions sensitive to Alzheimer's disease. They have been found to be affected in patients who meet criteria for familial Alzheimer's disease due to the mutation E280A of the PSEN1 gene. However, only short-term memory binding has been found to be affected in asymptomatic carriers of this mutation. The neural correlates of this dissociation are poorly understood. The present study used diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging to investigate whether the integrity of white matter structures could offer an account. A sample of 19 patients with familial Alzheimer's disease, 18 asymptomatic carriers and 21 non-carrier controls underwent diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological and memory binding assessment. The short-term memory binding task required participants to detect changes across two consecutive screens displaying arrays of shapes, colours, or shape-colour bindings. The long-term memory binding task was a Paired Associates Learning Test. Performance on these tasks were entered into regression models. Relative to controls, patients with familial Alzheimer's disease performed poorly on both memory binding tasks. Asymptomatic carriers differed from controls only in the short-term memory binding task. White matter integrity explained poor memory binding performance only in patients with familial Alzheimer's disease. White matter water diffusion metrics from the frontal lobe accounted for poor performance on both memory binding tasks. Dissociations were found in the genu of corpus callosum which accounted for short-term memory binding impairments and in the hippocampal part of cingulum bundle which accounted for long-term memory binding deficits. The results indicate that white matter structures in the frontal and temporal lobes are vulnerable to the early stages of familial Alzheimer's disease and their damage is associated with impairments in two memory binding functions known to be markers for Alzheimer's disease. © The Author (2015). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Guarantors of Brain. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Performance of Integrated Fiber Optic, Piezoelectric, and Shape Memory Alloy Actuators/Sensors in Thermoset Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trottier, C. Michael

1996-01-01

Recently, scientists and engineers have investigated the advantages of smart materials and structures by including actuators in material systems for controlling and altering the response of structural environments. Applications of these materials systems include vibration suppression/isolation, precision positioning, damage detection and tunable devices. Some of the embedded materials being investigated for accomplishing these tasks include piezoelectric ceramics, shape memory alloys, and fiber optics. These materials have some benefits and some shortcomings; each is being studied for use in active material design in the SPICES (Synthesis and Processing of Intelligent Cost Effective Structures) Consortium. The focus of this paper concerns the manufacturing aspects of smart structures by incorporating piezoelectric ceramics, shape memory alloys and fiber optics in a reinforced thermoset matrix via resin transfer molding (RTM).

Design of a Shape Memory Alloy deployment hinge for reflector facets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anders, W. S.; Rogers, C. A.

1991-01-01

A design concept for a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuated hinge mechanism for deploying segmented facet-type reflector surfaces on antenna truss structures is presented. The mechanism uses nitinol, a nickel-titanium shape memory alloy, as a displacement-force micro-actuator. An electrical current is used to resistively heat a 'plastically' elongated SMA actuator wire, causing it to contract in response to a thermally-induced phase transformation. The resulting tension creates a moment, imparting rotary motion between two adjacent panels. Mechanical stops are designed into the device to limit its range of motion and to establish positioning accuracy at the termination of deployment. The concept and its operation are discussed in detail, and an analytical dynamic simulation model is presented. The model has been used to perform nondimensionalized parametric design studies.

Design of diaphragm actuator based on ferromagnetic shape memory alloy composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yuanchang; Taya, Minoru; Kuga, Yasuo

2003-08-01

A new diaphragm actuator based on the ferromagnetic shape memory alloy (FSMA) composite is designed where the FSMA composite is composed of ferromagnetic soft iron and superelastic grade of NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA). The actuation mechanism for the FSMA composite plate of the actuator is the hybrid mechanism that we proposed previously. This diaphragm actuator is the first design toward designing a new synthetic jet actuator that will be used for active flow control technology on airplane wings. The design of the FSMA composite diaphragm actuator was established first by using both mechanical and ferromagnetic finite element analyses with an aim of optimization of the actuator components. Based on the FEM results, the first generation diaphragm actuator system was assembled and its static and dynamic performance was experimentally evaluated.

The development of new ferromagnetic shape memory alloys in Ni-Mn-Ga system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chernenko, V.A.; Kokorin, V.V.; Vitenko, I.N.

1995-10-15

The Ferromagnetic Heusler alloy Ni{sub 2}MnGa is known to undergo a structural phase transformation of martensitic type. Thermoelastic nature, shape memory effect (SME) and superelasticity were sound to be intrinsic to this transformation. In this work the authors present the results of the investigation of the following problems: how M{sub s}, the thermal hysteresis, Curie temperature, transformation heat are affected by the composition variation in the Ni-Mn-Ga alloy system in a concentration interval for each component of about 10 at. %. This work was performed to make sure that the new family of Ni-Mn-Ga based shape memory alloys (SMA) withmore » a wide variety of structural and magnetic properties is actually elaborated.« less

Crystallographic Characterization on Polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga Alloys with Strong Preferred Orientation

PubMed Central

Li, Zongbin; Yang, Bo; Zou, Naifu; Zhang, Yudong; Esling, Claude; Gan, Weimin; Zhao, Xiang; Zuo, Liang

2017-01-01

Heusler type Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys can demonstrate excellent magnetic shape memory effect in single crystals. However, such effect in polycrystalline alloys is greatly weakened due to the random distribution of crystallographic orientation. Microstructure optimization and texture control are of great significance and challenge to improve the functional behaviors of polycrystalline alloys. In this paper, we summarize our recent progress on the microstructure control in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga alloys in the form of bulk alloys, melt-spun ribbons and thin films, based on the detailed crystallographic characterizations through neutron diffraction, X-ray diffraction and electron backscatter diffraction. The presented results are expected to offer some guidelines for the microstructure modification and functional performance control of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys. PMID:28772826

High Performance Shape Memory Epoxy/Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites.

PubMed

Liu, Yayun; Zhao, Jun; Zhao, Lingyu; Li, Weiwei; Zhang, Hui; Yu, Xiang; Zhang, Zhong

2016-01-13

A series of shape memory nanocomposites based on diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) E51/methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA)/multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) with various stoichiometric ratios (rs) of DGEBA/MHHPA from 0.5 to 1.2 and filler contents of 0.25 and 0.75 wt % are fabricated. Their morphology, curing kinetics, phase transition, mechanical properties, thermal conduction, and shape memory behaviors are systematically investigated. The prepared materials show a wide range of glass transition temperatures (Tg) of ca. 65-140 °C, high flexural modulus (E) at room temperature up to ca. 3.0 GPa, high maximum stress (σm) up to ca. 30 MPa, high strain at break (εb) above 10%, and a fast recovery of 32 s. The results indicate that a small amount of MWCNT fillers (0.75 wt %) can significantly increase all three key mechanical properties (E, σm, and εb) at temperatures close to Tg, the recovery rate, and the repetition stability of the shape memory cycles. All of these remarkable advantages make the materials good candidates for the applications in aerospace and other important fields.

"Shape function + memory mechanism"-based hysteresis modeling of magnetorheological fluid actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Li-Jun; Chen, Peng; Cai, Fei-Long; Bai, Xian-Xu

2018-03-01

A hysteresis model based on "shape function + memory mechanism" is presented and its feasibility is verified through modeling the hysteresis behavior of a magnetorheological (MR) damper. A hysteresis phenomenon in resistor-capacitor (RC) circuit is first presented and analyzed. In the hysteresis model, the "memory mechanism" originating from the charging and discharging processes of the RC circuit is constructed by adopting a virtual displacement variable and updating laws for the reference points. The "shape function" is achieved and generalized from analytical solutions of the simple semi-linear Duhem model. Using the approach, the memory mechanism reveals the essence of specific Duhem model and the general shape function provides a direct and clear means to fit the hysteresis loop. In the frame of the structure of a "Restructured phenomenological model", the original hysteresis operator, i.e., the Bouc-Wen operator, is replaced with the new hysteresis operator. The comparative work with the Bouc-Wen operator based model demonstrates superior performances of high computational efficiency and comparable accuracy of the new hysteresis operator-based model.

A Facile and General Approach to Recoverable High-Strain Multishape Shape Memory Polymers.

PubMed

Li, Xingjian; Pan, Yi; Zheng, Zhaohui; Ding, Xiaobin

2018-03-01

Fabricating a single polymer network with no need to design complex structures to achieve an ideal combination of tunable high-strain multiple-shape memory effects and highly recoverable shape memory property is a great challenge for the real applications of advanced shape memory devices. Here, a facile and general approach to recoverable high-strain multishape shape memory polymers is presented via a random copolymerization of acrylate monomers and a chain-extended multiblock copolymer crosslinker. As-prepared shape memory networks show a large width at the half-peak height of the glass transition, far wider than current classical multishape shape memory polymers. A combination of tunable high-strain multishape memory effect and as high as 1000% recoverable strain in a single chemical-crosslinking network can be obtained. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first thermosetting material with a combination of highly recoverable strain and tunable high-strain multiple-shape memory effects. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Finite Element Simulation of NiTi Umbrella-Shaped Implant Used on Femoral Head under Different Loadings.

PubMed

Mehrabi, Reza; Dorri, Milad; Elahinia, Mohammad

2017-03-12

In this study, an umbrella-shaped device that is used for osteonecrosis treatment is simulated. The femoral head is subjected to various complex loadings as a result of a person's daily movements. Implant devices used in the body are made of shape memory alloy materials because of their remarkable resistance to wear and corrosion, good biocompatibility, and variable mechanical properties. Since this NiTi umbrella-shaped implant is simultaneously under several loadings, a 3-D model of shape memory alloy is utilized to investigate the behavior of the implant under different conditions. Shape memory and pseudo-elasticity behavior of NiTi is analyzed using a numerical model. The simulation is performed within different temperatures and in an isothermal condition with varied and complex loadings. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of the device under thermal and multi-axial forces via numerically study. Under tensile loading, the most critical points are on the top part of the implant. It is also shown that changes in temperature have a minor effect on the Von Mises stress. Applied forces and torques have significant influence on the femoral head. Simulations results indicate that the top portion of the umbrella is under the most stress when embedded in the body. Consequently, the middle, curved portion of the umbrella is under the least amount of stress.

Finite Element Simulation of NiTi Umbrella-Shaped Implant Used on Femoral Head under Different Loadings

PubMed Central

Mehrabi, Reza; Dorri, Milad; Elahinia, Mohammad

2017-01-01

In this study, an umbrella-shaped device that is used for osteonecrosis treatment is simulated. The femoral head is subjected to various complex loadings as a result of a person’s daily movements. Implant devices used in the body are made of shape memory alloy materials because of their remarkable resistance to wear and corrosion, good biocompatibility, and variable mechanical properties. Since this NiTi umbrella-shaped implant is simultaneously under several loadings, a 3-D model of shape memory alloy is utilized to investigate the behavior of the implant under different conditions. Shape memory and pseudo-elasticity behavior of NiTi is analyzed using a numerical model. The simulation is performed within different temperatures and in an isothermal condition with varied and complex loadings. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of the device under thermal and multi-axial forces via numerically study. Under tensile loading, the most critical points are on the top part of the implant. It is also shown that changes in temperature have a minor effect on the Von Mises stress. Applied forces and torques have significant influence on the femoral head. Simulations results indicate that the top portion of the umbrella is under the most stress when embedded in the body. Consequently, the middle, curved portion of the umbrella is under the least amount of stress. PMID:28952502

Thermo-mechanical behavior and structure of melt blown shape-memory polyurethane nonwovens.

PubMed

Safranski, David L; Boothby, Jennifer M; Kelly, Cambre N; Beatty, Kyle; Lakhera, Nishant; Frick, Carl P; Lin, Angela; Guldberg, Robert E; Griffis, Jack C

2016-09-01

New processing methods for shape-memory polymers allow for tailoring material properties for numerous applications. Shape-memory nonwovens have been previously electrospun, but melt blow processing has yet to be evaluated. In order to determine the process parameters affecting shape-memory behavior, this study examined the effect of air pressure and collector speed on the mechanical behavior and shape-recovery of shape-memory polyurethane nonwovens. Mechanical behavior was measured by dynamic mechanical analysis and tensile testing, and shape-recovery was measured by unconstrained and constrained recovery. Microstructure changes throughout the shape-memory cycle were also investigated by micro-computed tomography. It was found that increasing collector speed increases elastic modulus, ultimate strength and recovery stress of the nonwoven, but collector speed does not affect the failure strain or unconstrained recovery. Increasing air pressure decreases the failure strain and increases rubbery modulus and unconstrained recovery, but air pressure does not influence recovery stress. It was also found that during the shape-memory cycle, the connectivity density of the fibers upon recovery does not fully return to the initial values, accounting for the incomplete shape-recovery seen in shape-memory nonwovens. With these parameter to property relationships identified, shape-memory nonwovens can be more easily manufactured and tailored for specific applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Shape Control of Solar Collectors Using Shape Memory Alloy Actuators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lobitz, D. W.; Grossman, J. W.; Allen, J. J.; Rice, T. M.; Liang, C.; Davidson, F. M.

1996-01-01

Solar collectors that are focused on a central receiver are designed with a mechanism for defocusing the collector or disabling it by turning it out of the path of the sun's rays. This is required to avoid damaging the receiver during periods of inoperability. In either of these two cases a fail-safe operation is very desirable where during power outages the collector passively goes to its defocused or deactivated state. This paper is principally concerned with focusing and defocusing the collector in a fail-safe manner using shape memory alloy actuators. Shape memory alloys are well suited to this application in that once calibrated the actuators can be operated in an on/off mode using a minimal amount of electric power. Also, in contrast to other smart materials that were investigated for this application, shape memory alloys are capable of providing enough stroke at the appropriate force levels to focus the collector. Design and analysis details presented, along with comparisons to test data taken from an actual prototype, demonstrate that the collector can be repeatedly focused and defocused within accuracies required by typical solar energy systems. In this paper the design, analysis and testing of a solar collector which is deformed into its desired shape by shape memory alloy actuators is presented. Computations indicate collector shapes much closer to spherical and with smaller focal lengths can be achieved by moving the actuators inward to a radius of approximately 6 inches. This would require actuators with considerably more stroke and some alternate SMA actuators are currently under consideration. Whatever SMA actuator is finally chosen for this application, repeatability and fatigue tests will be required to investigate the long term performance of the actuator.

FOREWORD: Shape Memory and Related Technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yong

2005-10-01

The International Symposium on Shape Memory and Related Technologies (SMART2004) successfully took place in Singapore from November 24 to 26, 2004. SMART2004 aimed to provide a forum for presenting and discussing recent developments in the processing, characterization, application and performance prediction of shape memory materials, particularly shape memory alloys and magnetic shape memory materials. In recent years, we have seen a surge in the research and application of shape memory materials. This is due on the one hand to the successful applications of shape memory alloys (SMAs), particularly NiTi (nitinol), in medical practices and, on the other hand, to the discovery of magnetic shape memory (MSM) materials (or, ferromagnetic shape memory alloys, FSMAs). In recent years, applications of SMAs in various engineering practices have flourished owing to the unique combination of novel properties including high power density related to shape recovery, superelasticity with tunable hysteresis, high damping capacity combined with good fatigue resistance, excellent wear resistance due to unconventional deformation mechanisms (stress-induced phase transformation and martensite reorientation), and excellent biocompatibility and anticorrosion resistance, etc. In~the case of MSMs (or FSMAs), their giant shape change in a relatively low magnetic field has great potential to supplement the traditional actuation mechanisms and to have a great impact on the world of modern technology. Common mechanisms existing in both types of materials, namely thermoelastic phase transformation, martensite domain switching and their controlling factors, are of particular interest to the scientific community. Despite some successful applications, some fundamental issues remain unsatisfactorily understood. This conference hoped to link the fundamental research to engineering practices, and to further identify remaining problems in order to further promote the applications of shape memory materials in various demanding fields. Some top researchers from Asia, Australia, Europe and USA attended the meeting and gave oral presentations on both the fundamentals and applied aspects of SMAs and MSMs. Several prominent experts have delivered invited talks on the damping capacity of SMAs (J Van Humbeeck), SMA thin films (S Miyazaki), MSMs (V Lindross and O Söderberg) and SMA microtubes (Q P Sun). At the end of the Symposium, a panel discussion on various aspects of shape memory materials was held in the Nanyang Technological University. Comments, suggestions, opinions, discussions etc from all participants are greatly appreciated and acknowledged. I would like to thank all the participants for their valuable contributions toward the success of SMART2004, and thank all the session chairpersons for making this Symposium an event full of beneficial discussions. This special issue includes some of the manuscripts submitted to SMART2004. I want to express my deep gratitude to the editorial office of the journal of Smart Materials and Structures and all the referees for their great help in producing this special issue. This symposium has received support from the Institute of Materials (East Asia) and the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering of the Nanyang Technological University. The following sponsors are gratefully acknowledged: Lee Foundation (Singapore) Accelrys Instron (Singapore Pte Ltd).

Poly(Capro-Lactone) Networks as Actively Moving Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Yuan

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs), as a subset of actively moving polymers, form an exciting class of materials that can store and recover elastic deformation energy upon application of an external stimulus. Although engineering of SMPs nowadays has lead to robust materials that can memorize multiple temporary shapes, and can be triggered by various stimuli such as heat, light, moisture, or applied magnetic fields, further commercialization of SMPs is still constrained by the material's incapability to store large elastic energy, as well as its inherent one-way shape-change nature. This thesis develops a series of model semi-crystalline shape-memory networks that exhibit ultra-high energy storage capacity, with accurately tunable triggering temperature; by introducing a second competing network, or reconfiguring the existing network under strained state, configurational chain bias can be effectively locked-in, and give rise to two-way shape-actuators that, in the absence of an external load, elongates upon cooling and reversibly contracts upon heating. We found that well-defined network architecture plays essential role on strain-induced crystallization and on the performance of cold-drawn shape-memory polymers. Model networks with uniform molecular weight between crosslinks, and specified functionality of each net-point, results in tougher, more elastic materials with a high degree of crystallinity and outstanding shape-memory properties. The thermal behavior of the model networks can be finely modified by introducing non-crystalline small molecule linkers that effectively frustrates the crystallization of the network strands. This resulted in shape-memory networks that are ultra-sensitive to heat, as deformed materials can be efficiently triggered to revert to its permanent state upon only exposure to body temperature. We also coupled the same reaction adopted to create the model network with conventional free-radical polymerization to prepare a dual-cure "double network" that behaves as a real thermal "actuator". This approach places sub-chains under different degrees of configurational bias within the network to utilize the material's propensity to undergo stress-induced crystallization. Reconfiguration of model shape-memory networks containing photo-sensitive linkages can also be employed to program two-way actuator. Chain reshuffling of a partially reconfigurable network is initiated upon exposure to light under specific strains. Interesting photo-induced creep and stress relaxation behaviors were demonstrated and understood based on a novel transient network model we derived. In summary, delicate manipulation of shape-memory network architectures addressed critical issues constraining the application of this type of functional polymer material. Strategies developed in this thesis may provide new opportunity to the field of shape-memory polymers.

Age Differences in Visual Working Memory Capacity: Not Based on Encoding Limitations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cowan, Nelson; AuBuchon, Angela M.; Gilchrist, Amanda L.; Ricker, Timothy J.; Saults, J. Scott

2011-01-01

Why does visual working memory performance increase with age in childhood? One recent study (Cowan et al., 2010b) ruled out the possibility that the basic cause is a tendency in young children to clutter working memory with less-relevant items (within a concurrent array, colored items presented in one of two shapes). The age differences in memory…

Does learning to read shape verbal working memory?

PubMed

Demoulin, Catherine; Kolinsky, Régine

2016-06-01

Many experimental studies have investigated the relationship between the acquisition of reading and working memory in a unidirectional way, attempting to determine to what extent individual differences in working memory can predict reading achievement. In contrast, very little attention has been dedicated to the converse possibility that learning to read shapes the development of verbal memory processes. In this paper, we present available evidence that advocates a more prominent role for reading acquisition on verbal working memory and then discuss the potential mechanisms of such literacy effects. First, the early decoding activities might bolster the development of subvocal rehearsal, which, in turn, would enhance serial order performance in immediate memory tasks. In addition, learning to read and write in an alphabetical system allows the emergence of phonemic awareness and finely tuned phonological representations, as well as of orthographic representations. This could improve the quality, strength, and precision of lexical representations, and hence offer better support for the temporary encoding of memory items and/or for their retrieval.

Retrospective Attention Interacts with Stimulus Strength to Shape Working Memory Performance.

PubMed

Wildegger, Theresa; Humphreys, Glyn; Nobre, Anna C

2016-01-01

Orienting attention retrospectively to selective contents in working memory (WM) influences performance. A separate line of research has shown that stimulus strength shapes perceptual representations. There is little research on how stimulus strength during encoding shapes WM performance, and how effects of retrospective orienting might vary with changes in stimulus strength. We explore these questions in three experiments using a continuous-recall WM task. In Experiment 1 we show that benefits of cueing spatial attention retrospectively during WM maintenance (retrocueing) varies according to stimulus contrast during encoding. Retrocueing effects emerge for supraliminal but not sub-threshold stimuli. However, once stimuli are supraliminal, performance is no longer influenced by stimulus contrast. In Experiments 2 and 3 we used a mixture-model approach to examine how different sources of error in WM are affected by contrast and retrocueing. For high-contrast stimuli (Experiment 2), retrocues increased the precision of successfully remembered items. For low-contrast stimuli (Experiment 3), retrocues decreased the probability of mistaking a target with distracters. These results suggest that the processes by which retrospective attentional orienting shape WM performance are dependent on the quality of WM representations, which in turn depends on stimulus strength during encoding.

Super-active shape memory alloy composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrett, Ronald M.; Gross, R. Steven

1995-05-01

A new type of very low stiffness super-active composite material is presented. This laminate uses shape-memory alloy (SMA) filaments which are embedded within a low Durometer silicone matrix. The purpose is to develop an active composite in which the local strains within the SMA actuator material will be approximately 1% while the laminate strains will be at least an order of magnitude larger. This type of laminate will be useful for biomimetic, biomedical, surgical and prosthetic applications in which the very high actuator strength of conventional SMA filaments is too great for biological tissues. A modified form of moment and force-balance analysis is used to model the performance of the super-active shape-memory alloy composite (SASMAC). The analytical models are used to predict the performance of a SASMAC pull-pull actuator which uses 10 mil diameter Tinel alloy K actuators embedded in a 0.10' thick, 25 Durometer silicon matrix. The results of testing demonstrate that the laminate is capable of straining up to 10% with theory and experiment in good agreement. Fatigue testing was conducted on the actuator for 1,000 cycles. Because the local strains within the SMA were kept to less than 1%, the element showed no degradation in performance.

Super-active shape-memory alloy composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrett, Ron; Gross, R. Steven

1996-06-01

A new type of very-low-stiffness super-active composite material is presented. This laminate uses shape-memory alloy (SMA) filaments which are embedded within a low-hardness silicone matrix. The purpose is to develop an active composite in which the local strains within the SMA actuator material will be approximately 1%, while the laminate strains will be at least an order of magnitude larger. This type of laminate will be useful for biomimetic, biomedical, surgical and prosthetic applications in which the very high stiffness and actuation strength of conventional SMA filaments are too great for biological tissues. A modified form of moment and force-balance analysis is used to model the performance of the super-active shape-memory alloy composite (SASMAC). The analytical models are used to predict the performance of a SASMAC pull - pull actuator which uses 10 mil diameter Tinel alloy K actuators embedded in a 0.10" thick, 25 Durometer silicone matrix. The results of testing demonstrate that the laminate is capable of straining up to 10% with theory and experiment in good agreement. Fatigue testing was conducted on the actuator for 1 000 cycles. Because the local strains within the SMA were kept to less than 1%, the element showed no degradation in performance.

AC Electric Field Activated Shape Memory Polymer Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kang, Jin Ho; Siochi, Emilie J.; Penner, Ronald K.; Turner, Travis L.

2011-01-01

Shape memory materials have drawn interest for applications like intelligent medical devices, deployable space structures and morphing structures. Compared to other shape memory materials like shape memory alloys (SMAs) or shape memory ceramics (SMCs), shape memory polymers (SMPs) have high elastic deformation that is amenable to tailored of mechanical properties, have lower density, and are easily processed. However, SMPs have low recovery stress and long response times. A new shape memory thermosetting polymer nanocomposite (LaRC-SMPC) was synthesized with conductive fillers to enhance its thermo-mechanical characteristics. A new composition of shape memory thermosetting polymer nanocomposite (LaRC-SMPC) was synthesized with conductive functionalized graphene sheets (FGS) to enhance its thermo-mechanical characteristics. The elastic modulus of LaRC-SMPC is approximately 2.7 GPa at room temperature and 4.3 MPa above its glass transition temperature. Conductive FGSs-doped LaRC-SMPC exhibited higher conductivity compared to pristine LaRC SMP. Applying an electric field at between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz induced faster heating to activate the LaRC-SMPC s shape memory effect relative to applying DC electric field or AC electric field at frequencies exceeding1 kHz.

The applications and research progresses of nickel-titanium shape memory alloy in reconstructive surgery.

PubMed

Li, Qiang; Zeng, Yanjun; Tang, Xiaoying

2010-06-01

In spite of some good successes and excellent researches of nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (NiTi-SMA) in reconstructive surgery, there are still serious limitations to the clinical applications of NiTi alloy today. The potential leakage of elements and ions could be toxic to cells, tissues and organs. This review discussed the properties, clinical applications, corrosion performance, biocompatibility, the possible preventive measures to improve corrosion resistance by surface/structure modifications and the long-term challenges of using SMAs.

Design, Manufacturing, and In Vitro Testing of a Patient-Specific Shape-Memory Expander for Nose Reconstruction With Forehead Flap Technique.

PubMed

Borghi, Alessandro; Rodgers, Will; Schievano, Silvia; Ponniah, Allan; O'Hara, Justine; Jeelani, Owase; Dunaway, David

2016-01-01

Forehead skin is widely acknowledged as a good donor site for total nasal reconstruction, thanks to its matching color, texture, and abundant vascularity. The forehead flap technique uses an axial pattern flap forehead skin to replace missing nasal tissue. To increase the amount of available tissue and reduce the size of the tissue defect after flap mobilization, tissue expanders may be used. Although this is a relatively established technique, limitations include reduced moldability of the forehead skin (which is thicker than the nasal skin), and the need for multiple sessions of expansion to achieve a sufficient yield to close the forehead.Shape-memory metals, such as nitinol, can be programmed to "remember" complex shapes. In this work, the methodology for producing a prototype of nitinol tissue expander able to mold the skin in a predetermined patient-specific skin shape is described. A realistic nose mold was manufactured using metal rapid prototyping; nitinol sheet and mesh were molded into nose-shape constructs, having hyperelastic as well as shape-memory capability. Computed tomography scanning was performed to assess the ability of the structure to regain its shape after phase transformation upon cooling within 2% of initial dimensions. The prototypes were implanted in a pig forehead to test its ability to impose a nose shape to the forehead skin.The shape-memory properties of nitinol offer the possibility of producing bespoke tissue expanders able to deliver complex, precisely designed skin envelopes. The hyperelastic properties of nitinol allow constant preprogrammed expansion forces to be generated throughout the expansion process.

Effect of bending on the performance of spool-packaged shape memory alloy actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Redmond, John A.; Brei, Diann; Luntz, Jonathan; Browne, Alan L.; Johnson, Nancy L.

2009-03-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuation is becoming an increasingly viable technology for industrial applications as many of the technical issues that have limited its use are being addressed (speed of actuation, mechanical connections, performance degradation, quality control, etc.) while increasing production capacities drive costs to practical levels. Shape memory alloys are often selected because of their high energy density which can lead to compact actuators; however, wire forms with small cross-sectional diameters tend to be long (10 to 50 times the length of required stroke). Spooling the wire can be used for compact packaging, but as the spool diameter decreases performance losses and fatigue increase due to bending strains and stresses. This paper presents a simple, design-level model for spooled SMA wire actuators with linear motion outputs that includes the effects of friction and wire bending and accounts for the actuator geometry, applied load, and material friction and constitutive properties. The model was validated experimentally with respect to the ratio of mandrel to SMA wire diameter and agrees well in both form and magnitude with experiments. The resulting model provides the framework for the analysis and synthesis of spooled SMA wire actuators to guide the selection of design parameters with respect to the tradeoffs between performance and packaging.

Geometry- and Length Scale-Dependent Deformation and Recovery on Micro- and Nanopatterned Shape Memory Polymer Surfaces

PubMed Central

Lee, Wei Li; Low, Hong Yee

2016-01-01

Micro- and nanoscale surface textures, when optimally designed, present a unique approach to improve surface functionalities. Coupling surface texture with shape memory polymers may generate reversibly tuneable surface properties. A shape memory polyetherurethane is used to prepare various surface textures including 2 μm- and 200 nm-gratings, 250 nm-pillars and 200 nm-holes. The mechanical deformation via stretching and recovery of the surface texture are investigated as a function of length scales and shapes. Results show the 200 nm-grating exhibiting more deformation than 2 μm-grating. Grating imparts anisotropic and surface area-to-volume effects, causing different degree of deformation between gratings and pillars under the same applied macroscopic strain. Full distribution of stress within the film causes the holes to deform more substantially than the pillars. In the recovery study, unlike a nearly complete recovery for the gratings after 10 transformation cycles, the high contribution of surface energy impedes the recovery of holes and pillars. The surface textures are shown to perform a switchable wetting function. This study provides insights into how geometric features of shape memory surface patterns can be designed to modulate the shape programming and recovery, and how the control of reversibly deformable surface textures can be applied to transfer microdroplets. PMID:27026290

The Potato Chip Really Does Look Like Elvis! Neural Hallmarks of Conceptual Processing Associated with Finding Novel Shapes Subjectively Meaningful

PubMed Central

Federmeier, Kara D.; Paller, Ken A.

2012-01-01

Clouds and inkblots often compellingly resemble something else—faces, animals, or other identifiable objects. Here, we investigated illusions of meaning produced by novel visual shapes. Individuals found some shapes meaningful and others meaningless, with considerable variability among individuals in these subjective categorizations. Repetition for shapes endorsed as meaningful produced conceptual priming in a priming test along with concurrent activity reductions in cortical regions associated with conceptual processing of real objects. Subjectively meaningless shapes elicited robust activity in the same brain areas, but activity was not influenced by repetition. Thus, all shapes were conceptually evaluated, but stable conceptual representations supported neural priming for meaningful shapes only. During a recognition memory test, performance was associated with increased frontoparietal activity, regardless of meaningfulness. In contrast, neural conceptual priming effects for meaningful shapes occurred during both priming and recognition testing. These different patterns of brain activation as a function of stimulus repetition, type of memory test, and subjective meaningfulness underscore the distinctive neural bases of conceptual fluency versus episodic memory retrieval. Finding meaning in ambiguous stimuli appears to depend on conceptual evaluation and cortical processing events similar to those typically observed for known objects. To the brain, the vaguely Elvis-like potato chip truly can provide a substitute for the King himself. PMID:22079921

Self-erecting shapes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reading, Matthew W.

Technologies for making self-erecting structures are described herein. An exemplary self-erecting structure comprises a plurality of shape-memory members that connect two or more hub components. When forces are applied to the self-erecting structure, the shape-memory members can deform, and when the forces are removed the shape-memory members can return to their original pre-deformation shape, allowing the self-erecting structure to return to its own original shape under its own power. A shape of the self-erecting structure depends on a spatial orientation of the hub components, and a relative orientation of the shape-memory members, which in turn depends on an orientation ofmore » joining of the shape-memory members with the hub components.« less

Residual stresses in injection molded shape memory polymer parts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katmer, Sukran; Esen, Huseyin; Karatas, Cetin

2016-03-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are materials which have shape memory effect (SME). SME is a property which has the ability to change shape when induced by a stimulator such as temperature, moisture, pH, electric current, magnetic field, light, etc. A process, known as programming, is applied to SMP parts in order to alter them from their permanent shape to their temporary shape. In this study we investigated effects of injection molding and programming processes on residual stresses in molded thermoplastic polyurethane shape memory polymer, experimentally. The residual stresses were measured by layer removal method. The study shows that injection molding and programming process conditions have significantly influence on residual stresses in molded shape memory polyurethane parts.

Memory color of natural familiar objects: effects of surface texture and 3-D shape.

PubMed

Vurro, Milena; Ling, Yazhu; Hurlbert, Anya C

2013-06-28

Natural objects typically possess characteristic contours, chromatic surface textures, and three-dimensional shapes. These diagnostic features aid object recognition, as does memory color, the color most associated in memory with a particular object. Here we aim to determine whether polychromatic surface texture, 3-D shape, and contour diagnosticity improve memory color for familiar objects, separately and in combination. We use solid three-dimensional familiar objects rendered with their natural texture, which participants adjust in real time to match their memory color for the object. We analyze mean, accuracy, and precision of the memory color settings relative to the natural color of the objects under the same conditions. We find that in all conditions, memory colors deviate slightly but significantly in the same direction from the natural color. Surface polychromaticity, shape diagnosticity, and three dimensionality each improve memory color accuracy, relative to uniformly colored, generic, or two-dimensional shapes, respectively. Shape diagnosticity improves the precision of memory color also, and there is a trend for polychromaticity to do so as well. Differently from other studies, we find that the object contour alone also improves memory color. Thus, enhancing the naturalness of the stimulus, in terms of either surface or shape properties, enhances the accuracy and precision of memory color. The results support the hypothesis that memory color representations are polychromatic and are synergistically linked with diagnostic shape representations.

Costs of storing colour and complex shape in visual working memory: Insights from pupil size and slow waves.

PubMed

Kursawe, Michael A; Zimmer, Hubert D

2015-06-01

We investigated the impact of perceptual processing demands on visual working memory of coloured complex random polygons during change detection. Processing load was assessed by pupil size (Exp. 1) and additionally slow wave potentials (Exp. 2). Task difficulty was manipulated by presenting different set sizes (1, 2, 4 items) and by making different features (colour, shape, or both) task-relevant. Memory performance in the colour condition was better than in the shape and both condition which did not differ. Pupil dilation and the posterior N1 increased with set size independent of type of feature. In contrast, slow waves and a posterior P2 component showed set size effects but only if shape was task-relevant. In the colour condition slow waves did not vary with set size. We suggest that pupil size and N1 indicates different states of attentional effort corresponding to the number of presented items. In contrast, slow waves reflect processes related to encoding and maintenance strategies. The observation that their potentials vary with the type of feature (simple colour versus complex shape) indicates that perceptual complexity already influences encoding and storage and not only comparison of targets with memory entries at the moment of testing. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study on performances of colorless and transparent shape memory polyimide film in space thermal cycling, atomic oxygen and ultraviolet irradiation environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Hui; Lan, Xin; Liu, Liwu; Xiao, Xinli; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2017-09-01

Shape memory polymers with high glass transition temperature (HSMPs) and HSMP-based deployable structures and devices, which can bear harsh operation conditions for durable applications, have attracted more and more interest in recent years. In this article, colorless and transparent shape memory polyimide (SMCTPI) films were subjected to simulated vacuum thermal cycling, atomic oxygen (AO) and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation environments up to 600 h, 556 h and 600 h for accelerated irradiation. The glass transition temperature (Tg) determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) had no obvious changes after being irradiated by varying amounts of thermal cycling, AO and UV irradiation dose. After being irradiated by 50 thermal cycles, 10 × 1021 atoms cm-2 AO irradiation and 3000 ESH UV irradiation, shape recovery behaviors of SMCTPI films also had no obvious damage even if they experienced 30 shape memory cycles, while the surface morphologies and optical properties were seriously destroyed by AO irradiation, as compared with thermal cycling and UV irradiation. The tensile strength could separately maintain 122 MPa, 120 MPa and 70 MPa after 50 thermal cycles, 10 × 1021 atoms cm-2 AO irradiation and 3000 ESH UV irradiation, which shows great potential for use in aerospace structures and devices.

Cu-Al-Ni Shape Memory Single Crystal Wires with High Transformation Temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hautcoeur, Alain; Fouché, Florian; Sicre, Jacques

2016-01-01

CN-250X is a new material with higher performance than Nickel-Titanium Shape Memory Alloy (SMA). For space mechanisms, the main disadvantage of Nickel-Titanium Shape Memory Alloy is the limited transformation temperature. The new CN-250X Nimesis alloy is a Cu-Al-Ni single crystal wire available in large quantity because of a new industrial process. The triggering of actuators made with this Cu-Al-Ni single crystal wire can range from ambient temperature to 200 C in cycling and even to 250 C in one-shot mode. Another advantage of CN-250X is a better shape recovery (8 to 10%) than Ni-Ti (6 to 7%). Nimesis is the first company able to produce this type of material with its new special industrial process. A characterization study is presented in this work, including the two main solicitation modes for this material: tensile and torsion. Different tests measure the shape recovery of Cu-Al-Ni single crystals wires during heating from room temperature to a temperature higher than temperature of end of martensitic transformation.

Design and Verification of a Shape Memory Polymer Peripheral Occlusion Device

PubMed Central

Landsman, Todd L.; Bush, Ruth L.; Glowczwski, Alan; Horn, John; Jessen, Staci L.; Ungchusri, Ethan; Diguette, Katelin; Smith, Harrison R.; Hasan, Sayyeda M.; Nash, Daniel; Clubb, Fred J.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2017-01-01

Shape memory polymer foams have been previously investigated for their safety and efficacy in treating a porcine aneurysm model. Their biocompatibility, rapid thrombus formation, and ability for endovascular catheter-based delivery to a variety of vascular beds makes these foams ideal candidates for use in numerous embolic applications, particularly within the peripheral vasculature. This study sought to investigate the material properties, safety, and efficacy of a shape memory polymer peripheral embolization device in vitro. The material characteristics of the device were analyzed to show tunability of the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the expansion rate of the polymer to ensure adequate time to deliver the device through a catheter prior to excessive foam expansion. Mechanical analysis and flow migration studies were performed to ensure minimal risk of vessel perforation and undesired thromboembolism upon device deployment. The efficacy of the device was verified by performing blood flow studies that established affinity for thrombus formation and blood penetration throughout the foam and by delivery of the device in an ultrasound phantom that demonstrated flow stagnation and diversion of flow to collateral pathways. PMID:27419615

Design and verification of a shape memory polymer peripheral occlusion device.

PubMed

Landsman, Todd L; Bush, Ruth L; Glowczwski, Alan; Horn, John; Jessen, Staci L; Ungchusri, Ethan; Diguette, Katelin; Smith, Harrison R; Hasan, Sayyeda M; Nash, Daniel; Clubb, Fred J; Maitland, Duncan J

2016-10-01

Shape memory polymer foams have been previously investigated for their safety and efficacy in treating a porcine aneurysm model. Their biocompatibility, rapid thrombus formation, and ability for endovascular catheter-based delivery to a variety of vascular beds makes these foams ideal candidates for use in numerous embolic applications, particularly within the peripheral vasculature. This study sought to investigate the material properties, safety, and efficacy of a shape memory polymer peripheral embolization device in vitro. The material characteristics of the device were analyzed to show tunability of the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the expansion rate of the polymer to ensure adequate time to deliver the device through a catheter prior to excessive foam expansion. Mechanical analysis and flow migration studies were performed to ensure minimal risk of vessel perforation and undesired thromboembolism upon device deployment. The efficacy of the device was verified by performing blood flow studies that established affinity for thrombus formation and blood penetration throughout the foam and by delivery of the device in an ultrasound phantom that demonstrated flow stagnation and diversion of flow to collateral pathways. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Guide wire extension for shape memory polymer occlusion removal devices

DOEpatents

Maitland, Duncan J [Pleasant Hill, CA; Small, IV, Ward; Hartman, Jonathan [Sacramento, CA

2009-11-03

A flexible extension for a shape memory polymer occlusion removal device. A shape memory polymer instrument is transported through a vessel via a catheter. A flexible elongated unit is operatively connected to the distal end of the shape memory polymer instrument to enhance maneuverability through tortuous paths en route to the occlusion.

Memory shaped by age stereotypes over time.

PubMed

Levy, Becca R; Zonderman, Alan B; Slade, Martin D; Ferrucci, Luigi

2012-07-01

Previous studies showed that negative self-stereotypes detrimentally affect the cognitive performance of marginalized group members; however, these findings were confined to short-term experiments. In the present study, we considered whether stereotypes predicted memory over time, which had not been previously examined. We also considered whether self-relevance increased the influence of stereotypes on memory over time. Multiple waves of memory performance were analyzed using individual growth models. The sample consisted of 395 participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Those with more negative age stereotypes demonstrated significantly worse memory performance over 38 years than those with less negative age stereotypes, after adjusting for relevant covariates. The decline in memory performance for those aged 60 and above was 30.2% greater for the more negative age stereotype group than for the less negative age stereotype group. Also, the impact of age stereotypes on memory was significantly greater among those for whom the age stereotypes were self-relevant. This study shows that the adverse influence of negative self-stereotypes on cognitive performance is not limited to a short-term laboratory effect. Rather, the findings demonstrate, for the first time, that stereotypes also predict memory performance over an extended period in the community.

Detecting global and local hippocampal shape changes in Alzheimer's disease using statistical shape models.

PubMed

Shen, Kai-kai; Fripp, Jurgen; Mériaudeau, Fabrice; Chételat, Gaël; Salvado, Olivier; Bourgeat, Pierrick

2012-02-01

The hippocampus is affected at an early stage in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). With the use of structural magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, we can investigate the effect of AD on the morphology of the hippocampus. The hippocampal shape variations among a population can be usually described using statistical shape models (SSMs). Conventional SSMs model the modes of variations among the population via principal component analysis (PCA). Although these modes are representative of variations within the training data, they are not necessarily discriminative on labeled data or relevant to the differences between the subpopulations. We use the shape descriptors from SSM as features to classify AD from normal control (NC) cases. In this study, a Hotelling's T2 test is performed to select a subset of landmarks which are used in PCA. The resulting variation modes are used as predictors of AD from NC. The discrimination ability of these predictors is evaluated in terms of their classification performances with bagged support vector machines (SVMs). Restricting the model to landmarks with better separation between AD and NC increases the discrimination power of SSM. The predictors extracted on the subregions also showed stronger correlation with the memory-related measurements such as Logical Memory, Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) and the memory subscores of Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS). Crown Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Exploiting heat treatment effects on SMAs macro and microscopic properties in developing fire protection devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burlacu, L.; Cimpoeşu, N.; Bujoreanu, L. G.; Lohan, N. M.

2017-08-01

Ni-Ti shape memory alloys (SMAs) are intelligent alloys which demonstrate unique properties, such as shape memory effect, two-way shape memory effect, super-elasticity and vibration damping which, accompanied by good processability, excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility as well as fair wear resistance and cyclic stability, enabled the development of important industrial applications (such as sensors, actuators, fasteners, couplings and valves), medical applications (such as stents, bone implants, orthodontic archwires, minimal invasive surgical equipment) as well as environmental health and safety devices (anti-seismic dampers, fire safety devices). The phase transitions in Ni-Ti SMAs are strongly influenced by processing methods, chemical compositions and thermomechanical history. This paper presents a study of the effects of heat treatment on the mechanical and thermal properties of commercial Ni-Ti shape memory alloy (SMA). The experimental work involved subjecting a SMA rod to heat-treatment consisting in heating up to 500°C, 10 minutes-maintaining and water quenching. Mechanical properties were highlighted by microhardness tests while thermal characteristics were emphasized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The presence of chemical composition fluctuations was checked by X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy performed with an EDAX Bruker analyzer.

Behavioral and Electrophysiological Correlates of Memory Binding Deficits in Patients at Different Risk Levels for Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Pietto, Marcos; Parra, Mario A; Trujillo, Natalia; Flores, Facundo; García, Adolfo M; Bustin, Julian; Richly, Pablo; Manes, Facundo; Lopera, Francisco; Ibáñez, Agustín; Baez, Sandra

2016-06-30

Deficits in visual short-term memory (VSTM) binding have been proposed as an early and specific marker for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, no studies have explored the neural correlates of this domain in clinical categories involving prodromal stages with different risk levels of conversion to AD. We assessed underlying electrophysiological modulations in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), patients in the MCI stages of familial AD carrying the mutation E280A of the presenilin-1 gene (MCI-FAD), and healthy controls. Moreover, we compared the behavioral performance and neural correlates of both patient groups. Participants completed a change-detection VSTM task assessing recognition of changes between shapes or shape-color bindings, presented in two consecutive arrays (i.e., study and test) while event related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Changes always occurred in the test array and consisted of new features replacing studied features (shape-only) or features swapping across items (shape-color binding). Both MCI and MCI-FAD patients performed worse than controls in the shape-color binding condition. Early electrophysiological activity (100-250 ms) was significantly reduced in both clinical groups, particularly over fronto-central and parieto-occipital regions. However, shape-color binding performance and their reduced neural correlates were similar between MCI and MCI-FAD. Our results support the validity of the VSTM binding test and their neural correlates in the early detection of AD and highlight the importance of studies comparing samples at different risk for AD conversion. The combined analysis of behavioral and ERP data gleaned with the VSTM binding task can offer a valuable memory biomarker for AD.

High performance shape memory polymer networks based on rigid nanoparticle cores

PubMed Central

Song, Jie

2010-01-01

Smart materials that can respond to external stimuli are of widespread interest in biomedical science. Thermal-responsive shape memory polymers, a class of intelligent materials that can be fixed at a temporary shape below their transition temperature (Ttrans) and thermally triggered to resume their original shapes on demand, hold great potential as minimally invasive self-fitting tissue scaffolds or implants. The intrinsic mechanism for shape memory behavior of polymers is the freezing and activation of the long-range motion of polymer chain segments below and above Ttrans, respectively. Both Ttrans and the extent of polymer chain participation in effective elastic deformation and recovery are determined by the network composition and structure, which are also defining factors for their mechanical properties, degradability, and bioactivities. Such complexity has made it extremely challenging to achieve the ideal combination of a Ttrans slightly above physiological temperature, rapid and complete recovery, and suitable mechanical and biological properties for clinical applications. Here we report a shape memory polymer network constructed from a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanoparticle core functionalized with eight polyester arms. The cross-linked networks comprising this macromer possessed a gigapascal-storage modulus at body temperature and a Ttrans between 42 and 48 °C. The materials could stably hold their temporary shapes for > 1 year at room temperature and achieve full shape recovery ≤ 51 °C in a matter of seconds. Their versatile structures allowed for tunable biodegradability and biofunctionalizability. These materials have tremendous promise for tissue engineering applications. PMID:20375285

Thermally responsive polymer systems for self-healing, reversible adhesion and shape memory applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Xiaofan

Responsive polymers are "smart" materials that are capable of performing prescribed, dynamic functions under an applied stimulus. In this dissertation, we explore several novel design strategies to develop thermally responsive polymers and polymer composites for self-healing, reversible adhesion and shape memory applications. In the first case described in Chapters 2 and 3, a thermally triggered self-healing material was prepared by blending a high-temperature epoxy resin with a thermoplastic polymer, poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL). The initially miscible system undergoes polymerization induced phase separation (PIPS) during the curing of epoxy and yields a variety of compositionally dependent morphologies. At a particular PCL loading, the cured blend displays a "bricks-and-mortar" morphology in which epoxy exists as interconnected spheres ("bricks") within a continuous PCL matrix ("mortar"). A heat induced "bleeding" phenomenon was observed in the form of spontaneous wetting of all free surfaces by the molten PCL, and is attributed to the volumetric thermal expansion of PCL above its melting point in excess of epoxy brick expansion, which we term differential expansive bleeding (DEB). This DEB is capable of healing damage such as cracks. In controlled self-healing experiments, heating of a cracked specimen led to PCL bleeding from the bulk that yields a liquid layer bridging the crack gap. Upon cooling, a "scar" composed of PCL crystals was formed at the site of the crack, restoring a significant portion of mechanical strength. We further utilized DEB to enable strong and thermally-reversible adhesion of the material to itself and to metallic substrates, without any requirement for macroscopic softening or flow. After that, Chapters 4--6 present a novel composite strategy for the design and fabrication of shape memory polymer composites. The basic approach involves physically combining two or more functional components into an interpenetrating fiber/matrix structure, allowing them to function in a synergistic fashion yet remain physically separated. This latter aspect is critical since it enables the control of overall composite properties and functions by separately tuning each component. Utilizing the intrinsic versatility of this approach, composites with novel properties and functions (in addition to "regular" shape memory) have been developed, including (1) shape memory elastomeric composites (SMECs; Chapter 4), (2) triple-shape polymeric composites (TSPCs; Chapter 5), and (3) electrically conductive nanocomposites (Chapter 6). Then in Chapter 7, by combining the success in both thermoplastic based self-healing and shape memory polymer composites, we demonstrate a thermally triggered self-healing coating. This coating features a unique "shape memory assisted self-healing" mechanism in which crack closure (via shape memory) and crack re-bonding (via melting and diffusion of the thermoplastic healing agent) are achieved simultaneously upon a single heating step, leading to both structural and functional (corrosion resistance) recovery. Finally, Chapter 8 presents for the first time the preparation of functionally graded shape memory polymers (SMPs) that, unlike conventional SMPs, have a range of glass transition temperatures that are spatially graded. This was achieved using a temperature gradient curing method that imposes different vitrification limits at different positions along the gradient. The resulting material is capable of responding to a wide range of thermal triggers and a good candidate for low-cost, material based temperature sensors. All the aforementioned materials and methods show great potential for practical applications due to their high performance, low cost and broad applicability. Some recommendations for future research and development are given in Chapter 9.

Shape-Memory-Alloy Actuator For Flight Controls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barret, Chris

1995-01-01

Report proposes use of shape-memory-alloy actuators, instead of hydraulic actuators, for aerodynamic flight-control surfaces. Actuator made of shape-memory alloy converts thermal energy into mechanical work by changing shape as it makes transitions between martensitic and austenitic crystalline phase states of alloy. Because both hot exhaust gases and cryogenic propellant liquids available aboard launch rockets, shape-memory-alloy actuators exceptionally suited for use aboard such rockets.

The Structure of Visuospatial Memory in Adulthood

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mammarella, Irene C.; Borella, Erika; Pastore, Massimiliano; Pazzaglia, Francesca

2013-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate the structure of visuospatial memory in adulthood. Adults 40-89 years of age (n = 160) performed simple storage and complex visuospatial span tasks. Simple storage tasks were distinguished into three presentation formats: (i) visual, which involved maintaining shapes and textures; (ii) spatial-sequential,…

Robust Vacuum-/Air-Dried Graphene Aerogels and Fast Recoverable Shape-Memory Hybrid Foams.

PubMed

Li, Chenwei; Qiu, Ling; Zhang, Baoqing; Li, Dan; Liu, Chen-Yang

2016-02-17

New graphene aerogels can be fabricated by vacuum/air drying, and because of the mechanical robustness of the graphene aerogels, shape-memory polymer/graphene hybrid foams can be fabricated by a simple infiltration-air-drying-crosslinking method. Due to the superelasticity, high strength, and good electrical conductivity of the as-prepared graphene aerogels, the shape-memory hybrid foams exhibit excellent thermotropical and electrical shape-memory properties, outperforming previously reported shape-memory polymer foams. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Thermo-mechanically coupled fracture analysis of shape memory alloys using the extended finite element method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatefi Ardakani, S.; Ahmadian, H.; Mohammadi, S.

2015-04-01

In this paper, the extended finite element method is used for fracture analysis of shape memory alloys for both cases of super elastic and shape memory effects. Heat generation during the forward and reverse phase transformations can lead to temperature variation in the material because of strong thermo-mechanical coupling, which significantly influences the SMA mechanical behavior. First, the stationary crack mode is studied and the effects of loading rate on material behavior in the crack tip are examined. Then, the crack propagation analysis is performed in the presence of an initial crack by adopting a weighted averaging criterion, where the direction of crack propagation is determined by weighted averaging of effective stresses at all the integration points in the vicinity of the crack tip. Finally, several numerical examples are analyzed and the obtained results are compared with the available reference results.

Deformation behavior of carbon-fiber reinforced shape-memory-polymer composites used for deployable structures (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lan, Xin; Liu, Liwu; Li, Fengfeng; Pan, Chengtong; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2017-04-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a new type of smart material, they perform large reversible deformation with a certain external stimulus (e.g., heat and electricity). The properties (e.g., stiffness, strength and other mechanically static or quasi-static load-bearing capacity) are primarily considered for conventional resin-based composite materials which are mainly used for structural materials. By contrast, the mechanical actuating performance with finite deformation is considered for the shape memory polymers and their composites which can be used for both structural materials and functional materials. For shape memory polymers and their composites, the performance of active deformation is expected to further promote the development in smart active deformation structures, such as deployable space structures and morphing wing aircraft. The shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) are also one type of High Strain Composite (HSC). The space deployable structures based on carbon fiber reinforced shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) show great prospects. Considering the problems that SMPCs are difficult to meet the practical applications in space deployable structures in the recent ten years, this paper aims to research the mechanics of deformation, actuation and failure of SMPCs. In the overall view of the shape memory polymer material's nonlinearity (nonlinearity and stress softening in the process of pre-deformation and recovery, relaxation in storage process, irreversible deformation), by the multiple verifications among theory, finite element and experiments, one obtains the deformation and actuation mechanism for the process of "pre-deformation, energy storage and actuation" and its non-fracture constraint domain. Then, the parameters of SMPCs will be optimized. Theoretical analysis is realized by the strain energy function, additionally considering the interaction strain energy between the fiber and the matrix. For the common resin-based or soft-material-based composites under pure bending deformation, we expect to uniformly explain the whole process of buckling occurrence, evolution and finally failure, especially for the early evolution characteristics of fiber microbuckling inside the microstructures. The research results are meaningful for the practical applications for SMPC deployable structures in space. Considering the deformation mechanisms of SMPCs, the local post-microbuckling is required for the unidirectional fiber reinforced composite materials, at the conditions of its large geometrical deflection. The cross section of SMPC is divided into three areas: non-buckling stretching area, non-buckling compressive area, and buckling compressive area. Three variables are considered: critical buckling position, and neutral plane, the fiber buckling half-wavelength. Considering the condition of the small strain and large displacement, the strain energy expression of the SMP/fiber system was derived, which contains two types, e.g., strain energy of SMP and fiber. According to the minimum energy principle, the expression for all key parameters were derived, including the critical buckling curvature, neutral plane position, the buckling half-wavelength, fiber buckling amplitude, and strain.

Mechanical analysis of carbon fiber reinforced shape memory polymer composite for self-deployable structure in space environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Seok Bin; Ahn, Yong San; Jang, Joon Hyeok; Kim, Jin-Gyun; Goo, Nam Seo; Yu, Woong-Ryeol

2016-04-01

Shape memory polymer (SMP) is one of smart polymers which exhibit shape memory effect upon external stimuli. Reinforcements as carbon fiber had been used for making shape memory polymer composite (CF-SMPC). This study investigated a possibility of designing self-deployable structures in harsh space condition using CF-SMPCs and analyzed their shape memory behaviors with constitutive equation model.CF-SMPCs were prepared using woven carbon fabrics and a thermoset epoxy based SMP to obtain their basic mechanical properties including actuation in harsh environment. The mechanical and shape memory properties of SMP and CF-SMPCs were characterized using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and universal tensile machine (UTM) with an environmental chamber. The mechanical properties such as flexural strength and tensile strength of SMP and CF-SMPC were measured with simple tensile/bending test and time dependent shape memory behavior was characterized with designed shape memory bending test. For mechanical analysis of CF-SMPCs, a 3D constitutive equation of SMP, which had been developed using multiplicative decomposition of the deformation gradient and shape memory strains, was used with material parameters determined from CF-SMPCs. Carbon fibers in composites reinforced tensile and flexural strength of SMP and acted as strong elastic springs in rheology based equation models. The actuation behavior of SMP matrix and CF-SMPCs was then simulated as 3D shape memory bending cases. Fiber bundle property was imbued with shell model for more precise analysis and it would be used for prediction of deploying behavior in self-deployable hinge structure.

Eye and hand movements during reconstruction of spatial memory.

PubMed

Burke, Melanie R; Allen, Richard J; Gonzalez, Claudia

2012-01-01

Recent behavioural and biological evidence indicates common mechanisms serving working memory and attention (e.g., Awh et al, 2006 Neuroscience 139 201-208). This study explored the role of spatial attention and visual search in an adapted Corsi spatial memory task. Eye movements and touch responses were recorded from participants who recalled locations (signalled by colour or shape change) from an array presented either simultaneously or sequentially. The time delay between target presentation and recall (0, 5, or 10 s) and the number of locations to be remembered (2-5) were also manipulated. Analysis of the response phase revealed subjects were less accurate (touch data) and fixated longer (eye data) when responding to sequentially presented targets suggesting higher cognitive effort. Fixation duration on target at recall was also influenced by whether spatial location was initially signalled by colour or shape change. Finally, we found that the sequence tasks encouraged longer fixations on the signalled targets than simultaneous viewing during encoding, but no difference was observed during recall. We conclude that the attentional manipulations (colour/shape) mainly affected the eye movement parameters, whereas the memory manipulation (sequential versus simultaneous, number of items) mainly affected the performance of the hand during recall, and thus the latter is more important for ascertaining if an item is remembered or forgotten. In summary, the nature of the stimuli that is used and how it is presented play key roles in determining subject performance and behaviour during spatial memory tasks.

Biaxial Fatigue Behavior of Niti Shape Memory Alloy

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

BIAXIAL FATIGUE BEHAVIOR OF NiTi SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY THESIS Daniel M. Jensen, 1st Lieutenant...BIAXIAL FATIGUE BEHAVIOR OF NiTi SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY THESIS Presented to the Faculty Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics Graduate School of...FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED AFIT/GA/ENY/05-M06 BIAXIAL FATIGUE BEHAVIOR OF NiTi SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY Daniel M. Jensen

An object memory bias induced by communicative reference.

PubMed

Marno, Hanna; Davelaar, Eddy J; Csibra, Gergely

2016-01-01

In humans, a good proportion of knowledge, including knowledge about objects and object kinds, is acquired via social learning by direct communication from others. If communicative signals raise the expectation of social learning about objects, intrinsic (permanent) features that support object recognition are relevant to store into memory, while extrinsic (accidental) object properties can be ignored. We investigated this hypothesis by instructing participants to memorise shape-colour associations that constituted either an extrinsic object property (the colour of the box that contained the object, Experiment 1) or an intrinsic one (the colour of the object, Experiment 2). Compared to a non-communicative context, communicative presentation of the objects impaired participants' performance when they recalled extrinsic object properties, while their incidental memory of the intrinsic shape-colour associations was not affected. Communicative signals had no effect on performance when the task required the memorisation of intrinsic object properties. The negative effect of communicative reference on the memory of extrinsic properties was also confirmed in Experiment 3, where this property was object location. Such a memory bias suggests that referent objects in communication tend to be seen as representatives of their kind rather than as individuals. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

My Experience with Ti-Ni-Based and Ti-Based Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyazaki, Shuichi

2017-12-01

The present author has been studying shape memory alloys including Cu-Al-Ni, Ti-Ni-based, and Ni-free Ti-based alloys since 1979. This paper reviews the present author's research results for the latter two materials since 1981. The topics on the Ti-Ni-based alloys include the achievement of superelasticity in Ti-Ni alloys through understanding of the role of microstructures consisting of dislocations and precipitates, followed by the contribution to the development of application market of shape memory effect and superelasticity, characterization of the R-phase and monoclinic martensitic transformations, clarification of the basic characteristics of fatigue properties, development of sputter-deposited shape memory thin films and fabrication of prototypes of microactuators utilizing thin films, development of high temperature shape memory alloys, and so on. The topics of Ni-free Ti-based shape memory alloys include the characterization of the orthorhombic phase martensitic transformation and related shape memory effect and superelasticity, the effects of texture, omega phase and adding elements on the martensitic transformation and shape memory properties, clarification of the unique effects of oxygen addition to induce non-linear large elasticity, Invar effect and heating-induced martensitic transformation, and so on.

Thermo-Mechanical Response of Monolithic and NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Fiber Reinforced Sn-3.8Ag-0.7Cu Solder

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-09-01

novel adaptive Tin-Silver-Copper ( SnAgCu ) solder reinforced with NiTi shape-memory alloy (particles or fiber) developed. An experimental...to meet the demands of miniaturization and enhanced performance in severe environments, a novel adaptive Tin-Silver-Copper ( SnAgCu ) solder...4. Crack region of SnAgCu solder after TMF, from reference [1] ............. 5 Figure 5. Phase diagram of 95.5Sn-3.8Ag-0.7Cu solder, from reference

The development of real-time stability supports visual working memory performance: Young children's feature binding can be improved through perceptual structure.

PubMed

Simmering, Vanessa R; Wood, Chelsey M

2017-08-01

Working memory is a basic cognitive process that predicts higher-level skills. A central question in theories of working memory development is the generality of the mechanisms proposed to explain improvements in performance. Prior theories have been closely tied to particular tasks and/or age groups, limiting their generalizability. The cognitive dynamics theory of visual working memory development has been proposed to overcome this limitation. From this perspective, developmental improvements arise through the coordination of cognitive processes to meet demands of different behavioral tasks. This notion is described as real-time stability, and can be probed through experiments that assess how changing task demands impact children's performance. The current studies test this account by probing visual working memory for colors and shapes in a change detection task that compares detection of changes to new features versus swaps in color-shape binding. In Experiment 1, 3- to 4-year-old children showed impairments specific to binding swaps, as predicted by decreased real-time stability early in development; 5- to 6-year-old children showed a slight advantage on binding swaps, but 7- to 8-year-old children and adults showed no difference across trial types. Experiment 2 tested the proposed explanation of young children's binding impairment through added perceptual structure, which supported the stability and precision of feature localization in memory-a process key to detecting binding swaps. This additional structure improved young children's binding swap detection, but not new-feature detection or adults' performance. These results provide further evidence for the cognitive dynamics and real-time stability explanation of visual working memory development. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Strain-Detecting Composite Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallace, Terryl A. (Inventor); Smith, Stephen W. (Inventor); Piascik, Robert S. (Inventor); Horne, Michael R. (Inventor); Messick, Peter L. (Inventor); Alexa, Joel A. (Inventor); Glaessgen, Edward H. (Inventor); Hailer, Benjamin T. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A composite material includes a structural material and a shape-memory alloy embedded in the structural material. The shape-memory alloy changes crystallographic phase from austenite to martensite in response to a predefined critical macroscopic average strain of the composite material. In a second embodiment, the composite material includes a plurality of particles of a ferromagnetic shape-memory alloy embedded in the structural material. The ferromagnetic shape-memory alloy changes crystallographic phase from austenite to martensite and changes magnetic phase in response to the predefined critical macroscopic average strain of the composite material. A method of forming a composite material for sensing the predefined critical macroscopic average strain includes providing the shape-memory alloy having an austenite crystallographic phase, changing a size and shape of the shape-memory alloy to thereby form a plurality of particles, and combining the structural material and the particles at a temperature of from about 100-700.degree. C. to form the composite material.

Thermomechanical behavior of a two-way shape memory composite actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ge, Qi; Westbrook, Kristofer K.; Mather, Patrick T.; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2013-05-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a class of smart materials that can fix a temporary shape and recover to their permanent (original) shape in response to an environmental stimulus such as heat, electricity, or irradiation, among others. Most SMPs developed in the past can only demonstrate the so-called one-way shape memory effect; i.e., one programming step can only yield one shape memory cycle. Recently, one of the authors (Mather) developed a SMP that exhibits both one-way shape memory (1W-SM) and two-way shape memory (2W-SM) effects (with the assistance of an external load). This SMP was further used to develop a free-standing composite actuator with a nonlinear reversible actuation under thermal cycling. In this paper, a theoretical model for the PCO SMP based composite actuator was developed to investigate its thermomechanical behavior and the mechanisms for the observed phenomena during the actuation cycles, and to provide insight into how to improve the design.

Lack of color integration in visual short-term memory binding.

PubMed

Parra, Mario A; Cubelli, Roberto; Della Sala, Sergio

2011-10-01

Bicolored objects are retained in visual short-term memory (VSTM) less efficiently than unicolored objects. This is unlike shape-color combinations, whose retention in VSTM does not differ from that observed for shapes only. It is debated whether this is due to a lack of color integration and whether this may reflect the function of separate memory mechanisms. Participants judged whether the colors of bicolored objects (each with an external and an internalcolor) were the same or different across two consecutive screens. Colors had to be remembered either individually or in combination. In Experiment 1, external colors in the combined colors condition were remembered better than the internal colors, and performance for both was worse than that in the individual colors condition. The lack of color integration observed in Experiment 1 was further supported by a reduced capacity of VSTM to retain color combinations, relative to individual colors (Experiment 2). An additional account was found in Experiment 3, which showed spared color-color binding in the presence of impaired shape-color binding in a brain-damaged patient, thus suggesting that these two memory mechanisms are different.

Shape memory polymer actuator and catheter

DOEpatents

Maitland, Duncan J.; Lee, Abraham P.; Schumann, Daniel L.; Matthews, Dennis L.; Decker, Derek E.; Jungreis, Charles A.

2004-05-25

An actuator system is provided for acting upon a material in a vessel. The system includes an optical fiber and a shape memory polymer material operatively connected to the optical fiber. The shape memory polymer material is adapted to move from a first shape for moving through said vessel to a second shape where it can act upon said material.

Shape memory polymer actuator and catheter

DOEpatents

Maitland, Duncan J.; Lee, Abraham P.; Schumann, Daniel L.; Matthews, Dennis L.; Decker, Derek E.; Jungreis, Charles A.

2007-11-06

An actuator system is provided for acting upon a material in a vessel. The system includes an optical fiber and a shape memory polymer material operatively connected to the optical fiber. The shape memory polymer material is adapted to move from a first shape for moving through said vessel to a second shape where it can act upon said material.

Learning Under Stress: The Inverted-U-Shape Function Revisited

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salehi, Basira; Cordero, M. Isabel; Sandi, Carmen

2010-01-01

Although the relationship between stress intensity and memory function is generally believed to follow an inverted-U-shaped curve, strikingly this phenomenon has not been demonstrated under the same experimental conditions. We investigated this phenomenon for rats' performance in a hippocampus-dependent learning task, the radial arm water maze…

Characterization of mechanical properties of pseudoelastic shape memory alloys under harmonic excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böttcher, J.; Jahn, M.; Tatzko, S.

2017-12-01

Pseudoelastic shape memory alloys exhibit a stress-induced phase transformation which leads to high strains during deformation of the material. The stress-strain characteristic during this thermomechanical process is hysteretic and results in the conversion of mechanical energy into thermal energy. This energy conversion allows for the use of shape memory alloys in vibration reduction. For the application of shape memory alloys as vibration damping devices a dynamic modeling of the material behavior is necessary. In this context experimentally determined material parameters which accurately represent the material behavior are essential for a reliable material model. Subject of this publication is the declaration of suitable material parameters for pseudoelastic shape memory alloys and the methodology of their identification from experimental investigations. The used test rig was specifically designed for the characterization of pseudoelastic shape memory alloys.

Memory Shaped by Age Stereotypes over Time

PubMed Central

Zonderman, Alan B.; Slade, Martin D.; Ferrucci, Luigi

2012-01-01

Objectives. Previous studies showed that negative self-stereotypes detrimentally affect the cognitive performance of marginalized group members; however, these findings were confined to short-term experiments. In the present study, we considered whether stereotypes predicted memory over time, which had not been previously examined. We also considered whether self-relevance increased the influence of stereotypes on memory over time. Method. Multiple waves of memory performance were analyzed using individual growth models. The sample consisted of 395 participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Results. Those with more negative age stereotypes demonstrated significantly worse memory performance over 38 years than those with less negative age stereotypes, after adjusting for relevant covariates. The decline in memory performance for those aged 60 and above was 30.2% greater for the more negative age stereotype group than for the less negative age stereotype group. Also, the impact of age stereotypes on memory was significantly greater among those for whom the age stereotypes were self-relevant. Discussion. This study shows that the adverse influence of negative self-stereotypes on cognitive performance is not limited to a short-term laboratory effect. Rather, the findings demonstrate, for the first time, that stereotypes also predict memory performance over an extended period in the community. PMID:22056832

Hippocampal atrophy in people with memory deficits: results from the population-based IPREA study.

PubMed

Ferrarini, Luca; van Lew, Baldur; Reiber, Johan H C; Gandin, Claudia; Galluzzo, Lucia; Scafato, Emanuele; Frisoni, Giovanni B; Milles, Julien; Pievani, Michela

2014-07-01

Clinical studies have shown that hippocampal atrophy is present before dementia in people with memory deficits and can predict dementia development. The question remains whether this association holds in the general population. This is of interest for the possible use of hippocampal atrophy to screen population for preventive interventions. The aim of this study was to assess hippocampal volume and shape abnormalities in elderly adults with memory deficits in a cross-sectional population-based study. We included individuals participating in the Italian Project on the Epidemiology of Alzheimer Disease (IPREA) study: 75 cognitively normal individuals (HC), 31 individuals with memory deficits (MEM), and 31 individuals with memory deficits not otherwise specified (MEMnos). Hippocampal volumes and shape were extracted through manual tracing and the growing and adaptive meshes (GAMEs) shape-modeling algorithm. We investigated between-group differences in hippocampal volume and shape, and correlations with memory deficits. In MEM participants, hippocampal volumes were significantly smaller than in HC and were mildly associated with worse memory scores. Memory-associated shape changes mapped to the anterior hippocampus. Shape-based analysis detected no significant difference between MEM and HC, while MEMnos showed shape changes in the posterior hippocampus compared with HC and MEM groups. These findings support the discriminant validity of hippocampal volumetry as a biomarker of memory impairment in the general population. The detection of shape changes in MEMnos but not in MEM participants suggests that shape-based biomarkers might lack sensitivity to detect Alzheimer's-like pathology in the general population.

Assessment of Shape Memory Alloys - From Atoms To Actuators - Via In Situ Neutron Diffraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benafan, Othmane

2014-01-01

As shape memory alloys (SMAs) become an established actuator technology, it is important to identify the fundamental mechanisms responsible for their performance by understanding microstructure performance relationships from processing to final form. Yet, microstructural examination of SMAs at stress and temperature is often a challenge since structural changes occur with stress and temperature and microstructures cannot be preserved through quenching or after stress removal, as would be the case for conventional materials. One solution to this dilemma is in situ neutron diffraction, which has been applied to the investigation of SMAs and has offered a unique approach to reveal the fundamental micromechanics and microstructural aspects of bulk SMAs in a non-destructive setting. Through this technique, it is possible to directly correlate the micromechanical responses (e.g., internal residual stresses, lattice strains), microstructural evolutions (e.g., texture, defects) and phase transformation properties (e.g., phase fractions, kinetics) to the macroscopic actuator behavior. In this work, in situ neutron diffraction was systematically employed to evaluate the deformation and transformation behavior of SMAs under typical actuator conditions. Austenite and martensite phases, yield behavior, variant selection and transformation temperatures were characterized for a polycrystalline NiTi (49.9 at. Ni). As the alloy transforms under thermomechanical loading, the measured textures and lattice plane-level variations were directly related to the cyclic actuation-strain characteristics and the dimensional instability (strain ratcheting) commonly observed in this alloy. The effect of training on the shape memory characteristics of the alloy and the development of two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) were also assessed. The final conversion from a material to a useful actuator, typically termed shape setting, was also investigated in situ during constrained heatingcooling and subsequent shape recovery experiments. Neutron diffraction techniques are also being applied to the investigation of novel high temperature SMAs with the objective of designing alloys with better stability, higher transition temperatures and ultimately superior durability.

Attention allocation: Relationships to general working memory or specific language processing.

PubMed

Archibald, Lisa M D; Levee, Tyler; Olino, Thomas

2015-11-01

Attention allocation, updating working memory, and language processing are interdependent cognitive tasks related to the focused direction of limited resources, refreshing and substituting information in the current focus of attention, and receiving/sending verbal communication, respectively. The current study systematically examined the relationship among executive attention, working memory executive skills, and language abilities while adjusting for individual differences in short-term memory. School-age children completed a selective attention task requiring them to recall whether a presented shape was in the same place as a previous target shape shown in an array imposing a low or high working memory load. Results revealed a selective attention cost when working above but not within memory span capacity. Measures of general working memory were positively related to overall task performance, whereas language abilities were related to response time. In particular, higher language skills were associated with faster responses under low load conditions. These findings suggest that attentional control and storage demands have an additive impact on working memory resources but provide only limited evidence for a domain-general mechanism in language learning. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shape memory effect and super elasticity. Its dental applications.

PubMed

Kotian, R

2001-01-01

The shape memory alloys are quite fascinating materials characterized by a shape memory effect and super elasticity which ordinary metals do not have. This unique behaviour was first found in a Au-47.5 at % Cd alloy in 1951, and was published in 1963 by the discovery of Ti-Ni alloy. Shape memory alloys now being practically used as new functional alloys for various dental and medical applications.

The nature of working memory for Braille.

PubMed

Cohen, Henri; Voss, Patrice; Lepore, Franco; Scherzer, Peter

2010-05-26

Blind individuals have been shown on multiple occasions to compensate for their loss of sight by developing exceptional abilities in their remaining senses. While most research has been focused on perceptual abilities per se in the auditory and tactile modalities, recent work has also investigated higher-order processes involving memory and language functions. Here we examined tactile working memory for Braille in two groups of visually challenged individuals (completely blind subjects, CBS; blind with residual vision, BRV). In a first experimental procedure both groups were given a Braille tactile memory span task with and without articulatory suppression, while the BRV and a sighted group performed a visual version of the task. It was shown that the Braille tactile working memory (BrWM) of CBS individuals under articulatory suppression is as efficient as that of sighted individuals' visual working memory in the same condition. Moreover, the results suggest that BrWM may be more robust in the CBS than in the BRV subjects, thus pointing to the potential role of visual experience in shaping tactile working memory. A second experiment designed to assess the nature (spatial vs. verbal) of this working memory was then carried out with two new CBS and BRV groups having to perform the Braille task concurrently with a mental arithmetic task or a mental displacement of blocks task. We show that the disruption of memory was greatest when concurrently carrying out the mental displacement of blocks, indicating that the Braille tactile subsystem of working memory is likely spatial in nature in CBS. The results also point to the multimodal nature of working memory and show how experience can shape the development of its subcomponents.

The Nature of Working Memory for Braille

PubMed Central

Cohen, Henri; Voss, Patrice; Lepore, Franco; Scherzer, Peter

2010-01-01

Blind individuals have been shown on multiple occasions to compensate for their loss of sight by developing exceptional abilities in their remaining senses. While most research has been focused on perceptual abilities per se in the auditory and tactile modalities, recent work has also investigated higher-order processes involving memory and language functions. Here we examined tactile working memory for Braille in two groups of visually challenged individuals (completely blind subjects, CBS; blind with residual vision, BRV). In a first experimental procedure both groups were given a Braille tactile memory span task with and without articulatory suppression, while the BRV and a sighted group performed a visual version of the task. It was shown that the Braille tactile working memory (BrWM) of CBS individuals under articulatory suppression is as efficient as that of sighted individuals' visual working memory in the same condition. Moreover, the results suggest that BrWM may be more robust in the CBS than in the BRV subjects, thus pointing to the potential role of visual experience in shaping tactile working memory. A second experiment designed to assess the nature (spatial vs. verbal) of this working memory was then carried out with two new CBS and BRV groups having to perform the Braille task concurrently with a mental arithmetic task or a mental displacement of blocks task. We show that the disruption of memory was greatest when concurrently carrying out the mental displacement of blocks, indicating that the Braille tactile subsystem of working memory is likely spatial in nature in CBS. The results also point to the multimodal nature of working memory and show how experience can shape the development of its subcomponents. PMID:20520807

Interplay between affect and arousal in recognition memory.

PubMed

Greene, Ciara M; Bahri, Pooja; Soto, David

2010-07-23

Emotional states linked to arousal and mood are known to affect the efficiency of cognitive performance. However, the extent to which memory processes may be affected by arousal, mood or their interaction is poorly understood. Following a study phase of abstract shapes, we altered the emotional state of participants by means of exposure to music that varied in both mood and arousal dimensions, leading to four different emotional states: (i) positive mood-high arousal; (ii) positive mood-low arousal; (iii) negative mood-high arousal; (iv) negative mood-low arousal. Following the emotional induction, participants performed a memory recognition test. Critically, there was an interaction between mood and arousal on recognition performance. Memory was enhanced in the positive mood-high arousal and in the negative mood-low arousal states, relative to the other emotional conditions. Neither mood nor arousal alone but their interaction appears most critical to understanding the emotional enhancement of memory.

Mission STS-134: Results of Shape Memory Foam Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santo, Loredana; Quadrini, Fabrizio; Mascetti, Gabriele; Dolce, Ferdinando; Zolesi, Valfredo

2013-10-01

Shape memory epoxy foams were used for an experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to evaluate the feasibility of their use for building light actuators and expandable/deployable structures. The experiment named I-FOAM was performed by an autonomous device contained in the BIOKON container (by Kayser Italia) which was in turn composed of control and heating system, battery pack and data acquisition system. To simulate the actuation of simple devices in micro-gravity conditions, three different configurations (compression, bending and torsion) were chosen during the memory step of the foams so as to produce their recovery on ISS. Micro-gravity does not affect the ability of the foams to recover their shape but it poses limits for the heating system design because of the difference in heat transfer on Earth and in orbit. A recovery about 70% was measured at a temperature of 110 °C for the bending and torsion configuration whereas poor recovery was observed for the compression case. Thanks to these results, a new experiment has been developed for a future mission by the same device: for the first time a shape memory composite will be recovered, and the actuation load during time will be measured during the recovery of an epoxy foam sample.

Behavior of Shape Memory Epoxy Foams in Microgravity: Experimental Results of STS-134 Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santo, Loredana; Quadrini, Fabrizio; Squeo, Erica Anna; Dolce, Ferdinando; Mascetti, Gabriele; Bertolotto, Delfina; Villadei, Walter; Ganga, Pier Luigi; Zolesi, Valfredo

2012-09-01

Shape memory epoxy foams were used for an experiment on the International Space Station to evaluate the feasibility of their use for building multi-functional composite structures. A small equipment was designed and built to simulate the actuation of simple devices in micro-gravity conditions: three different configurations (compression, bending and torsion) were chosen during the memory step of the foams so as to produce their recovery on ISS. Two systems were used for the experimentation to avoid damages of the flight model during laboratory tests; however a single ground experiment was performed also on the flight model before the mission. Micro-gravity does not affect the ability of the foams to recover their shape but it poses strong limits for the heating system design because of the difference in heat transfer on earth and in orbit. A full recovery of the foam samples was not achieved due to some limitations in the maximum allowable temperature on ISS for safety reasons: anyway a 70% recovery was also measured at a temperature of 110°C. Ground laboratory experiments showed that 100% recovery could be reached by increasing the maximum temperature to 120°C. Experiment results have provided many useful information for the designing of a new structural composite actuator by using shape memory foams.

Investigations on the electronic, structural, magnetic properties related to shape-memory behavior in Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wei, Xiao-Ping, E-mail: weixp2008@gmail.com; Chu, Yan-Dong; Sun, Xiao-Wei

2015-02-15

Highlights: • The analysis of phase stability trend is studied for Ti{sub 2}CoX(X = Al, Ga, In). • Ti{sub 2}CoGa is more suitable as shape memory alloy. • Total magnetic moments disappear with a increase of c/a ratio for all systems. • Density of states at the Fermi level are also shown. - Abstract: Using the full-potential local orbital minimum-basis method, we have performed a systematic investigations on the electronic, structural, and magnetic properties related to shape memory applications for Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In) alloys. Our results confirm that these alloys are half-metallic ferromagnets with total magnetic moment ofmore » 2μ{sub B} per formula unit in austenite phase, and undergo a martensitic transformation at low temperatures. The relative stabilities of the martensitic phases differ considerably between Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In). Details of the electronic structures suggest that the differences in hybridizations between the magnetic components are responsible for trends of phase. Quantitative estimates for the energetics and the magnetizations indicate that Ti{sub 2}CoGa is a promising candidate for shape memory applications.« less

A Thrombus Generation Model Applied to Aneurysms Treated with Shape Memory Polymer Foam and Metal Coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horn, John; Ortega, Jason; Hartman, Jonathan; Maitland, Duncan

2015-11-01

To prevent their rupture, intracranial aneurysms are often treated with endovascular metal coils which fill the aneurysm sac and isolate it from the arterial flow. Despite its widespread use, this method can result in suboptimal outcomes leading to aneurysm recurrence. Recently, shape memory polymer foam has been proposed as an alternative aneurysm filler. In this work, a computational model has been developed to predict thrombus formation in blood in response to such cardiovascular implantable devices. The model couples biofluid and biochemical phenomena present as the blood interacts with a device and stimulates thrombus formation. This model is applied to simulations of both metal coil and shape memory polymer foam treatments within an idealized 2D aneurysm geometry. Using the predicted thrombus responses, the performance of these treatments is evaluated and compared. The results suggest that foam-treated aneurysms may fill more quickly and more completely with thrombus than coil-filled aneurysms, potentially leading to improved long-term aneurysm healing. This work was performed in part under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Shape memory alloy thaw sensors

DOEpatents

Shahinpoor, M.; Martinez, D.R.

1998-04-07

A sensor permanently indicates that it has been exposed to temperatures exceeding a critical temperature for a predetermined time period. An element of the sensor made from shape memory alloy changes shape when exposed, even temporarily, to temperatures above the austenitic temperature of the shape memory alloy. The shape change of the SMA element causes the sensor to change between two readily distinguishable states. 16 figs.

Shape memory alloy thaw sensors

DOEpatents

Shahinpoor, Mohsen; Martinez, David R.

1998-01-01

A sensor permanently indicates that it has been exposed to temperatures exceeding a critical temperature for a predetermined time period. An element of the sensor made from shape memory alloy changes shape when exposed, even temporarily, to temperatures above the Austenitic temperature of the shape memory alloy. The shape change of the SMA element causes the sensor to change between two readily distinguishable states.

Acute psychosocial stress and children's memory.

PubMed

de Veld, Danielle M J; Riksen-Walraven, J Marianne; de Weerth, Carolina

2014-07-01

We investigated whether children's performance on working memory (WM) and delayed retrieval (DR) tasks decreased after stress exposure, and how physiological stress responses related to performance under stress. About 158 children (83 girls; Mage = 10.61 years, SD = 0.52) performed two WM tasks (WM forward and WM backward) and a DR memory task first during a control condition, and 1 week later during a stress challenge. Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) and cortisol were assessed during the challenge. Only WM backward performance declined over conditions. Correlations between physiological stress responses and performance within the stress challenge were present only for WM forward and DR. For WM forward, higher cortisol responses were related to better performance. For DR, there was an inverted U-shape relation between cortisol responses and performance, as well as a cortisol × sAA interaction, with concurrent high or low responses related to optimal performance. This emphasizes the importance of including curvilinear and interaction effects when relating physiology to memory.

Hippocampal subfield surface deformity in non-semantic primary progressive aphasia.

PubMed

Christensen, Adam; Alpert, Kathryn; Rogalski, Emily; Cobia, Derin; Rao, Julia; Beg, Mirza Faisal; Weintraub, Sandra; Mesulam, M-Marsel; Wang, Lei

2015-03-01

Alzheimer neuropathology (AD) is found in almost half of patients with non-semantic primary progressive aphasia (PPA). This study examined hippocampal abnormalities in PPA to determine similarities to those described in amnestic AD. In 37 PPA patients and 32 healthy controls, we generated hippocampal subfield surface maps from structural MRIs and administered a face memory test. We analyzed group and hemisphere differences for surface shape measures and their relationship with test scores and ApoE genotype. The hippocampus in PPA showed inward deformity (CA1 and subiculum subfields) and outward deformity (CA2-4+DG subfield) and smaller left than right volumes. Memory performance was related to hippocampal shape abnormalities in PPA patients, but not controls, even in the absence of memory impairments. Hippocampal deformity in PPA is related to memory test scores. This may reflect a combination of intrinsic degenerative phenomena with transsynaptic or Wallerian effects of neocortical neuronal loss.

Retrieval from long-term memory reduces working memory representations for visual features and their bindings.

PubMed

van Lamsweerde, Amanda E; Beck, Melissa R; Elliott, Emily M

2015-02-01

The ability to remember feature bindings is an important measure of the ability to maintain objects in working memory (WM). In this study, we investigated whether both object- and feature-based representations are maintained in WM. Specifically, we tested the hypotheses that retaining a greater number of feature representations (i.e., both as individual features and bound representations) results in a more robust representation of individual features than of feature bindings, and that retrieving information from long-term memory (LTM) into WM would cause a greater disruption to feature bindings. In four experiments, we examined the effects of retrieving a word from LTM on shape and color-shape binding change detection performance. We found that binding changes were more difficult to detect than individual-feature changes overall, but that the cost of retrieving a word from LTM was the same for both individual-feature and binding changes.

Design of a shape adaptive airfoil actuated by a Shape Memory Alloy strip for airplane tail

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirzadeh, R.; Raissi Charmacani, K.; Tabesh, M.

2011-04-01

Of the factors that mainly affect the efficiency of the wing during a special flow regime, the shape of its airfoil cross section is the most significant. Airfoils are generally designed for a specific flight condition and, therefore, are not fully optimized in all flight conditions. It is very desirable to have an airfoil with the ability to change its shape based on the current regime. Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators activate in response to changes in the temperature and can recover their original configuration after being deformed. This study presents the development of a method to control the shape of an airfoil using SMA actuators. To predict the thermomechanical behaviors of an SMA thin strip, 3D incremental formulation of the SMA constitutive model is implemented in FEA software package ABAQUS. The interactions between the airfoil structure and SMA thin strip actuator are investigated. Also, the aerodynamic performance of a standard airfoil with a plain flap is compared with an adaptive airfoil.

Potential High-Temperature Shape-Memory-Alloy Actuator Material Identified

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noebe, Ronald D.; Gaydosh, Darrell J.; Biles, Tiffany A.; Garg, Anita

2005-01-01

Shape-memory alloys are unique "smart materials" that can be used in a wide variety of adaptive or "intelligent" components. Because of a martensitic solid-state phase transformation in these materials, they can display rather unusual mechanical properties including shape-memory behavior. This phenomenon occurs when the material is deformed at low temperatures (below the martensite finish temperature, Mf) and then heated through the martensite-to-austenite phase transformation. As the material is heated to the austenite finish temperature Af, it is able to recover its predeformed shape. If a bias is applied to the material as it tries to recover its original shape, work can be extracted from the shape-memory alloy as it transforms. Therefore, shape-memory alloys are being considered for compact solid-state actuation devices to replace hydraulic, pneumatic, or motor-driven systems.

Mechanical properties and shape memory effect of thermal-responsive polymer based on PVA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Liulan; Zhang, Lingfeng; Guo, Yanwei

2018-01-01

In this study, the effect of content of glutaraldehyde (GA) on the shape memory behavior of a shape memory polymer based on polyvinyl alcohol chemically cross-linked with GA was investigated. Thermal-responsive shape memory composites with three different GA levels, GA-PVA (3 wt%, 5 wt%, 7 wt%), were prepared by particle melting, mold forming and freeze-drying technique. The mechanical properties, thermal properties and shape memory behavior were measured by differential scanning calorimeter, physical bending test and cyclic thermo-mechanical test. The addition of GA to PVA led to a steady shape memory transition temperature and an improved mechanical compressive strength. The composite with 5 wt% of GA exhibited the best shape recoverability. Further increase in the crosslinking agent content of GA would reduce the recovery force and prolong the recovery time due to restriction in the movement of the soft PVA chain segments. These results provide important information for the study on materials in 4D printing.

Constitutive modeling of glassy shape memory polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khanolkar, Mahesh

The aim of this research is to develop constitutive models for non-linear materials. Here, issues related for developing constitutive model for glassy shape memory polymers are addressed in detail. Shape memory polymers are novel material that can be easily formed into complex shapes, retaining memory of their original shape even after undergoing large deformations. The temporary shape is stable and return to the original shape is triggered by a suitable mechanism such heating the polymer above a transition temperature. Glassy shape memory polymers are called glassy because the temporary shape is fixed by the formation of a glassy solid, while return to the original shape is due to the melting of this glassy phase. The constitutive model has been developed to capture the thermo-mechanical behavior of glassy shape memory polymers using elements of nonlinear mechanics and polymer physics. The key feature of this framework is that a body can exist stress free in numerous natural configurations, the underlying natural configuration of the body changing during the process, with the response of the body being elastic from these evolving natural configurations. The aim of this research is to formulate a constitutive model for glassy shape memory polymers (GSMP) which takes in to account the fact that the stress-strain response depends on thermal expansion of polymers. The model developed is for the original amorphous phase, the temporary glassy phase and transition between these phases. The glass transition process has been modeled using a framework that was developed recently for studying crystallization in polymers and is based on the theory of multiple natural configurations. Using the same frame work, the melting of the glassy phase to capture the return of the polymer to its original shape is also modeled. The effect of nanoreinforcement on the response of shape memory polymers (GSMP) is studied and a model is developed. In addition to modeling and solving boundary value problems for GSMP's, problems of importance for CSMP, specifically a shape memory cycle (Torsion of a Cylinder) is solved using the developed crystallizable shape memory polymer model. To solve complex boundary value problems in realistic geometries a user material subroutine (UMAT) for GSMP model has been developed for use in conjunction with the commercial finite element software ABAQUS. The accuracy of the UMAT has been verified by testing it against problems for which the results are known.

Development of a morphing flap using shape memory alloy actuators: the aerodynamic characteristics of a morphing flap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ko, Seung-Hee; Bae, Jae-Sung; Rho, Jin-Ho

2014-07-01

The discontinuous contour of a wing with conventional flaps diminishes the aerodynamic performance of an aircraft. A wing with a continuous contour does not experience extreme flow stream fluctuations during flight, and consequently has good aerodynamic characteristics. In this study, a morphing flap using shape memory alloy actuators is proposed, designed and fabricated, and its aerodynamic characteristics are investigated using aerodynamic analyses and wind tunnel tests. The ribs of the morphing flap are designed and fabricated with multiple elements joined together in a way that allows relative rotations of adjacent elements and forms a smooth contour of the morphing flap. The aerodynamic analyses of this multiple-element morphing-flap wing are performed using XFLR pro; its aerodynamic performance is compared with that of a mechanical-flap wing, and is measured through wind-tunnel tests.

Characterization of a Poly(styrene-block-methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate-block-styrene) Shape Memory ABA Triblock Copolymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fei, Pengzhan; Cavicchi, Kevin

2011-03-01

A new ABA triblock copolymer of poly(styrene-block- methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate-block-styrene) (PS-b- PMA-r-PODA-b-PS) was synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The triblock copolymer can generate a three-dimensional, physically crosslinked network by self-assembly, where the glassy PS domains physically crosslink the midblock chains. The side chain crystallization of the polyoctadecylacrylare (PODA) side chain generates a second reversible network enabling shape memory properties. Shape memory tests by uniaxial deformation and recovery of molded dog-bone shape samples demonstrate that shape fixities above 96% and shape recoveries above 98% were obtained for extensional strains up to 300%. An outstanding advantage of this shape memory material is that it can be very easily shaped and remolded by elevating the temperature to 140circ; C, and after remolding the initial shape memory properties are totally recovered by eliminating the defects introduced by the previous deformation cycling.

Potential High-Temperature Shape-Memory Alloys Identified in the Ti(Ni,Pt) System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noebe, Ronald D.; Biles, Tiffany A.; Garg, Anita; Nathal, Michael V.

2004-01-01

"Shape memory" is a unique property of certain alloys that, when deformed (within certain strain limits) at low temperatures, will remember and recover to their original predeformed shape upon heating. It occurs when an alloy is deformed in the low-temperature martensitic phase and is then heated above its transformation temperature back to an austenitic state. As the material passes through this solid-state phase transformation on heating, it also recovers its original shape. This behavior is widely exploited, near room temperature, in commercially available NiTi alloys for connectors, couplings, valves, actuators, stents, and other medical and dental devices. In addition, there are limitless applications in the aerospace, automotive, chemical processing, and many other industries for materials that exhibit this type of shape-memory behavior at higher temperatures. But for high temperatures, there are currently no commercial shape-memory alloys. Although there are significant challenges to the development of high-temperature shape-memory alloys, at the NASA Glenn Research Center we have identified a series of alloy compositions in the Ti-Ni-Pt system that show great promise as potential high-temperature shape-memory materials.

Characterization of origami shape memory metamaterials (SMMM) made of bio-polymer blends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kshad, Mohamed Ali E.; Naguib, Hani E.

2016-04-01

Shape memory materials (SMMs) are materials that can return to their virgin state and release mechanically induced strains by external stimuli. Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a class of SMMs that show a high shape recoverability and which have attractive potential for structural applications. In this paper, we experimentally study the shape memory effect of origami based metamaterials. The main focus is on the Muira origami metamaterials. The fabrication technique used to produce origami structure is direct molding where all the geometrical features are molded from thermally virgin polymers without post folding of flat sheets. The study shows experimental investigations of shape memory metamaterials (SMMMs) made of SMPs that can be used in different applications such as medicine, robotics, and lightweight structures. The origami structure made from SMP blends, activated with uniform heating. The effect of blend composition on the shape memory behavior was studied. Also the influence of the thermomechanical and the viscoelastic properties of origami unit cell on the activation process have been discussed, and stress relaxation and shape recovery were investigated. Activation process of the unit cell has been demonstrated.

Method for fabricating uranium alloy articles without shape memory effects

DOEpatents

Banker, John G.

1985-01-01

Uranium-rich niobium and niobium-zirconium alloys possess a characteristic known as shape memory effect wherein shaped articles of these alloys recover their original shape when heated. The present invention circumvents this memory behavior by forming the alloys into the desired configuration at elevated temperatures with "cold" matched dies and maintaining the shaped articles between the dies until the articles cool to ambient temperature.

Method for fabricating uranium alloy articles without shape memory effects

DOEpatents

Banker, J.G.

1980-05-21

Uranium-rich niobium and niobium-zirconium alloys possess a characteristic known as shape memory effect wherein shaped articles of these alloys recover their original shape when heated. The present invention circumvents this memory behavior by forming the alloys into the desired configuration at elevated temperatures with cold matched dies and maintaining the shaped articles between the dies until the articles cool to ambient temperature.

Finite element analysis of Al 2024/Cu-Al-Ni shape memory alloy composites with defects/cracks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotresh, M.; Benal, M. M., Dr; Siddalinga Swamy, N. H., Dr

2018-02-01

In this work, a numerical approach to predict the stress field behaviour of defect/crack in shape memory alloy (SMA) particles reinforced composite known as the adaptive composite is presented. Simulation is based on the finite element method. The critical stress field approach was used to determine the stresses around defect/crack. Thereby stress amplification issue is being resolved. In this paper, the effect volume % of shape memory alloy and shape memory effect of reinforcement for as-cast and SME trained composites are examined and discussed. Shape memory effect known as training is achieved by pre-straining of reinforcement particles by equivalent changes in their expansion coefficients.

Effects of heat treatment on shape-setting and non-linearmechanical properties of Nitinol stent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiaopeng; Wang, Yinong; Qi, Min; Yang, Dazhi

2007-07-01

NiTi shape memory alloy is a temperature sensitive material with non-linear mechanical properties and good biocompatibility, which can be used for medical devices such as stent, catheter guide wire and orthodontic wire. The majority of nitinol stents are of the self-expanding type basing on the superelasticity. Nitinol stents are shape set into the open condition and compressed and inserted into the delivery catheter. Additional the shape-setting treatment can be used as a tool to accurately tune the transformation temperatures and mechanical properties. In this study, different heat treatments have been performed on the Ti-50.7at%Ni alloy wires. And results of shape-setting, austenite transformation finish temperature and non-linear mechanical property of NiTi shape memory alloy at body temperature have been investigated. The experimental results show that the proper shape-setting temperature should be chosen between 450-550 °C. And the shape-setting results were stabilization when the NiTi wires were constrain-treated at 500 and 550°C and ageing time longer than 10 minutes. The austenite finish temperatures increased with ageing time and increased first and then decreased with ageing temperature. The peak values were obtained at 400°C. When the heat treatments was performed at the same temperature, both the upper plateau stresses and lower plateau stresses decreased with the ageing time. Most of treated nitinol wires owned good recovery ability at body temperature and the permanent sets were less than 0.05% when short time ageing treatment was performed at 500°C.

Reversible Shape Memory Polymers and Composites: Synthesis, Modeling and Design

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

Polymer; and (iii) Development of a Shape Memory Assisted Self - Healing Polymer. Page 3 of 19 Mather/FA9550-09-1-0195 IV(i) Modeling and Model...0195 IV(iii) Development of a Shape Memory Assisted Self - Healing Polymer Erika D. Rodriguez, X. Luo, and P.T. Mather, “Linear and Crosslinked...Poly (ε- Caprolactone) Polymers for Shape Memory Assisted Self - Healing (SMASH),” ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces 3 152-161 (2011). Self

Hierarchically Self-Assembled Block Copolymer Blends for Templating Hollow Phase-Change Nanostructures with an Extremely Low Switching Current

DOE PAGES

Park, Woon Ik; Kim, Jong Min; Jeong, Jae Won; ...

2015-03-17

Phase change memory (PCM) is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation nonvolatile memory devices because of its high speed, excellent reliability, and outstanding scalability. But, the high switching current of PCM devices has been a critical hurdle to realize low-power operation. Although one solution is to reduce the switching volume of the memory, the resolution limit of photolithography hinders further miniaturization of device dimensions. Here, we employed unconventional self-assembly geometries obtained from blends of block copolymers (BCPs) to form ring-shaped hollow PCM nanostructures with an ultrasmall contact area between a phase-change material (Ge 2Sb 2Te 5) and amore » heater (TiN) electrode. The high-density (approximately 0.1 terabits per square inch) PCM nanoring arrays showed extremely small switching current of 2-3 mu A. Furthermore, the relatively small reset current of the ring-shaped PCM compared to the pillar-shaped devices is attributed to smaller switching volume, which is well supported by electro-thermal simulation results. Our approach may also be extended to other nonvolatile memory device applications such as resistive switching memory and magnetic storage devices, where the control of nanoscale geometry can significantly affect device performances.« less

Educational Pathways through Nanoscience: Nitinol as a Paradigmatic Smart Material

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lisotti, Annamaria; De Renzi, Valentina; Rozzi, Carlo Andrea; Villa, Elena; Albertini, Franca; Goldoni, Guido

2013-01-01

We developed an educational path based on nitinol, a shape memory alloy which conveniently exemplifies the smart material concept, i.e., a material that performs a predetermined, reversible action in response to a change in the environment. Nitinol recovers a given shape, changes its resistivity drastically and modifies its elastic properties if…

Analysis of intelligent hinged shell structures: deployable deformation and shape memory effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Guang-Hui; Yang, Qing-Sheng; He, X. Q.

2013-12-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a class of intelligent materials with the ability to recover their initial shape from a temporarily fixable state when subjected to external stimuli. In this work, the thermo-mechanical behavior of a deployable SMP-based hinged structure is modeled by the finite element method using a 3D constitutive model with shape memory effect. The influences of hinge structure parameters on the nonlinear loading process are investigated. The total shape memory of the processes the hinged structure goes through, including loading at high temperature, decreasing temperature with load carrying, unloading at low temperature and recovering the initial shape with increasing temperature, are illustrated. Numerical results show that the present constitutive theory and the finite element method can effectively predict the complicated thermo-mechanical deformation behavior and shape memory effect of SMP-based hinged shell structures.

Different developmental trajectories across feature types support a dynamic field model of visual working memory development

PubMed Central

Simmering, Vanessa R.; Miller, Hilary E.; Bohache, Kevin

2015-01-01

Research on visual working memory has focused on characterizing the nature of capacity limits as “slots” or “resources” based almost exclusively on adults’ performance with little consideration for developmental change. Here we argue that understanding how visual working memory develops can shed new light onto the nature of representations. We present an alternative model, the Dynamic Field Theory (DFT), which can capture effects that have been previously attributed either to “slot” or “resource” explanations. The DFT includes a specific developmental mechanism to account for improvements in both resolution and capacity of visual working memory throughout childhood. Here we show how development in the DFT can account for different capacity estimates across feature types (i.e., color and shape). The current paper tests this account by comparing children’s (3, 5, and 7 years of age) performance across different feature types. Results showed that capacity for colors increased faster over development than capacity for shapes. A second experiment confirmed this difference across feature types within subjects, but also showed that the difference can be attenuated by testing memory for less-familiar colors. Model simulations demonstrate how developmental changes in connectivity within the model—purportedly arising through experience—can capture differences across feature types. PMID:25737253

Different developmental trajectories across feature types support a dynamic field model of visual working memory development.

PubMed

Simmering, Vanessa R; Miller, Hilary E; Bohache, Kevin

2015-05-01

Research on visual working memory has focused on characterizing the nature of capacity limits as "slots" or "resources" based almost exclusively on adults' performance with little consideration for developmental change. Here we argue that understanding how visual working memory develops can shed new light onto the nature of representations. We present an alternative model, the Dynamic Field Theory (DFT), which can capture effects that have been previously attributed either to "slot" or "resource" explanations. The DFT includes a specific developmental mechanism to account for improvements in both resolution and capacity of visual working memory throughout childhood. Here we show how development in the DFT can account for different capacity estimates across feature types (i.e., color and shape). The current paper tests this account by comparing children's (3, 5, and 7 years of age) performance across different feature types. Results showed that capacity for colors increased faster over development than capacity for shapes. A second experiment confirmed this difference across feature types within subjects, but also showed that the difference can be attenuated by testing memory for less familiar colors. Model simulations demonstrate how developmental changes in connectivity within the model-purportedly arising through experience-can capture differences across feature types.

Ultra low density biodegradable shape memory polymer foams with tunable physical properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Singhal, Pooja; Wilson, Thomas S.; Cosgriff-Hernandez, Elizabeth

Compositions and/or structures of degradable shape memory polymers (SMPs) ranging in form from neat/unfoamed to ultra low density materials of down to 0.005 g/cc density. These materials show controllable degradation rate, actuation temperature and breadth of transitions along with high modulus and excellent shape memory behavior. A method of m ly low density foams (up to 0.005 g/cc) via use of combined chemical and physical aking extreme blowing agents, where the physical blowing agents may be a single compound or mixtures of two or more compounds, and other related methods, including of using multiple co-blowing agents of successively higher boilingmore » points in order to achieve a large range of densities for a fixed net chemical composition. Methods of optimization of the physical properties of the foams such as porosity, cell size and distribution, cell openness etc. of these materials, to further expand their uses and improve their performance.« less

Long-Time Stability of Ni-Ti-Shape Memory Alloys for Automotive Safety Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strittmatter, Joachim; Gümpel, Paul

2011-07-01

In automotive a lot of electromagnetically, pyrotechnically or mechanically driven actuators are integrated to run comfort systems and to control safety systems in modern passenger cars. Using shape memory alloys (SMA) the existing systems could be simplified, performing the same function through new mechanisms with reduced size, weight, and costs. A drawback for the use of SMA in safety systems is the lack of materials knowledge concerning the durability of the switching function (long-time stability of the shape memory effect). Pedestrian safety systems play a significant role to reduce injuries and fatal casualties caused by accidents. One automotive safety system for pedestrian protection is the bonnet lifting system. Based on such an application, this article gives an introduction to existing bonnet lifting systems for pedestrian protection, describes the use of quick changing shape memory actuators and the results of the study concerning the long-time stability of the tested NiTi-wires. These wires were trained, exposed up to 4 years at elevated temperatures (up to 140 °C) and tested regarding their phase change temperatures, times, and strokes. For example, it was found that A P-temperature is shifted toward higher temperatures with longer exposing periods and higher temperatures. However, in the functional testing plant a delay in the switching time could not be detected. This article gives some answers concerning the long-time stability of NiTi-wires that were missing till now. With this knowledge, the number of future automotive applications using SMA can be increased. It can be concluded, that the use of quick changing shape memory actuators in safety systems could simplify the mechanism, reduce maintenance and manufacturing costs and should be insertable also for other automotive applications.

The quintuple-shape memory effect in electrospun nanofiber membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Fenghua; Zhang, Zhichun; Liu, Yanju; Lu, Haibao; Leng, Jinsong

2013-08-01

Shape memory fibrous membranes (SMFMs) are an emerging class of active polymers, which are capable of switching from a temporary shape to their permanent shape upon appropriate stimulation. Quintuple-shape memory membranes based on the thermoplastic polymer Nafion, with a stable fibrous structure, are achieved via electrospinning technology, and possess a broad transition temperature. The recovery of multiple temporary shapes of electrospun membranes can be triggered by heat in a single triple-, quadruple-, quintuple-shape memory cycle, respectively. The fiber morphology and nanometer size provide unprecedented design flexibility for the adjustable morphing effect. SMFMs enable complex deformations at need, having a wide potential application field including smart textiles, artificial intelligence robots, bio-medical engineering, aerospace technologies, etc in the future.

Incorporation of Fiber Bragg Sensors for Shape Memory Polyurethanes Characterization.

PubMed

Alberto, Nélia; Fonseca, Maria A; Neto, Victor; Nogueira, Rogério; Oliveira, Mónica; Moreira, Rui

2017-11-11

Shape memory polyurethanes (SMPUs) are thermally activated shape memory materials, which can be used as actuators or sensors in applications including aerospace, aeronautics, automobiles or the biomedical industry. The accurate characterization of the memory effect of these materials is therefore mandatory for the technology's success. The shape memory characterization is normally accomplished using mechanical testing coupled with a heat source, where a detailed knowledge of the heat cycle and its influence on the material properties is paramount but difficult to monitor. In this work, fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors were embedded into SMPU samples aiming to study and characterize its shape memory effect. The samples were obtained by injection molding, and the entire processing cycle was successfully monitored, providing a process global quality signature. Moreover, the integrity and functionality of the FBG sensors were maintained during and after the embedding process, demonstrating the feasibility of the technology chosen for the purpose envisaged. The results of the shape memory effect characterization demonstrate a good correlation between the reflected FBG peak with the temperature and induced strain, proving that this technology is suitable for this particular application.

Incorporation of Fiber Bragg Sensors for Shape Memory Polyurethanes Characterization

PubMed Central

Nogueira, Rogério; Moreira, Rui

2017-01-01

Shape memory polyurethanes (SMPUs) are thermally activated shape memory materials, which can be used as actuators or sensors in applications including aerospace, aeronautics, automobiles or the biomedical industry. The accurate characterization of the memory effect of these materials is therefore mandatory for the technology’s success. The shape memory characterization is normally accomplished using mechanical testing coupled with a heat source, where a detailed knowledge of the heat cycle and its influence on the material properties is paramount but difficult to monitor. In this work, fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors were embedded into SMPU samples aiming to study and characterize its shape memory effect. The samples were obtained by injection molding, and the entire processing cycle was successfully monitored, providing a process global quality signature. Moreover, the integrity and functionality of the FBG sensors were maintained during and after the embedding process, demonstrating the feasibility of the technology chosen for the purpose envisaged. The results of the shape memory effect characterization demonstrate a good correlation between the reflected FBG peak with the temperature and induced strain, proving that this technology is suitable for this particular application. PMID:29137136

Reverse Shape Memory Effect Related to α → γ Transformation in a Fe-Mn-Al-Ni Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Huabei; Huang, Pan; Zhou, Tiannan; Wang, Shanling; Wen, Yuhua

2017-05-01

In this study, we investigated the shape memory behavior and phase transformations of solution-treated Fe43.61Mn34.74Al13.38Ni8.27 alloy between room temperature and 1173 K (900 °C). This alloy exhibits the reverse shape memory effect resulting from the phase transformation of α (bcc) → γ (fcc) between 673 K and 1073 K (400 °C and 800 °C) in addition to the shape memory effect resulting from the martensitic reverse transformation of γ' (fcc) → α (bcc) below 673 K (400 °C). There is a high density of hairpin-shaped dislocations in the α phase undergoing the martensitic reverse transformation of γ' → α. The lath γ phase, which preferentially nucleates and grows in the reversed α phase, has the same crystal orientation with the reverse-transformed γ' martensite. However, the vermiculate γ phase, which is precipitated in the α phase between lath γ phase, has different crystal orientations. The lath γ phase is beneficial to attaining better reverse shape memory effect than the vermiculate γ phase.

Visual Working Memory Enhances the Neural Response to Matching Visual Input.

PubMed

Gayet, Surya; Guggenmos, Matthias; Christophel, Thomas B; Haynes, John-Dylan; Paffen, Chris L E; Van der Stigchel, Stefan; Sterzer, Philipp

2017-07-12

Visual working memory (VWM) is used to maintain visual information available for subsequent goal-directed behavior. The content of VWM has been shown to affect the behavioral response to concurrent visual input, suggesting that visual representations originating from VWM and from sensory input draw upon a shared neural substrate (i.e., a sensory recruitment stance on VWM storage). Here, we hypothesized that visual information maintained in VWM would enhance the neural response to concurrent visual input that matches the content of VWM. To test this hypothesis, we measured fMRI BOLD responses to task-irrelevant stimuli acquired from 15 human participants (three males) performing a concurrent delayed match-to-sample task. In this task, observers were sequentially presented with two shape stimuli and a retro-cue indicating which of the two shapes should be memorized for subsequent recognition. During the retention interval, a task-irrelevant shape (the probe) was briefly presented in the peripheral visual field, which could either match or mismatch the shape category of the memorized stimulus. We show that this probe stimulus elicited a stronger BOLD response, and allowed for increased shape-classification performance, when it matched rather than mismatched the concurrently memorized content, despite identical visual stimulation. Our results demonstrate that VWM enhances the neural response to concurrent visual input in a content-specific way. This finding is consistent with the view that neural populations involved in sensory processing are recruited for VWM storage, and it provides a common explanation for a plethora of behavioral studies in which VWM-matching visual input elicits a stronger behavioral and perceptual response. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Humans heavily rely on visual information to interact with their environment and frequently must memorize such information for later use. Visual working memory allows for maintaining such visual information in the mind's eye after termination of its retinal input. It is hypothesized that information maintained in visual working memory relies on the same neural populations that process visual input. Accordingly, the content of visual working memory is known to affect our conscious perception of concurrent visual input. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that visual input elicits an enhanced neural response when it matches the content of visual working memory, both in terms of signal strength and information content. Copyright © 2017 the authors 0270-6474/17/376638-10$15.00/0.

Shape memory alloys: metallurgy, biocompatibility, and biomechanics for neurosurgical applications.

PubMed

Hoh, Daniel J; Hoh, Brian L; Amar, Arun P; Wang, Michael Y

2009-05-01

SHAPE MEMORY ALLOYS possess distinct dynamic properties with particular applications in neurosurgery. Because of their unique physical characteristics, these materials are finding increasing application where resiliency, conformation, and actuation are needed. Nitinol, the most frequently manufactured shape memory alloy, responds to thermal and mechanical stimuli with remarkable mechanical properties such as shape memory effect, super-elasticity, and high damping capacity. Nitinol has found particular use in the biomedical community because of its excellent fatigue resistance and biocompatibility, with special interest in neurosurgical applications. The properties of nitinol and its diffusionless phase transformations contribute to these unique mechanical capabilities. The features of nitinol, particularly its shape memory effect, super-elasticity, damping capacity, as well as its biocompatibility and biomechanics are discussed herein. Current and future applications of nitinol and other shape memory alloys in endovascular, spinal, and minimally invasive neurosurgery are introduced. An understanding of the metallurgic properties of nitinol provides a foundation for further exploration of its use in neurosurgical implant design.

Gestalt Effects in Visual Working Memory.

PubMed

Kałamała, Patrycja; Sadowska, Aleksandra; Ordziniak, Wawrzyniec; Chuderski, Adam

2017-01-01

Four experiments investigated whether conforming to Gestalt principles, well known to drive visual perception, also facilitates the active maintenance of information in visual working memory (VWM). We used the change detection task, which required the memorization of visual patterns composed of several shapes. We observed no effects of symmetry of visual patterns on VWM performance. However, there was a moderate positive effect when a particular shape that was probed matched the shape of the whole pattern (the whole-part similarity effect). Data support the models assuming that VWM encodes not only particular objects of the perceptual scene but also the spatial relations between them (the ensemble representation). The ensemble representation may prime objects similar to its shape and thereby boost access to them. In contrast, the null effect of symmetry relates the fact that this very feature of an ensemble does not yield any useful additional information for VWM.

Design and Analysis of Morphing Wing for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galantai, Vlad Paul

This study is concerned with the design and development of a novel wing for UAVs that morphs seamlessly without the use of complex hydraulics, servo motors and controllers. The selected novel design is characterized by a high degree of flight adaptability and improved performance with a limited added weight. These characteristics were attained through the use of shape memory actuators in an antagonistic fashion. Unlike compliant actuators, the antagonistic setup requires the thermal energy to deform the wing but not to maintain its deformed shape. Structural analysis based upon safety factors specified by FAR23 standards and aerodynamic analysis using FLUENT were conducted on the novel design to validate its suitability as a viable wing for UAVs. In addition, thermal conditioning of the shape memory actuators was conducted using a specially designed programmable controller. This thesis does not concern itself with the design of a skin that accommodates the shape changes.

Methods of Making and Using Shape Memory Polymer Composite Patches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hood, Patrick J.

2011-01-01

A method of repairing a composite component having a damaged area including: laying a composite patch over the damaged area: activating the shape memory polymer resin to easily and quickly mold said patch to said damaged area; deactivating said shape memory polymer so that said composite patch retains the molded shape; and bonding said composite patch to said damaged part.

Low temperature nickel titanium iron shape memory alloys: Actuator engineering and investigation of deformation mechanisms using in situ neutron diffraction at Los Alamos National Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnan, Vinu B.

Shape memory alloys are incorporated as actuator elements due to their inherent ability to sense a change in temperature and actuate against external loads by undergoing a shape change as a result of a temperature-induced phase transformation. The cubic so-called austenite to the trigonal so-called R-phase transformation in NiTiFe shape memory alloys offers a practical temperature range for actuator operation at low temperatures, as it exhibits a narrow temperature-hysteresis with a desirable fatigue response. Overall, this work is an investigation of selected science and engineering aspects of low temperature NiTiFe shape memory alloys. The scientific study was performed using in situ neutron diffraction measurements at the newly developed low temperature loading capability on the Spectrometer for Materials Research at Temperature and Stress (SMARTS) at Los Alamos National Laboratory and encompasses three aspects of the behavior of Ni46.8Ti50Fe3.2 at 92 K (the lowest steady state temperature attainable with the capability). First, in order to study deformation mechanisms in the R-phase in NiTiFe, measurements were performed at a constant temperature of 92 K under external loading. Second, with the objective of examining NiTiFe in one-time, high-stroke, actuator applications (such as in safety valves), a NiTiFe sample was strained to approximately 5% (the R-phase was transformed to B19' phase in the process) at 92 K and subsequently heated to full strain recovery under a load. Third, with the objective of examining NiTiFe in cyclic, low-stroke, actuator applications (such as in cryogenic thermal switches), a NiTiFe sample was strained to 1% at 92 K and subsequently heated to full strain recovery under load. Neutron diffraction spectra were recorded at selected time and stress intervals during these experiments. The spectra were subsequently used to obtain quantitative information related to the phase-specific strain, texture and phase fraction evolution using the Rietveld technique. The mechanical characterization of NiTiFe alloys using the cryogenic capability at SMARTS provided considerable insight into the mechanisms of phase transformation and twinning at cryogenic temperatures. Both mechanisms contribute to shape memory and pseudoelasticity phenomena. Three phases (R, B19' and B33 phases) were found to coexist at 92 K in the unloaded condition (nominal holding stress of 8 MPa). For the first time the elastic modulus of R-phase was reported from neutron diffraction experiments. Furthermore, for the first time a base-centered orthorhombic (B33) martensitic phase was identified experimentally in a NiTi-based shape memory alloy. The orthorhombic B33 phase has been theoretically predicted in NiTi from density function theory (DFT) calculations but hitherto has never been observed experimentally. The orthorhombic B33 phase was observed while observing shifting of a peak (identified to be {021}B33) between the {111}R and {100}B19' peaks in the diffraction spectra collected during loading. Given the existing ambiguity in the published literature as to whether the trigonal R-phase belongs to the P3 or P3¯ space groups, Rietveld analyses were separately carried out incorporating the symmetries associated with both space groups and the impact of this choice evaluated. The constrained recovery of the B19' phase to the R-phase recorded approximately 4% strain recovery between 150 K and 170 K, with half of that recovery occurring between 160 K and 162 K. Additionally, the aforementioned research methodology developed for Ni46.8Ti50Fe3.2 shape memory alloys was applied to experiments performed on a new high temperature Ni 29.5Ti50.5Pd20 shape memory alloys. The engineering aspect focused on the development of (i) a NiTiFe based thermal conduction switch that minimized the heat gradient across the shape memory actuator element, (ii) a NiTiFe based thermal conduction switch that incorporated the actuator element in the form of helical springs, and (iii) a NiTi based release mechanism. Patents are being filed for all the three shape memory actuators developed as a part of this work. This work was supported by grants from SRI, NASA (NAG3-2751) and NSF (CAREER DMR-0239512) to UCF. Additionally, this work benefited from the use of the Lujan Center at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center, funded by the United States Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, under Contract No. W-7405-ENG-36.

Experimental Evaluation of a Device Prototype Based on Shape Memory Alloys for the Retrofit of Historical Buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardone, Donatello; Sofia, Salvatore

2012-12-01

Metallic tie-rods are currently used in many historical buildings for absorbing the out-of-plane horizontal forces of arches, vaults and roof trusses, despite they exhibit several limitations under service and seismic conditions. In this paper, a post-tensioned system based on the superelastic properties of Ni-Ti shape memory alloys is proposed for improving the structural performances of traditional metallic tie-rods. First, the thermal behavior under service conditions is investigated based on the results of numerical and experimental studies. Subsequently, the seismic performances under strong earthquakes are verified trough a number of shaking table tests on a 1:4-scale timber roof truss model. The outcomes of these studies fully confirm the achievement of the design objectives of the proposed prototype device.

Sign reversal of transformation entropy change in Co{sub 2}Cr(Ga,Si) shape memory alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xu, Xiao, E-mail: xu@material.tohoku.ac.jp; Omori, Toshihiro; Kainuma, Ryosuke

2015-11-02

In situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements and compression tests were performed on Co{sub 2}Cr(Ga,Si) shape memory alloys. The reentrant martensitic transformation behavior was directly observed during the in situ XRD measurements. The high-temperature parent phase and low-temperature reentrant parent phase were found to have a continuous temperature dependence of lattice parameter, therefore suggesting that they are the same phase in nature. Moreover, compression tests were performed on a parent-phase single crystal sample; an evolution from normal to inverse temperature dependence of critical stress for martensitic transformation was directly observed. Based on the Clausius-Clapeyron analysis, a sign reversal of entropy changemore » can be expected on the same alloy.« less

Long-term consolidation of declarative memory: insight from temporal lobe epilepsy.

PubMed

Tramoni, Eve; Felician, Olivier; Barbeau, Emmanuel J; Guedj, Eric; Guye, Maxime; Bartolomei, Fabrice; Ceccaldi, Mathieu

2011-03-01

Several experiments carried out with a subset of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy have demonstrated normal memory performance at standard delays of recall (i.e. minutes to hours) but impaired performance over longer delays (i.e. days or weeks), suggesting altered long-term consolidation mechanisms. These mechanisms were specifically investigated in a group of five adult-onset pharmaco-sensitive patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, exhibiting severe episodic memory complaints despite normal performance at standardized memory assessment. In a first experiment, the magnitude of autobiographical memory loss was evaluated using retrograde personal memory tasks based on verbal and visual cues. In both conditions, results showed an unusual U-shaped pattern of personal memory impairment, encompassing most of the patients' life, sparing however, periods of the childhood, early adulthood and past several weeks. This profile was suggestive of a long-term consolidation impairment of personal episodes, adequately consolidated over 'short-term' delays but gradually forgotten thereafter. Therefore, in a subsequent experiment, patients were submitted to a protocol specifically devised to investigate short and long-term consolidation of contextually-bound experiences (episodic memory) and context-free information (semantic knowledge and single-items). In the short term (1 h), performance at both contextually-free and contextually-bound memory tasks was intact. After a 6-week delay, however, contextually-bound memory performance was impaired while contextually-free memory performance remained preserved. This effect was independent of task difficulty and the modality of retrieval (recall and recognition). Neuroimaging studies revealed the presence of mild metabolic changes within medial temporal lobe structures. Taken together, these results show the existence of different consolidation systems within declarative memory. They suggest that mild medial temporal lobe dysfunction can impede the building and stabilization of episodic memories but leaves long-term semantic and single-items mnemonic traces intact.

Development and Verification of Sputtered Thin-Film Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) Shape Memory Alloy (SMA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) by Cory R Knick and Christopher J Morris Approved for public release; distribution unlimited...Laboratory Development and Verification of Sputtered Thin-Film Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) by Cory R Knick and Christopher

Mechanical and shape memory properties of porous Ni50.1Ti49.9 alloys manufactured by selective laser melting.

PubMed

Taheri Andani, Mohsen; Saedi, Soheil; Turabi, Ali Sadi; Karamooz, M R; Haberland, Christoph; Karaca, Haluk Ersin; Elahinia, Mohammad

2017-04-01

Near equiatomic NiTi shape memory alloys were fabricated in dense and designed porous forms by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and their mechanical and shape memory properties were systematically characterized. Particularly, the effects of pore morphology on their mechanical responses were investigated. Dense and porous NiTi alloys exhibited good shape memory effect with a recoverable strain of about 5% and functional stability after eight cycles of compression. The stiffness and residual plastic strain of porous NiTi were found to depend highly on the pore shape and the level of porosity. Since porous NiTi structures have lower elastic modulus and density than dense NiTi with still good shape memory properties, they are promising materials for lightweight structures, energy absorbers, and biomedical implants. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Shape Memory Properties and Enzymatic Degradability of Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Based Polyurethane Urea Containing Phenylalanine-Derived Chain Extender.

PubMed

Wang, Rong; Zhang, Fanjun; Lin, Weiwei; Liu, Wenkai; Li, Jiehua; Luo, Feng; Wang, Yaning; Tan, Hong

2018-06-01

Biodegradable shape memory polymers are promising biomaterials for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Herein, a series of linear biodegradable shape memory poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based polyurethane ureas (PUUs) containing a novel phenylalanine-derived chain extender is synthesized. The phenylalanine-derived chain extender, phenylalanine-hexamethylenediamine-phenylalanine (PHP), contains two chymotrypsin cleaving sites to enhance the enzymatic degradation of PUUs. The degradation rate, the crystallinity, and mechanical properties of PUUs are tailored by the content of PHP. Meanwhile, semicrystalline PCL is not only hydrolytically degradable but also vital for shape memory. Good shape memory ability under body temperature is achieved for PUUs due to the strong interactions in hard segments for permanent crosslinking and the crystallization-melt transition of PCL to switch temporary shape. The PUUs would have a great potential in application as implanting stent. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Post polymerization cure shape memory polymers

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S.; Hearon, II, Michael Keith; Bearinger, Jane P.

2017-01-10

This invention relates to chemical polymer compositions, methods of synthesis, and fabrication methods for devices regarding polymers capable of displaying shape memory behavior (SMPs) and which can first be polymerized to a linear or branched polymeric structure, having thermoplastic properties, subsequently processed into a device through processes typical of polymer melts, solutions, and dispersions and then crossed linked to a shape memory thermoset polymer retaining the processed shape.

Post polymerization cure shape memory polymers

DOEpatents

Wilson, Thomas S; Hearon, Michael Keith; Bearinger, Jane P

2014-11-11

This invention relates to chemical polymer compositions, methods of synthesis, and fabrication methods for devices regarding polymers capable of displaying shape memory behavior (SMPs) and which can first be polymerized to a linear or branched polymeric structure, having thermoplastic properties, subsequently processed into a device through processes typical of polymer melts, solutions, and dispersions and then crossed linked to a shape memory thermoset polymer retaining the processed shape.

Medical applications of shape memory polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sokolowski, Witold M.

2005-01-01

Shape memory polymers are described here and major advantages in some applications are identified over other medical materials such as shape memory alloys (SMA). A number of medical applications are anticipated for shape memory polymers. Some simple applications are already utilized in medical world, others are in examination process. Lately, several important applications are being considered for CHEM foams for self-deployable vascular and coronary devices. One of these potential applications, the endovascular treatment of aneurysm was experimentally investigated with encouraging results and is described in this paper as well.

Shape memory behavior of single and polycrystalline nickel rich nickel titanium alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaya, Irfan

NiTi is the most commonly used shape memory alloy (SMA) and has been widely used for bio-medical, electrical and mechanical applications. Nickel rich NiTi shape memory alloys are coming into prominence due to their distinct superelasticity and shape memory properties as compared to near equi-atomic NiTi shape memory alloys. Besides, their lower density and higher work output than steels makes these alloys an excellent candidate for aerospace and automotive industry. Shape memory properties and phase transformation behavior of high Ni-rich Ni54Ti46 (at.%) polycrystals and Ni-rich Ni 51Ti49 (at.%) single-crystals are determined. Their properties are sensitive to heat treatments that affect the phase transformation behavior of these alloys. Phase transformation properties and microstructure were investigated in aged Ni54Ti46 alloys with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to reveal the precipitation characteristics and R-phase formation. It was found that Ni54Ti46 has the ability to exhibit perfect superelasticity under high stress levels (~2 GPa) with 4% total strain after 550°C-3h aging. Stress independent R-phase transformation was found to be responsible for the change in shape memory behavior with stress. The shape memory responses of [001], [011] and [111] oriented Ni 51Ti49 single-crystals alloy were reported under compression to reveal the orientation dependence of their shape memory behavior. It has been found that transformation strain, temperatures and hysteresis, Classius-Clapeyron slopes, critical stress for plastic deformation are highly orientation dependent. The effects of precipitation formation and compressive loading at selected temperatures on the two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) properties of a [111]- oriented Ni51Ti49 shape memory alloy were revealed. Additionally, aligned Ni4Ti3 precipitates were formed in a single crystal of Ni51Ti49 alloy by aging under applied compression stress along the [111] direction. Formation of a single family of Ni4Ti3 precipitates were exhibited significant TWSME without any training or deformation. When the homogenized and aged specimens were loaded in martensite, positive TWSME was observed. After loading at high temperature in austenite, the homogenized specimen did not show TWSME while the aged specimen revealed negative TWSME.

Shape memory alloy smart knee spacer to enhance knee functionality: model design and finite element analysis.

PubMed

Gautam, Arvind; Rani, A Bhargavi; Callejas, Miguel A; Acharyya, Swati Ghosh; Acharyya, Amit; Biswas, Dwaipayan; Bhandari, Vasundhra; Sharma, Paresh; Naik, Ganesh R

2016-08-01

In this paper we introduce Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) for designing the tibial part of Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) by exploiting the shape-memory and pseudo-elasticity property of the SMA (e.g. NiTi). This would eliminate the drawbacks of the state-of-the art PMMA based knee-spacer including fracture, sustainability, dislocation, tilting, translation and subluxation for tackling the Osteoarthritis especially for the aged people of 45-plus or the athletes. In this paper a Computer Aided Design (CAD) model using SolidWorks for the knee-spacer is presented based on the proposed SMA adopting the state-of-the art industry-standard geometry that is used in the PMMA based spacer design. Subsequently Ansys based Finite Element Analysis is carried out to measure and compare the performance between the proposed SMA based model with the state-of-the art PMMA ones. 81% more bending is noticed in the PMMA based spacer compared to the proposed SMA that would eventually cause fracture and tilting or translation of spacer. Permanent shape deformation of approximately 58.75% in PMMA based spacer is observed compared to recoverable 11% deformation in SMA when same load is applied on both separately.

Implementing and Quantifying the Shape-Memory Effect of Single Polymeric Micro/Nanowires with an Atomic Force Microscope.

PubMed

Fang, Liang; Gould, Oliver E C; Lysyakova, Liudmila; Jiang, Yi; Sauter, Tilman; Frank, Oliver; Becker, Tino; Schossig, Michael; Kratz, Karl; Lendlein, Andreas

2018-04-23

The implementation of shape-memory effects (SME) in polymeric micro- or nano-objects currently relies on the application of indirect macroscopic manipulation techniques, for example, stretchable molds or phantoms, to ensembles of small objects. Here, we introduce a method capable of the controlled manipulation and SME quantification of individual micro- and nano-objects in analogy to macroscopic thermomechanical test procedures. An atomic force microscope was utilized to address individual electro-spun poly(ether urethane) (PEU) micro- or nanowires freely suspended between two micropillars on a micro-structured silicon substrate. In this way, programming strains of 10±1% or 21±1% were realized, which could be successfully fixed. An almost complete restoration of the original free-suspended shape during heating confirmed the excellent shape-memory performance of the PEU wires. Apparent recovery stresses of σ max,app =1.2±0.1 and 33.3±0.1 MPa were obtained for a single microwire and nanowire, respectively. The universal AFM test platform described here enables the implementation and quantification of a thermomechanically induced function for individual polymeric micro- and nanosystems. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Incidental learning of probability information is differentially affected by the type of visual working memory representation.

PubMed

van Lamsweerde, Amanda E; Beck, Melissa R

2015-12-01

In this study, we investigated whether the ability to learn probability information is affected by the type of representation held in visual working memory. Across 4 experiments, participants detected changes to displays of coloured shapes. While participants detected changes in 1 dimension (e.g., colour), a feature from a second, nonchanging dimension (e.g., shape) predicted which object was most likely to change. In Experiments 1 and 3, items could be grouped by similarity in the changing dimension across items (e.g., colours and shapes were repeated in the display), while in Experiments 2 and 4 items could not be grouped by similarity (all features were unique). Probability information from the predictive dimension was learned and used to increase performance, but only when all of the features within a display were unique (Experiments 2 and 4). When it was possible to group by feature similarity in the changing dimension (e.g., 2 blue objects appeared within an array), participants were unable to learn probability information and use it to improve performance (Experiments 1 and 3). The results suggest that probability information can be learned in a dimension that is not explicitly task-relevant, but only when the probability information is represented with the changing dimension in visual working memory. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Biomedical applications of thermally activated shape memory polymers†

PubMed Central

Small, Ward; Singhal, Pooja; Wilson, Thomas S.

2011-01-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are smart materials that can remember a primary shape and can return to this primary shape from a deformed secondary shape when given an appropriate stimulus. This property allows them to be delivered in a compact form via minimally invasive surgeries in humans, and deployed to achieve complex final shapes. Here we review the various biomedical applications of SMPs and the challenges they face with respect to actuation and biocompatibility. While shape memory behavior has been demonstrated with heat, light and chemical environment, here we focus our discussion on thermally stimulated SMPs. PMID:21258605

Biomedical Applications of Thermally Activated Shape Memory Polymers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Small IV, W; Singhal, P; Wilson, T S

2009-04-10

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are smart materials that can remember a primary shape and can return to this primary shape from a deformed secondary shape when given an appropriate stimulus. This property allows them to be delivered in a compact form via minimally invasive surgeries in humans, and deployed to achieve complex final shapes. Here we review the various biomedical applications of SMPs and the challenges they face with respect to actuation and biocompatibility. While shape memory behavior has been demonstrated with heat, light and chemical environment, here we focus our discussion on thermally stimulated SMPs.

On the shape memory of red blood cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cordasco, Daniel; Bagchi, Prosenjit

2017-04-01

Red blood cells (RBCs) undergo remarkably large deformations when subjected to external forces but return to their biconcave discoid resting shape as the forces are withdrawn. In many experiments, such as when RBCs are subjected to a shear flow and undergo the tank-treading motion, the membrane elements are also displaced from their original (resting) locations along the cell surface with respect to the cell axis, in addition to the cell being deformed. A shape memory is said to exist if after the flow is stopped the RBC regains its biconcave shape and the membrane elements also return to their original locations. The shape memory of RBCs was demonstrated by Fischer ["Shape memory of human red blood cells," Biophys. J. 86, 3304-3313 (2004)] using shear flow go-and-stop experiments. Optical tweezer and micropipette based stretch-relaxation experiments do not reveal the complete shape memory because while the RBC may be deformed, the membrane elements are not significantly displaced from their original locations with respect to the cell axis. Here we present the first three-dimensional computational study predicting the complete shape memory of RBCs using shear flow go-and-stop simulations. The influence of different parameters, namely, membrane shear elasticity and bending rigidity, membrane viscosity, cytoplasmic and suspending fluid viscosity, as well as different stress-free states of the RBC is studied. For all cases, the RBCs always exhibit shape memory. The complete recovery of the RBC in shear flow go-and-stop simulations occurs over a time that is orders of magnitude longer than that for optical tweezer and micropipette based relaxations. The response is also observed to be more complex and composed of widely disparate time scales as opposed to only one time scale that characterizes the optical tweezer and micropipette based relaxations. We observe that the recovery occurs in three phases: a rapid compression of the RBC immediately after the flow is stopped, followed by a slow recovery to the biconcave shape combined with membrane rotation, and a final rotational return of the membrane elements back to their original locations. A fast time scale on the order of a few hundred milliseconds characterizes the initial compression phase while a slow time scale on the order of tens of seconds is associated with the rotational phase. We observe that the response is strongly dependent on the stress-free state of the cells, that is, the relaxation time decreases significantly and the mode of recovery changes from rotation-driven to deformation-driven as the stress-free state becomes more non-spherical. We show that while membrane shear elasticity and non-spherical stress-free shape are necessary and sufficient for the membrane elements to return to their original locations, bending rigidity is needed for the "global" recovery of the biconcave shape. We also perform a novel relaxation simulation in which the cell axis of revolution is not aligned with the shear plane and show that the shape memory is exhibited even when the membrane elements are displaced normal to the imposed flow direction. The results presented here could motivate new experiments to determine the exact stress-free state of the RBC and also to clearly identify different tank-treading modes.

Periodic Cellular Structure Technology for Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Edward Y.

2015-01-01

Shape memory alloys are being considered for a wide variety of adaptive components for engine and airframe applications because they can undergo large amounts of strain and then revert to their original shape upon heating or unloading. Transition45 Technologies, Inc., has developed an innovative periodic cellular structure (PCS) technology for shape memory alloys that enables fabrication of complex bulk configurations, such as lattice block structures. These innovative structures are manufactured using an advanced reactive metal casting technology that offers a relatively low cost and established approach for constructing near-net shape aerospace components. Transition45 is continuing to characterize these structures to determine how best to design a PCS to better exploit the use of shape memory alloys in aerospace applications.

Feature binding and attention in working memory: a resolution of previous contradictory findings.

PubMed

Allen, Richard J; Hitch, Graham J; Mate, Judit; Baddeley, Alan D

2012-01-01

We aimed to resolve an apparent contradiction between previous experiments from different laboratories, using dual-task methodology to compare effects of a concurrent executive load on immediate recognition memory for colours or shapes of items or their colour-shape combinations. Results of two experiments confirmed previous evidence that an irrelevant attentional load interferes equally with memory for features and memory for feature bindings. Detailed analyses suggested that previous contradictory evidence arose from limitations in the way recognition memory was measured. The present findings are inconsistent with an earlier suggestion that feature binding takes place within a multimodal episodic buffer Baddeley, ( 2000 ) and support a subsequent account in which binding takes place automatically prior to information entering the episodic buffer Baddeley, Allen, & Hitch, ( 2011 ). Methodologically, the results suggest that different measures of recognition memory performance (A', d', corrected recognition) give a converging picture of main effects, but are less consistent in detecting interactions. We suggest that this limitation on the reliability of measuring recognition should be taken into account in future research so as to avoid problems of replication that turn out to be more apparent than real.

Enhanced associative memory for colour (but not shape or location) in synaesthesia.

PubMed

Pritchard, Jamie; Rothen, Nicolas; Coolbear, Daniel; Ward, Jamie

2013-05-01

People with grapheme-colour synaesthesia have been shown to have enhanced memory on a range of tasks using both stimuli that induce synaesthesia (e.g. words) and, more surprisingly, stimuli that do not (e.g. certain abstract visual stimuli). This study examines the latter by using multi-featured stimuli consisting of shape, colour and location conjunctions (e.g. shape A+colour A+location A; shape B+colour B+location B) presented in a recognition memory paradigm. This enables distractor items to be created in which one of these features is 'unbound' with respect to the others (e.g. shape A+colour B+location A; shape A+colour A+location C). Synaesthetes had higher recognition rates suggesting an enhanced ability to bind certain visual features together into memory. Importantly, synaesthetes' false alarm rates were lower only when colour was the unbound feature, not shape or location. We suggest that synaesthetes are "colour experts" and that enhanced perception can lead to enhanced memory in very specific ways; but, not for instance, an enhanced ability to form associations per se. The results support contemporary models that propose a continuum between perception and memory. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Contribution of auditory working memory to speech understanding in mandarin-speaking cochlear implant users.

PubMed

Tao, Duoduo; Deng, Rui; Jiang, Ye; Galvin, John J; Fu, Qian-Jie; Chen, Bing

2014-01-01

To investigate how auditory working memory relates to speech perception performance by Mandarin-speaking cochlear implant (CI) users. Auditory working memory and speech perception was measured in Mandarin-speaking CI and normal-hearing (NH) participants. Working memory capacity was measured using forward digit span and backward digit span; working memory efficiency was measured using articulation rate. Speech perception was assessed with: (a) word-in-sentence recognition in quiet, (b) word-in-sentence recognition in speech-shaped steady noise at +5 dB signal-to-noise ratio, (c) Chinese disyllable recognition in quiet, (d) Chinese lexical tone recognition in quiet. Self-reported school rank was also collected regarding performance in schoolwork. There was large inter-subject variability in auditory working memory and speech performance for CI participants. Working memory and speech performance were significantly poorer for CI than for NH participants. All three working memory measures were strongly correlated with each other for both CI and NH participants. Partial correlation analyses were performed on the CI data while controlling for demographic variables. Working memory efficiency was significantly correlated only with sentence recognition in quiet when working memory capacity was partialled out. Working memory capacity was correlated with disyllable recognition and school rank when efficiency was partialled out. There was no correlation between working memory and lexical tone recognition in the present CI participants. Mandarin-speaking CI users experience significant deficits in auditory working memory and speech performance compared with NH listeners. The present data suggest that auditory working memory may contribute to CI users' difficulties in speech understanding. The present pattern of results with Mandarin-speaking CI users is consistent with previous auditory working memory studies with English-speaking CI users, suggesting that the lexical importance of voice pitch cues (albeit poorly coded by the CI) did not influence the relationship between working memory and speech perception.

Grouping and binding in visual short-term memory.

PubMed

Quinlan, Philip T; Cohen, Dale J

2012-09-01

Findings of 2 experiments are reported that challenge the current understanding of visual short-term memory (VSTM). In both experiments, a single study display, containing 6 colored shapes, was presented briefly and then probed with a single colored shape. At stake is how VSTM retains a record of different objects that share common features: In the 1st experiment, 2 study items sometimes shared a common feature (either a shape or a color). The data revealed a color sharing effect, in which memory was much better for items that shared a common color than for items that did not. The 2nd experiment showed that the size of the color sharing effect depended on whether a single pair of items shared a common color or whether 2 pairs of items were so defined-memory for all items improved when 2 color groups were presented. In explaining performance, an account is advanced in which items compete for a fixed number of slots, but then memory recall for any given stored item is prone to error. A critical assumption is that items that share a common color are stored together in a slot as a chunk. The evidence provides further support for the idea that principles of perceptual organization may determine the manner in which items are stored in VSTM. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved.

Multiple-object permanence tracking: limitation in maintenance and transformation of perceptual objects.

PubMed

Saiki, Jun

2002-01-01

Research on change blindness and transsaccadic memory revealed that a limited amount of information is retained across visual disruptions in visual working memory. It has been proposed that visual working memory can hold four to five coherent object representations. To investigate their maintenance and transformation in dynamic situations, I devised an experimental paradigm called multiple-object permanence tracking (MOPT) that measures memory for multiple feature-location bindings in dynamic situations. Observers were asked to detect any color switch in the middle of a regular rotation of a pattern with multiple colored disks behind an occluder. The color-switch detection performance dramatically declined as the pattern rotation velocity increased, and this effect of object motion was independent of the number of targets. The MOPT task with various shapes and colors showed that color-shape conjunctions are not available in the MOPT task. These results suggest that even completely predictable motion severely reduces our capacity of object representations, from four to only one or two.

Fabrication of silicon-based shape memory alloy micro-actuators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, A. David; Busch, John D.; Ray, Curtis A.; Sloan, Charles L.

1992-01-01

Thin film shape memory alloy has been integrated with silicon in a new actuation mechanism for microelectromechanical systems. This paper compares nickel-titanium film with other actuators, describes recent results of chemical milling processes developed to fabricate shape memory alloy microactuators in silicon, and describes simple actuation mechanisms which have been fabricated and tested.

An Evaluation on the Smart Composite Damaged by Thermal Shock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jin Kyung; Lee, Sang Pill; Park, Young Chul; Lee, Joon Hyun

A shape memory alloy (SMA) as part of some products and system has been used to keep their shape at any specified temperature. By using this characteristic of the shape memory alloy it can be solved the problem of the residual stress by difference of coefficients of thermal expansion between reinforcement and matrix within composite. In this study, TiNi/Al6061 shape memory alloy composite was fabricated through hot press method, and the optimal fabrication condition was created. The bonding effect of the matrix and the reinforcement within the SMA composite was strengthened by cold rolling. The SMA composite can be applied as the part of airplane and vessel, and used under tough condition of repetitive thermal shock cycles of high and low temperatures. Therefore, the thermal shock test was performed for the SMA composite, and mechanical properties were evaluated. The tensile strength of the SMA composite showed a slight decline with the thermal shock cycles. In addition, acoustic emission (AE) technique was used to quantify the microscopic damage behavior of cold rolled TiNi/Al6061 shape memory alloy composite that underwent thermal shock cycles. The damage degree on the specimen that underwent thermal shock cycles was discussed. Actually AE parameters such as AE event, count and energy was analyzed, and these parameters was useful to evaluate the damage behavior and degree of the SMA composite. The waveform of the signal caused by debonding was pulse type, and showed the frequency range of 160 kHz, however, the signal by the fiber fracture showed the pulse type of high magnitude and frequency range of 220 kH.

Multi-range force sensors utilizing shape memory alloys

DOEpatents

Varma, Venugopal K.

2003-04-15

The present invention provides a multi-range force sensor comprising a load cell made of a shape memory alloy, a strain sensing system, a temperature modulating system, and a temperature monitoring system. The ability of the force sensor to measure contact forces in multiple ranges is effected by the change in temperature of the shape memory alloy. The heating and cooling system functions to place the shape memory alloy of the load cell in either a low temperature, low strength phase for measuring small contact forces, or a high temperature, high strength phase for measuring large contact forces. Once the load cell is in the desired phase, the strain sensing system is utilized to obtain the applied contact force. The temperature monitoring system is utilized to ensure that the shape memory alloy is in one phase or the other.

Understanding the shape-memory alloys used in orthodontics.

PubMed

Fernandes, Daniel J; Peres, Rafael V; Mendes, Alvaro M; Elias, Carlos N

2011-01-01

Nickel-titanium (NiTi) shape-memory alloys (SMAs) have been used in the manufacture of orthodontic wires due to their shape memory properties, super-elasticity, high ductility, and resistance to corrosion. SMAs have greater strength and lower modulus of elasticity when compared with stainless steel alloys. The pseudoelastic behavior of NiTi wires means that on unloading they return to their original shape by delivering light continuous forces over a wider range of deformation which is claimed to allow dental displacements. The aim of this paper is to discuss the physical, metallurgical, and mechanical properties of NiTi used in Orthodontics in order to analyze the shape memory properties, super-elasticity, and thermomechanical characteristics of SMA.

Shape memory alloys: Properties and biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mantovani, Diego

2000-10-01

Shape memory alloys provide new insights for the design of biomaterials in bioengineering for the design of artificial organs and advanced surgical instruments, since they have specific characteristics and unusual properties. This article will examine (a) the four properties of shape memory alloys, (b) medical applications with high potential for improving the present and future quality of life, and (c) concerns regarding the biocom-patibility properties of nickel-titanium alloys. In particular, the long-term challenges of using shape memory alloys will be discussed, regarding corrosion and potential leakage of elements and ions that could be toxic to cells, tissues and organs.

Resistively heated shape memory polymer device

DOEpatents

Marion, III, John E.; Bearinger, Jane P.; Wilson, Thomas S.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2017-09-05

A resistively heated shape memory polymer device is made by providing a rod, sheet or substrate that includes a resistive medium. The rod, sheet or substrate is coated with a first shape memory polymer providing a coated intermediate unit. The coated intermediate unit is in turn coated with a conductive material providing a second intermediate unit. The second coated intermediate unit is in turn coated with an outer shape memory polymer. The rod, sheet or substrate is exposed and an electrical lead is attached to the rod, sheet or substrate. The conductive material is exposed and an electrical lead is attached to the conductive material.

Resistively heated shape memory polymer device

DOEpatents

Marion, III, John E.; Bearinger, Jane P.; Wilson, Thomas S.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2016-10-25

A resistively heated shape memory polymer device is made by providing a rod, sheet or substrate that includes a resistive medium. The rod, sheet or substrate is coated with a first shape memory polymer providing a coated intermediate unit. The coated intermediate unit is in turn coated with a conductive material providing a second intermediate unit. The second coated intermediate unit is in turn coated with an outer shape memory polymer. The rod, sheet or substrate is exposed and an electrical lead is attached to the rod, sheet or substrate. The conductive material is exposed and an electrical lead is attached to the conductive material.

Synthesis and characterization of shape memory poly (epsilon-caprolactone) polyurethane-ureas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Hongfeng

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) have attracted significant interest in recent times because of their potential applications in a number of areas, such as medical devices and textiles. However, there are some major drawbacks of SMPs, such as their relatively low moduli resulting in small recovery stresses, and their long response times compared with shape memory alloys (SMAs). A suitable recovery stress which comes from the elastic recovery stress generated in the deformation process is critical in some medical devices. To address some of these shortcomings, the work in this dissertation mainly focuses on the design and synthesis of linear shape memory polymers with higher recovery stress. A series of segmented poly (epsilon-caprolactone) polyurethane-ureas (PCLUUs) were prepared from poly (epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) diol, different dissociates and chain extenders. NMR and FT-IR were used to identify the structure of the synthesized shape memory polyurethane-ureas. Parameters such as soft segment content (molecular weight and content), chain extender and the rigidity of the main chain were investigated to understand the structure-property relationships of the shape memory polymer systems through DSC, DMA, physical property test, etc. Cyclic thermal mechanic tests were applied to measure the shape memory properties which showed that the recovery stress can be improved above 200% simply by modifying the chain extender. Meanwhile, the synthesis process was optimized to be similar to that of Spandex /LYCRA®. Continuous fibers form shape memory polyurethane-ureas were made from a wet spinning process, which indicated excellent spinnability of the polymer solution. Small angle neutron scattering (SANS) was used to study the morphology of the hard segment at different temperatures and stretch rates and found that the monodisperse rigid cylinder model fit the SANS data quite well. From the cylinder model, the radius of the cylinder increased with increasing hard segment content. The SANS results revealed phase separation of hard and soft segments into nano scale domains. The overall objectives of this dissertation were: ■ To improve the recovery stress of linear shape memory polymers. ■ To study the morphology and structure property relationships of shape memory polymers. Chapter 1 reviews the literature on SMAs and SMPs, especially on linear SMPs. Chapter 2 is devoted to SMPUUs with the aliphatic amine 1, 4-Butanediamine (BDA) as chain extender. Chapter 3 reports the effects of different aliphatic diamines as the chain extenders. Chapter 4 covers the results for shape memory polyurethane-ureas with aromatic diamine 4, 4’-Methylenedianiline (MDA) as the chain extender. The effect of different diisocyanates is covered in Chapter 5. Chapter 6-7 show some synthesized polymer systems with unimproved recovery stress or even no shape memory properties. The overall conclusions of this work are reported in Chapter 8.

Synergistic Effects among the Structure, Martensite Transformation and Shear Band in a Shape Memory Alloy-Metallic Glass Composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xudong; Ren, Junqiang; Ding, Xiangdong

2018-05-01

In this work, we use the finite element method to investigate the free volume evolution, as well as the martensite transformation effect and its connection with the pretreatment strain, in a shape memory alloy-metallic glass composite. Our simulation results show that the martensite phase transformation can enhance the blocking effect while relieving the free volume localization. The synergistic effect among the martensite transformation effect, blocking effect, and shear band interaction in the composite is responsible for the tensile plasticity and work-hardening capability. In addition, we design a Sierpinski carpet-like fractal microstructure so that the composite exhibits improved tensile performance as a result of the enhanced synergistic effect. However, the tensile performance of the composite deteriorates with increasing pretreatment strain since the martensite transformation effect is weakened.

Design and analysis of variable-twist tiltrotor blades using shape memory alloy hybrid composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jae-Sang; Kim, Seong-Hwan; Jung, Sung Nam; Lee, Myeong-Kyu

2011-01-01

The tiltrotor blade, or proprotor, acts as a rotor in the helicopter mode and as a propeller in the airplane mode. For a better performance, the proprotor should have different built-in twist distributions along the blade span, suitable for each operational mode. This paper proposes a new variable-twist proprotor concept that can adjust the built-in twist distribution for given flight modes. For a variable-twist control, the present proprotor adopts shape memory alloy hybrid composites (SMAHC) containing shape memory alloy (SMA) wires embedded in the composite matrix. The proprotor of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) Smart Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (SUAV), which is based on the tiltrotor concept, is used as a baseline proprotor model. The cross-sectional properties of the variable-twist proprotor are designed to maintain the cross-sectional properties of the original proprotor as closely as possible. However, the torsion stiffness is significantly reduced to accommodate the variable-twist control. A nonlinear flexible multibody dynamic analysis is employed to investigate the dynamic characteristics of the proprotor such as natural frequency and damping in the whirl flutter mode, the blade structural loads in a transition flight and the rotor performance in hover. The numerical results show that the present proprotor is designed to have a strong similarity to the baseline proprotor in dynamic and load characteristics. It is demonstrated that the present proprotor concept could be used to improve the hover performance adaptively when the variable-twist control using the SMAHC is applied appropriately.

Durability of carbon fiber reinforced shape memory polymer composites in space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, Joon Hyeok; Hong, Seok Bin; Ahn, Yong San; Kim, Jin-Gyun; Nam, Yong-Youn; Lee, Geun Ho; Yu, Woong-Ryeol

2016-04-01

Shape memory polymer (SMP) is one of smart polymers which exhibit shape memory effect upon external stimuli. Recently, shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) have been considered for space structure instead of shape memory alloys due to their deformability, lightweight and large recovery ratio, requiring characterization of their mechanical properties against harsh space environment and further prediction of the durability of SMPCs in space. As such, the durability of carbon fiber reinforced shape memory polymer composites (CF-SMPCs) was investigated using accelerated testing method based on short-term testing of CF-SMPCs in harsh condition. CF-SMPCs were prepared using woven carbon fabrics and a thermoset SMP via vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. Bending tests with constant strain rate of CF-SMPCs were conducted using universal tensile machine (UTM) and Storage modulus test were conducted using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Using the results, a master curve based on time-temperature superposition principle was then constructed, through which the mechanical properties of CF-SMPCs at harsh temperature were predicted. CF-SMPCs would be exposed to simulated space environments under ultra-violet radiations at various temperatures. The mechanical properties including flexural and tensile strength and shape memory properties of SMPCs would be measured using UTM before and after such exposures for comparison. Finally, the durability of SMPCs in space would be assessed by developing a degradation model of SMPC.

Effects of noise and working memory capacity on memory processing of speech for hearing-aid users.

PubMed

Ng, Elaine Hoi Ning; Rudner, Mary; Lunner, Thomas; Pedersen, Michael Syskind; Rönnberg, Jerker

2013-07-01

It has been shown that noise reduction algorithms can reduce the negative effects of noise on memory processing in persons with normal hearing. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether a similar effect can be obtained for persons with hearing impairment and whether such an effect is dependent on individual differences in working memory capacity. A sentence-final word identification and recall (SWIR) test was conducted in two noise backgrounds with and without noise reduction as well as in quiet. Working memory capacity was measured using a reading span (RS) test. Twenty-six experienced hearing-aid users with moderate to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss. Noise impaired recall performance. Competing speech disrupted memory performance more than speech-shaped noise. For late list items the disruptive effect of the competing speech background was virtually cancelled out by noise reduction for persons with high working memory capacity. Noise reduction can reduce the adverse effect of noise on memory for speech for persons with good working memory capacity. We argue that the mechanism behind this is faster word identification that enhances encoding into working memory.

Appearance of the two-way shape-memory effect in a nitinol spring subjected to temperature and deformation cycling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manjavidze, A. G.; Barnov, V. A.; Jorjishvili, L. I.; Sobolevskaya, S. V.

2008-03-01

The properties of a cylindrical spiral spring of nitinol (shape-memory alloy) are studied. When this spring is used as a working element in a rotary martensitic engine, the appearance of the two-way shape-memory effect in it is shown to decrease the engine operation efficiency.

Static analysis of C-shape SMA middle ear prosthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latalski, Jarosław; Rusinek, Rafał

2017-08-01

Shape memory alloys are a family of metals with the ability to change specimen shape depending on their temperature. This unique property is useful in many areas of mechanical and biomechanical engineering. A new half-ring middle ear prosthesis design made of a shape memory alloy, that is undergoing initial clinical tests, is investigated in this research paper. The analytical model of the studied structure made of nonlinear constitutive material is solved to identify the temperature-dependent stiffness characteristics of the proposed design on the basis of the Crotti-Engesser theorem. The final integral expression for the element deflection is highly complex, thus the solution has to be computed numerically. The final results show the proposed shape memory C-shape element to behave linearly in the analysed range of loadings and temperatures. This is an important observation that significantly simplifies the analysis of the prototype structure and opens wide perspectives for further possible applications of shape memory alloys.

Ternary Polymeric Composites Exhibiting Bulk and Surface Quadruple-Shape Memory Properties.

PubMed

Buffington, Shelby Lois; Posnick, Benjamin M; Paul, Justine Elizabeth; Mather, Patrick T

2018-06-19

We report the design and characterization of a multiphase quadruple shape memory composite capable of switching between 4 programmed shapes, three temporary and one permanent. Our approach combined two previously reported fabrication methods by embedding an electrospun mat of PCL in a miscible blend of epoxy monomers and PMMA as a composite matrix. As epoxy polymerization occurred the matrix underwent phase separation between the epoxy and PMMA materials. This created a multiphase composite with PCL fibers and a two-phase matrix composed of phase-separated epoxy and PMMA. The resulting composite demonstrated three separate thermal transitions and amenability to mechanical programming of three separate temporary shapes in addition to one final, equilibrium shape. In addition, quadruple surface shape memory abilities are successfully demonstrated. The versatility of this approach offers a large degree of design flexibility for multi-shape memory materials. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Two-way shape memory behavior of semi-crystalline elastomer under stress-free condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Chen; Dong, Yubing; Zhu, Yaofeng; Fu, Yaqin

2016-08-01

Semi-crystalline shape memory polymers exhibit two-way shape memory effect (2W-SME) under constant stresses through crystallization-induced elongation upon cooling and melting-induced constriction upon heating. The applied constant stress influenced the prediction and usability of 2W-SME in practical applications without any external force. Here the reversible shape transition in EVA-shaped memory polymer was quantitative analyzed under a suitable temperature range and external stress-free condition. The fraction of reversible strain increased with increasing upper temperature (T high) within the temperature range and reached the maximum value of 13.62% at 70 °C. However, reversible strain transition was almost lost when T high exceeded 80 °C because of complete melting of crystalline scaffold, known as the latent recrystallization template. The non-isothermal annealing of EVA 2W-SMP under changing circulating temperatures was confirmed. Moreover, the orientation of crystallization was retained at high temperatures. These findings may contribute to design an appropriate shape memory protocol based on application-specific requirements.

Elastic poly(ε-caprolactone)-polydimethylsiloxane copolymer fibers with shape memory effect for bone tissue engineering.

PubMed

Kai, Dan; Prabhakaran, Molamma P; Chan, Benjamin Qi Yu; Liow, Sing Shy; Ramakrishna, Seeram; Xu, Fujian; Loh, Xian Jun

2016-02-02

A porous shape memory scaffold with biomimetic architecture is highly promising for bone tissue engineering applications. In this study, a series of new shape memory polyurethanes consisting of organic poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) segments and inorganic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) segments in different ratios (9 : 1, 8 : 2 and 7 : 3) was synthesised. These PCL-PDMS copolymers were further engineered into porous fibrous scaffolds by electrospinning. With different ratios of PCL: PDMS, the fibers showed various fiber diameters, thermal behaviour and mechanical properties. Even after being processed into fibrous structures, these PCL-PDMS copolymers maintained their shape memory properties, and all the fibers exhibited excellent shape recovery ratios of  >90% and shape fixity ratios of  >92% after 7 thermo-mechanical cycles. Biological assay results corroborated that the fibrous PCL-PDMS scaffolds were biocompatible by promoting osteoblast proliferation, functionally enhanced biomineralization-relevant alkaline phosphatase expression and mineral deposition. Our study demonstrated that the PCL-PDMS fibers with excellent shape memory properties are promising substrates as bioengineered grafts for bone regeneration.

Thermomechanical Analysis of Shape-Memory Composite Tape Spring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, H.; Wang, L. Y.

2013-06-01

Intelligent materials and structures have been extensively applied for satellite designs in order to minimize the mass and reduce the cost in the launch of the spacecraft. Elastic memory composites (EMCs) have the ability of high-strain packaging and shape-memory effect, but increase the parts and total weight due to the additional heating system. Shape-memory sandwich structures Li and Wang (J. Intell. Mater. Syst. Struct. 22(14), 1605-1612, 2011) can overcome such disadvantage by using the metal skin acting as the heating element. However, the high strain in the micro-buckled metal skin decreases the deployment efficiency. This paper aims to present an insight into the folding and deployment behaviors of shape-memory composite (SMC) tape springs. A thermomechanical process was analyzed, including the packaging deformation at an elevated temperature, shape frozen at the low temperature and shape recovery after reheating. The result shows that SMC tape springs can significantly decrease the strain concentration in the metal skin, as well as exhibiting excellent shape frozen and recovery behaviors. Additionally, possible failure modes of SMC tape springs were also analyzed.

A multiple-shape memory polymer-metal composite actuator capable of programmable control, creating complex 3D motion of bending, twisting, and oscillation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Qi; Trabia, Sarah; Stalbaum, Tyler; Palmre, Viljar; Kim, Kwang; Oh, Il-Kwon

2016-04-01

Development of biomimetic actuators has been an essential motivation in the study of smart materials. However, few materials are capable of controlling complex twisting and bending deformations simultaneously or separately using a dynamic control system. Here, we report an ionic polymer-metal composite actuator having multiple-shape memory effect, and is able to perform complex motion by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. Prior to the development of this type of actuator, this capability only could be realized with existing actuator technologies by using multiple actuators or another robotic system. This paper introduces a soft multiple-shape-memory polymer-metal composite (MSMPMC) actuator having multiple degrees-of-freedom that demonstrates high maneuverability when controlled by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. These multiple inputs allow for complex motions that are routine in nature, but that would be otherwise difficult to obtain with a single actuator. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this MSMPMC actuator is the first solitary actuator capable of multiple-input control and the resulting deformability and maneuverability.

A multiple-shape memory polymer-metal composite actuator capable of programmable control, creating complex 3D motion of bending, twisting, and oscillation

PubMed Central

Shen, Qi; Trabia, Sarah; Stalbaum, Tyler; Palmre, Viljar; Kim, Kwang; Oh, Il-Kwon

2016-01-01

Development of biomimetic actuators has been an essential motivation in the study of smart materials. However, few materials are capable of controlling complex twisting and bending deformations simultaneously or separately using a dynamic control system. Here, we report an ionic polymer-metal composite actuator having multiple-shape memory effect, and is able to perform complex motion by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. Prior to the development of this type of actuator, this capability only could be realized with existing actuator technologies by using multiple actuators or another robotic system. This paper introduces a soft multiple-shape-memory polymer-metal composite (MSMPMC) actuator having multiple degrees-of-freedom that demonstrates high maneuverability when controlled by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. These multiple inputs allow for complex motions that are routine in nature, but that would be otherwise difficult to obtain with a single actuator. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this MSMPMC actuator is the first solitary actuator capable of multiple-input control and the resulting deformability and maneuverability. PMID:27080134

A multiple-shape memory polymer-metal composite actuator capable of programmable control, creating complex 3D motion of bending, twisting, and oscillation.

PubMed

Shen, Qi; Trabia, Sarah; Stalbaum, Tyler; Palmre, Viljar; Kim, Kwang; Oh, Il-Kwon

2016-04-15

Development of biomimetic actuators has been an essential motivation in the study of smart materials. However, few materials are capable of controlling complex twisting and bending deformations simultaneously or separately using a dynamic control system. Here, we report an ionic polymer-metal composite actuator having multiple-shape memory effect, and is able to perform complex motion by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. Prior to the development of this type of actuator, this capability only could be realized with existing actuator technologies by using multiple actuators or another robotic system. This paper introduces a soft multiple-shape-memory polymer-metal composite (MSMPMC) actuator having multiple degrees-of-freedom that demonstrates high maneuverability when controlled by two external inputs, electrical and thermal. These multiple inputs allow for complex motions that are routine in nature, but that would be otherwise difficult to obtain with a single actuator. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this MSMPMC actuator is the first solitary actuator capable of multiple-input control and the resulting deformability and maneuverability.

Fabrication and characterization of shape memory polymers at small-scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wornyo, Edem

The objective of this research is to thoroughly investigate the shape memory effect in polymers, characterize, and optimize these polymers for applications in information storage systems. Previous research effort in this field concentrated on shape memory metals for biomedical applications such as stents. Minimal work has been done on shape memory polymers; and the available work on shape memory polymers has not characterized the behaviors of this category of polymers fully. Copolymer shape memory materials based on diethylene glycol dimethacrylate (DEGDMA) crosslinker, and tert butyl acrylate (tBA) monomer are designed. The design encompasses a careful control of the backbone chemistry of the materials. Characterization methods such as dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); and novel nanoscale techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), and nanoindentation are applied to this system of materials. Designed experiments are conducted on the materials to optimize spin coating conditions for thin films. Furthermore, the recovery, a key for the use of these polymeric materials for information storage, is examined in detail with respect to temperature. In sum, the overarching objectives of the proposed research are to: (i) Design shape memory polymers based on polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) and diethylene glycol dimethacrylate (DEGDMA) crosslinkers, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and tert-butyl acrylate monomer (tBA). (ii) Utilize dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) to comprehend the thermomechanical properties of shape memory polymers based on DEGDMA and tBA. (iii) Utilize nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to understand the nanoscale behavior of these SMPs, and explore the strain storage and recovery of the polymers from a deformed state. (iv) Study spin coating conditions on thin film quality with designed experiments. (iv) Apply neural networks and genetic algorithms to optimize these systems.

An approach to predict the shape-memory behavior of amorphous polymers from Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuki, Ákos; Czifrák, Katalin; Karger-Kocsis, József; Zsuga, Miklós; Kéki, Sándor

2015-02-01

The prediction of shape-memory behavior is essential regarding the design of a smart material for different applications. This paper proposes a simple and quick method for the prediction of shape-memory behavior of amorphous shape memory polymers (SMPs) on the basis of a single dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) temperature sweep at constant frequency. All the parameters of the constitutive equations for linear viscoelasticity are obtained by fitting the DMA curves. The change with the temperature of the time-temperature superposition shift factor ( a T ) is expressed by the Williams-Landel-Ferry (WLF) model near and above the glass transition temperature ( T g ), and by the Arrhenius law below T g . The constants of the WLF and Arrhenius equations can also be determined. The results of our calculations agree satisfactorily with the experimental free recovery curves from shape-memory tests.

Shape Memory Characteristics of Ti(sub 49.5)Ni(sub 25)Pd(sub 25)Sc(sub 0.5) High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloy After Severe Plastic Deformation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atli, K. C.; Karaman, I.; Noebe, R. D.; Garg, A.; Chumlyakov, Y. I.; Kireeva, I. V.

2011-01-01

A Ti(49.5)Ni25Pd25Sc(0.5) high-temperature shape memory alloy is thermomechanically processed to obtain enhanced shape-memory characteristics: in particular, dimensional stability upon repeated thermal cycles under constant loads. This is accomplished using severe plastic deformation via equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) and post-processing annealing heat treatments. The results of the thermomechanical experiments reveal that the processed materials display enhanced shape memory response, exhibiting higher recoverable transformation and reduced irrecoverable strain levels upon thermal cycling compared with the unprocessed material. This improvement is attributed to the increased strength and resistance of the material against defect generation upon phase transformation as a result of the microstructural refinement due to the ECAE process, as supported by the electron microscopy observations.

Dynamically Cross-linked Elastomer Hybrids with Light-Induced Rapid and Efficient Self-Healing Ability and Reprogrammable Shape Memory Behavior.

PubMed

Bai, Jing; Shi, Zixing

2017-08-16

Pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were activated to exhibit Diels-Alder (DA) reactivity in a polymer matrix, which was modified with monomers containing furan groups. The DA-active polymer matrix was transferred into a dynamic reversible cross-linked inorganic-organic network via a Diels-Alder reaction with CNTs, where pristine CNTs were used as dienophile chemicals and furan-modified SBS acted as the macromolecular diene. In this system, the mechanical properties as well as resilience and solvent resistance were greatly improved even with the presence of only 1 wt % CNTs. Meanwhile, the hybrids retained recyclability and exhibited some smart behaviors, including self-healing and reprogrammable shape memory properties. Furthermore, due to the photothermal effect of CNTs, a retro-Diels-Alder (rDA) reaction was activated under laser irradiation, and healing of a crack on the hybrid surface was demonstrated in approximately 10 s with almost complete recovery of the mechanical properties. Such fast and efficient self-healing performance provides a new concept in designing self-healing nanocomposites with tunable structures and mechanical properties. Furthermore, the DA and rDA reactions could be combined to reprogram the shape memory behavior under laser irradiation or thermal treatment, wherein the temporary shape of the sample could be transferred to a permanent shape via the rDA reaction at high temperature.

A Novel Shape Memory Plate Osteosynthesis for Noninvasive Modulation of Fixation Stiffness in a Rabbit Tibia Osteotomy Model

PubMed Central

Müller, Christian W.; Pfeifer, Ronny; Meier, Karen; Decker, Sebastian; Reifenrath, Janin; Gösling, Thomas; Wesling, Volker; Krettek, Christian; Krämer, Manuel

2015-01-01

Nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (NiTi-SMA) implants might allow modulating fracture healing, changing their stiffness through alteration of both elastic modulus and cross-sectional shape by employing the shape memory effect (SME). Hypotheses: a novel NiTi-SMA plate stabilizes tibia osteotomies in rabbits. After noninvasive electromagnetic induction heating the alloy exhibits the SME and the plate changes towards higher stiffness (inverse dynamization) resulting in increased fixation stiffness and equal or better bony healing. In 14 rabbits, 1.0 mm tibia osteotomies were fixed with our experimental plate. Animals were randomised for control or induction heating at three weeks postoperatively. Repetitive X-ray imaging and in vivo measurements of bending stiffness were performed. After sacrifice at 8 weeks, macroscopic evaluation, µCT, and post mortem bending tests of the tibiae were carried out. One death and one early implant dislocation occurred. Following electromagnetic induction heating, radiographic and macroscopic changes of the implant proved successful SME activation. All osteotomies healed. In the treatment group, bending stiffness increased over time. Differences between groups were not significant. In conclusion, we demonstrated successful healing of rabbit tibia osteotomies using our novel NiTi-SMA plate. We demonstrated shape-changing SME in-vivo through transcutaneous electromagnetic induction heating. Thus, future orthopaedic implants could be modified without additional surgery. PMID:26167493

A novel binary shape context for 3D local surface description

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Zhen; Yang, Bisheng; Liu, Yuan; Liang, Fuxun; Li, Bijun; Zang, Yufu

2017-08-01

3D local surface description is now at the core of many computer vision technologies, such as 3D object recognition, intelligent driving, and 3D model reconstruction. However, most of the existing 3D feature descriptors still suffer from low descriptiveness, weak robustness, and inefficiency in both time and memory. To overcome these challenges, this paper presents a robust and descriptive 3D Binary Shape Context (BSC) descriptor with high efficiency in both time and memory. First, a novel BSC descriptor is generated for 3D local surface description, and the performance of the BSC descriptor under different settings of its parameters is analyzed. Next, the descriptiveness, robustness, and efficiency in both time and memory of the BSC descriptor are evaluated and compared to those of several state-of-the-art 3D feature descriptors. Finally, the performance of the BSC descriptor for 3D object recognition is also evaluated on a number of popular benchmark datasets, and an urban-scene dataset is collected by a terrestrial laser scanner system. Comprehensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed BSC descriptor obtained high descriptiveness, strong robustness, and high efficiency in both time and memory and achieved high recognition rates of 94.8%, 94.1% and 82.1% on the considered UWA, Queen, and WHU datasets, respectively.

3D Printing of Shape Memory Polymers for Flexible Electronic Devices.

PubMed

Zarek, Matt; Layani, Michael; Cooperstein, Ido; Sachyani, Ela; Cohn, Daniel; Magdassi, Shlomo

2016-06-01

The formation of 3D objects composed of shape memory polymers for flexible electronics is described. Layer-by-layer photopolymerization of methacrylated semicrystalline molten macromonomers by a 3D digital light processing printer enables rapid fabrication of complex objects and imparts shape memory functionality for electrical circuits. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fatigue Resistance of Liquid-assisted Self-repairing Aluminum Alloys Reinforced with Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, M. Clara; Manuel, Michele; Wallace, Terryl

2013-01-01

A self-repairing aluminum-based composite system has been developed using a liquid-assisted healing theory in conjunction with the shape memory effect of wire reinforcements. The metal-metal composite was thermodynamically designed to have a matrix with a relatively even dispersion of a low-melting eutectic phase, allowing for repair of cracks at a predetermined temperature. Additionally, shape memory alloy (SMA) wire reinforcements were used within the composite to provide crack closure. Investigators focused the research on fatigue cracks propagating through the matrix in order to show a proof-of-concept Shape Memory Alloy Self-Healing (SMASH) technology for aeronautical applications.

Ni-Mn-Ga shape memory nanoactuation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kohl, M., E-mail: manfred.kohl@kit.edu; Schmitt, M.; Krevet, B.

2014-01-27

To probe finite size effects in ferromagnetic shape memory nanoactuators, double-beam structures with minimum dimensions down to 100 nm are designed, fabricated, and characterized in-situ in a scanning electron microscope with respect to their coupled thermo-elastic and electro-thermal properties. Electrical resistance and mechanical beam bending tests demonstrate a reversible thermal shape memory effect down to 100 nm. Electro-thermal actuation involves large temperature gradients along the nanobeam in the order of 100 K/μm. We discuss the influence of surface and twin boundary energies and explain why free-standing nanoactuators behave differently compared to constrained geometries like films and nanocrystalline shape memory alloys.

Ni-Mn-Ga shape memory nanoactuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kohl, M.; Schmitt, M.; Backen, A.; Schultz, L.; Krevet, B.; Fähler, S.

2014-01-01

To probe finite size effects in ferromagnetic shape memory nanoactuators, double-beam structures with minimum dimensions down to 100 nm are designed, fabricated, and characterized in-situ in a scanning electron microscope with respect to their coupled thermo-elastic and electro-thermal properties. Electrical resistance and mechanical beam bending tests demonstrate a reversible thermal shape memory effect down to 100 nm. Electro-thermal actuation involves large temperature gradients along the nanobeam in the order of 100 K/μm. We discuss the influence of surface and twin boundary energies and explain why free-standing nanoactuators behave differently compared to constrained geometries like films and nanocrystalline shape memory alloys.

Shape Memory Polyurethane Materials Containing Ferromagnetic Iron Oxide and Graphene Nanoplatelets

PubMed Central

Urban, Magdalena

2017-01-01

Intelligent materials, such as memory shape polymers, have attracted considerable attention due to wide range of possible applications. Currently, intensive research is underway, in matters of obtaining memory shape materials that can be actuated via inductive methods, for example with help of magnetic field. In this work, an attempt was made to develop a new polymer composite—polyurethane modified with graphene nanoplates and ferromagnetic iron oxides—with improved mechanical properties and introduced magnetic and memory shape properties. Based on the conducted literature review, gathered data were compared to the results of similar materials. Obtained materials were tested for their thermal, rheological, mechanical and shape memory properties. Structure of both fillers and composites were also analyzed using various spectroscopic methods. The addition of fillers to the polyurethane matrix improved the mechanical and shape memory properties, without having a noticeable impact on thermal properties. As it was expected, the high content of fillers caused a significant change in viscosity of filled prepolymers (during the synthesis stage). Each of the studied composites showed better mechanical properties than the unmodified polyurethanes. The addition of magnetic particles introduced additional properties to the composite, which could significantly expand the functionality of the materials developed in this work. PMID:28906445

Shape Memory Polyurethane Materials Containing Ferromagnetic Iron Oxide and Graphene Nanoplatelets.

PubMed

Urban, Magdalena; Strankowski, Michał

2017-09-14

Intelligent materials, such as memory shape polymers, have attracted considerable attention due to wide range of possible applications. Currently, intensive research is underway, in matters of obtaining memory shape materials that can be actuated via inductive methods, for example with help of magnetic field. In this work, an attempt was made to develop a new polymer composite-polyurethane modified with graphene nanoplates and ferromagnetic iron oxides-with improved mechanical properties and introduced magnetic and memory shape properties. Based on the conducted literature review, gathered data were compared to the results of similar materials. Obtained materials were tested for their thermal, rheological, mechanical and shape memory properties. Structure of both fillers and composites were also analyzed using various spectroscopic methods. The addition of fillers to the polyurethane matrix improved the mechanical and shape memory properties, without having a noticeable impact on thermal properties. As it was expected, the high content of fillers caused a significant change in viscosity of filled prepolymers (during the synthesis stage). Each of the studied composites showed better mechanical properties than the unmodified polyurethanes. The addition of magnetic particles introduced additional properties to the composite, which could significantly expand the functionality of the materials developed in this work.

Effect of nitrogen on iron-manganese-based shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ariapour, Azita

Shape memory effect is due to a reversible martensitic transformation. The major drawback in case of Fe-Mn-based shape memory alloys is their inferior shape memory effect compared to Ni-Ti and Cu-based shape memory alloys and their low strength and corrosion resistance compared to steel alloys. It is known that by increasing the alloy strength the shape memory effect can be improved. Nitrogen in solid solution can increase the strength of steels to a greater extent than other major alloying elements. However, its effect on shape memory effect of Fe-Mn-based alloys is ambiguous. In this work first we investigated the effect of nitrogen addition in solid solution on both shape memory effect (SME) and strength of a Fe-Mn-Cr-Ni-Si shape memory alloy (SMA). It was found that interstitial nitrogen suppressed the shape memory effect in these alloys. As an example addition of 0.24 wt % nitrogen in solid solution to the alloy system suppressed the SME by ˜80% and increased the strength by 20%. A reduction of martensitic phase formation was found to be the dominant factor in suppression of the SME. This was related, experimentally and theoretically to stacking fault energy of the alloy as well as the driving force and friction force during the transformation. The second approach was doping the alloy with both 0.36 wt% of nitrogen and 0.36 wt% of niobium. Niobium has great affinity for nitrogen and thus NbN dispersed particles can be produced in the alloy following hot rolling. Then particles prevent growth of the alloy and increase the strength of the alloy due to reduced grain size, and precipitation hardening. The improvement of SME in this alloy compared to the interstitial containing alloys was due to the large removal of the nitrogen from solid solution. In case of all the alloys studied in this work, the presence of nitrogen in solid solution improved the corrosion resistance of the alloy. This suggests that nitrogen can replace nickel in the alloy. One of the proposed applications for high strength Fe-Mn-based alloys is as tendon rods in prestressed concrete. The advantage of M alloys in this application is the possibility of producing curved structural prestressed concrete.

A Shape-Memory Alloy Thermal Conduction Switch for Use at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaidyanathan, Raj

2004-01-01

The following summarizes the activities performed under NASA grant NAG10-323 from September 1, 2002 through September 30, 2004 at the. Univ ersity of Central Florida. A version of this has already been submitt ed for publication in the international journal Swart Materials and S tructures in December 2004. Additionally, a version of this has alrea dy appeared in print in Advances in Cryogenic Engineering, American Institute of Physics, (2004) 50A 26-3; in an article entitled "A Shape Memory Alloy Based Cryogenic Thermal Conduction Switch" by V.B. Krish nan. J.D. Singh. T.R. Woodruff. W.U. Notardonato and R. Vaidyanathan (article is attached at the end of this report).

Simulation of fatigue fracture of TiNi shape memory alloy samples at cyclic loading in pseudoelastic state

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belyaev, Fedor S.; Volkov, Aleksandr E.; Evard, Margarita E.; Khvorov, Aleksandr A.

2018-05-01

Microstructural simulation of mechanical behavior of shape memory alloy samples at cyclic loading in the pseudoelastic state has been carried out. Evolution of the oriented and scattered deformation defects leading to damage accumulation and resulting in the fatigue fracture has been taken into account. Simulations were performed for the regime of loading imitating that for endovascular stents: preliminary straining, unloading, deformation up to some mean level of the strain and subsequent mechanical cycling at specified strain amplitude. Dependence of the fatigue life on the loading parameters (pre-strain, mean and amplitude values of strain) has been obtained. The results show a good agreement with available experimental data.

Low Temperature Shape Memory Alloys for Adaptive, Autonomous Systems Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Falker, John; Zeitlin, Nancy; Williams, Martha; Benafan, Othmane; Fesmire, James

2015-01-01

The objective of this joint activity between Kennedy Space Center (KSC) and Glenn Research Center (GRC) is to develop and evaluate the applicability of 2-way SMAs in proof-of-concept, low-temperature adaptive autonomous systems. As part of this low technology readiness (TRL) activity, we will develop and train low-temperature novel, 2-way shape memory alloys (SMAs) with actuation temperatures ranging from 0 C to 150 C. These experimental alloys will also be preliminary tested to evaluate their performance parameters and transformation (actuation) temperatures in low- temperature or cryogenic adaptive proof-of-concept systems. The challenge will be in the development, design, and training of the alloys for 2-way actuation at those temperatures.

Shape‐Controlled, Self‐Wrapped Carbon Nanotube 3D Electronics

PubMed Central

Wang, Huiliang; Wang, Yanming; Tee, Benjamin C.‐K.; Kim, Kwanpyo; Lopez, Jeffrey; Cai, Wei

2015-01-01

The mechanical flexibility and structural softness of ultrathin devices based on organic thin films and low‐dimensional nanomaterials have enabled a wide range of applications including flexible display, artificial skin, and health monitoring devices. However, both living systems and inanimate systems that are encountered in daily lives are all 3D. It is therefore desirable to either create freestanding electronics in a 3D form or to incorporate electronics onto 3D objects. Here, a technique is reported to utilize shape‐memory polymers together with carbon nanotube flexible electronics to achieve this goal. Temperature‐assisted shape control of these freestanding electronics in a programmable manner is demonstrated, with theoretical analysis for understanding the shape evolution. The shape control process can be executed with prepatterned heaters, desirable for 3D shape formation in an enclosed environment. The incorporation of carbon nanotube transistors, gas sensors, temperature sensors, and memory devices that are capable of self‐wrapping onto any irregular shaped‐objects without degradations in device performance is demonstrated. PMID:27980972

16Oxygen irradiation enhances cued fear memory in B6D2F1 mice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raber, Jacob; Marzulla, Tessa; Kronenberg, Amy; Turker, Mitchell S.

2015-11-01

The space radiation environment includes energetic charged particles that may impact cognitive performance. We assessed the effects of 16O ion irradiation on cognitive performance of C57BL/6J × DBA/2J F1 (B6D2F1) mice at OHSU (Portland, OR) one month following irradiation at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL, Upton, NY). Hippocampus-dependent contextual fear memory and hippocampus-independent cued fear memory of B6D2F1 mice were tested. 16O ion exposure enhanced cued fear memory. This effect showed a bell-shaped dose response curve. Cued fear memory was significantly stronger in mice irradiated with 16O ions at a dose of 0.4 or 0.8 Gy than in sham-irradiated mice or following irradiation at 1.6 Gy. In contrast to cued fear memory, contextual fear memory was not affected following 16O ion irradiation at the doses used in this study. These data indicate that the amygdala might be particularly susceptible to effects of 16O ion exposure.

Torsion and bending properties of shape memory and superelastic nickel-titanium rotary instruments.

PubMed

Ninan, Elizabeth; Berzins, David W

2013-01-01

Recently introduced into the market are shape memory nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary files. The objective of this study was to investigate the torsion and bending properties of shape memory files (CM Wire, HyFlex CM, and Phoenix Flex) and compare them with conventional (ProFile ISO and K3) and M-Wire (GT Series X and ProFile Vortex) NiTi files. Sizes 20, 30, and 40 (n = 12/size/taper) of 0.02 taper CM Wire, Phoenix Flex, K3, and ProFile ISO and 0.04 taper HyFlex CM, ProFile ISO, GT Series X, and Vortex were tested in torsion and bending per ISO 3630-1 guidelines by using a torsiometer. All data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance and the Tukey-Kramer test (P = .05) to determine any significant differences between the files. Significant interactions were present among factors of size and file. Variability in maximum torque values was noted among the shape memory files brands, sometimes exhibiting the greatest or least torque depending on brand, size, and taper. In general, the shape memory files showed a high angle of rotation before fracture but were not statistically different from some of the other files. However, the shape memory files were more flexible, as evidenced by significantly lower bending moments (P < .008). Shape memory files show greater flexibility compared with several other NiTi rotary file brands. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shape of Caudate Nucleus and Its Cognitive Correlates in Neuroleptic-Naive Schizotypal Personality Disorder

PubMed Central

Levitt, James J.; Westin, Carl-Fredrik; Nestor, Paul G.; Estepar, Raul S.J.; Dickey, Chandlee C.; Voglmaier, Martina M.; Seidman, Larry J.; Kikinis, Ron; Jolesz, Ferenc A.; McCarley, Robert W.; Shenton, Martha E.

2009-01-01

Background We measured the shape of the head of the caudate nucleus with a new approach based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) subjects in whom we previously reported decreased caudate nucleus volume. We believe MRI shape analysis complements traditional MRI volume measurements. Methods Magnetic resonance imaging scans were used to measure the shape of the caudate nucleus in 15 right-handed male subjects with SPD, who had no prior neuroleptic exposure, and in 14 matched normal comparison subjects. With MRI processing tools, we measured the head of the caudate nucleus using a shape index, which measured how much a given shape deviates from a sphere. Results In relation to comparison subjects, neuroleptic never-medicated SPD subjects had significantly higher (more “edgy”) head of the caudate shape index scores, lateralized to the right side. Additionally, for SPD subjects, higher right and left head of the caudate SI scores correlated significantly with poorer neuropsychological performance on tasks of visuospatial memory and auditory/verbal working memory, respectively. Conclusions These data confirm the value of measuring shape, as well as volume, of brain regions of interest and support the association of intrinsic pathology in the caudate nucleus, unrelated to neuroleptic medication, with cognitive abnormalities in the schizophrenia spectrum. PMID:14732598

Large and reversible inverse magnetocaloric effect in Ni48.1Co2.9Mn35.0In14.0 metamagnetic shape memory microwire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Y. H.; Cong, D. Y.; Chen, Z.; Gui, W. Y.; Sun, X. M.; Li, S. H.; Ma, L.; Wang, Y. D.

2017-11-01

High-performance magnetocaloric materials should have a large reversible magnetocaloric effect and good heat exchange capability. Here, we developed a Ni48.1Co2.9Mn35.0In14.0 metamagnetic shape memory microwire with a large and reversible inverse magnetocaloric effect. As compared to the bulk counterpart, the microwire shows a better combination of magnetostructural transformation parameters (magnetization difference across transformation ΔM, transformation entropy change ΔStr, thermal hysteresis ΔThys, and transformation interval ΔTint) and thus greatly reduced critical field required for complete and reversible magnetic-field-induced transformation. A strong and reversible metamagnetic transition occurred in the microwire, which facilitates the achievement of large reversible magnetoresponsive effects. Consequently, a large and reversible magnetic-field-induced entropy change ΔSm of 12.8 J kg-1 K-1 under 5 T was achieved in the microwire, which is the highest value reported heretofore in Ni-Mn-based magnetic shape memory wires. Furthermore, since microwires have a high surface/volume ratio, they exhibit very good heat exchange capability. The present Ni48.1Co2.9Mn35.0In14.0 microwire shows great potential for magnetic refrigeration. This study may stimulate further development of high-performance magnetocaloric wires for high-efficiency and environmentally friendly solid-state cooling.

Variable stiffness corrugated composite structure with shape memory polymer for morphing skin applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, Xiaobo; Liu, Liwu; Scarpa, Fabrizio; Leng, Jinsong; Liu, Yanju

2017-03-01

This work presents a variable stiffness corrugated structure based on a shape memory polymer (SMP) composite with corrugated laminates as reinforcement that shows smooth aerodynamic surface, extreme mechanical anisotropy and variable stiffness for potential morphing skin applications. The smart composite corrugated structure shows a low in-plane stiffness to minimize the actuation energy, but also possess high out-of-plane stiffness to transfer the aerodynamic pressure load. The skin provides an external smooth aerodynamic surface because of the one-sided filling with the SMP. Due to variable stiffness of the shape memory polymer the morphing skin exhibits a variable stiffness with a change of temperature, which can help the skin adjust its stiffness according different service environments and also lock the temporary shape without external force. Analytical models related to the transverse and bending stiffness are derived and validated using finite element techniques. The stiffness of the morphing skin is further investigated by performing a parametric analysis against the geometry of the corrugation and various sets of SMP fillers. The theoretical and numerical models show a good agreement and demonstrate the potential of this morphing skin concept for morphing aircraft applications. We also perform a feasibility study of the use of this morphing skin in a variable camber morphing wing baseline. The results show that the morphing skin concept exhibits sufficient bending stiffness to withstand the aerodynamic load at low speed (less than 0.3 Ma), while demonstrating a large transverse stiffness variation (up to 191 times) that helps to create a maximum mechanical efficiency of the structure under varying external conditions.

Encoding strategies in self-initiated visual working memory.

PubMed

Magen, Hagit; Berger-Mandelbaum, Anat

2018-06-11

During a typical day, visual working memory (VWM) is recruited to temporarily maintain visual information. Although individuals often memorize external visual information provided to them, on many other occasions they memorize information they have constructed themselves. The latter aspect of memory, which we term self-initiated WM, is prevalent in everyday behavior but has largely been overlooked in the research literature. In the present study we employed a modified change detection task in which participants constructed the displays they memorized, by selecting three or four abstract shapes or real-world objects and placing them at three or four locations in a circular display of eight locations. Half of the trials included identical targets that participants could select. The results demonstrated consistent strategies across participants. To enhance memory performance, participants reported selecting abstract shapes they could verbalize, but they preferred real-world objects with distinct visual features. Furthermore, participants constructed structured memory displays, most frequently based on the Gestalt organization cue of symmetry, and to a lesser extent on cues of proximity and similarity. When identical items were selected, participants mostly placed them in close proximity, demonstrating the construction of configurations based on the interaction between several Gestalt cues. The present results are consistent with recent findings in VWM, showing that memory for visual displays based on Gestalt organization cues can benefit VWM, suggesting that individuals have access to metacognitive knowledge on the benefit of structure in VWM. More generally, this study demonstrates how individuals interact with the world by actively structuring their surroundings to enhance performance.

Prototype Morphing Fan Nozzle Demonstrated

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Ho-Jun; Song, Gang-Bing

2004-01-01

Ongoing research in NASA Glenn Research Center's Structural Mechanics and Dynamics Branch to develop smart materials technologies for aeropropulsion structural components has resulted in the design of the prototype morphing fan nozzle shown in the photograph. This prototype exploits the potential of smart materials to significantly improve the performance of existing aircraft engines by introducing new inherent capabilities for shape control, vibration damping, noise reduction, health monitoring, and flow manipulation. The novel design employs two different smart materials, a shape-memory alloy and magnetorheological fluids, to reduce the nozzle area by up to 30 percent. The prototype of the variable-area fan nozzle implements an overlapping spring leaf assembly to simplify the initial design and to provide ease of structural control. A single bundle of shape memory alloy wire actuators is used to reduce the nozzle geometry. The nozzle is subsequently held in the reduced-area configuration by using magnetorheological fluid brakes. This prototype uses the inherent advantages of shape memory alloys in providing large induced strains and of magnetorheological fluids in generating large resistive forces. In addition, the spring leaf design also functions as a return spring, once the magnetorheological fluid brakes are released, to help force the shape memory alloy wires to return to their original position. A computerized real-time control system uses the derivative-gain and proportional-gain algorithms to operate the system. This design represents a novel approach to the active control of high-bypass-ratio turbofan engines. Researchers have estimated that such engines will reduce thrust specific fuel consumption by 9 percent over that of fixed-geometry fan nozzles. This research was conducted under a cooperative agreement (NCC3-839) at the University of Akron.

Specific deficit of colour-colour short-term memory binding in sporadic and familial Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Parra, Mario A; Sala, Sergio Della; Abrahams, Sharon; Logie, Robert H; Méndez, Luis Guillermo; Lopera, Francisco

2011-06-01

Short-term memory binding of visual features which are processed across different dimensions (shape-colour) is impaired in sporadic Alzheimer's disease, familial Alzheimer's disease, and in asymptomatic carriers of familial Alzheimer's disease. This study investigated whether Alzheimer's disease also impacts on within-dimension binding processes. The study specifically explored whether visual short-term memory binding of features of the same type (colour-colour) is sensitive to Alzheimer's disease. We used a neuropsychological battery and a short-term memory binding task to assess patients with sporadic Alzheimer's disease (Experiment 1), familial Alzheimer's disease (Experiment 2) due to the mutation E280A of the Presenilin-1 gene and asymptomatic carriers of the mutation. The binding task assessed change detection within arrays of unicoloured objects (Colour Only) or bicoloured objects the colours of which had to be remembered separately (Unbound Colours) or together (Bound Colours). Performance on the Bound Colours condition (1) explained the largest proportion of variance between patients (sporadic and familial Alzheimer's disease), (2) combined more sensitivity and specificity for the disease than other more traditional neuropsychological tasks, (3) identified asymptomatic carriers of the mutation even when traditional neuropsychological measures and other measures of short-term memory did not and, (4) contrary to shape-colour binding, correlated with measures of hippocampal functions. Colour-colour binding and shape-colour binding both appear to be sensitive to AD even though they seem to rely on different brain mechanisms. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Self-folding with shape memory composites at the millimeter scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Felton, S. M.; Becker, K. P.; Aukes, D. M.; Wood, R. J.

2015-08-01

Self-folding is an effective method for creating 3D shapes from flat sheets. In particular, shape memory composites—laminates containing shape memory polymers—have been used to self-fold complex structures and machines. To date, however, these composites have been limited to feature sizes larger than one centimeter. We present a new shape memory composite capable of folding millimeter-scale features. This technique can be activated by a global heat source for simultaneous folding, or by resistive heaters for sequential folding. It is capable of feature sizes ranging from 0.5 to 40 mm, and is compatible with multiple laminate compositions. We demonstrate the ability to produce complex structures and mechanisms by building two self-folding pieces: a model ship and a model bumblebee.

Shape Memory Alloy Isolation Valves: Public Quad Chart

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-12

NUMBER (Include area code) 12 May 2017 Briefing Charts 12 April 2017 - 12 May 2017 Shape Memory Alloy Isolation Valves: Public Quad Chart William...Unclassified Unclassified Unclassified SAR 2 William Hargus N/A PAYOFF/TRANSITIONTECHNICAL APPROACH MOTIVATION APPLYING AFRL TO SUSTAINMENT • Evaluate...spacecraft (15+ yrs) • Shaped memory alloy isolation valves provide an intrinsically safe isolation system that increases lifetime >5x over SOTA and

Design and performance of a shape memory alloy-reinforced composite aerodynamic profile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simpson, J. C.; Boller, C.

2008-04-01

Based on a shape memory alloy (SMA)-reinforced composite developed separately, the applicability of the composite has been demonstrated through realization of a realistically scaled aerodynamic profile of around 0.5 m span by 0.5 m root chord whose skins had been made from this composite. The design, manufacturing and assembly of the profile are described. The curved skins were manufactured with two layers of SMA wires integrated into the layup of aramid fibre prepregs. All SMA wires were connected such that they can be operated as individual sets of wires and at low voltages, similar to the conditions for electrical energy generation in a real aircraft. The profile was then mounted on a vibration test rig and excited by a shaker at its tip which allowed the dynamic performance of the profile to be validated under internal actuation conditions generated through the SMA wires.

Ultra Low Density and Highly Crosslinked Biocompatible Shape Memory Polyurethane Foams

PubMed Central

Singhal, Pooja; Rodriguez, Jennifer N.; Small, Ward; Eagleston, Scott; Van de Water, Judy; Maitland, Duncan J.; Wilson, Thomas S.

2012-01-01

We report the development of highly chemically crosslinked, ultra low density (~0.015 g/cc) polyurethane shape memory foams synthesized from symmetrical, low molecular weight and branched hydroxyl monomers. Sharp single glass transitions (Tg) customizable in the functional range of 45–70 °C were achieved. Thermomechanical testing confirmed shape memory behavior with 97–98% shape recovery over repeated cycles, a glassy storage modulus of 200–300 kPa and recovery stresses of 5–15 kPa. Shape holding tests under constrained storage above the Tg showed stable shape memory. A high volume expansion of up to 70 times was seen on actuation of these foams from a fully compressed state. Low in-vitro cell activation induced by the foam compared to controls demonstrates low acute bio-reactivity. We believe these porous polymeric scaffolds constitute an important class of novel smart biomaterials with multiple potential applications. PMID:22570509

Fast Response, Open-Celled Porous, Shape Memory Effect Actuators with Integrated Attachments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jardine, Andrew Peter (Inventor)

2015-01-01

This invention relates to the exploitation of porous foam articles exhibiting the Shape Memory Effect as actuators. Each foam article is composed of a plurality of geometric shapes, such that some geometric shapes can fit snugly into or around rigid mating connectors that attach the Shape Memory foam article intimately into the load path between a static structure and a moveable structure. The foam is open-celled, composed of a plurality of interconnected struts whose mean diameter can vary from approximately 50 to 500 microns. Gases and fluids flowing through the foam transfer heat rapidly with the struts, providing rapid Shape Memory Effect transformations. Embodiments of porous foam articles as torsional actuators and approximately planar structures are disposed. Simple, integral connection systems exploiting the ability to supply large loads to a structure, and that can also supply hot and cold gases and fluids to effect rapid actuation are also disposed.

The effect of magnetic field on shape memory behavior in Heusler-type nickel(,2)manganese-gallium-based compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Soon-Jong

2000-08-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have excellent mechanical properties showing large stroke and high power density when used as actuators. In terms of response speed, however, conventional SMAs have a drawback due to the isothermal nature of the associated phase transformation. A new type of SMA, called ferromagnetic SMA, is considered to replace conventional SMAs and is hoped to overcome such a slow response drawback by changing driving mode of shape memory behaviors from thermal to magnetic. The new type of ferromagnetic SMAs is expected to exhibit not only a large displacement but also rapid response when magnetic field is applied and removed. There are three kinds of ferromagnetic SMAs and among them, Ni2MnGa-based compounds exhibit prominent shape memory effects and superelasticity. In this study, Ni2MnGa-based alloys were chosen and studied to characterize shape memory behavior upon the application and removal of magnetic field. The relevance of the magnetic field-induced shape memory behavior to the magnetization process was investigated by using transformation and/or the movement of martensite variant interfaces. Two mechanisms have been proposed for controlling magnetic field-induced shape memory behaviors. One mechanism is related to shape memory behavior associated with magnetic field-induced martensitic transformation. The other is related to the rearrangement of martensite variants by magnetic field application. Magnetic field-induced martensitic transformation and shape memory effects for single- and poly-crystalline Ni2MnGa alloys were investigated under various conditions. In single crystalline specimens, it was observed that considerable strain changes are a function of magnetic field at temperatures below Mf (martensite finish temperature). Such strain changes, by application and subsequent removal of magnetic field, may be attributed to the martensite variant motion at lower temperatures than Mf. Magnetic field application made a significant contribution to the martensite transformation and related strain changes (0.3%--0.82%) at temperatures above Af (austenite finish temperature) in some polycrystalline Ni2MnGa alloys, where austenite and martensite phases possess paramagnetic and ferromagnetic properties, respectively.

Shape-memory surfaces for cell mechanobiology

PubMed Central

Ebara, Mitsuhiro

2015-01-01

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) are a new class of smart materials, which have the capability to change from a temporary shape ‘A’ to a memorized permanent shape ‘B’ upon application of an external stimulus. In recent years, SMPs have attracted much attention from basic and fundamental research to industrial and practical applications due to the cheap and efficient alternative to well-known metallic shape-memory alloys. Since the shape-memory effect in SMPs is not related to a specific material property of single polymers, the control of nanoarchitecture of polymer networks is particularly important for the smart functions of SMPs. Such nanoarchitectonic approaches have enabled us to further create shape-memory surfaces (SMSs) with tunable surface topography at nano scale. The present review aims to bring together the exciting design of SMSs and the ever-expanding range of their uses as tools to control cell functions. The goal for these endeavors is to mimic the surrounding mechanical cues of extracellular environments which have been considered as critical parameters in cell fate determination. The untapped potential of SMSs makes them one of the most exciting interfaces of materials science and cell mechanobiology. PMID:27877747

Membrane wrinkling patterns and control with SMA and SMPC actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Mingyu; Li, Yunliang; Tan, Huifeng; Zhou, Limin

2009-07-01

Wrinkling is a main factor affecting the performance of the membrane structures and is always considered to be a failure as it can cause dramatic decrease of shape accuracy. The study of membrane wrinkling control has the analytical and experimental meanings. In this paper, a feasible membrane shape control method is presented. An expression of wrinkle wavelength using stress extremum principle is established based on the tension field theory and the Von Karman large deflection formula which verifies the generation and evolution reason of membrane wrinkles. The control mechanism for membrane wrinkles is developed using shape memory alloy (SMA) and shape memory polymer composite (SMPC) actuators which are attached to the boundaries of the membrane for producing contraction/expansion forces to adjust the shape of the membrane. The whole control process is monitored by photogrammetric technique. Numerical simulations are also conducted using ANSYS finite element software with the nonlinear post-buckling analytical method. Both the experimental and numerical results show that the amplitudes of wrinkles are effectively controlled by SMA and SMPC actuators. The method introduced in this paper provides the foundation for shape control of the membrane wrinkling and is important to the future work on vibration control of space membrane structures.

Unconstrained Recovery Characterization of Shape-Memory Polymer Networks for Cardiovascular Applications

PubMed Central

Yakacki, Christopher M.; Shandas, Robin; Lanning, Craig; Rech, Bryan; Eckstein, Alex; Gall, Ken

2009-01-01

Shape-memory materials have been proposed in biomedical device design due to their ability to facilitate minimally invasive surgery and recover to a predetermined shape in-vivo. Use of the shape-memory effect in polymers is proposed for cardiovascular stent interventions to reduce the catheter size for delivery and offer highly controlled and tailored deployment at body temperature. Shape-memory polymer networks were synthesized via photopolymerization of tert-butyl acrylate and poly (ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate to provide precise control over the thermomechanical response of the system. The free recovery response of the polymer stents at body temperature was studied as a function of glass transition temperature (Tg), crosslink density, geometrical perforation, and deformation temperature, all of which can be independently controlled. Room temperature storage of the stents was shown to be highly dependent on Tg and crosslink density. The pressurized response of the stents is also demonstrated to depend on crosslink density. This polymer system exhibits a wide range of shape-memory and thermomechanical responses to adapt and meet specific needs of minimally invasive cardiovascular devices. PMID:17296222

A review on shape memory alloys with applications to morphing aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbarino, S.; Saavedra Flores, E. I.; Ajaj, R. M.; Dayyani, I.; Friswell, M. I.

2014-06-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of metallic materials with the ability to recover their original shape at certain characteristic temperatures (shape memory effect), even under high applied loads and large inelastic deformations, or to undergo large strains without plastic deformation or failure (super-elasticity). In this review, we describe the main features of SMAs, their constitutive models and their properties. We also review the fatigue behavior of SMAs and some methods adopted to remove or reduce its undesirable effects. SMAs have been used in a wide variety of applications in different fields. In this review, we focus on the use of shape memory alloys in the context of morphing aircraft, with particular emphasis on variable twist and camber, and also on actuation bandwidth and reduction of power consumption. These applications prove particularly challenging because novel configurations are adopted to maximize integration and effectiveness of SMAs, which play the role of an actuator (using the shape memory effect), often combined with structural, load-carrying capabilities. Iterative and multi-disciplinary modeling is therefore necessary due to the fluid-structure interaction combined with the nonlinear behavior of SMAs.

Early, Involuntary Top-Down Guidance of Attention From Working Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Soto, David; Heinke, Dietmar; Humphreys, Glyn W.; Blanco, Manuel J.

2005-01-01

Four experiments explored the interrelations between working memory, attention, and eye movements. Observers had to identify a tilted line amongst vertical distractors. Each line was surrounded by a colored shape that could be precued by a matching item held in memory. Relative to a neutral baseline, in which no shapes matched the memory item,…

Shape memory alloys: a state of art review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naresh, C.; Bose, P. S. C.; Rao, C. S. P.

2016-09-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are the special materials that have the ability to return to a predetermined shape when heated. When this alloy is in below transformation temperature it undergoes low yield strength and will deform easily into any new shape which it will retain, if this alloy is heated above its transformation temperature it changes its crystal lattice structure which returns to its real shape. SMAs are remarkably different from other materials are primarily due to shape memory effect (SME) and pseudoelasticity which are related with the specific way the phase transformation occurs, biocompatibility, high specific strength, high corrosion resistance, high wear resistance and high anti-fatigue property. SMA are used in many applications such as aerospace, medical, automobile, tubes, controllers for hot water valves in showers, petroleum industry, vibration dampers, ball bearings, sensors, actuators, miniature grippers, micro valves, pumps, landing gears, eye glass frames, Material for helicopter blades, sprinklers in fine alarm systems packaging devices for electronic materials, dental materials, etc. This paper focuses on introducing shape memory alloy and their applications in past, present and in future, also revealed the concept and mechanism of shape memory materials for a particular requirement. Properties of SMAs, behaviour and characteristics of SMA, summary of recent advances and new application opportunities are also discussed.

[Synthesis and characterization of polylactide-based thermosetting polyurethanes with shape memory properties].

PubMed

Shi, Shuo; Gu, Lin; Yang, Yihu; Yu, Haibin; Chen, Rui; Xiao, Xianglian; Qiu, Jun

2016-06-25

A series of bio-based thermosetting polyurethanes (Bio-PUs) were synthesized by the crosslinking reaction of polylactide and its copolymers diols with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) trimer. The obtained Bio-PUs were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), universal tensile testing machine and cytotoxicity test. Results indicate that the PLA copolymer (P(LA-co-CL)) diols reduced the glass transition temperature (Tg) of Bio-PUs and improved their thermal stability, compared with PLA diols. The Bio-PUs synthesized from P (LA-co-CL) diols exhibit better mechanical performance and shape memory properties. Especially, Young modulus and elongation at break of the obtained Bio-PUs were 277.7 MPa and 230% respectively; the shape recovery time of the obtained Bio-PUs at body temperature was only 93 s. Furthermore, alamar blue assay results showed that the obtained Bio-PUs had no cell toxicity.

Parametric analysis and temperature effect of deployable hinged shells using shape memory polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Ran; Yang, Qing-Sheng; He, Xiao-Qiao; Liew, Kim-Meow

2016-11-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a class of intelligent materials, which are defined by their capacity to store a temporary shape and recover an original shape. In this work, the shape memory effect of SMP deployable hinged shell is simulated by using compiled user defined material subroutine (UMAT) subroutine of ABAQUS. Variations of bending moment and strain energy of the hinged shells with different temperatures and structural parameters in the loading process are given. The effects of the parameters and temperature on the nonlinear deformation process are emphasized. The entire thermodynamic cycle of SMP deployable hinged shell includes loading at high temperature, load carrying with cooling, unloading at low temperature and recovering the original shape with heating. The results show that the complicated thermo-mechanical deformation and shape memory effect of SMP deployable hinge are influenced by the structural parameters and temperature. The design ability of SMP smart hinged structures in practical application is prospected.

Method of preparing a two-way shape memory alloy

DOEpatents

Johnson, Alfred D.

1984-01-01

A two-way shape memory alloy, a method of training a shape memory alloy, and a heat engine employing the two-way shape memory alloy to do external work during both heating and cooling phases. The alloy is heated under a first training stress to a temperature which is above the upper operating temperature of the alloy, then cooled to a cold temperature below the zero-force transition temperature of the alloy, then deformed while applying a second training stress which is greater in magnitude than the stress at which the alloy is to be operated, then heated back to the hot temperature, changing from the second training stress back to the first training stress.

Microstructure and Shape Memory Behavior of Ti-Nb Shape Memory Alloy Thin Film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, X. L.; Sun, B.; Sun, J. Y.; Gao, Z. Y.; Cai, W.; Zhao, L. C.

2017-09-01

Ti-Nb shape memory alloy (SMA) thin film is a promising candidate applied as microactuator in biomedical field. In this study, the microstructure and shape memory behavior of Ti-Nb SMA thin films in different heat treatment conditions have been investigated. Fine ω phases embedded in the β phase matrix suppress the martensitic transformation of the films. As a result, the as-deposited and most of the annealed films consist of the β and α″ dual phases. The annealed Ti-Nb thin film shows excellent superelasticity effect when deformed above the reverse martensitic transformation temperature, that is 3.5% total recovery strain can be obtained when 4% pre-strain is loaded.

Microstructure and Shape Memory Characteristics of Powder-Metallurgical-Processed Ti-Ni-Cu Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yeon-Wook; Chung, Young-Soo; Choi, Eunsoo; Nam, Tae-Hyun

2012-08-01

Even though Ti-Ni-Cu alloys have attracted a lot of attention because of their high performance in shape memory effect and decrease in thermal and stress hysteresis compared with Ti-Ni binary alloys, their poor workability restrains the practical applications of Ti-Ni-Cu shape memory alloys. Consolidation of Ti-Ni-Cu alloy powders is useful for the fabrication of bulk near-net-shape shape memory alloy. Ti50Ni30Cu20 shape memory alloy powders were prepared by gas atomization, and the sieved powders with the specific size range of 25 to 150 μm were chosen for this study. The evaluation of powder microstructures was based on a scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination of the surface and the polished and etched powder cross sections. The typical images showed cellular/dendrite morphology and high population of small shrinkage cavities at intercellular regions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that a B2-B19 one-step martensitic transformation occurred in the as-atomized powders. The martensitic transformation start temperature (Ms) of powders ranging between 25 and 50 μm was 304.5 K (31.5 °C). The Ms increased with increasing powder size. However, the difference of Ms in the as-atomized powders ranging between 25 and 150 μm was only 274 K (1 °C). A dense cylindrical specimen of 10 mm diameter and 15 mm length were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1073 K (800 °C) and 10 MPa for 20 minutes. Then, this bulk specimen was heat treated for 60 minutes at 1123 K (850 °C) and quenched in ice water. The Ms of the SPS specimen was 310.5 K (37.5 °C) whereas the Ms of conventionally cast ingot is found to be as high as 352.7 K (79.7 °C). It is considered that the depression of the Ms in rapidly solidified powders is ascribed to the density of dislocations and the stored energy produced by rapid solidification.

Development of Deployable Elastic Composite Shape Memory Alloy Reinforced (DECSMAR) Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-05-01

battens nest. To mitigate the compromise of deployed performance due to the hinge cross-section, Nitinol SMA wires can be embedded in the composite...proportional limit by slip or conventional plastic deformation. As a logistics example, the particular Nitinol alloy used for proto-typing has...Memory Alloys,” Johnson Matthey, 2004. 10Cross, WB, Kariotis, AH, & Stimler, FJ, “ Nitinol Characterization Study,” NASA CR-1433, 1970. 11Proft, JL

The Effect of 4-Octyldecyloxybenzoic Acid on Liquid-Crystalline Polyurethane Composites with Triple-Shape Memory and Self-Healing Properties

PubMed Central

Ban, Jianfeng; Zhu, Linjiang; Chen, Shaojun; Wang, Yiping

2016-01-01

To better understand shape memory materials and self-healing materials, a new series of liquid-crystalline shape memory polyurethane (LC-SMPU) composites, named SMPU-OOBAm, were successfully prepared by incorporating 4-octyldecyloxybenzoic acid (OOBA) into the PEG-based SMPU. The effect of OOBA on the structure, morphology, and properties of the material has been carefully investigated. The results demonstrate that SMPU-OOBAm has liquid crystalline properties, triple-shape memory properties, and self-healing properties. The incorporated OOBA promotes the crystallizability of both soft and hard segments of SMPU, and the crystallization rate of the hard segment of SMPU decreases when the OOBA-content increases. Additionally, the SMPU-OOBAm forms a two-phase separated structure (SMPU phase and OOBA phase), and it shows two-step modulus changes upon heating. Therefore, the SMPU-OOBAm exhibits triple-shape memory behavior, and the shape recovery ratio decreases with an increase in the OOBA content. Finally, SMPU-OOBAm exhibits self-healing properties. The new mechanism can be ascribed to the heating-induced “bleeding” of OOBA in the liquid crystalline state and the subsequent re-crystallization upon cooling. This successful combination of liquid crystalline properties, triple-shape memory properties, and self-healing properties make the SMPU-OOBAm composites ideal for many promising applications in smart optical devices, smart electronic devices, and smart sensors. PMID:28773914

Increased Alpha-Band Power during the Retention of Shapes and Shape-Location Associations in Visual Short-Term Memory

PubMed Central

Johnson, Jeffrey S.; Sutterer, David W.; Acheson, Daniel J.; Lewis-Peacock, Jarrod A.; Postle, Bradley R.

2011-01-01

Studies exploring the role of neural oscillations in cognition have revealed sustained increases in alpha-band (~8–14 Hz) power during the delay period of delayed-recognition short-term memory tasks. These increases have been proposed to reflect the inhibition, for example, of cortical areas representing task-irrelevant information, or of potentially interfering representations from previous trials. Another possibility, however, is that elevated delay-period alpha-band power (DPABP) reflects the selection and maintenance of information, rather than, or in addition to, the inhibition of task-irrelevant information. In the present study, we explored these possibilities using a delayed-recognition paradigm in which the presence and task relevance of shape information was systematically manipulated across trial blocks and electroencephalographic was used to measure alpha-band power. In the first trial block, participants remembered locations marked by identical black circles. The second block featured the same instructions, but locations were marked by unique shapes. The third block featured the same stimulus presentation as the second, but with pretrial instructions indicating, on a trial-by-trial basis, whether memory for shape or location was required, the other dimension being irrelevant. In the final block, participants remembered the unique pairing of shape and location for each stimulus. Results revealed minimal DPABP in each of the location-memory conditions, whether locations were marked with identical circles or with unique task-irrelevant shapes. In contrast, alpha-band power increases were observed in both the shape-memory condition, in which location was task irrelevant, and in the critical final condition, in which both shape and location were task relevant. These results provide support for the proposal that alpha-band oscillations reflect the retention of shape information and/or shape–location associations in short-term memory. PMID:21713012

Characterization of sputtering deposited NiTi shape memory thin films using a temperature controllable atomic force microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Q.; Huang, W. M.; Hong, M. H.; Wu, M. J.; Fu, Y. Q.; Chong, T. C.; Chellet, F.; Du, H. J.

2004-10-01

NiTi shape memory thin films are potentially desirable for micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) actuators, because they have a much higher work output per volume and also a significantly improved response speed due to a larger surface-to-volume ratio. A new technique using a temperature controllable atomic force microscope (AFM) is presented in order to find the transformation temperatures of NiTi shape memory thin films of micrometer size, since traditional techniques, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and the curvature method, have difficulty in dealing with samples of such a scale as this. This technique is based on the surface relief phenomenon in shape memory alloys upon thermal cycling. The reliability of this technique is investigated and compared with the DSC result in terms of the transformation fraction (xgr). It appears that the new technique is nondestructive, in situ and capable of characterizing sputtering deposited very small NiTi shape memory thin films.

An Implicit Algorithm for the Numerical Simulation of Shape-Memory Alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Becker, R; Stolken, J; Jannetti, C

Shape-memory alloys (SMA) have the potential to be used in a variety of interesting applications due to their unique properties of pseudoelasticity and the shape-memory effect. However, in order to design SMA devices efficiently, a physics-based constitutive model is required to accurately simulate the behavior of shape-memory alloys. The scope of this work is to extend the numerical capabilities of the SMA constitutive model developed by Jannetti et. al. (2003), to handle large-scale polycrystalline simulations. The constitutive model is implemented within the finite-element software ABAQUS/Standard using a user defined material subroutine, or UMAT. To improve the efficiency of the numericalmore » simulations, so that polycrystalline specimens of shape-memory alloys can be modeled, a fully implicit algorithm has been implemented to integrate the constitutive equations. Using an implicit integration scheme increases the efficiency of the UMAT over the previously implemented explicit integration method by a factor of more than 100 for single crystal simulations.« less

Determining the Mechanical Properties of Lattice Block Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilmoth, Nathan

2013-01-01

Lattice block structures and shape memory alloys possess several traits ideal for solving intriguing new engineering problems in industries such as aerospace, military, and transportation. Recent testing at the NASA Glenn Research Center has investigated the material properties of lattice block structures cast from a conventional aerospace titanium alloy as well as lattice block structures cast from nickel-titanium shape memory alloy. The lattice block structures for both materials were sectioned into smaller subelements for tension and compression testing. The results from the cast conventional titanium material showed that the expected mechanical properties were maintained. The shape memory alloy material was found to be extremely brittle from the casting process and only compression testing was completed. Future shape memory alloy lattice block structures will utilize an adjusted material composition that will provide a better quality casting. The testing effort resulted in baseline mechanical property data from the conventional titanium material for comparison to shape memory alloy materials once suitable castings are available.

Rapid shape memory TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers/polyacrylamide/gelatin hydrogels with enhanced mechanical strength.

PubMed

Li, Nan; Chen, Wei; Chen, Guangxue; Tian, Junfei

2017-09-01

TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers/polyacrylamide/gelatin shape memory hydrogels were successfully fabricated through a facile in-situ free-radical polymerization method, and double network was formed by chemically cross-linked polyacrylamide (PAM) network and physically cross-linked gelatin network. TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNs) were introduced to improve the mechanical properties of the hydrogel. The structure, shape memory behaviors and mechanical properties of the resulting composite gels with varied gel compositions were investigated. The results obtained from those different studies revealed that TOCNs, gelatin, and PAM could mix with each other homogeneously. Due to the thermoreversible nature of the gelatin network, the composite hydrogels exhibited attractive thermo-induced shape memory properties. In addition, good mechanical properties (strength >200kPa, strain >650%) were achieved. Such composite hydrogels with good shape memory behavior and enhanced mechanical strength would be an attractive candidate for a wide variety of applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Memory Metals (Marchon Eyewear)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

Another commercial application of memory metal technology is found in a "smart" eyeglass frame that remembers its shape and its wearer's fit. A patented "memory encoding process" makes this possible. Heat is not required to return the glasses to shape. A large commercial market is anticipated.

Elastic memory composites (EMC) for deployable industrial and commercial applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arzberger, Steven C.; Tupper, Michael L.; Lake, Mark S.; Barrett, Rory; Mallick, Kaushik; Hazelton, Craig; Francis, William; Keller, Phillip N.; Campbell, Douglas; Feucht, Sara; Codell, Dana; Wintergerst, Joe; Adams, Larry; Mallioux, Joe; Denis, Rob; White, Karen; Long, Mark; Munshi, Naseem A.; Gall, Ken

2005-05-01

The use of smart materials and multifunctional components has the potential to provide enhanced performance, improved economics, and reduced safety concerns for applications ranging from outer space to subterranean. Elastic Memory Composite (EMC) materials, based on shape memory polymers and used to produce multifunctional components and structures, are being developed and qualified for commercial use as deployable components and structures. EMC materials are similar to traditional fiber-reinforced composites except for the use of a thermoset shape memory resin that enables much higher packaging strains than traditional composites without damage to the fibers or the resin. This unique capability is being exploited in the development of very efficient EMC structural components for deployable spacecraft systems as well as capability enhancing components for use in other industries. The present paper is intended primarily to describe the transition of EMC materials as smart structure technologies into viable industrial and commercial products. Specifically, the paper discusses: 1) TEMBO EMC materials for deployable space/aerospace systems, 2) TEMBO EMC resins for terrestrial applications, 3) future generation EMC materials.

The role of attention in binding visual features in working memory: evidence from cognitive ageing.

PubMed

Brown, Louise A; Brockmole, James R

2010-10-01

Two experiments were conducted to assess the costs of attentional load during a feature (colour-shape) binding task in younger and older adults. Experiment 1 showed that a demanding backwards counting task, which draws upon central executive/general attentional resources, reduced binding to a greater extent than individual feature memory, but the effect was no greater in older than in younger adults. Experiment 2 showed that presenting memory items sequentially rather than simultaneously, such that items are required to be maintained while new representations are created, selectively affects binding performance in both age groups. Although this experiment exhibited an age-related binding deficit overall, both age groups were affected by the attention manipulation to an equal extent. While a role for attentional processes in colour-shape binding was apparent across both experiments, manipulations of attention exerted equal effects in both age groups. We therefore conclude that age-related binding deficits neither emerge nor are exacerbated under conditions of high attentional load. Implications for theories of visual working memory and cognitive ageing are discussed.

Design and development of novel antibacterial Ti-Ni-Cu shape memory alloys for biomedical application.

PubMed

Li, H F; Qiu, K J; Zhou, F Y; Li, L; Zheng, Y F

2016-11-29

In the case of medical implants, foreign materials are preferential sites for bacterial adhesion and microbial contamination, which can lead to the development of prosthetic infections. Commercially biomedical TiNi shape memory alloys are the most commonly used materials for permanent implants in contact with bone and dental, and the prevention of infections of TiNi biomedical shape memory alloys in clinical cases is therefore a crucial challenge for orthopaedic and dental surgeons. In the present study, copper has been chosen as the alloying element for design and development novel ternary biomedical Ti‒Ni‒Cu shape memory alloys with antibacterial properties. The effects of copper alloying element on the microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion behaviors, cytocompatibility and antibacterial properties of biomedical Ti‒Ni‒Cu shape memory alloys have been systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys have good mechanical properties, and remain the excellent shape memory effects after adding copper alloying element. The corrosion behaviors of Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys are better than the commercial biomedical Ti‒50.8Ni alloys. The Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys exhibit excellent antibacterial properties while maintaining the good cytocompatibility, which would further guarantee the potential application of Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys as future biomedical implants and devices without inducing bacterial infections.

Design and development of novel antibacterial Ti-Ni-Cu shape memory alloys for biomedical application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, H. F.; Qiu, K. J.; Zhou, F. Y.; Li, L.; Zheng, Y. F.

2016-11-01

In the case of medical implants, foreign materials are preferential sites for bacterial adhesion and microbial contamination, which can lead to the development of prosthetic infections. Commercially biomedical TiNi shape memory alloys are the most commonly used materials for permanent implants in contact with bone and dental, and the prevention of infections of TiNi biomedical shape memory alloys in clinical cases is therefore a crucial challenge for orthopaedic and dental surgeons. In the present study, copper has been chosen as the alloying element for design and development novel ternary biomedical Ti‒Ni‒Cu shape memory alloys with antibacterial properties. The effects of copper alloying element on the microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion behaviors, cytocompatibility and antibacterial properties of biomedical Ti‒Ni‒Cu shape memory alloys have been systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys have good mechanical properties, and remain the excellent shape memory effects after adding copper alloying element. The corrosion behaviors of Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys are better than the commercial biomedical Ti‒50.8Ni alloys. The Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys exhibit excellent antibacterial properties while maintaining the good cytocompatibility, which would further guarantee the potential application of Ti‒Ni‒Cu alloys as future biomedical implants and devices without inducing bacterial infections.

Mechanisms of change of shape in deforming and heating titanium alloys with the shape memory effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Il'in, A. A.; Kollerov, M. Yu.; Golovin, I. S.; Shinaev, A. A.

1998-04-01

Alloys with the shape memory effect based on titanium nickelide are well known and used quite widely in medicine, aircraft and spacecraft engineering, and other fields of mschine building. These alloys are used in creating thermomechanical parts of structures, temperature-sensitive gauges, and thermoregulators. Titanium alloys with the shape memory effect that posses high damping properties are used when vibrations and noise have to be limited in order to provide effective operation of machine parts and engineering systems as a whole. Commercial titanium-base alloys have lower characteristics of shape regeneration than alloys based on titanium nickelide. However, commercial alloys are much less expensive and are used to produce a wide range of semifinished products. In these materials the characteristics of shape regeneration and damping are often determined by the mechanism of change of shape in deformation, which has not yet been studied appropriately. The present work is devoted to the mechanisms of inelasticity in titanium alloys in various stages of the action of the shape memory effect.

Application of shape memory alloy (SMA) spars for aircraft maneuver enhancement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nam, Changho; Chattopadhyay, Aditi; Kim, Youdan

2002-07-01

Modern combat aircraft are required to achieve aggressive maneuverability and high agility performance, while maintaining handling qualities over a wide range of flight conditions. Recently, a new adaptive-structural concept called variable stiffness spar is proposed in order to increase the maneuverability of the flexible aircraft. The variable stiffness spar controls wing torsional stiffness to enhance roll performance in the complete flight envelope. However, variable stiffness spar requires the mechanical actuation system in order to rotate the Variable stiffness spar during flight. The mechanical actuation system to rotate variable stiffness spar may cause an additional weight increase. In this paper, we will apply Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) spars for aeroelastic performance enhancement. In order to explore the potential of SMA spar design, roll performance of the composite smart wings will be investigated using ASTROS. Parametric study will be conducted to investigate the SMA spar effects by changing the spar locations and geometry. The results show that with activation of the SMA spar, the roll effectiveness can be increased up to 61% compared with the baseline model.

Glucose improves object-location binding in visual-spatial working memory.

PubMed

Stollery, Brian; Christian, Leonie

2016-02-01

There is evidence that glucose temporarily enhances cognition and that processes dependent on the hippocampus may be particularly sensitive. As the hippocampus plays a key role in binding processes, we examined the influence of glucose on memory for object-location bindings. This study aims to study how glucose modifies performance on an object-location memory task, a task that draws heavily on hippocampal function. Thirty-one participants received 30 g glucose or placebo in a single 1-h session. After seeing between 3 and 10 objects (words or shapes) at different locations in a 9 × 9 matrix, participants attempted to immediately reproduce the display on a blank 9 × 9 matrix. Blood glucose was measured before drink ingestion, mid-way through the session, and at the end of the session. Glucose significantly improves object-location binding (d = 1.08) and location memory (d = 0.83), but not object memory (d = 0.51). Increasing working memory load impairs object memory and object-location binding, and word-location binding is more successful than shape-location binding, but the glucose improvement is robust across all difficulty manipulations. Within the glucose group, higher levels of circulating glucose are correlated with better binding memory and remembering the locations of successfully recalled objects. The glucose improvements identified are consistent with a facilitative impact on hippocampal function. The findings are discussed in the context of the relationship between cognitive processes, hippocampal function, and the implications for glucose's mode of action.

The Effects of Different Electrode Types for Obtaining Surface Machining Shape on Shape Memory Alloy Using Electrochemical Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, S. G.; Kim, S. H.; Choi, W. K.; Moon, G. C.; Lee, E. S.

2017-06-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is important material used for the medicine and aerospace industry due to its characteristics called the shape memory effect, which involves the recovery of deformed alloy to its original state through the application of temperature or stress. Consumers in modern society demand stability in parts. Electrochemical machining is one of the methods for obtained these stabilities in parts requirements. These parts of shape memory alloy require fine patterns in some applications. In order to machine a fine pattern, the electrochemical machining method is suitable. For precision electrochemical machining using different shape electrodes, the current density should be controlled precisely. And electrode shape is required for precise electrochemical machining. It is possible to obtain precise square holes on the SMA if the insulation layer controlled the unnecessary current between electrode and workpiece. If it is adjusting the unnecessary current to obtain the desired shape, it will be a great contribution to the medical industry and the aerospace industry. It is possible to process a desired shape to the shape memory alloy by micro controlling the unnecessary current. In case of the square electrode without insulation layer, it derives inexact square holes due to the unnecessary current. The results using the insulated electrode in only side show precise square holes. The removal rate improved in case of insulated electrode than others because insulation layer concentrate the applied current to the machining zone.

Mood induction effects on motor sequence learning and stop signal reaction time.

PubMed

Greeley, Brian; Seidler, Rachael D

2017-01-01

The neurobiological theory of positive affect proposes that positive mood states may benefit cognitive performance due to an increase of dopamine throughout the brain. However, the results of many positive affect studies are inconsistent; this may be due to individual differences. The relationship between dopamine and performance is not linear, but instead follows an inverted "U" shape. Given this, we hypothesized that individuals with high working memory capacity, a proxy measure for dopaminergic transmission, would not benefit from positive mood induction and in fact performance in dopamine-mediated tasks would decline. In contrast, we predicted that individuals with low working memory capacities would receive the most benefit after positive mood induction. Here, we explored the effect of positive affect on two dopamine-mediated tasks, an explicit serial reaction time sequence learning task and the stop signal task, predicting that an individual's performance is modulated not only by working memory capacity, but also on the type of mood. Improvements in explicit sequence learning from pre- to post-positive mood induction were associated with working memory capacity; performance declined in individuals with higher working memory capacities following positive mood induction, but improved in individuals with lower working memory capacities. This was not the case for negative or neutral mood induction. Moreover, there was no relationship between the change in stop signal reaction time with any of the mood inductions and individual differences in working memory capacity. These results provide partial support for the neurobiological theory of positive affect and highlight the importance of taking into account individual differences in working memory when examining the effects of positive mood induction.

Cross-modal working memory binding and word recognition skills: how specific is the link?

PubMed

Wang, Shinmin; Allen, Richard J

2018-04-01

Recent research has suggested that the creation of temporary bound representations of information from different sources within working memory uniquely relates to word recognition abilities in school-age children. However, it is unclear to what extent this link is attributable specifically to the binding ability for cross-modal information. This study examined the performance of Grade 3 (8-9 years old) children on binding tasks requiring either temporary association formation of two visual items (i.e., within-modal binding) or pairs of visually presented abstract shapes and auditorily presented nonwords (i.e., cross-modal binding). Children's word recognition skills were related to performance on the cross-modal binding task but not on the within-modal binding task. Further regression models showed that cross-modal binding memory was a significant predictor of word recognition when memory for its constituent elements, general abilities, and crucially, within-modal binding memory were taken into account. These findings may suggest a specific link between the ability to bind information across modalities within working memory and word recognition skills.

Hybrid Shape Memory Alloy Composites for Extreme Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-01

Shape Memory Alloys in Oil Well Applications,” Sintef Petroleum Research, 1999, Trondheim, Norway. 5. Hartl , D. J., Lagoudas, D., Mabe , J., Calkins...Materials and Structures, Vol. 19, No. 1., 2009. 6. Hartl , D. J., Lagoudas, D., Mabe , J., Calkins, F., and Mooney, J., “Use of Ni60Ti Shape Memory...hydraulic actuators) and can thus be located in environments not previously accessible. SMA actuators can also be found in the aerospace ( Hartl and

Active Control of Flexible Space Structures Using the Nitinol Shape Memory Actuators

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-10-01

number) FIELD !GROUP SUBGROUP I Active Control, Nitinol Actuators, Space Structures 9. ABSTRACT (Continue on reverse if necessary and identify by block...number) Summarizes research progress in the feasibility demonstration of active vibration control using Nitinol shape memory actuators. Tests on...FLEXIBLE SPACE STRUCTURES USING NITINOL SHAPE MEMORY ACTUATORS FINAL REPORT FOR PHASE I SDIO CONTRACT #F49620-87-C-0035 0 BY DR. AMR M. BAZ KARIM R

Shape-Memory Wires Switch Rotary Actuator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brudnicki, Myron J.

1992-01-01

Thermomechanical rotary actuator based on shape-memory property of alloy composed of equal parts of titanium and nickel. If alloy stretched while below transition temperature, it reverts to original length when heated above transition temperature. Two capstans on same shaft wrapped with shape-memory wires. As one wire heated, it contracts and stretches opposite wire. Wires heated in alternation so they switch shaft between two extreme angular positions; "on" and "off" positions of rotary valve.

Modeling the behaviour of shape memory materials under large deformations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogovoy, A. A.; Stolbova, O. S.

2017-06-01

In this study, the models describing the behavior of shape memory alloys, ferromagnetic materials and polymers have been constructed, using a formalized approach to develop the constitutive equations for complex media under large deformations. The kinematic and constitutive equations, satisfying the principles of thermodynamics and objectivity, have been derived. The application of the Galerkin procedure to the systems of equations of solid mechanics allowed us to obtain the Lagrange variational equation and variational formulation of the magnetostatics problems. These relations have been tested in the context of the problems of finite deformation in shape memory alloys and ferromagnetic materials during forward and reverse martensitic transformations and in shape memory polymers during forward and reverse relaxation transitions from a highly elastic to a glassy state.

Method of preparing a two-way shape memory alloy

DOEpatents

Johnson, A.D.

1984-03-06

A two-way shape memory alloy, a method of training a shape memory alloy, and a heat engine employing the two-way shape memory alloy to do external work during both heating and cooling phases are disclosed. The alloy is heated under a first training stress to a temperature which is above the upper operating temperature of the alloy, then cooled to a cold temperature below the zero-force transition temperature of the alloy, then deformed while applying a second training stress which is greater in magnitude than the stress at which the alloy is to be operated, then heated back to the hot temperature, changing from the second training stress back to the first training stress. 8 figs.

Shape Memory Alloy Rock Splitters (SMARS) - A Non-Explosive Method for Fracturing Planetary Rocklike Materials and Minerals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benafan, Othmane; Noebe, Ronald D.; Halsmer, Timothy J.

2015-01-01

A static rock splitter device based on high-force, high-temperature shape memory alloys (HTSMAs) was developed for space related applications requiring controlled geologic excavation in planetary bodies such as the Moon, Mars, and near-Earth asteroids. The device, hereafter referred to as the shape memory alloy rock splitter (SMARS), consisted of active (expanding) elements made of Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20 (at.%) that generate extremely large forces in response to thermal input. The preshaping (training) of these elements was accomplished using isothermal, isobaric and cyclic training methods, which resulted in active components capable of generating stresses in excess of 1.5 GPa. The corresponding strains (or displacements) were also evaluated and were found to be 2 to 3 percent, essential to rock fracturing and/or splitting when placed in a borehole. SMARS performance was evaluated using a test bed consisting of a temperature controller, custom heaters and heater holders, and an enclosure for rock placement and breakage. The SMARS system was evaluated using various rock types including igneous rocks (e.g., basalt, quartz, granite) and sedimentary rocks (e.g., sandstone, limestone).

Computational Analysis of Advanced Shape-Memory Alloy Devices Through a Robust Modeling Framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scalet, Giulia; Conti, Michele; Auricchio, Ferdinando

2017-06-01

Shape-memory alloys (SMA) provide significant advantages in various industrial fields, but their manufacturing and commercialization are currently hindered. This is attributed mainly to the poor knowledge of material behavior and the lack of standards in its mechanical characterization. SMA products are usually developed by trial-and-error testing to address specific design requirements, thus increasing costs and time. The development of simulation tools offers a possible solution to assist engineers and designers and allows to better understand SMA transformation phenomena. Accordingly, the purpose of the present paper is to numerically analyze and predict the response of spring-like actuators and septal occluders, which are industrial components exploiting the shape-memory and pseudoelastic properties of SMAs, respectively. The methodology includes two main stages: the implementation of the three-dimensional phenomenological model known as Souza- Auricchio model and the finite element modeling of the device. A discussion about the steps of each stage, as parameter identification and model generalizations, is provided. Validation results are presented through a comparison with the results of a performed experimental campaign. The framework proves good prediction capabilities and allows to reduce the number of experimental tests in the future.

NiMnGa/Si Shape Memory Bimorph Nanoactuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lambrecht, Franziska; Lay, Christian; Aseguinolaza, Iván R.; Chernenko, Volodymyr; Kohl, Manfred

2016-12-01

The size dependences of thermal bimorph and shape memory effect of nanoscale shape memory alloy (SMA)/Si bimorph actuators are investigated in situ in a scanning electron microscope and by finite element simulations. By combining silicon nanomachining and magnetron sputtering, freestanding NiMnGa/Si bimorph cantilever structures with film/substrate thickness of 200/250 nm and decreasing lateral dimensions are fabricated. Electrical resistance and mechanical beam bending tests upon direct Joule heating demonstrate martensitic phase transformation and reversible thermal bimorph effect, respectively. Corresponding characteristics are strongly affected by the large temperature gradient in the order of 50 K/µm forming along the nano bimorph cantilever upon electro-thermal actuation, which, in addition, depends on the size-dependent heat conductivity in the Si nano layer. Furthermore, the martensitic transformation temperatures show a size-dependent decrease by about 40 K for decreasing lateral dimensions down to 200 nm. The effects of heating temperature and stress distribution on the nanoactuation performance are analyzed by finite element simulations revealing thickness ratio of SMA/Si of 90/250 nm to achieve an optimum SME. Differential thermal expansion and thermo-elastic effects are discriminated by comparative measurements and simulations on Ni/Si bimorph reference actuators.

Effect of Cross-linking Density on Creep and Recovery Behavior in Epoxy-Based Shape Memory Polymers (SMEPs) for Structural Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Kavitha V.; Ananthapadmanabha, G. S.; Dayananda, G. N.

2016-12-01

Epoxy-based shape memory polymers (SMEPs) are gaining importance in the area of aerospace structures due to their high strength and stiffness which is a primary requirement for an SMEP in structural applications. The understanding of viscoelastic behavior of SMEPs is very essential to assess their shape memory effect. In the present work, three types of SMEPs with varying cross-linking densities were developed by curing an aromatic epoxy resin with aliphatic amines. Glass transition temperature ( T g) was measured for these SMEPs using advanced rheometric expansion system, and from the T g measurements, a range of temperatures from glassy to rubbery regimes were chosen. At selected temperatures, creep-recovery tests were performed in order to evaluate the viscoelastic behavior of SMEPs and also to investigate the effect of temperature on creep-recovery. Further, a three-parameter viscoelastic model (Zener) was used to fit the data obtained from experiments. Model parameters like moduli of the springs and viscosity of the dashpot were evaluated by curve fitting. Results revealed that Zener model was well suited to describe the viscoelastic behavior of SMEPs as a function of test temperatures.

Visual distraction and visuo-spatial memory: a sandwich effect.

PubMed

Tremblay, Sébastien; Nicholls, Alastair P; Parmentier, Fabrice B R; Jones, Dylan M

2005-01-01

The functional characteristics of visuo-spatial serial memory and its sensitivity to irrelevant visual information are examined in the present study, through the investigation of the sandwich effect (e.g., Hitch, 1975). The memory task was one of serial recall for the position of a sequence of seven spatially and temporally separated dots. The presence of irrelevant dots interpolated with to-be-remembered dots affected performance over most serial positions (Experiment 1) but that effect was significantly reduced when the interpolated dots were distinct from the to-be-remembered dots by colour and shape (Experiment 2). Parallels are made between verbal and spatial serial memory, and the reduction of the sandwich effect is discussed in terms of the contribution of perceptual organisation and attentional factors in short-term memory.

Distinct regions of the hippocampus are associated with memory for different spatial locations.

PubMed

Jeye, Brittany M; MacEvoy, Sean P; Karanian, Jessica M; Slotnick, Scott D

2018-05-15

In the present functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we aimed to evaluate whether distinct regions of the hippocampus were associated with spatial memory for items presented in different locations of the visual field. In Experiment 1, during the study phase, participants viewed abstract shapes in the left or right visual field while maintaining central fixation. At test, old shapes were presented at fixation and participants classified each shape as previously in the "left" or "right" visual field followed by an "unsure"-"sure"-"very sure" confidence rating. Accurate spatial memory for shapes in the left visual field was isolated by contrasting accurate versus inaccurate spatial location responses. This contrast produced one hippocampal activation in which the interaction between item type and accuracy was significant. The analogous contrast for right visual field shapes did not produce activity in the hippocampus; however, the contrast of high confidence versus low confidence right-hits produced one hippocampal activation in which the interaction between item type and confidence was significant. In Experiment 2, the same paradigm was used but shapes were presented in each quadrant of the visual field during the study phase. Accurate memory for shapes in each quadrant, exclusively masked by accurate memory for shapes in the other quadrants, produced a distinct activation in the hippocampus. A multi-voxel pattern analysis (MVPA) of hippocampal activity revealed a significant correlation between behavioral spatial location accuracy and hippocampal MVPA accuracy across participants. The findings of both experiments indicate that distinct hippocampal regions are associated with memory for different visual field locations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The alloy with a memory, 55-Nitinol: Its physical metallurgy, properties, and applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jackson, C. M.; Wagner, H. J.; Wasilewski, R. J.

1972-01-01

A series of nickel titanium alloys (55-Nitinol), which are unique in that they possess a shape memory, are described. Components made of these materials that are altered in their shapes by deformation under proper conditions return to predetermined shapes when they are heated to the proper temperature range. The shape memory, together with the force exerted and the ability of the material to do mechanical work as it returns to its predetermined shape, suggest a wide variety of industrial applications for the alloy. Also included are discussions of the physical metallurgy and the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of 55-Nitinol; procedures for melting and processing the material into useful shapes; and a summary of applications.

Fabrication of a helical coil shape memory alloy actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odonnell, R. E.

1992-02-01

A fabrication process was developed to form, heat treat, and join NiTi shape memory alloy helical coils for use as mechanical actuators. Tooling and procedures were developed to wind both extension and compression-type coils on a manual lathe. Heat treating fixtures and techniques were used to set the 'memory' of the NiTi alloy to the desired configuration. A swaging process was devised to fasten shape memory alloy extension coils to end fittings for use in actuator testing and for potential attachment to mechanical devices. The strength of this mechanical joint was evaluated.

Shaping the CD4+ memory immune response against tuberculosis: the role of antigen persistence, location and multi-functionality.

PubMed

Ancelet, Lindsay; Kirman, Joanna

2012-02-01

Abstract Effective vaccination against intracellular pathogens, such as tuberculosis (TB), relies on the generation and maintenance of CD4 memory T cells. An incomplete understanding of the memory immune response has hindered the rational design of a new, more effective TB vaccine. This review discusses how the persistence of antigen, the location of memory cells, and their multifunctional ability shape the CD4 memory T cell response against TB.

Presentations of Shape in Object Recognition and Long-Term Visual Memory

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-04-05

theory of human image understanding . Psychological Review, 94, 115-147. Biederman, I., & Gerhardstein, P. C. (1993). Recognizing depth-rotated...Kybemetik. Submitted to Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance. REFERENCES Biederman, I. (1987). Recognition-by-components: A

Working memory for braille is shaped by experience.

PubMed

Cohen, Henri; Scherzer, Peter; Viau, Robert; Voss, Patrice; Lepore, Franco

2011-03-01

Tactile working memory was found to be more developed in completely blind (congenital and acquired) than in semi-sighted subjects, indicating that experience plays a crucial role in shaping working memory. A model of working memory, adapted from the classical model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch1 and Baddeley2 is presented where the connection strengths of a highly cross-modal network are altered through experience.

4D Printing of Shape Memory-Based Personalized Endoluminal Medical Devices.

PubMed

Zarek, Matt; Mansour, Nicola; Shapira, Shir; Cohn, Daniel

2017-01-01

The convergence of additive manufacturing and shape-morphing materials is promising for the advancement of personalized medical devices. The capability to transform 3D objects from one shape to another, right off the print bed, is known as 4D printing. Shape memory thermosets can be tailored to have a range of thermomechanical properties favorable to medical devices, but processing them is a challenge because they are insoluble and do not flow at any temperature. This study presents here a strategy to capitalize on a series of medical imaging modalities to construct a printable shape memory endoluminal device, exemplified by a tracheal stent. A methacrylated polycaprolactone precursor with a molecular weight of 10 000 g mol -1 is printed with a UV-LED stereolithography printer based on anatomical data. This approach converges with the zeitgeist of personalized medicine and it is anticipated that it will broadly expand the application of shape memory-exhibiting biomedical devices to myriad clinical indications. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The shape-memory effect in ionic elastomers: fixation through ionic interactions.

PubMed

González-Jiménez, Antonio; Malmierca, Marta A; Bernal-Ortega, Pilar; Posadas, Pilar; Pérez-Aparicio, Roberto; Marcos-Fernández, Ángel; Mather, Patrick T; Valentín, Juan L

2017-04-19

Shape-memory elastomers based on a commercial rubber cross-linked by both ionic and covalent bonds have been developed. The elastomeric matrix was a carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR) vulcanized with magnesium oxide (MgO) providing ionic interactions that form hierarchical structures. The so-named ionic transition is used as the unique thermal transition responsible for the shape-memory effect (SME) in these elastomers. These ionic interactions fix the temporary shape due to their behavior as dynamic cross-links with temperature changes. Covalent cross-links were incorporated with the addition of different proportions of dicumyl peroxide (DCP) to the ionic elastomer to establish and recover the permanent shape. In this article, the SME was modulated by modifying the degree of covalent cross-linking, while keeping the ionic contribution constant. In addition, different programming parameters, such as deformation temperature, heating/cooling rate, loading/unloading rate and percentage of tensile strain, were evaluated for their effects on shape-memory behavior.

Low-cost high-quality Fe-based shape memory alloys suitable for pipe joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kajiwara, Setsuo; Baruj, Albert L.; Kikuchi, Takehiko; Shinya, Norio

2003-08-01

By addition of small amount of Nb and C to the conventional Fe-Mn-Si based shape memory alloys, shape memory properties are greatly improved in such an extent that the costly 'training' heat treatment is no more necessary. The key to this remarkable improvement of shape memory effect is to produce small NbC precipitates of about several nm in size in austenite. In order to generate such very small NbC particles, the sample is firstly rolled at 870 K and then aged at 1070 K. An example of Fe-28Mn-6Si-5Cr-0.53Nb-0.06C (mass %) alloy is shown; 95% shape recovery for initial strain of 4% is obtained and the shape recovery stress of about 300 MPa is attained for the sample pre-rolled 14%, which is well above the criterion for industry application of pipe jointing. A pipe jointing with this material is demonstrated.

Implementation of a finite element analysis procedure for structural analysis of shape memory behaviour of fibre reinforced shape memory polymer composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azzawi, Wessam Al; Epaarachchi, J. A.; Islam, Mainul; Leng, Jinsong

2017-12-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) offer a unique ability to undergo a substantial shape deformation and subsequently recover the original shape when exposed to a particular external stimulus. Comparatively low mechanical properties being the major drawback for extended use of SMPs in engineering applications. However the inclusion of reinforcing fibres in to SMPs improves mechanical properties significantly while retaining intrinsic shape memory effects. The implementation of shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) in any engineering application is a unique task which requires profound materials and design optimization. However currently available analytical tools have critical limitations to undertake accurate analysis/simulations of SMPC structures and slower derestrict transformation of breakthrough research outcomes to real-life applications. Many finite element (FE) models have been presented. But majority of them require a complicated user-subroutines to integrate with standard FE software packages. Furthermore, those subroutines are problem specific and difficult to use for a wider range of SMPC materials and related structures. This paper presents a FE simulation technique to model the thermomechanical behaviour of the SMPCs using commercial FE software ABAQUS. Proposed technique incorporates material time-dependent viscoelastic behaviour. The ability of the proposed technique to predict the shape fixity and shape recovery was evaluated by experimental data acquired by a bending of a SMPC cantilever beam. The excellent correlation between the experimental and FE simulation results has confirmed the robustness of the proposed technique.

Shape-memory alloy micro-actuator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Busch, John D. (Inventor); Johnson, Alfred D. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A method of producing an integral piece of thermo-sensitive material, which is responsive to a shift in temperature from below to above a phase transformation temperature range to alter the material's condition to a shape-memory condition and move from one position to another. The method is characterized by depositing a thin film of shape-memory material, such as Nickel titanium (Ni-Ti) onto a substrate by vacuum deposition process such that the alloy exhibits an amorphous non-crystalline structure. The coated substrate is then annealed in a vacuum or in the presence of an inert atmosphere at a selected temperature, time and cool down rate to produce an ordered, partially disordered or fully disordered BCC structure such that the alloy undergoes thermoelastic, martinsetic phase transformation in response to alteration in temperature to pass from a martinsetic phase when at a temperature below a phase transformation range and capable of a high level of recoverable strain to a parent austenitic phase in a memory shape when at a temperature above the phase transformation range. Also disclosed are actuator devices employing shape-memory material actuators that deform from a set shape toward an original shape when subjected to a critical temperature level after having been initially deformed from the original shape into the set shape while at a lower temperature. The actuators are mechanically coupled to one or more movable elements such that the temperature-induce deformation of the actuators exerts a force or generates a motion of the mechanical element(s).

Preparation and characterization of triple shape memory composite foams.

PubMed

Nejad, Hossein Birjandi; Baker, Richard M; Mather, Patrick T

2014-10-28

Foams prepared from shape memory polymers (SMPs) offer the potential for low density materials that can be triggered to deploy with a large volume change, unlike their solid counterparts that do so at near-constant volume. While examples of shape memory foams have been reported in the past, they have been limited to dual SMPs: those polymers featuring one switching transition between an arbitrarily programmed shape and a single permanent shape established by constituent crosslinks. Meanwhile, advances by SMP researchers have led to several approaches toward triple- or multi-shape polymers that feature more than one switching phase and thus a multitude of temporary shapes allowing for a complex sequence of shape deployments. Here, we report the design, preparation, and characterization of a triple shape memory polymeric foam that is open cell in nature and features a two phase, crosslinked SMP with a glass transition temperature of one phase at a temperature lower than a melting transition of the second phase. The soft materials were observed to feature high fidelity, repeatable triple shape behavior, characterized in compression and demonstrated for complex deployment by fixing a combination of foam compression and bending. We further explored the wettability of the foams, revealing composition-dependent behavior favorable for future work in biomedical investigations.

Overlay degradation induced by film stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Chi-hao; Liu, Yu-Lin; Luo, Shing-Ann; Yang, Mars; Yang, Elvis; Hung, Yung-Tai; Luoh, Tuung; Yang, T. H.; Chen, K. C.

2017-03-01

The semiconductor industry has continually sought the approaches to produce memory devices with increased memory cells per memory die. One way to meet the increasing storage capacity demand and reduce bit cost of NAND flash memories is 3D stacked flash cell array. In constructing 3D NAND flash memories, increasing the number of stacked layers to build more memory cell number per unit area necessitates many high-aspect-ratio etching processes accordingly the incorporation of thick and unique etching hard-mask scheme has been indispensable. However, the ever increasingly thick requirement on etching hard-mask has made the hard-mask film stress control extremely important for maintaining good process qualities. The residual film stress alters the wafer shape consequently several process impacts have been readily observed across wafer, such as wafer chucking error on scanner, film peeling, materials coating and baking defects, critical dimension (CD) non-uniformity and overlay degradation. This work investigates the overlay and residual order performance indicator (ROPI) degradation coupling with increasingly thick advanced patterning film (APF) etching hard-mask. Various APF films deposited by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method under different deposition temperatures, chemicals combinations, radio frequency powers and chamber pressures were carried out. And -342MPa to +80MPa film stress with different film thicknesses were generated for the overlay performance study. The results revealed the overlay degradation doesn't directly correlate with convex or concave wafer shapes but the magnitude of residual APF film stress, while increasing the APF thickness will worsen the overlay performance and ROPI strongly. High-stress APF film was also observed to enhance the scanner chucking difference and lead to more serious wafer to wafer overlay variation. To reduce the overlay degradation from ever increasingly thick APF etching hard-mask, optimizing the film stress of APF is the most effective way and high order overlay compensation is also helpful.

Contrasting visual working memory for verbal and non-verbal material with multivariate analysis of fMRI

PubMed Central

Habeck, Christian; Rakitin, Brian; Steffener, Jason; Stern, Yaakov

2012-01-01

We performed a delayed-item-recognition task to investigate the neural substrates of non-verbal visual working memory with event-related fMRI (‘Shape task’). 25 young subjects (mean age: 24.0 years; STD=3.8 years) were instructed to study a list of either 1,2 or 3 unnamable nonsense line drawings for 3 seconds (‘stimulus phase’ or STIM). Subsequently, the screen went blank for 7 seconds (‘retention phase’ or RET), and then displayed a probe stimulus for 3 seconds in which subject indicated with a differential button press whether the probe was contained in the studied shape-array or not (‘probe phase’ or PROBE). Ordinal Trend Canonical Variates Analysis (Habeck et al., 2005a) was performed to identify spatial covariance patterns that showed a monotonic increase in expression with memory load during all task phases. Reliable load-related patterns were identified in the stimulus and retention phase (p<0.01), while no significant pattern could be discerned during the probe phase. Spatial covariance patterns that were obtained from an earlier version of this task (Habeck et al., 2005b) using 1, 3, or 6 letters (‘Letter task’) were also prospectively applied to their corresponding task phases in the current non-verbal task version. Interestingly, subject expression of covariance patterns from both verbal and non-verbal retention phases correlated positively in the non-verbal task for all memory loads (p<0.0001). Both patterns also involved similar frontoparietal brain regions that were increasing in activity with memory load, and mediofrontal and temporal regions that were decreasing. Mean subject expression of both patterns across memory load during retention also correlated positively with recognition accuracy (dL) in the Shape task (p<0.005). These findings point to similarities in the neural substrates of verbal and non-verbal rehearsal processes. Encoding processes, on the other hand, are critically dependent on the to-be-remembered material, and seem to necessitate material-specific neural substrates. PMID:22652306

Thermosetting epoxy resin/thermoplastic system with combined shape memory and self-healing properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Yongtao; Wang, Jingjie; Lu, Haibao; Xu, Ben; Fu, Yongqing; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2016-01-01

A novel and facile strategy was proposed to construct a thermosetting/thermoplastic system with both shape memory and self-healing properties based on commercial epoxy resin and poly(ɛ-caprolactone)-PCL. Thermoplastic material is capable of re-structuring and changing the stiffness/modulus when the temperature is above melting temperature. PCL microfiber was used as a plasticizer in epoxy resin-based blends, and served as a ‘hard segment’ to fix a temporary shape of the composites during shape memory cycles. In this study, the electrospun PCL membrane with a porous network structure enabled a homogenous PCL fibrous distribution and optimized interaction between fiber and epoxy resin. The self-healing capability is achieved by phase transition during curing of the composites. The mechanism of the shape memory effect of the thermosetting (rubber)/thermoplastic composite is attributed to the structural design of the thermoplastic network inside the thermosetting resin/rubber matrix.

On the design of a miniature haptic ring for cutaneous force feedback using shape memory alloy actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Donghyun; Lee, Jaemin; Kim, Keehoon

2017-10-01

This paper proposes a miniature haptic ring that can display touch/pressure and shearing force to the user’s fingerpad. For practical use and wider application of the device, it is developed with the aim of achieving high wearability and mobility/portability as well as cutaneous force feedback functionality. A main body of the device is designed as a ring-shaped lightweight structure with a simple driving mechanism, and thin shape memory alloy (SMA) wires having high energy density are applied as actuating elements. Also, based on a band-type wireless control unit including a wireless data communication module, the whole device could be realized as a wearable mobile haptic device system. These features enable the device to take diverse advantages on functional performances and to provide users with significant usability. In this work, the proposed miniature haptic ring is systematically designed, and its working performances are experimentally evaluated with a fabricated functional prototype. The experimental results obviously demonstrate that the proposed device exhibits higher force-to-weight ratio than conventional finger-wearable haptic devices for cutaneous force feedback. Also, it is investigated that operational performances of the device are strongly influenced by electro-thermomechanical behaviors of the SMA actuator. In addition to the experiments for performance evaluation, we conduct a preliminary user test to assess practical feasibility and usability based on user’s qualitative feedback.

Cannabis-related episodic memory deficits and hippocampal morphological differences in healthy individuals and schizophrenia subjects.

PubMed

Smith, Matthew J; Cobia, Derin J; Reilly, James L; Gilman, Jodi M; Roberts, Andrea G; Alpert, Kathryn I; Wang, Lei; Breiter, Hans C; Csernansky, John G

2015-09-01

Cannabis use has been associated with episodic memory (EM) impairments and abnormal hippocampus morphology among both healthy individuals and schizophrenia subjects. Considering the hippocampus' role in EM, research is needed to evaluate the relationship between cannabis-related hippocampal morphology and EM among healthy and clinical groups. We examined differences in hippocampus morphology between control and schizophrenia subjects with and without a past (not current) cannabis use disorder (CUD). Subjects group-matched on demographics included 44 healthy controls (CON), 10 subjects with a CUD history (CON-CUD), 28 schizophrenia subjects with no history of substance use disorders (SCZ), and 15 schizophrenia subjects with a CUD history (SCZ-CUD). Large-deformation, high-dimensional brain mapping with MRI produced surface-based representations of the hippocampus that were compared across all four groups and correlated with EM and CUD history. Surface maps of the hippocampus were generated to visualize morphological differences. CON-CUD and SCZ-CUD were characterized by distinct cannabis-related hippocampal shape differences and parametric deficits in EM performance. Shape differences observed in CON-CUD were associated with poorer EM performance, while shape differences observed in SCZ-CUD were associated with a longer duration of CUD and shorter duration of CUD remission. A past history of CUD may be associated with notable differences in hippocampal morphology and EM impairments among adults with and without schizophrenia. Although the results may be compatible with a causal hypothesis, we must consider that the observed cannabis-related shape differences in the hippocampus could also be explained as biomarkers of a neurobiological susceptibility to poor memory or the effects of cannabis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of Ice Shape Fidelity on Swept-Wing Aerodynamic Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Camello, Stephanie C.; Bragg, Michael B.; Broeren, Andy P.; Lum, Christopher W.; Woodard, Brian S.; Lee, Sam

2017-01-01

Low-Reynolds number testing was conducted at the 7 ft. x 10 ft. Walter H. Beech Memorial Wind Tunnel at Wichita State University to study the aerodynamic effects of ice shapes on a swept wing. A total of 17 ice shape configurations of varying geometric detail were tested. Simplified versions of an ice shape may help improve current ice accretion simulation methods and therefore aircraft design, certification, and testing. For each configuration, surface pressure, force balance, and fluorescent mini-tuft data were collected and for a selected subset of configurations oil-flow visualization and wake survey data were collected. A comparison of two ice shape geometries and two configurations with simplified geometric detail for each ice shape geometry is presented in this paper.

What does visual suffix interference tell us about spatial location in working memory?

PubMed

Allen, Richard J; Castellà, Judit; Ueno, Taiji; Hitch, Graham J; Baddeley, Alan D

2015-01-01

A visual object can be conceived of as comprising a number of features bound together by their joint spatial location. We investigate the question of whether the spatial location is automatically bound to the features or whether the two are separable, using a previously developed paradigm whereby memory is disrupted by a visual suffix. Participants were shown a sample array of four colored shapes, followed by a postcue indicating the target for recall. On randomly intermixed trials, a to-be-ignored suffix array consisting of two different colored shapes was presented between the sample and the postcue. In a random half of suffix trials, one of the suffix items overlaid the location of the target. If location was automatically encoded, one might expect the colocation of target and suffix to differentially impair performance. We carried out three experiments, cuing for recall by spatial location (Experiment 1), color or shape (Experiment 2), or both randomly intermixed (Experiment 3). All three studies showed clear suffix effects, but the colocation of target and suffix was differentially disruptive only when a spatial cue was used. The results suggest that purely visual shape-color binding can be retained and accessed without requiring information about spatial location, even when task demands encourage the encoding of location, consistent with the idea of an abstract and flexible visual working memory system.

A two-way architectural actuator using NiTi SE wire and SME spring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nematollahi, Mohammadreza; Mehrabi, Reza; Callejas, Miguel A.; Elahinia, Hedyeh; Elahinia, Mohammad

2018-03-01

This paper presents a bio-inspired continuously adapting architectural element, to enable a smart canopy that provides shade to buildings that need protection from sunlight. The smart actuator consists of two elements: one NiTi shape memory (SME) spring and one NiTi superelastic (SE) wire. The SE wire is deformed to a `U' shape and then the SME spring is attached to it. Due to the force of SE wire exerted on SME spring, the smart canopy is in its open position. When the environment's temperature increases, the actuator activates and shrinks the SME spring and hence it closes the canopy. In continues, when the temperature decreases at evening, the actuator inactive and SE wire will open the smart fabric. This unique activation provides different advantages like silent actuation, maintenance free, eco-friendly, and no or low energy consumption. Here, the conceptual design of the smart canopy actuator will be discussed. Then, a simulation study, using finite element method, is used to investigate components' behavior. The extracted material parameters are implemented in the subroutine, to simulate the behavior of the shape memory alloy elements. Simulation's results predict superelastic behavior for the SE wire and shape memory effect for the NiTi spring. For further studies, a prototype will be fabricated to confirm simulation's results, as well as performing some experimental tests.

Combat Maintenance Concepts and Repair Techniques Using Shape Memory Alloys for Fluid Lines, Control Tubes, and Drive Shafts.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-03-01

BUREAU OF STANDARDS-1963-A ,,...:-. .-. -.’" :.- --. . 4 Iq " USAAVRADCOM-TR-82-D-37 COMBAT MAINTENANCE CONCEPTS AND REPAIR TECHNIQUES USING SHAPE MEMORY...O APPLIED TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY POSITION STATEMENT The results of this effort determined the feasibility of using the full-ring shape memory alloy...specifications, or other data are used for any purpose other than in connection with a definitely related Government procurement operation, the United

Direct Writing of Three-Dimensional Macroporous Photonic Crystals on Pressure-Responsive Shape Memory Polymers.

PubMed

Fang, Yin; Ni, Yongliang; Leo, Sin-Yen; Wang, Bingchen; Basile, Vito; Taylor, Curtis; Jiang, Peng

2015-10-28

Here we report a single-step direct writing technology for making three-dimensional (3D) macroporous photonic crystal patterns on a new type of pressure-responsive shape memory polymer (SMP). This approach integrates two disparate fields that do not typically intersect: the well-established templating nanofabrication and shape memory materials. Periodic arrays of polymer macropores templated from self-assembled colloidal crystals are squeezed into disordered arrays in an unusual shape memory "cold" programming process. The recovery of the original macroporous photonic crystal lattices can be triggered by direct writing at ambient conditions using both macroscopic and nanoscopic tools, like a pencil or a nanoindenter. Interestingly, this shape memory disorder-order transition is reversible and the photonic crystal patterns can be erased and regenerated hundreds of times, promising the making of reconfigurable/rewritable nanooptical devices. Quantitative insights into the shape memory recovery of collapsed macropores induced by the lateral shear stresses in direct writing are gained through fundamental investigations on important process parameters, including the tip material, the critical pressure and writing speed for triggering the recovery of the deformed macropores, and the minimal feature size that can be directly written on the SMP membranes. Besides straightforward applications in photonic crystal devices, these smart mechanochromic SMPs that are sensitive to various mechanical stresses could render important technological applications ranging from chromogenic stress and impact sensors to rewritable high-density optical data storage media.

Thermomechanical behavior of shape memory elastomeric composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ge, Qi; Luo, Xiaofan; Rodriguez, Erika D.; Zhang, Xiao; Mather, Patrick T.; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2012-01-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can fix a temporary shape and recover their permanent shape in response to environmental stimuli such as heat, electricity, or irradiation. Most thermally activated SMPs use the macromolecular chain mobility change around the glass transition temperature ( Tg) to achieve the shape memory (SM) effects. During this process, the stiffness of the material typically changes by three orders of magnitude. Recently, a composite materials approach was developed to achieve thermally activated shape memory effect where the material exhibits elastomeric response in both the temporary and the recovered configurations. These shape memory elastomeric composites (SMECs) consist of an elastomeric matrix reinforced by a semicrystalline polymer fiber network. The matrix provides background rubber elasticity while the fiber network can transform between solid crystals and melt phases over the operative temperature range. As such it serves as a reversible "switching phase" that enables shape fixing and recovery. Shape memory elastomeric composites provide a new paradigm for the development of a wide array of active polymer composites that utilize the melt-crystal transition to achieve the shape memory effect. This potentially allows for material systems with much simpler chemistries than most shape memory polymers and thus can facilitate more rapid material development and insertion. It is therefore important to understand the thermomechanical behavior and to develop corresponding material models. In this paper, a 3D finite-deformation constitutive modeling framework was developed to describe the thermomechanical behavior of SMEC. The model is phenomenological, although inspired by micromechanical considerations of load transfer between the matrix and fiber phases of a composite system. It treats the matrix as an elastomer and the fibers as a complex solid that itself is an aggregate of melt and crystal phases that evolve from one to the other during a temperature change. As such, the composite consists of an elastomer reinforced by a soft liquid at high temperature and a stiff solid at low temperature. The model includes a kinetic description of the non-isothermal crystallization and melting of the fibers during a temperature change. As the fibers transform from melt to crystal during cooling it is assumed that new crystals are formed in an undeformed state, which requires careful tracking of the kinematics of the evolving phases which comes at a significant computational cost. In order to improve the computational efficiency, an effective phase model (EPM) is adopted to treat the evolving crystal phases as an effective medium. A suite of careful thermomechanical experiments with a SMEC was carried out to calibrate various model parameters, and then to demonstrate the ability of the model to accurately capture the shape memory behavior of the SMEC system during complex thermomechanical loading scenarios. The model also identifies the effects of microstructural design parameters such as the fiber volume fraction.

Investigation on adaptive wing structure based on shape memory polymer composite hinge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Yuemin; Li, Xinbo; Zhang, Wei; Leng, Jinsong

2007-07-01

This paper describes the design and investigation of the SMP composite hinge and the morphing wing structure. The SMP composite hinge was based on SMP and carbon fiber fabric. The twisting recoverability of it was investigated by heating and then cooling repeatedly above and below the Tg. The twisting recoverability characterized by the twisting angle. Results show that the SMP composite hinge have good shape recoverability, Recovery time has a great influence on the twisting recoverability. The twisting recovery ratio became large with the increment of recovery time. The morphing wing can changes shape for different tasks. For the advantages of great recovery force and stable performances, we adopt SMP composite hinge as actuator to apply into the structure of the wing which can realize draw back wings to change sweep angle according to the speed and other requirements of military airplanes. Finally, a series of simulations and experiments are performed to investigate the deformations of morphing wings have been performed successfully. It can be seen that the sweep angle change became large with the increment of initial angle. The area reduction became large with the increment of initial angle, but after 75° the area reduction became smaller and smaller. The deformations of the triangle wing became large with the increment of temperature. The area and the sweep angle of wings can be controlled by adjusting the stimulate temperature and the initial twisting angle of shape memory polymer composite hinge.

Studies and applications of NiTi shape memory alloys in the medical field in China.

PubMed

Dai, K; Chu, Y

1996-01-01

The biomedical study of NiTi shape memory alloys has been undertaken in China since 1978. A series of stimulating corrosion tests, histological observations, toxicity tests, carcinogenicity tests, trace nickel elements analysis and a number of clinical trials have been conducted. The results showed that the NiTi shape memory alloy is a good biomaterial with good biocompatibility and no obvious local tissue reaction, carcinogenesis or erosion of implants were found experimentally or clinically. In 1981, on the basis of fundamental studies, a shape memory staple was used for the first time inside the human body. Subsequently, various shape memory devices were designed and applied clinically for internal fixation of fractures, spine surgery, endoprostheses, gynaecological and craniofacial surgery. Since 1990, a series of internal stents have been developed for the management of biliary, tracheal and esophageal strictures and urethrostenosis as well as vascular obturator for tumour management. Several thousand cases have been treated and had a 1-10 year follow-up and good clinical results with a rather low complication rate were obtained.

Temperature and electrical memory of polymer fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jinkai; Zakri, Cécile; Grillard, Fabienne; Neri, Wilfrid; Poulin, Philippe

2014-05-01

We report in this work studies of the shape memory behavior of polymer fibers loaded with carbon nanotubes or graphene flakes. These materials exhibit enhanced shape memory properties with the generation of a giant stress upon shape recovery. In addition, they exhibit a surprising temperature memory with a peak of generated stress at a temperature nearly equal to the temperature of programming. This temperature memory is ascribed to the presence of dynamical heterogeneities and to the intrinsic broadness of the glass transition. We present recent experiments related to observables other than mechanical properties. In particular nanocomposite fibers exhibit variations of electrical conductivity with an accurate memory. Indeed, the rate of conductivity variations during temperature changes reaches a well defined maximum at a temperature equal to the temperature of programming. Such materials are promising for future actuators that couple dimensional changes with sensing electronic functionalities.

Memory performance on the Auditory Inference Span Test is independent of background noise type for young adults with normal hearing at high speech intelligibility

PubMed Central

Rönnberg, Niklas; Rudner, Mary; Lunner, Thomas; Stenfelt, Stefan

2014-01-01

Listening in noise is often perceived to be effortful. This is partly because cognitive resources are engaged in separating the target signal from background noise, leaving fewer resources for storage and processing of the content of the message in working memory. The Auditory Inference Span Test (AIST) is designed to assess listening effort by measuring the ability to maintain and process heard information. The aim of this study was to use AIST to investigate the effect of background noise types and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) on listening effort, as a function of working memory capacity (WMC) and updating ability (UA). The AIST was administered in three types of background noise: steady-state speech-shaped noise, amplitude modulated speech-shaped noise, and unintelligible speech. Three SNRs targeting 90% speech intelligibility or better were used in each of the three noise types, giving nine different conditions. The reading span test assessed WMC, while UA was assessed with the letter memory test. Twenty young adults with normal hearing participated in the study. Results showed that AIST performance was not influenced by noise type at the same intelligibility level, but became worse with worse SNR when background noise was speech-like. Performance on AIST also decreased with increasing memory load level. Correlations between AIST performance and the cognitive measurements suggested that WMC is of more importance for listening when SNRs are worse, while UA is of more importance for listening in easier SNRs. The results indicated that in young adults with normal hearing, the effort involved in listening in noise at high intelligibility levels is independent of the noise type. However, when noise is speech-like and intelligibility decreases, listening effort increases, probably due to extra demands on cognitive resources added by the informational masking created by the speech fragments and vocal sounds in the background noise. PMID:25566159

Memory performance on the Auditory Inference Span Test is independent of background noise type for young adults with normal hearing at high speech intelligibility.

PubMed

Rönnberg, Niklas; Rudner, Mary; Lunner, Thomas; Stenfelt, Stefan

2014-01-01

Listening in noise is often perceived to be effortful. This is partly because cognitive resources are engaged in separating the target signal from background noise, leaving fewer resources for storage and processing of the content of the message in working memory. The Auditory Inference Span Test (AIST) is designed to assess listening effort by measuring the ability to maintain and process heard information. The aim of this study was to use AIST to investigate the effect of background noise types and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) on listening effort, as a function of working memory capacity (WMC) and updating ability (UA). The AIST was administered in three types of background noise: steady-state speech-shaped noise, amplitude modulated speech-shaped noise, and unintelligible speech. Three SNRs targeting 90% speech intelligibility or better were used in each of the three noise types, giving nine different conditions. The reading span test assessed WMC, while UA was assessed with the letter memory test. Twenty young adults with normal hearing participated in the study. Results showed that AIST performance was not influenced by noise type at the same intelligibility level, but became worse with worse SNR when background noise was speech-like. Performance on AIST also decreased with increasing memory load level. Correlations between AIST performance and the cognitive measurements suggested that WMC is of more importance for listening when SNRs are worse, while UA is of more importance for listening in easier SNRs. The results indicated that in young adults with normal hearing, the effort involved in listening in noise at high intelligibility levels is independent of the noise type. However, when noise is speech-like and intelligibility decreases, listening effort increases, probably due to extra demands on cognitive resources added by the informational masking created by the speech fragments and vocal sounds in the background noise.

Multifunctional shape-memory polymers.

PubMed

Behl, Marc; Razzaq, Muhammad Yasar; Lendlein, Andreas

2010-08-17

The thermally-induced shape-memory effect (SME) is the capability of a material to change its shape in a predefined way in response to heat. In shape-memory polymers (SMP) this shape change is the entropy-driven recovery of a mechanical deformation, which was obtained before by application of external stress and was temporarily fixed by formation of physical crosslinks. The high technological significance of SMP becomes apparent in many established products (e.g., packaging materials, assembling devices, textiles, and membranes) and the broad SMP development activities in the field of biomedical as well as aerospace applications (e.g., medical devices or morphing structures for aerospace vehicles). Inspired by the complex and diverse requirements of these applications fundamental research is aiming at multifunctional SMP, in which SME is combined with additional functions and is proceeding rapidly. In this review different concepts for the creation of multifunctionality are derived from the various polymer network architectures of thermally-induced SMP. Multimaterial systems, such as nanocomposites, are described as well as one-component polymer systems, in which independent functions are integrated. Future challenges will be to transfer the concept of multifunctionality to other emerging shape-memory technologies like light-sensitive SMP, reversible shape changing effects or triple-shape polymers.

Effects of Steady-State Noise on Verbal Working Memory in Young Adults

PubMed Central

Alt, Mary; DeDe, Gayle; Olson, Sarah; Shehorn, James

2015-01-01

Purpose We set out to examine the impact of perceptual, linguistic, and capacity demands on performance of verbal working-memory tasks. The Ease of Language Understanding model (Rönnberg et al., 2013) provides a framework for testing the dynamics of these interactions within the auditory-cognitive system. Methods Adult native speakers of English (n = 45) participated in verbal working-memory tasks requiring processing and storage of words involving different linguistic demands (closed/open set). Capacity demand ranged from 2 to 7 words per trial. Participants performed the tasks in quiet and in speech-spectrum-shaped noise. Separate groups of participants were tested at different signal-to-noise ratios. Word-recognition measures were obtained to determine effects of noise on intelligibility. Results Contrary to predictions, steady-state noise did not have an adverse effect on working-memory performance in every situation. Noise negatively influenced performance for the task with high linguistic demand. Of particular importance is the finding that the adverse effects of background noise were not confined to conditions involving declines in recognition. Conclusions Perceptual, linguistic, and cognitive demands can dynamically affect verbal working-memory performance even in a population of healthy young adults. Results suggest that researchers and clinicians need to carefully analyze task demands to understand the independent and combined auditory-cognitive factors governing performance in everyday listening situations. PMID:26384291

Effective thermo-mechanical properties and shape memory effect of CNT/SMP composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Qingsheng; Liu, Xia; Leng, Fangfang

2009-07-01

Shape memory polymer (SMP) has been applied in many fields as intelligent sensors and actuators. In order to improve the mechanical properties and recovery force of SMP, the addition of minor amounts of carbon nanotubes (CNT) into SMP has attracted wide attention. A micromechanical model and thermo-mechanical properties of CNT/SMP composites were studied in this paper. The thermo-mechanical constitutive relation of intellectual composites with isotropic and transversely isotropic CNT was obtained. Moreover, the shape memory effect of CNT/SMP composites and the effect of temperature and the volume fraction of CNT were discussed. The work shows that CNT/SMP composites exhibit excellent macroscopic thermo-mechanical properties and shape memory effect, while both of them can be affected remarkably by temperature and the microstructure parameters.

Shape memory alloy/shape memory polymer tools

DOEpatents

Seward, Kirk P.; Krulevitch, Peter A.

2005-03-29

Micro-electromechanical tools for minimally invasive techniques including microsurgery. These tools utilize composite shape memory alloy (SMA), shape memory polymer (SMP) and combinations of SMA and SMP to produce catheter distal tips, actuators, etc., which are bistable. Applications for these structures include: 1) a method for reversible fine positioning of a catheter tip, 2) a method for reversible fine positioning of tools or therapeutic catheters by a guide catheter, 3) a method for bending articulation through the body's vasculature, 4) methods for controlled stent delivery, deployment, and repositioning, and 5) catheters with variable modulus, with vibration mode, with inchworm capability, and with articulated tips. These actuators and catheter tips are bistable and are opportune for in vivo usage because the materials are biocompatible and convenient for intravascular use as well as other minimal by invasive techniques.

Formability of Annealed Ni-Ti Shape Memory Alloy Sheet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fann, K. J.; Su, J. Y.; Chang, C. H.

2018-03-01

Ni-Ti shape memory alloy has two specific properties, superelasiticity and shape memory effect, and thus is widely applied in diverse industries. To extend its application, this study attempts to investigate the strength and cold formability of its sheet blank, which is annealed at various temperatures, by hardness test and by Erichsen-like cupping test. As a result, the higher the annealing temperature, the lower the hardness, the lower the maximum punch load as the sheet blank fractured, and the lower the Erichsen-like index or the lower the formability. In general, the Ni-Ti sheet after annealing has an Erichsen-like index between 8 mm and 9 mm. This study has also confirmed via DSC that the Ni-Ti shape memory alloy possesses the austenitic phase and shows the superelasticity at room temperature.

Shape memory behavior of single crystal and polycrystalline Ni-rich NiTiHf high temperature shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saghaian, Sayed M.

NiTiHf shape memory alloys have been receiving considerable attention for high temperature and high strength applications since they could have transformation temperatures above 100 °C, shape memory effect under high stress (above 500 MPa) and superelasticity at high temperatures. Moreover, their shape memory properties can be tailored by microstructural engineering. However, NiTiHf alloys have some drawbacks such as low ductility and high work hardening in stress induced martensite transformation region. In order to overcome these limitations, studies have been focused on microstructural engineering by aging, alloying and processing. Shape memory properties and microstructure of four Ni-rich NiTiHf alloys (Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20, Ni50.7Ti 29.3Hf20, Ni51.2Ti28.8Hf20, and Ni52Ti28Hf20 (at. %)) were systematically characterized in the furnace cooled condition. H-phase precipitates were formed during furnace cooling in compositions with greater than 50.3Ni and the driving force for nucleation increased with Ni content. Alloy strength increased while recoverable strain decreased with increasing Ni content due to changes in precipitate characteristics. The effects of the heat treatments on the transformation characteristics and microstructure of the Ni-rich NiTiHf shape memory alloys have been investigated. Transformation temperatures are found to be highly annealing temperature dependent. Generation of nanosize precipitates (˜20 nm in size) after three hours aging at 450 °C and 550 °C improved the strength of the material, resulting in a near perfect dimensional stability under high stress levels (> 1500 MPa) with a work output of 20-30 J cm- 3. Superelastic behavior with 4% recoverable strain was demonstrated at low and high temperatures where stress could reach to a maximum value of more than 2 GPa after three hours aging at 450 and 550 °C for alloys with Ni great than 50.3 at. %. Shape memory properties of polycrystalline Ni50.3Ti29.7 Hf20 alloys were studied via thermal cycling under stress and isothermal stress cycling experiments in tension. Recoverable strain of ˜5% was observed for the as-extruded samples while it was decreased to ˜4% after aging due to the formation of precipitates. The aged alloys demonstrated near perfect shape memory effect under high tensile stress level of 700 MPa and perfect superelasticity at high temperatures up to 230 °C. Finally, the tension-compression asymmetry observed in NiTiHf where recoverable tensile strain was higher than compressive strain. The shape memory properties of solutionized and aged Ni-rich Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20 single crystals were investigated along the [001], [011], and [111] orientations in compression. [001]-oriented single crystals showed high dimensional stability under stress levels as high as 1500 MPa in both the solutionized and aged conditions, but with transformation strains of less than 2%. Perfect superelasticity with recoverable strain of more than 4% was observed for solutionized and 550 °C-3h aged single crystals along the [011] and [111] orientations, and general superelastic behavior was observed over a wide temperature range. The calculated transformation strains were higher than the experimentally observed strains since the calculated strains could not capture the formation of martensite plates with (001) compound twins. KEYWORDS: NiTiHf, High Temperature Shape memory alloys, Mechanical Characterization, High Strength Shape Memory Alloy, Orientation Dependence of NiTiHf Sayed.

Memory Golf Clubs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

Memory Corporation's investigation of shape memory effect, stemming from Marshall Space Flight Center contracts to study materials for the space station, has aided in the development of Zeemet, a proprietary, high-damping shape memory alloy for the golf industry. The Nicklaus Golf Company has created a new line of golf clubs using Zeemet inserts. Its superelastic and high damping attributes translate into more spin on the ball, greater control, and a solid feel.

Working memory for braille is shaped by experience

PubMed Central

Scherzer, Peter; Viau, Robert; Voss, Patrice; Lepore, Franco

2011-01-01

Tactile working memory was found to be more developed in completely blind (congenital and acquired) than in semi-sighted subjects, indicating that experience plays a crucial role in shaping working memory. A model of working memory, adapted from the classical model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch1 and Baddeley2 is presented where the connection strengths of a highly cross-modal network are altered through experience. PMID:21655448

Dimension-based attention in visual short-term memory.

PubMed

Pilling, Michael; Barrett, Doug J K

2016-07-01

We investigated how dimension-based attention influences visual short-term memory (VSTM). This was done through examining the effects of cueing a feature dimension in two perceptual comparison tasks (change detection and sameness detection). In both tasks, a memory array and a test array consisting of a number of colored shapes were presented successively, interleaved by a blank interstimulus interval (ISI). In Experiment 1 (change detection), the critical event was a feature change in one item across the memory and test arrays. In Experiment 2 (sameness detection), the critical event was the absence of a feature change in one item across the two arrays. Auditory cues indicated the feature dimension (color or shape) of the critical event with 80 % validity; the cues were presented either prior to the memory array, during the ISI, or simultaneously with the test array. In Experiment 1, the cue validity influenced sensitivity only when the cue was given at the earliest position; in Experiment 2, the cue validity influenced sensitivity at all three cue positions. We attributed the greater effectiveness of top-down guidance by cues in the sameness detection task to the more active nature of the comparison process required to detect sameness events (Hyun, Woodman, Vogel, Hollingworth, & Luck, Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 35; 1140-1160, 2009).

The time course of activation of object shape and shape+colour representations during memory retrieval.

PubMed

Lloyd-Jones, Toby J; Roberts, Mark V; Leek, E Charles; Fouquet, Nathalie C; Truchanowicz, Ewa G

2012-01-01

Little is known about the timing of activating memory for objects and their associated perceptual properties, such as colour, and yet this is important for theories of human cognition. We investigated the time course associated with early cognitive processes related to the activation of object shape and object shape+colour representations respectively, during memory retrieval as assessed by repetition priming in an event-related potential (ERP) study. The main findings were as follows: (1) we identified a unique early modulation of mean ERP amplitude during the N1 that was associated with the activation of object shape independently of colour; (2) we also found a subsequent early P2 modulation of mean amplitude over the same electrode clusters associated with the activation of object shape+colour representations; (3) these findings were apparent across both familiar (i.e., correctly coloured - yellow banana) and novel (i.e., incorrectly coloured - blue strawberry) objects; and (4) neither of the modulations of mean ERP amplitude were evident during the P3. Together the findings delineate the timing of object shape and colour memory systems and support the notion that perceptual representations of object shape mediate the retrieval of temporary shape+colour representations for familiar and novel objects.

The Time Course of Activation of Object Shape and Shape+Colour Representations during Memory Retrieval

PubMed Central

Lloyd-Jones, Toby J.; Roberts, Mark V.; Leek, E. Charles; Fouquet, Nathalie C.; Truchanowicz, Ewa G.

2012-01-01

Little is known about the timing of activating memory for objects and their associated perceptual properties, such as colour, and yet this is important for theories of human cognition. We investigated the time course associated with early cognitive processes related to the activation of object shape and object shape+colour representations respectively, during memory retrieval as assessed by repetition priming in an event-related potential (ERP) study. The main findings were as follows: (1) we identified a unique early modulation of mean ERP amplitude during the N1 that was associated with the activation of object shape independently of colour; (2) we also found a subsequent early P2 modulation of mean amplitude over the same electrode clusters associated with the activation of object shape+colour representations; (3) these findings were apparent across both familiar (i.e., correctly coloured – yellow banana) and novel (i.e., incorrectly coloured - blue strawberry) objects; and (4) neither of the modulations of mean ERP amplitude were evident during the P3. Together the findings delineate the timing of object shape and colour memory systems and support the notion that perceptual representations of object shape mediate the retrieval of temporary shape+colour representations for familiar and novel objects. PMID:23155393

The Self-Reference Effect on Perception: Undiminished in Adults with Autism and No Relation to Autism Traits.

PubMed

Williams, David M; Nicholson, Toby; Grainger, Catherine

2018-02-01

Memory for (and perception of) information about the self is superior to memory for (and perception of) other kinds of information. This self-reference effect (SRE) in memory appears diminished in ASD and related to the number of ASD traits manifested by neurotypical individuals (fewer traits = larger SRE). Here, we report the first experiments exploring the relation between ASD and the SRE in perception. Using a "Shapes" Task (Sui et al., Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 38, 1105, 2012), participants learned to associate three different shapes (triangle, circle, square) with three different labels representing self, a familiar other, or an unfamiliar other (e.g., "you", "mother", "stranger"). Participants then completed trials during which they were presented with one shape and one label for 100 ms, and made judgments about whether the shape and label was a match. In Experiment 1, neurotypical participants (n = 124) showed the expected SRE, detecting self-related matches more reliably and quickly than matches involving familiar or unfamiliar other. Most important, number of ASD traits was unrelated to the size of the SRE for either accuracy or RT. Bayesian association analyses strongly supported the null hypothesis. In Experiment 2, there were no differences between 22 adults with ASD and 21 matched comparison adults in performance on the Shapes Task. Despite showing large and significant theory of mind impairments, participants with ASD showed the typical SRE and there were no associations with ASD traits in either group. In every case, Bayesian analyses favored the null hypothesis. These findings challenge theories about self-representation in ASD, as discussed in the article. Autism Res 2018, 11: 331-341. © 2017 The Authors Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Neurotypical people tend to find it easier to perceive and remember information that relates to themselves than information that relates to others. Research suggests that people with ASD show a diminished (or absent) self-bias in memory and that severity of ASD predicts the extent of this diminution (more severe ASD = smaller self-bias in memory). However, the current research suggests strongly that people with ASD do show a self-bias in their perception. This research informs our understanding of psychological functioning in ASD and challenges theories regarding self-awareness in this disorder. © 2017 The Authors Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Modeling and Bayesian Parameter Estimation for Shape Memory Alloy Bending Actuators

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-01

prosthetic hand,” Technology and Health Care 10, 91–106 (2002). 4. Hartl , D., Lagoudas, D., Calkins, F., and Mabe , J., “Use of a ni60ti shape memory...alloy for active jet engine chevron application: I. thermomechanical characterization,” Smart Materials and Structures 19, 1–14 (2010). 5. Hartl , D...Lagoudas, D., Calkins, F., and Mabe , J., “Use of a ni60ti shape memory alloy for active jet engine chevron application: II. experimentally validated

Working Memory and Reinforcement Schedule Jointly Determine Reinforcement Learning in Children: Potential Implications for Behavioral Parent Training

PubMed Central

Segers, Elien; Beckers, Tom; Geurts, Hilde; Claes, Laurence; Danckaerts, Marina; van der Oord, Saskia

2018-01-01

Introduction: Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) is often provided for childhood psychiatric disorders. These disorders have been shown to be associated with working memory impairments. BPT is based on operant learning principles, yet how operant principles shape behavior (through the partial reinforcement (PRF) extinction effect, i.e., greater resistance to extinction that is created when behavior is reinforced partially rather than continuously) and the potential role of working memory therein is scarcely studied in children. This study explored the PRF extinction effect and the role of working memory therein using experimental tasks in typically developing children. Methods: Ninety-seven children (age 6–10) completed a working memory task and an operant learning task, in which children acquired a response-sequence rule under either continuous or PRF (120 trials), followed by an extinction phase (80 trials). Data of 88 children were used for analysis. Results: The PRF extinction effect was confirmed: We observed slower acquisition and extinction in the PRF condition as compared to the continuous reinforcement (CRF) condition. Working memory was negatively related to acquisition but not extinction performance. Conclusion: Both reinforcement contingencies and working memory relate to acquisition performance. Potential implications for BPT are that decreasing working memory load may enhance the chance of optimally learning through reinforcement. PMID:29643822

Parametric analysis of a shape memory alloy actuated arm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Cody; Bilgen, Onur

2016-04-01

Using a pair of antagonistic Shape Memory Allow (SMA) wires, it may be possible to produce a mechanism that replicates human musculoskeletal movement. The movement of interest is the articulation of the elbow joint actuated by the biceps brachii muscle. In an effort to understand the bio-mechanics of the arm, a single degree of freedom crankslider mechanism is used to model the movement of the arm induced by the biceps brachii muscle. First, a purely kinematical analysis is performed on a rigid body crank-slider. Force analysis is also done modeling the muscle as a simple linear spring. Torque, rocking angle, and energy are calculated for a range of crank-slider geometries. The SMA wire characteristics are experimentally determined for the martensite detwinned and full austenite phases. Using the experimental data, an idealized actuator characteristic curve is produced for the SMA wire. Kinematic and force analyses are performed on the nonlinear wire characteristic curve and a linearized wire curve; both cases are applied to the crankslider mechanism. Performance metrics for both cases are compared, followed by discussion.

An innovative seismic bracing system based on a superelastic shape memory alloy ring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Nan; Jeon, Jong-Su; Hodgson, Darel E.; DesRoches, Reginald

2016-05-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have great potential in seismic applications because of their remarkable superelasticity. Seismic bracing systems based on SMAs can mitigate the damage caused by earthquakes. The current study investigates a bracing system based on an SMA ring which is capable of both re-centering and energy dissipation. This lateral force resisting system is a cross-braced system consisting of an SMA ring and four tension-only cable assemblies, which can be applied to both new construction and seismic retrofit. The performance of this bracing system is examined through a quasi-static cyclic loading test and finite element (FE) analysis. This paper describes the experimental design in detail, discusses the experimental results, compares the performance with other bracing systems based on SMAs, and presents an Abaqus FE model calibrated on the basis of experimental results to simulate the superelastic behavior of the SMA ring. The experimental results indicate that the seismic performance of this system is promising in terms of damping and re-centering. The FE model can be used in the simulation of building structures using the proposed bracing system.

Characterizing and modeling the free recovery and constrained recovery behavior of a polyurethane shape memory polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volk, Brent L.; Lagoudas, Dimitris C.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2011-09-01

In this work, tensile tests and one-dimensional constitutive modeling were performed on a high recovery force polyurethane shape memory polymer that is being considered for biomedical applications. The tensile tests investigated the free recovery (zero load) response as well as the constrained displacement recovery (stress recovery) response at extension values up to 25%, and two consecutive cycles were performed during each test. The material was observed to recover 100% of the applied deformation when heated at zero load in the second thermomechanical cycle, and a stress recovery of 1.5-4.2 MPa was observed for the constrained displacement recovery experiments. After the experiments were performed, the Chen and Lagoudas model was used to simulate and predict the experimental results. The material properties used in the constitutive model—namely the coefficients of thermal expansion, shear moduli, and frozen volume fraction—were calibrated from a single 10% extension free recovery experiment. The model was then used to predict the material response for the remaining free recovery and constrained displacement recovery experiments. The model predictions match well with the experimental data.

Stretchable degradable and electroactive shape memory copolymers with tunable recovery temperature enhance myogenic differentiation.

PubMed

Deng, Zexing; Guo, Yi; Zhao, Xin; Li, Longchao; Dong, Ruonan; Guo, Baolin; Ma, Peter X

2016-12-01

Development of flexible degradable electroactive shape memory polymers (ESMPs) with tunable switching temperature (around body temperature) for tissue engineering is still a challenge. Here we designed and synthesized a series of shape memory copolymers with electroactivity, super stretchability and tunable recovery temperature based on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with different molecular weight and conductive amino capped aniline trimer, and demonstrated their potential to enhance myogenic differentiation from C2C12 myoblast cells. We characterized the copolymers by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1 H NMR), cyclic voltammetry (CV), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), shape memory test, tensile test and in vitro enzymatic degradation study. The electroactive biodegradable shape memory copolymers showed great elasticity, tunable recovery temperature around 37°C, and good shape memory properties. Furthermore, proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts were investigated on electroactive copolymers films, and they greatly enhanced the proliferation, myotube formation and related myogenic differentiation genes expression of C2C12 myoblasts compared to the pure PCL with molecular weight of 80,000. Our study suggests that these electroactive, highly stretchable, biodegradable shape memory polymers with tunable recovery temperature near the body temperature have great potential in skeletal muscle tissue engineering application. Conducting polymers can regulate cell behavior such cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation with or without electrical stimulation. Therefore, they have great potential for electrical signal sensitive tissue regeneration. Although conducting biomaterials with degradability have been developed, highly stretchable and electroactive degradable copolymers for soft tissue engineering have been rarely reported. On the other hand, shape memory polymers (SMPs) have been widely used in biomedical fields. However, SMPs based on polyesters usually are biologically inert. This work reported the design of super stretchable electroactive degradable SMPs based on polycaprolactone and aniline trimer with tunable recovery temperature around body temperature. These flexible electroactive SMPs facilitated the proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 myoblast cells compared with polycaprolactone, indicating that they are excellent scaffolding biomaterials in tissue engineering to repair skeletal muscle and possibly other tissues. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Shape memory alloy-actuated bistable composites for morphing structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chillara, Venkata Siva C.; Dapino, Marcelo J.

2018-03-01

Laminated composites with orthogonally-applied mechanical prestress have been shown to exhibit two stable shapes where each shape is influenced by only one prestrained lamina. The application of mechanical prestress is associated with an irreversible non-zero stress state; when combined with smart materials with controllable stress-states, this results in multifunctionality in morphing composites. This study presents an experimental characterization of the shape transition or snap-through in mechanically-prestressed bistable laminates. Measurements, conducted using tensile testing and 3D motion capture, show that snap-through in these laminates is a multi-stage phenomenon. An active bistable morphing composite is demonstrated using NiTi shape memory wire actuators in push-pull configuration; activation of one wire resets the second wire as the composite morphs. The set of shape memory actuators not only actuate the composite in both directions, but also act as dampers that enable vibration-free shape transition.

Development of shape memory metal as the actuator of a fail safe mechanism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ford, V. G.; Johnson, M. R.; Orlosky, S. D.

1990-01-01

A small, compact, lightweight device was developed using shape memory alloy (SMA) in wire form to actuate a pin-puller that decouples the flanges of two shafts. When the SMA is heated it contracts producing a useful force and stroke. As it cools, it can be reset (elongated in this case) by applying a relatively small force. Resistive heating is accomplished by running a current through the SMA wire for a controlled length of time. The electronics to drive the device are not elaborate or complicated, consisting of a timed current source. The total available contraction is 3 percent of the length of the wire. This device, the engineering properties of the SMA, and the tests performed to verify the design concept are described.

Does the hippocampus mediate objective binding or subjective remembering?

PubMed

Slotnick, Scott D

2010-01-15

Human functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) evidence suggests the hippocampus is associated with context memory to a greater degree than item memory (where only context memory requires item-in-context binding). A separate line of fMRI research suggests the hippocampus is associated with "remember" responses to a greater degree than "know" or familiarity based responses (where only remembering reflects the subjective experience of specific detail). Previous studies, however, have confounded context memory with remembering and item memory with knowing. The present fMRI study independently tested the binding hypothesis and remembering hypothesis of hippocampal function by evaluating activity within hippocampal regions-of-interest (ROIs). At encoding, participants were presented with colored and gray abstract shapes and instructed to remember each shape and whether it was colored or gray. At retrieval, old and new shapes were presented in gray and participants classified each shape as "old and previously colored", "old and previously gray", or "new", followed by a "remember" or "know" response. In 3 of 11 hippocampal ROIs, activity was significantly greater for context memory than item memory, the context memory-item memory by remember-know interaction was significant, and activity was significantly greater for context memory-knowing than item memory-remembering. This pattern of activity only supports the binding hypothesis. The analogous pattern of activity that would have supported the remembering hypothesis was never observed in the hippocampus. However, a targeted analysis revealed remembering specific activity in the left inferior parietal cortex. The present results suggest parietal cortex may be associated with subjective remembering while the hippocampus mediates binding.

Design and application of shape memory actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mertmann, M.; Vergani, G.

2008-05-01

The use of shape memory alloys in actuators allows the development of robust, simple and lightweight elements for application in a multitude of different industries. Over the years, the intermetallic compound Nickel-Titanium (NiTi or Nitinol) together with its ternary and quaternary derivates has gained general acceptance as a standard alloy. Even though as many as 99% of all shape memory actuator applications make use of Nitinol there are certain properties of this alloy system which require further research in order to find improvements and new markets: • Lack of higher transformation temperatures in the available alloys in order to open the field of automotive applications (Mf temperature > 80 °C) • Non-linearity in the electrical resistivity in order to improve the controllability of the actuator, • Wide hysteresis in the temperature-vs.-strain behaviour, which has a signi-ficant effect on both, the dynamics of the actuator and its controllability. Hence, there is a constant strive in the field towards an improvement of the related properties. However, these improvements are not always just alloy composition related. There is also a tremendous potential in the thermomechanical treatment of the material and in the design of the actuator. Significant improvement steps are already possible if the usage of the existent materials is optimized for the projected application and if the actuator system is designed in the most efficient way. This paper provides an overview about existent designs, applications and alloys for use in actuators, as well as examples of new shape memory actuator application with improved performance. It also gives an overview about general design rules and reflects about the strengths of the material and the related opportunities for its application.

Characterization of Transformation-Induced Defects in Nickel Titanium Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowers, Matthew L.

Shape memory alloys have remarkable strain recovery properties that make them ideal candidates for many applications that include devices in the automotive, aerospace, medical, and MEMS industries. Although these materials are widely used today, their performance is hindered by poor dimensional stability resulting from cyclic degradation of the martensitic transformation behavior. This functional fatigue results in decreased work output and cyclic accumulation of permanent strain. To date, few studies have taken a fundamental approach to investigating the interaction between plasticity and martensite growth and propagation, which is vitally important to mitigating functional fatigue in future alloy development. The current work focuses on understanding the interplay of these deformation mechanisms in NiTi-based shape memory alloys under a variety of different thermomechanical test conditions. Micron-scale compression testing of NiTi shape memory alloy single crystals is undertaken in an effort to probe the mechanism of austenite dislocation generation. Mechanical testing is paired with post mortem defect analysis via diffraction contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Accompanied by micromechanics-based modeling of local stresses surrounding a martensite plate, these results demonstrate that the previously existing martensite and resulting austenite dislocation substructure are intimately related. A mechanism of transformation-induced dislocation generation is described in detail. A study of pure and load-biased thermal cycling of bulk polycrystalline NiTi is done for comparison of the transformation behavior and resultant defects to the stress-induced case. Post mortem and in situ STEM characterization demonstrate unique defect configurations in this test mode and STEM-based orientation mapping reveals local crystal rotation with increasing thermal cycles. Changes in both martensite and austenite microstructures are explored. The results for several different thermomechanical histories are discussed and a new mechanism of austenite grain refinement is proposed with support from ab initio calculations and crystallographic theory.

Shape-memory properties in Ni-Ti sputter-deposited film

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Busch, J. D.; Johnson, A. D.; Lee, C. H.; Stevenson, D. A.

1990-01-01

A Ni-Ti alloy, generically called nitinol, was prepared from sputtering targets of two different compositions on glass substrates using a dc magnetron source. The as-deposited films were amorphous in structure and did not exhibit a shape memory. The amorphous films were crystallized with a suitable annealing process, and the transformation properties were measured using differential scanning calorimetry. The annealed films demonstrated a strong shape-memory effect. Stress/strain measurements and physical manipulation were used to evaluate the shape recovery. These tests demonstrated sustained tensile stresses of up to 480 MPa in the high-temperature phase, and a characteristic plastic deformation in the low-temperature phase.

Incidental biasing of attention from visual long-term memory.

PubMed

Fan, Judith E; Turk-Browne, Nicholas B

2016-06-01

Holding recently experienced information in mind can help us achieve our current goals. However, such immediate and direct forms of guidance from working memory are less helpful over extended delays or when other related information in long-term memory is useful for reaching these goals. Here we show that information that was encoded in the past but is no longer present or relevant to the task also guides attention. We examined this by associating multiple unique features with novel shapes in visual long-term memory (VLTM), and subsequently testing how memories for these objects biased the deployment of attention. In Experiment 1, VLTM for associated features guided visual search for the shapes, even when these features had never been task-relevant. In Experiment 2, associated features captured attention when presented in isolation during a secondary task that was completely unrelated to the shapes. These findings suggest that long-term memory enables a durable and automatic type of memory-based attentional control. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Functionally Graded Metal-Metal Composite Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brice, Craig A. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Methods and devices are disclosed for creating a multiple alloy composite structure by forming a three-dimensional arrangement of a first alloy composition in which the three-dimensional arrangement has a substantially open and continuous porosity. The three-dimensional arrangement of the first alloy composition is infused with at least a second alloy composition, where the second alloy composition comprises a shape memory alloy. The three-dimensional arrangement is consolidated into a fully dense solid structure, and the original shape of the second alloy composition is set for reversible transformation. Strain is applied to the fully dense solid structure, which is treated with heat so that the shape memory alloy composition becomes memory activated to recover the original shape. An interwoven composite of the first alloy composition and the memory-activated second alloy composition is thereby formed in the multiple alloy composite structure.

Development of an engineering model for ferromagnetic shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tani, Yoshiaki; Todaka, Takashi; Enokizono, Masato

This paper presents a relationship among stress, temperature and magnetic properties of a ferromagnetic shape memory alloy. In order to derive an engineering model of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys, we have developed a measuring system of the relationship among stress, temperature and magnetic properties. The samples used in this measurement are Fe68-Ni10-Cr9-Mn7-Si6 wt% ferromagnetic shape memory alloy. They are thin ribbons made by rapid cooling in air. In the measurement, the ribbon sample is inserted into a sample holder winding consisting of the B-coil and compensation coils, and magnetized in an open solenoid coil. The ribbon is stressed with attachment weights and heated with a heating wire. The specific susceptibility was increased by applying tension, and slightly increased by heating below the Curie temperature.

Polydopamine Particle-Filled Shape-Memory Polyurethane Composites with Fast Near-Infrared Light Responsibility.

PubMed

Yang, Li; Tong, Rui; Wang, Zhanhua; Xia, Hesheng

2018-03-25

A new kind of fast near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive shape-memory polymer composites was prepared by introducing polydopamine particles (PDAPs) into commercial shape-memory polyurethane (SMPU). The toughness and strength of the polydopamine-particle-filled polyurethane composites (SMPU-PDAPs) were significantly enhanced with the addition of PDAPs due to the strong interface interaction between PDAPs and polyurethane segments. Owing to the outstanding photothermal effect of PDAPs, the composites exhibit a rapid light-responsive shape-memory process in 60 s with a PDAPs content of 0.01 wt%. Due to the excellent dispersion and convenient preparation method, PDAPs have great potential to be used as high-efficiency and environmentally friendly fillers to obtain novel photoactive functional polymer composites. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Development of B2 Shape Memory Intermetallics Beyond NiAl, CoNiAl and CoNiGa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerstein, G.; Firstov, G. S.; Kosorukova, T. A.; Koval, Yu. N.; Maier, H. J.

2018-06-01

The present study describes the development of shape memory alloys based on NiAl. Initially, this system was considered a promising but unsuccessful neighbour of NiTi. Later, however, shape memory alloys like CoNiAl or CoNiGa were developed that can be considered as NiAl derivatives and already demonstrated good mechanical properties. Yet, these alloys were still inferior to NiTi in most respects. Lately, using a multi-component approach, a CoNiCuAlGaIn high entropy intermetallic compound was developed from the NiAl prototype. This new alloy featured a B2 phase and a martensitic transformation along with a remarkable strength in the as-cast state. In the long-term, this new approach might led to a breakthrough for shape memory alloys in general.

Binding of intrinsic and extrinsic features in working memory.

PubMed

Ecker, Ullrich K H; Maybery, Murray; Zimmer, Hubert D

2013-02-01

There is ongoing debate concerning the mechanisms of feature binding in working memory. In particular, there is controversy regarding the extent to which these binding processes are automatic. The present article demonstrates that binding mechanisms differ depending on whether the to-be-integrated features are perceived as forming a coherent object. We presented a series of experiments that investigated the binding of color and shape, whereby color was either an intrinsic feature of the shape or an extrinsic feature of the shape's background. Results show that intrinsic color affected shape recognition, even when it was incidentally studied and irrelevant for the recognition task. In contrast, extrinsic color did not affect shape recognition, even when the association of color and shape was encoded and retrievable on demand. This strongly suggests that binding of intrinsic intra-item information but not extrinsic contextual information is obligatory in visual working memory. We highlight links to perception as well as implicit and explicit long-term memory, which suggest that the intrinsic-extrinsic dimension is a principle relevant to multiple domains of human cognition. 2013 APA, all rights reserved

Inorganic-organic shape memory polymers and foams for bone defect repairs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dawei

The ultimate goal of this research was to develop a "self-fitting" shape memory polymer (SMP) scaffold for the repair of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) bone defects. CMF defects may be caused by trauma, tumor removal or congenital abnormalities and represent a major class of bone defects. Their repair with autografts is limited by availability, donor site morbidity and complex surgical procedures. In addition, shaping and positioning of these rigid grafts into irregular defects is difficult. Herein, we have developed SMP scaffolds which soften at T > ˜56 °C, allowing them to conformally fit into a bone defect. Upon cooling to body temperature, the scaffold becomes rigid and mechanically locks in place. This research was comprised of four major studies. In the first study, photocrosslinkable acrylated (AcO) SMP macromers containing a poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) segment and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) segments were synthesized with the general formula: AcO-PCL40-block-PDMS m-block-PCL40-OAc. By varying the PDMS segment length (m), solid SMPs with highly tunable mechanical properties and excellent shape memory abilities were prepared. In the second study, porous SMP scaffolds were fabricated based on AcO-PCL 40-block-PDMS37-block-PCL 40-OAc via a revised solvent casting particulate leaching (SCPL) method. By tailoring scaffold parameters including salt fusion, macromer concentration and salt size, scaffold properties (e.g. pore features, compressive modulus and shape memory behavior) were tuned. In the third study, porous SMP scaffolds were produced from macromers with variable PDMS segment lengths (m = 0 -- 130) via an optimized SCPL method. The impact on pore features, thermal, mechanical, and shape memory properties as well as degradation rates were investigated. In the final study, a bioactive polydopamine coating was applied onto pore surfaces of the SMP scaffold prepared from PCL diacrylate. The thin coating did not affect intrinsic bulk properties of the scaffold. However, the coating significantly increased its bioactivity, giving rise to the formation of "bone-bonding" hydroxyapatite (HAp) when exposed to simulated body fluid (SBF). It was also shown that the coating largely enhanced the scaffold's capacities to support osteoblasts adhesion, proliferation and osteogenesis. Thus, the polydopamine coating should enhance the performance of the "self-fitting" SMP scaffolds for the repair of bone defects.

Plant-Based, Shape-Memory Material Could Replace Today’s Conductors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

A novel approach that creates a renewable, leathery material—programmed to remember its shape—may offer a low-cost alternative to conventional conductors for applications in sensors and robotics. To make the bio-based, shape-memory material, Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists streamlined a solvent-free process that mixes rubber with lignin—the by-product of woody plants used to make biofuels. They fashioned the leathery material into small strips and brushed on a thin layer of silver nanoparticles to activate electrical conductivity. The strips were stretched or curled and then frozen as part of the process to program the material to return to its intended shape, whichmore » occurs after the application of low heat. “The performance of this polymer can be tuned further,” said ORNL’s Amit Naskar. “Variant lignins can be used at different ratios, which determines the material’s pliability.” This research was sponsored by the Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office.« less

Bio-based hyperbranched thermosetting polyurethane/triethanolamine functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposites as shape memory materials.

PubMed

Kalita, Hemjyoti; Karak, Niranjan

2014-07-01

Here, bio-based shape memory polymers have generated immense interest in recent times. Here, Bio-based hyperbranched polyurethane/triethanolamine functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (TEA-f-MWCNT) nanocomposites were prepared by in-situ pre-polymerization technique. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the transmission electron microscopic studies showed the strong interfacial adhesion and the homogeneous distribution of TEA-f-MWCNT in the polyurethane matrix. The prepared epoxy cured thermosetting nanocomposites exhibited enhanced tensile strength (6.5-34.5 MPa), scratch hardness (3.0-7.5 kg) and thermal stability (241-288 degrees C). The nanocomposites showed excellent shape fixity and shape recovery. The shape recovery time decreases (24-10 s) with the increase of TEA-f-MWCNT content in the nanocomposites. Thus the studied nanocomposites have potential to be used as advanced shape memory materials.

Binary mesh partitioning for cache-efficient visualization.

PubMed

Tchiboukdjian, Marc; Danjean, Vincent; Raffin, Bruno

2010-01-01

One important bottleneck when visualizing large data sets is the data transfer between processor and memory. Cache-aware (CA) and cache-oblivious (CO) algorithms take into consideration the memory hierarchy to design cache efficient algorithms. CO approaches have the advantage to adapt to unknown and varying memory hierarchies. Recent CA and CO algorithms developed for 3D mesh layouts significantly improve performance of previous approaches, but they lack of theoretical performance guarantees. We present in this paper a {\\schmi O}(N\\log N) algorithm to compute a CO layout for unstructured but well shaped meshes. We prove that a coherent traversal of a N-size mesh in dimension d induces less than N/B+{\\schmi O}(N/M;{1/d}) cache-misses where B and M are the block size and the cache size, respectively. Experiments show that our layout computation is faster and significantly less memory consuming than the best known CO algorithm. Performance is comparable to this algorithm for classical visualization algorithm access patterns, or better when the BSP tree produced while computing the layout is used as an acceleration data structure adjusted to the layout. We also show that cache oblivious approaches lead to significant performance increases on recent GPU architectures.

[Utility of nickel-titanium shape memory alloys of vertebral body reduction fixator with assisted distraction bar].

PubMed

Man, Yi; Zheng, Yue-huan; Cao, Peng; Chen, Bo; Zheng, Tao; Sun, Chang-hui; Lu, Jiong

2011-06-07

To test the nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) shape memory alloys of vertebral body reduction fixator with assisted distraction bar for the treatment of traumatic and osteoporotic vertebral body fracture. A Ni-Ti shape memory alloys of vertebral body reduction fixator with assisted distraction bar was implanted into the compressed fracture specimens through vertebral pedicle with the radiographic monitoring to reduce the collapsed endplate as well as distract the compressed vertebral fracture. Radiographic film and computed tomographic reconstruction technique were employed to evaluate the effects of reduction and distraction. A biomechanic test machine was used to measure the fatigue and the stability of deformation of fixation segments. Relying on the effect of temperature shape memory, such an assembly could basically reduce the collapsed endplate as well as distract the compressed vertebral fracture. And when unsatisfied results of reduction and distraction occurred, its super flexibility could provide additional distraction strength. A Ni-Ti shape memory alloys of vertebral body reduction fixator with assisted distraction bar may provide effective endplate reduction, restore the vertebral height and the immediate biomechanic spinal stability. So the above assembly is indicated for the treatment of traumatic and osteoporotic vertebral body fracture.

Novelty-Sensitive Dopaminergic Neurons in the Human Substantia Nigra Predict Success of Declarative Memory Formation.

PubMed

Kamiński, Jan; Mamelak, Adam N; Birch, Kurtis; Mosher, Clayton P; Tagliati, Michele; Rutishauser, Ueli

2018-05-07

The encoding of information into long-term declarative memory is facilitated by dopamine. This process depends on hippocampal novelty signals, but it remains unknown how midbrain dopaminergic neurons are modulated by declarative-memory-based information. We recorded individual substantia nigra (SN) neurons and cortical field potentials in human patients performing a recognition memory task. We found that 25% of SN neurons were modulated by stimulus novelty. Extracellular waveform shape and anatomical location indicated that these memory-selective neurons were putatively dopaminergic. The responses of memory-selective neurons appeared 527 ms after stimulus onset, changed after a single trial, and were indicative of recognition accuracy. SN neurons phase locked to frontal cortical theta-frequency oscillations, and the extent of this coordination predicted successful memory formation. These data reveal that dopaminergic neurons in the human SN are modulated by memory signals and demonstrate a progression of information flow in the hippocampal-basal ganglia-frontal cortex loop for memory encoding. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Coarse-grained simulation of molecular mechanisms of recovery in thermally activated shape-memory polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abberton, Brendan C.; Liu, Wing Kam; Keten, Sinan

2013-12-01

Thermally actuated shape-memory polymers (SMPs) are capable of being programmed into a temporary shape and then recovering their permanent reference shape upon exposure to heat, which facilitates a phase transition that allows dramatic increase in molecular mobility. Experimental, analytical, and computational studies have established empirical relations of the thermomechanical behavior of SMPs that have been instrumental in device design. However, the underlying mechanisms of the recovery behavior and dependence on polymer microstructure remain to be fully understood for copolymer systems. This presents an opportunity for bottom-up studies through molecular modeling; however, the limited time-scales of atomistic simulations prohibit the study of key performance metrics pertaining to recovery. In order to elucidate the effects of phase fraction, recovery temperature, and deformation temperature on shape recovery, here we investigate the shape-memory behavior in a copolymer model with coarse-grained potentials using a two-phase molecular model that reproduces physical crosslinking. Our simulation protocol allows observation of upwards of 90% strain recovery in some cases, at time-scales that are on the order of the timescale of the relevant relaxation mechanism (stress relaxation in the unentangled soft-phase). Partial disintegration of the glassy phase during mechanical deformation is found to contribute to irrecoverable strain. Temperature dependence of the recovery indicates nearly full elastic recovery above the trigger temperature, which is near the glass-transition temperature of the rubbery switching matrix. We find that the trigger temperature is also directly correlated with the deformation temperature, indicating that deformation temperature influences the recovery temperatures required to obtain a given amount of shape recovery, until the plateau regions overlap above the transition region. Increasing the fraction of glassy phase results in higher strain recovery at low to intermediate temperatures, a widening of the transition region, and an eventual crossover at high temperatures. Our results corroborate experimental findings on shape-memory behavior and provide new insight into factors governing deformation recovery that can be leveraged in biomaterials design. The established computational methodology can be extended in straightforward ways to investigate the effects of monomer chemistry, low-molecular-weight solvents, physical and chemical crosslinking, different phase-separation morphologies, and more complicated mechanical deformation toward predictive modeling capabilities for stimuli-responsive polymers.

Characterization of Nonlinear Rate Dependent Response of Shape Memory Polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Volk, Brent; Lagoudas, Dimitris C.; Chen, Yi-Chao; Whitley, Karen S.

2007-01-01

Shape Memory Polymers (SMPs) are a class of polymers, which can undergo deformation in a flexible state at elevated temperatures, and when cooled below the glass transition temperature, while retaining their deformed shape, will enter and remain in a rigid state. Upon heating above the glass transition temperature, the shape memory polymer will return to its original, unaltered shape. SMPs have been reported to recover strains of over 400%. It is important to understand the stress and strain recovery behavior of SMPs to better develop constitutive models which predict material behavior. Initial modeling efforts did not account for large deformations beyond 25% strain. However, a model under current development is capable of describing large deformations of the material. This model considers the coexisting active (rubber) and frozen (glass) phases of the polymer, as well as the transitions between the material phases. The constitutive equations at the continuum level are established with internal state variables to describe the microstructural changes associated with the phase transitions. For small deformations, the model reduces to a linear model that agrees with those reported in the literature. Thermomechanical characterization is necessary for the development, calibration, and validation of a constitutive model. The experimental data reported in this paper will assist in model development by providing a better understanding of the stress and strain recovery behavior of the material. This paper presents the testing techniques used to characterize the thermomechanical material properties of a shape memory polymer (SMP) and also presents the resulting data. An innovative visual-photographic apparatus, known as a Vision Image Correlation (VIC) system was used to measure the strain. The details of this technique will also be presented in this paper. A series of tensile tests were performed on specimens such that strain levels of 10, 25, 50, and 100% were applied to the material while it was above its glass transition temperature. After deforming the material to a specified applied strain, the material was then cooled to below the glass transition temperature (Tg) while retaining the deformed shape. Finally, the specimen was heated again to above the transition temperature, and the resulting shape recovery profile was measured. Results show that strain recovery occurs at a nonlinear rate with respect to time. Results also indicate that the ratio of recoverable strain/applied strain increases as the applied strain increases.

Music and Video Gaming during Breaks: Influence on Habitual versus Goal-Directed Decision Making.

PubMed

Liu, Shuyan; Schad, Daniel J; Kuschpel, Maxim S; Rapp, Michael A; Heinz, Andreas

2016-01-01

Different systems for habitual versus goal-directed control are thought to underlie human decision-making. Working memory is known to shape these decision-making systems and their interplay, and is known to support goal-directed decision making even under stress. Here, we investigated if and how decision systems are differentially influenced by breaks filled with diverse everyday life activities known to modulate working memory performance. We used a within-subject design where young adults listened to music and played a video game during breaks interleaved with trials of a sequential two-step Markov decision task, designed to assess habitual as well as goal-directed decision making. Based on a neurocomputational model of task performance, we observed that for individuals with a rather limited working memory capacity video gaming as compared to music reduced reliance on the goal-directed decision-making system, while a rather large working memory capacity prevented such a decline. Our findings suggest differential effects of everyday activities on key decision-making processes.

Music and Video Gaming during Breaks: Influence on Habitual versus Goal-Directed Decision Making

PubMed Central

Kuschpel, Maxim S.; Rapp, Michael A.; Heinz, Andreas

2016-01-01

Different systems for habitual versus goal-directed control are thought to underlie human decision-making. Working memory is known to shape these decision-making systems and their interplay, and is known to support goal-directed decision making even under stress. Here, we investigated if and how decision systems are differentially influenced by breaks filled with diverse everyday life activities known to modulate working memory performance. We used a within-subject design where young adults listened to music and played a video game during breaks interleaved with trials of a sequential two-step Markov decision task, designed to assess habitual as well as goal-directed decision making. Based on a neurocomputational model of task performance, we observed that for individuals with a rather limited working memory capacity video gaming as compared to music reduced reliance on the goal-directed decision-making system, while a rather large working memory capacity prevented such a decline. Our findings suggest differential effects of everyday activities on key decision-making processes. PMID:26982326

The ontogeny of visual–motor memory and its importance in handwriting and reading: a developing construct

PubMed Central

Waterman, Amanda H.; Havelka, Jelena; Culmer, Peter R.; Hill, Liam J. B.; Mon-Williams, Mark

2015-01-01

Humans have evolved a remarkable ability to remember visual shapes and use these representations to generate motor activity (from Palaeolithic cave drawings through Jiahu symbols to cursive handwriting). The term visual–motor memory (VMM) describes this psychological ability, which must have conveyed an evolutionary advantage and remains critically important to humans (e.g. when learning to write). Surprisingly, little empirical investigation of this unique human ability exists—almost certainly because of the technological difficulties involved in measuring VMM. We deployed a novel technique for measuring this construct in 87 children (6–11 years old, 44 females). Children drew novel shapes presented briefly on a tablet laptop screen, drawing their responses from memory on the screen using a digitizer stylus. Sophisticated algorithms (using point-registration techniques) objectively quantified the accuracy of the children's reproductions. VMM improved with age and performance decreased with shape complexity, indicating that the measure captured meaningful developmental changes. The relationship between VMM and scores on nationally standardized writing assessments were explored with the results showing a clear relationship between these measures, even after controlling for age. Moreover, a relationship between VMM and the nationally standardized reading test was mediated via writing ability, suggesting VMM's wider importance within language development. PMID:25429010

Electrical/Mechanical Monitoring of Shape Memory Alloy Reinforcing Fibers Obtained by Pullout Tests in SMA/Cement Composite Materials.

PubMed

Kim, Eui-Hyun; Lee, Hyunbae; Kim, Jae-Hwan; Bae, Seung-Muk; Hwang, Heesu; Yang, Heesun; Choi, Eunsoo; Hwang, Jin-Ha

2018-02-22

Self-healing is an essential property of smart concrete structures. In contrast to other structural metals, shape memory alloys (SMAs) offer two unique effects: shape memory effects, and superelastic effects. Composites composed of SMA wires and conventional cements can overcome the mechanical weaknesses associated with tensile fractures in conventional concretes. Under specialized environments, the material interface between the cementitious component and the SMA materials plays an important role in achieving the enhanced mechanical performance and robustness of the SMA/cement interface. This material interface is traditionally evaluated in terms of mechanical aspects, i.e., strain-stress characteristics. However, the current work attempts to simultaneously characterize the mechanical load-displacement relationships synchronized with impedance spectroscopy as a function of displacement. Frequency-dependent impedance spectroscopy is tested as an in situ monitoring tool for structural variations in smart composites composed of non-conducting cementitious materials and conducting metals. The artificial geometry change in the SMA wires is associated with an improved anchoring action that is compatible with the smallest variation in resistance compared with prismatic SMA wires embedded into a cement matrix. The significant increase in resistance is interpreted to be associated with the slip of the SMA fibers following the elastic deformation and the debonding of the SMA fiber/matrix.

A model for ferromagnetic shape memory thin film actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kwok-Lun; Seelecke, Stefan

2005-05-01

The last decade has witnessed the discovery of materials combining shape memory behavior with ferromagnetic properties (FSMAs), see James & Wuttig1, James et al.2, Ullakko et al.3. These materials feature the so-called giant magnetostrain effect, which, in contrast to conventional magnetostriction is due motion of martensite twins. This effect has motivated the development of a new class of active materials transducers, which combine intrinsic sensing capabilities with superior actuation speed and improved efficiency when compared to conventional shape memory alloys. Currently, thin film technology is being developed intensively in order to pave the way for applications in micro- and nanotechnology. As an example, Kohl et al., recently proposed a novel actuation mechanism based on NiMnGa thin film technology, which makes use of both the ferromagnetic transition and the martensitic transformation allowing the realization of an almost perfect antagonism in a single component part. The implementation of the mechanism led to the award-winning development of an optical microscanner. Possible applications in nanotechnology arise, e.g., by combination of smart NiMnGa actuators with scanning probe technologies. The key aspect of Kohl's device is the fact that it employs electric heating for actuation, which requires a thermo-magneto-mechanical model for analysis. The research presented in this paper aims at the development of a model that simulates this particular material behavior. It is based on ideas originally developed for conventional shape memory alloy behavior, (Mueller & Achenbach, Achenbach, Seelecke, Seelecke & Mueller) and couples it with a simple expression for the nonlinear temperature- and position-dependent effective magnetic force. This early and strongly simplified version does not account for a full coupling between SMA behavior and ferromagnetism yet, and does not incorporate the hysteretic character of the magnetization phenomena either. It can however be used to explain the basic actuation mechanism and highlight the role of coupled magnetic and martensitic transformation with respect to the actuator performance. In particular will we be able to develop guidelines for desirable alloy compositions, such that the resulting transition temperatures guarantee optimized actuator performance.

Data-driven Techniques to Estimate Parameters in the Homogenized Energy Model for Shape Memory Alloys

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-11-01

sensor. volume 79781K. Proceedings of the SPIE 7978, 2011. [9] D.J. Hartl , D.C. Lagoudas, F.T. Calkins, and J.H. Mabe . Use of a ni60ti shape memory...alloy for active jet engine chevron application: I. thermomechanical characterization. Smart Materials and Structures, 19:1–14, 2010. [10] D.J. Hartl ...D.C. Lagoudas, F.T. Calkins, and J.H. Mabe . Use of a ni60ti shape memory alloy for active jet engine chevron application: II. experimentally validated

The ferromagnetic shape-memory effect in Ni Mn Ga

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marioni, M. A.; O'Handley, R. C.; Allen, S. M.; Hall, S. R.; Paul, D. I.; Richard, M. L.; Feuchtwanger, J.; Peterson, B. W.; Chambers, J. M.; Techapiesancharoenkij, R.

2005-04-01

Active materials have long been used in the construction of sensors and devices. Examples are piezo-electric ceramics and shape memory alloys. The more recently developed ferromagnetic shape-memory alloys (FSMAs) have received considerable attention due to their large magnetic field-induced, reversible strains (up to 10%). In this article, we review the basic physical characteristics of the FSMA Ni-Mn-Ga (crystallography, thermal, mechanical and magnetic behavior). Also, we present some of the works currently under way in the areas of pulse-field and acoustic-assisted actuation, and vibration energy absorption.

Direct evidence of detwinning in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys during deformation.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nie, Z. H.; Lin Peng, R.; Johansson, S.

2008-01-01

In situ time-of-flight neutron diffraction and high-energy x-ray diffraction techniques were used to reveal the preferred reselection of martensite variants through a detwinning process in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys under uniaxial compressive stress. The variant reorientation via detwinning during loading can be explained by considering the influence of external stress on the grain/variant orientation-dependent distortion energy. These direct observations of detwinning provide a good understanding of the deformation mechanisms in shape memory alloys.

Triple-Shape Memory Polymers Based on Self-Complementary Hydrogen Bonding

PubMed Central

Ware, Taylor; Hearon, Keith; Lonnecker, Alexander; Wooley, Karen L.; Maitland, Duncan J.; Voit, Walter

2012-01-01

Triple shape memory polymers (TSMPs) are a growing subset of a class of smart materials known as shape memory polymers, which are capable of changing shape and stiffness in response to a stimulus. A TSMP can change shapes twice and can fix two metastable shapes in addition to its permanent shape. In this work, a novel TSMP system comprised of both permanent covalent cross-links and supramolecular hydrogen bonding cross-links has been synthesized via a one-pot method. Triple shape properties arise from the combination of the glass transition of (meth)acrylate copolymers and the dissociation of self-complementary hydrogen bonding moieties, enabling broad and independent control of both glass transition temperature (Tg) and cross-link density. Specifically, ureidopyrimidone methacrylate and a novel monomer, ureidopyrimidone acrylate, were copolymerized with various alkyl acrylates and bisphenol A ethoxylate diacrylate. Control of Tg from 0 to 60 °C is demonstrated: concentration of hydrogen bonding moieties is varied from 0 to 40 wt %; concentration of the diacrylate is varied from 0 to 30 wt %. Toughness ranges from 0.06 to 0.14 MPa and is found to peak near 20 wt % of the supramolecular cross-linker. A widely tunable class of amorphous triple-shape memory polymers has been developed and characterized through dynamic and quasi-static thermomechanical testing to gain insights into the dynamics of supramolecular networks. PMID:22287811

Thermal response of novel shape memory polymer-shape memory alloy hybrids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rossiter, Jonathan; Takashima, Kazuto; Mukai, Toshiharu

2014-03-01

Shape memory polymers (SMP) and shape memory alloys (SMA) have both been proven important smart materials in their own fields. Shape memory polymers can be formed into complex three-dimensional structures and can undergo shape programming and large strain recovery. These are especially important for deployable structures including those for space applications and micro-structures such as stents. Shape memory alloys on the other hand are readily exploitable in a range of applications where simple, silent, light-weight and low-cost repeatable actuation is required. These include servos, valves and mobile robotic artificial muscles. Despite their differences, one important commonality between SMPs and SMAs is that they are both typically activated by thermal energy. Given this common characteristic it is important to consider how these two will behave when in close environmental proximity, and hence exposed to the same thermal stimulus, and when they are incorporated into a hybrid SMA-SMP structure. In this paper we propose and examine the operation of SMA-SMP hybrids. The relationship between the two temperatures Tg, the glass transition temperature of the polymer, and Ta, the nominal austenite to martensite transition temperature of the alloy is considered. We examine how the choice of these two temperatures affects the thermal response of the hybrid. Electrical stimulation of the SMA is also considered as a method not only of actuating the SMA but also of inducing heating in the surrounding polymer, with consequent effects on actuator behaviour. Likewise by varying the rate and degree of thermal stimulation of the SMA significantly different actuation and structural stiffness can be achieved. Novel SMP-SMA hybrid actuators and structures have many ready applications in deployable structures, robotics and tuneable engineering systems.

Towards robust algorithms for current deposition and dynamic load-balancing in a GPU particle in cell code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rossi, Francesco; Londrillo, Pasquale; Sgattoni, Andrea; Sinigardi, Stefano; Turchetti, Giorgio

2012-12-01

We present `jasmine', an implementation of a fully relativistic, 3D, electromagnetic Particle-In-Cell (PIC) code, capable of running simulations in various laser plasma acceleration regimes on Graphics-Processing-Units (GPUs) HPC clusters. Standard energy/charge preserving FDTD-based algorithms have been implemented using double precision and quadratic (or arbitrary sized) shape functions for the particle weighting. When porting a PIC scheme to the GPU architecture (or, in general, a shared memory environment), the particle-to-grid operations (e.g. the evaluation of the current density) require special care to avoid memory inconsistencies and conflicts. Here we present a robust implementation of this operation that is efficient for any number of particles per cell and particle shape function order. Our algorithm exploits the exposed GPU memory hierarchy and avoids the use of atomic operations, which can hurt performance especially when many particles lay on the same cell. We show the code multi-GPU scalability results and present a dynamic load-balancing algorithm. The code is written using a python-based C++ meta-programming technique which translates in a high level of modularity and allows for easy performance tuning and simple extension of the core algorithms to various simulation schemes.

The dynamics of sensory buffers: geometric, spatial, and experience-dependent shaping of iconic memory.

PubMed

Graziano, Martin; Sigman, Mariano

2008-05-23

When a stimulus is presented, its sensory trace decays rapidly, lasting for approximately 1000 ms. This brief and labile memory, referred as iconic memory, serves as a buffer before information is transferred to working memory and executive control. Here we explored the effect of different factors--geometric, spatial, and experience--with respect to the access and the maintenance of information in iconic memory and the progressive distortion of this memory. We studied performance in a partial report paradigm, a design wherein recall of only part of a stimulus array is required. Subjects had to report the identity of a letter in a location that was cued in a variable delay after the stimulus onset. Performance decayed exponentially with time, and we studied the different parameters (time constant, zero-delay value, and decay amplitude) as a function of the different factors. We observed that experience (determined by letter frequency) affected the access to iconic memory but not the temporal decay constant. On the contrary, spatial position affected the temporal course of delay. The entropy of the error distribution increased with time reflecting a progressive morphological distortion of the iconic buffer. We discuss our results on the context of a model of information access to executive control and how it is affected by learning and attention.

Triple shape memory polymers by 4D printing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bodaghi, M.; Damanpack, A. R.; Liao, W. H.

2018-06-01

This article aims at introducing triple shape memory polymers (SMPs) by four-dimensional (4D) printing technology and shaping adaptive structures for mechanical/bio-medical devices. The main approach is based on arranging hot–cold programming of SMPs with fused decomposition modeling technology to engineer adaptive structures with triple shape memory effect (SME). Experiments are conducted to characterize elasto-plastic and hyper-elastic thermo-mechanical material properties of SMPs in low and high temperatures at large deformation regime. The feasibility of the dual and triple SMPs with self-bending features is demonstrated experimentally. It is advantageous in situations either where it is desired to perform mechanical manipulations on the 4D printed objects for specific purposes or when they experience cold programming inevitably before activation. A phenomenological 3D constitutive model is developed for quantitative understanding of dual/triple SME of SMPs fabricated by 4D printing in the large deformation range. Governing equations of equilibrium are established for adaptive structures on the basis of the nonlinear Green–Lagrange strains. They are then solved by developing a finite element approach along with an elastic-predictor plastic-corrector return map procedure accomplished by the Newton–Raphson method. The computational tool is applied to simulate dual/triple SMP structures enabled by 4D printing and explore hot–cold programming mechanisms behind material tailoring. It is shown that the 4D printed dual/triple SMPs have great potential in mechanical/bio-medical applications such as self-bending gripers/stents and self-shrinking/tightening staples.

Influence of mechanically-induced dilatation on the shape memory behavior of amorphous polymers at large deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanzon, Drew W.; Lu, Haibao; Yakacki, Christopher M.; Yu, Kai

2018-01-01

In this study, we explore the influence of mechanically-induced dilatation on the thermomechanical and shape memory behavior of amorphous shape memory polymers (SMPs) at large deformation. The uniaxial tension, glass transition, stress relaxation and free recovery behaviors are examined with different strain levels (up to 340% engineering strain). A multi-branched constitutive model that incorporates dilatational effects on the polymer relaxation time is established and applied to assist in discussions and understand the nonlinear viscoelastic behaviors of SMPs. It is shown that the volumetric dilatation results in an SMP network with lower viscosity, faster relaxation, and lower Tg. The influence of the dilatational effect on the thermomechanical behaviors is significant when the polymers are subject to large deformation or in a high viscosity state. The dilation also increases the free recovery rate of SMP at a given recovery temperature. Even though the tested SMPs are far beyond their linear viscoelastic region when a large programming strain is applied, the free recovery behavior still follows the time-temperature superposition (TTSP) if the dilatational effect is considered during the transformation of time scales; however, if the programming strain is different, TTSP fails in predicting the recovery behavior of SMPs because the network has different entropy state and driving force during shape recovery. Since most soft active polymers are subject to large deformation in practice, this study provides a theoretical basis to better understand their nonlinear viscoelastic behaviors, and optimize their performance in engineering applications.

Shape Memory Alloy Rock Splitters (SMARS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benafan, Othmane (Inventor); Noebe, Ronald D. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) may be used for static rock splitting. The SMAs may be used as high-energy multifunctional materials, which have a unique ability to recover large deformations and generate high stresses in response to thermal loads.

Precipitation-Strengthened, High-Temperature, High-Force Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noebe, Ronald D.; Draper, Susan L.; Nathal, Michael V.; Crombie, Edwin A.

2008-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are an enabling component in the development of compact, lightweight, durable, high-force actuation systems particularly for use where hydraulics or electrical motors are not practical. However, commercial shape memory alloys based on NiTi are only suitable for applications near room temperature, due to their relatively low transformation temperatures, while many potential applications require higher temperature capability. Consequently, a family of (Ni,Pt)(sub 1-x)Ti(sub x) shape memory alloys with Ti concentrations ranging from about 15 to 25 at.% have been developed for applications in which there are requirements for SMA actuators to exert high forces at operating temperatures higher than those of conventional binary NiTi SMAs. These alloys can be heat treated in the range of 500 C to produce a series of fine precipitate phases that increase the strength of alloy while maintaining a high transformation temperature, even in Ti-lean compositions.

Fabrication de couches minces a memoire de forme et effets de l'irradiation ionique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goldberg, Florent

1998-09-01

Nickel and titanium when combined in the right stoichiometric proportion (1:1) can form alloys showing the shape memory effect. Within the scope of this thesis, thin films of such alloys have been successfully produced by sputtering. Precise control of composition is crucial in order to obtain the shape memory effect. A combination of analytical tools which can accurately determine the behavior of such materials is also required (calorimetric analysis, crystallography, composition analysis, etc.). Rutherford backscattering spectrometry has been used for quantitative composition analysis. Thereafter irradiation of films with light ions (He+) of few MeV was shown to allow lowering of the characteristic premartensitic transformation temperatures while preserving the shape memory effect. Those results open the door to a new field of research, particularly for ion irradiation and its potential use as a tool to modify the thermomechanical behavior of shape memory thin film actuators.

Shape-memory effect of nanocomposites based on liquid-crystalline elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marotta, A.; Lama, G. C.; Gentile, G.; Cerruti, P.; Carfagna, C.; Ambrogi, V.

2016-05-01

In this work, nanocomposites based on liquid crystalline (LC) elastomers were prepared and characterized in their shape memory properties. For the synthesis of materials, p-bis(2,3-epoxypropoxy)-α-methylstilbene (DOMS) was used as mesogenic epoxy monomer, sebacic acid (SA) as curing agent and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and graphene oxide (GO) as fillers. First, an effective compatibilization methodology was set up to improve the interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the carbonaceous nanofillers, thus obtaining homogeneous distribution and dispersion of the nanofillers within the polymer phase. Then, the obtained nanocomposite films were characterized in their morphological and thermal properties. In particular, the effect of the addition of the nanofillers on liquid crystalline behavior, as well as on shape-memory properties of the realized materials was investigated. It was found that both fillers were able to enhance the thermomechanical response of the LC elastomers, making them good candidates as shape memory materials.

Preisach modeling of piezoceramic and shape memory alloy hysteresis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hughes, Declan; Wen, John T.

1997-06-01

Smart materials such as piezoceramics, magnetostrictive materials, and shape memory alloys exhibit hysteresis, and the larger the input signal the larger the effect. Hysteresis can lead to unwanted harmonics, inaccuracy in open loop control, and instability in closed loop control. The Preisach independent domain hysteresis model has been shown to capture the major features of hysteresis arising in ferromagnetic materials. Noting the similarity between the microscopic domain kinematics that generate static hysteresis effects in ferromagnetics, piezoceramics, and shape memory alloys (SMAs), we apply the Preisach model for the hysteresis in piezoceramic and shape memory alloy materials. This paper reviews the basic properties of the Preisach model, discusses control-theoretic issues such as identification, simulation, and inversion, and presents experimental results for piezoceramic sheet actuators bonded to a flexible aluminum beam, and a Nitinol SMA wire muscle that applies a bending force to the end of a beam.

Preisach modeling of piezoceramic and shape memory alloy hysteresis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hughes, Declan C.; Wen, John T.

1996-05-01

Smart materials such as piezoceramics, magnetostrictive materials, and shape memory alloys exhibit significant hysteresis, especially when driven with large input signals. Hysteresis can lead to unwanted harmonics, inaccuracy in open loop control, and instability in closed loop control. The Preisach independent domain hysteresis model has been shown to capture the major features of hysteresis arising in ferromagnetic materials. Noting the similarity between the microscopic domain kinematics that generate static hysteresis effects in ferromagnetics, piezoceramics, and shape memory alloys, we apply the Preisach model for the hysteresis in piezoceramic and shape memory alloy materials. This paper reviews the basic properties of the Preisach model, discusses control-theoretic issues such as identification, simulation, and inversion, and presents experimental results for piezoceramic sheet actuators bonded to a flexible aluminum beam, and a Nitinol SMA wire muscle that applies a bending force to the end of a beam.

Microstructure, crystallization and shape memory behavior of titania and yttria co-doped zirconia

DOE PAGES

Zeng, Xiao Mei; Du, Zehui; Schuh, Christopher A.; ...

2015-12-17

Small volume zirconia ceramics with few or no grain boundaries have been demonstrated recently to exhibit the shape memory effect. To explore the shape memory properties of yttria doped zirconia (YDZ), it is desirable to develop large, microscale grains, instead of submicron grains that result from typical processing of YDZ. In this paper, we have successfully produced single crystal micro-pillars from microscale grains encouraged by the addition of titania during processing. Titania has been doped into YDZ ceramics and its effect on the grain growth, crystallization and microscale elemental distribution of the ceramics have been systematically studied. With 5 mol%more » titania doping, the grain size can be increased up to ~4 μm, while retaining a large quantity of the desired tetragonal phase of zirconia. Finally, micro-pillars machined from tetragonal grains exhibit the expected shape memory effects where pillars made from titania-free YDZ would not.« less

Chemical cross-linking of polypropylenes towards new shape memory polymers.

PubMed

Raidt, Thomas; Hoeher, Robin; Katzenberg, Frank; Tiller, Joerg C

2015-04-01

In this work, syndiotactic polypropylene (sPP) as well as isotactic polypropylene (iPP) are cross-linked to gain a shape memory effect. Both prepared PP networks exhibit maximum strains of 700%, stored strains of up to 680%, and recoveries of nearly 100%. While x-iPP is stable for many cycles, x-sPP ruptures after the first shape-memory cycle. It is shown by wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) experiments that cross-linked iPP exhibits homoepitaxy in the temporary, stretched shape but in contrast to previous reports it contains a higher amount of daughter than mother crystals. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fermi Surface as a Driver for the Shape-Memory Effect in AuZn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lashley, Jason

2005-03-01

Martensites are materials that undergo diffusionless, solid-state transitions. The martensitic transition yields properties that depend on the history of the material and if reversible can allow it to recover its previous shape after plastic deformation. This is known as the shape-memory effect (SME). We have succeeded in identifying the operative electronic mechanism responsible for the martensitic transition in the shape-memory alloy AuZn by using Fermi-surface measurements (de Haas-van Alphen oscillations) and band-structure calculations. Our findings suggest that electronic band structure gives rise to special features on the Fermi surface that is important to consider in the design of SME alloys.

Spray forming of NiTi and NiTiPd shape-memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Ronald; Mabe, James; Ruggeri, Robert; Noebe, Ronald

2008-03-01

In the work to be presented, vacuum plasma spray forming has been used as a process to deposit and consolidate prealloyed NiTi and NiTiPd powders into near net shape actuators. Testing showed that excellent shape memory behavior could be developed in the deposited materials and the investigation proved that VPS forming could be a means to directly form a wide range of shape memory alloy components. The results of DSC characterization and actual actuation test results will be presented demonstrating the behavior of a Nitinol 55 alloy and a higher transition temperature NiTiPd alloy in the form of torque tube actuators that could be used in aircraft and aerospace controls.

Spray Forming of NiTi and NiTiPd Shape-Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mabe, James; Ruggeri, Robert; Noebe, Ronald

2008-01-01

In the work to be presented, vacuum plasma spray forming has been used as a process to deposit and consolidate prealloyed NiTi and NiTiPd powders into near net shape actuators. Testing showed that excellent shape memory behavior could be developed in the deposited materials and the investigation proved that VPS forming could be a means to directly form a wide range of shape memory alloy components. The results of DSC characterization and actual actuation test results will be presented demonstrating the behavior of a Nitinol 55 alloy and a higher transition temperature NiTiPd alloy in the form of torque tube actuators that could be used in aircraft and aerospace controls.

Self-sculpting of a dissolvable body due to gravitational convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davies Wykes, Megan S.; Huang, Jinzi Mac; Hajjar, George A.; Ristroph, Leif

2018-04-01

Natural sculpting processes such as erosion or dissolution often yield universal shapes that bear no imprint or memory of the initial conditions. Here we conduct laboratory experiments aimed at assessing the shape dynamics and role of memory for the simple case of a dissolvable boundary immersed in a fluid. Though no external flow is imposed, dissolution and consequent density differences lead to gravitational convective flows that in turn strongly affect local dissolving rates and shape changes, and we identify two distinct behaviors. A flat boundary dissolving from its lower surface tends to retain its overall shape (an example of near perfect memory) while bearing small-scale pits that reflect complex near-body flows. A boundary dissolving from its upper surface tends to erase its initial shape and form an upward spike structure that sharpens indefinitely. We propose an explanation for these different outcomes based on observations of the coupled shape dynamics, concentration fields, and flows.

High Cycle-life Shape Memory Polymer at High Temperature

PubMed Central

Kong, Deyan; Xiao, Xinli

2016-01-01

High cycle-life is important for shape memory materials exposed to numerous cycles, and here we report shape memory polyimide that maintained both high shape fixity (Rf) and shape recovery (Rr) during the more than 1000 bending cycles tested. Its critical stress is 2.78 MPa at 250 °C, and the shape recovery process can produce stored energy of 0.218 J g−1 at the efficiency of 31.3%. Its high Rf is determined by the large difference in storage modulus at rubbery and glassy states, while the high Rr mainly originates from its permanent phase composed of strong π-π interactions and massive chain entanglements. Both difference in storage modulus and overall permanent phase were preserved during the bending deformation cycles, and thus high Rf and Rr were observed in every cycle and the high cycle-life will expand application areas of SMPs enormously. PMID:27641148

Superelastic SMA U-shaped dampers with self-centering functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Bin; Zhu, Songye

2018-05-01

As high-performance metallic materials, shape memory alloys (SMAs) have been investigated increasingly by the earthquake engineering community in recent years, because of their remarkable self-centering (SC) and energy-dissipating capabilities. This paper systematically presents an experimental study on a novel superelastic SMA U-shaped damper (SMA-UD) with SC function under cyclic loading. The mechanical properties, including strength, SC ability, and energy-dissipating capability with varying loading amplitudes and strain rates are evaluated. Test results show that excellent and stable flag-shaped hysteresis loops are exhibited in multiple loading cycles. Strain rate has a negligible effect on the cyclic behavior of the SMA-UD within the dynamic frequency range of typical interest in earthquake engineering. Furthermore, a numerical investigation is performed to understand the mechanical behavior of the SMA-UD. The numerical model is calibrated against the experimental results with reasonable accuracy. Then, the stress–strain states with different phase transformations are also discussed.

Properties of Graphene/Shape Memory Thermoplastic Polyurethane Composites Actuating by Various Methods

PubMed Central

Park, Jin Ho; Dao, Trung Dung; Lee, Hyung-il; Jeong, Han Mo; Kim, Byung Kyu

2014-01-01

Shape memory behavior of crystalline shape memory polyurethane (SPU) reinforced with graphene, which utilizes melting temperature as a shape recovery temperature, was examined with various external actuating stimuli such as direct heating, resistive heating, and infrared (IR) heating. Compatibility of graphene with crystalline SPU was adjusted by altering the structure of the hard segment of the SPU, by changing the structure of the graphene, and by changing the preparation method of the graphene/SPU composite. The SPU made of aromatic 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MSPU) exhibited better compatibility with graphene, having an aromatic structure, compared to that made of the aliphatic hexamethylene diisocyanate. The finely dispersed graphene effectively reinforced MSPU, improved shape recovery of MSPU, and served effectively as a filler, triggering shape recovery by resistive or IR heating. Compatibility was enhanced when the graphene was modified with methanol. This improved shape recovery by direct heating, but worsened the conductivity of the composite, and consequently the efficiency of resistive heating for shape recovery also declined. Graphene modified with methanol was more effective than pristine graphene in terms of shape recovery by IR heating. PMID:28788529

Shape-morphing composites with designed micro-architectures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, Jennifer N.; Zhu, Cheng; Duoss, Eric B.; Wilson, Thomas S.; Spadaccini, Christopher M.; Lewicki, James P.

2016-06-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are attractive materials due to their unique mechanical properties, including high deformation capacity and shape recovery. SMPs are easier to process, lightweight, and inexpensive compared to their metallic counterparts, shape memory alloys. However, SMPs are limited to relatively small form factors due to their low recovery stresses. Lightweight, micro-architected composite SMPs may overcome these size limitations and offer the ability to combine functional properties (e.g., electrical conductivity) with shape memory behavior. Fabrication of 3D SMP thermoset structures via traditional manufacturing methods is challenging, especially for designs that are composed of multiple materials within porous microarchitectures designed for specific shape change strategies, e.g. sequential shape recovery. We report thermoset SMP composite inks containing some materials from renewable resources that can be 3D printed into complex, multi-material architectures that exhibit programmable shape changes with temperature and time. Through addition of fiber-based fillers, we demonstrate printing of electrically conductive SMPs where multiple shape states may induce functional changes in a device and that shape changes can be actuated via heating of printed composites. The ability of SMPs to recover their original shapes will be advantageous for a broad range of applications, including medical, aerospace, and robotic devices.

A preliminary investigation of shape memory alloys in the surgical correction of scoliosis.

PubMed

Sanders, J O; Sanders, A E; More, R; Ashman, R B

1993-09-15

Nitinol, a shape memory alloy, is flexible at low temperatures but retains its original shape when heated. This offers interesting possibilities for scoliosis correction. Of the shape memory alloys, nitinol is the most promising medically because of biocompatibility and the ability to control transition temperature. In vivo: Six goats with experimental scoliosis were instrumented with 6-mm nitinol rods. The rods were transformed, and the scoliosis corrected, in the awakened goats by 450-kHz radio frequency induction heating. The curves averaged 41 degrees before instrumentation, 33 degrees after instrumentation, and 11 degrees after rod transformation. The animals tolerated the heating without discomfort, neurologic injury, or evidence of thermal injury to the tissues or the spinal cord. In vitro: Nitinol rods were tested under both constant deflection and constant loading conditions and plotted temperature versus either force or displacement. The 6-mm rod generated forces of 200 N. The 9-mm rod generated up to 500 N. We safely coupled shape memory alloy transformation to the spine and corrected an experimental spinal deformity in awake animals. The forces generated can be estimated by the rod's curvature and temperature. The use of shape memory alloys allows continuous neurologic monitoring during awake correction, true rotational correction by rod torsion, and the potential option of periodic correction to take advantage of spinal viscoelasticity and the potential of true rotational correction by rod torsion.

Towards Low-Cost Effective and Homogeneous Thermal Activation of Shape Memory Polymers

PubMed Central

Lantada, Andrés Díaz; Rebollo, María Ángeles Santamaría

2013-01-01

A typical limitation of intelligent devices based on the use of shape-memory polymers as actuators is linked to the widespread use of distributed heating resistors, via Joule effect, as activation method, which involves several relevant issues needing attention, such as: (a) Final device size is importantly increased due to the additional space required for the resistances; (b) the use of resistances limits materials’ strength and the obtained devices are normally weaker; (c) the activation process through heating resistances is not homogeneous, thus leading to important temperature differences among the polymeric structure and to undesirable thermal gradients and stresses, also limiting the application fields of shape-memory polymers. In our present work we describe interesting activation alternatives, based on coating shape-memory polymers with different kinds of conductive materials, including textiles, conductive threads and conductive paint, which stand out for their easy, rapid and very cheap implementation. Distributed heating and homogeneous activation can be achieved in several of the alternatives studied and the technical results are comparable to those obtained by using advanced shape-memory nanocomposites, which have to deal with complex synthesis, processing and security aspects. Different combinations of shape memory epoxy resin with several coating electrotextiles, conductive films and paints are prepared, simulated with the help of thermal finite element method based resources and characterized using infrared thermography for validating the simulations and overall design process. A final application linked to an active catheter pincer is detailed and the advantages of using distributed heating instead of conventional resistors are discussed. PMID:28788401

Polylactide-based polyurethane shape memory nanocomposites (Fe3O4/PLAUs) with fast magnetic responsiveness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Shu-Ying; Jin, Sheng-Peng; Gao, Xie-Feng; Mu, Jian

2016-05-01

Polylactide-based polyurethane shape memory nanocomposites (Fe3O4/PLAUs) with fast magnetic responsiveness are presented. For the purpose of fast response and homogeneous dispersion of magnetic nanoparticles, oleic acid was used to improve the dispersibility of Fe3O4 nanoparticles in a polymer matrix. A homogeneous distribution of Fe3O4 nanoparticles in the polymer matrix was obtained for nanocomposites with low Fe3O4 loading content. A small agglomeration was observed for nanocomposites with 6 wt% and 9 wt% loading content, leading to a small decline in the mechanical properties. PLAU and its nanocomposites have glass transition around 52 °C, which can be used as the triggering temperature. PLAU and its nanocomposites have shape fixity ratios above 99%, shape recovery ratios above 82% for the first cycle and shape recovery ratios above 91% for the second cycle. PLAU and its nanocomposites also exhibit a fast water bath or magnetic responsiveness. The magnetic recovery time decreases with an increase in the loading content of Fe3O4 nanoparticles due to an improvement in heating performance for increased weight percentage of fillers. The nanocomposites have fast responses in an alternating magnetic field and have potential application in biomedical areas such as intravascular stent.

Effects of thermo-mechanical behavior and hinge geometry on folding response of shape memory polymer sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mailen, Russell W.; Dickey, Michael D.; Genzer, Jan; Zikry, Mohammed

2017-11-01

Shape memory polymer (SMP) sheets patterned with black ink hinges change shape in response to external stimuli, such as absorbed thermal energy from an infrared (IR) light. The geometry of these hinges, including size, orientation, and location, and the applied thermal loads significantly influence the final folded shape of the sheet, but these variables have not been fully investigated. We perform a systematic study on SMP sheets to fundamentally understand the effects of single and double hinge geometries, hinge orientation and spacing, initial temperature, heat flux intensity, and pattern width on the folding behavior. We have developed thermo-viscoelastic finite element models to characterize and quantify the stresses, strains, and temperatures as they relate to SMP shape changes. Our predictions indicate that hinge orientation can be used to reduce the total bending angle, which is the angle traversed by the folding face of the sheet. Two parallel hinges increase the total bending angle, and heat conduction between the hinges affects the transient folding response. IR intensity and initial temperatures can also influence the transient folding behavior. These results can provide guidelines to optimize the transient folding response and the three-dimensional folded structure obtained from self-folding polymer origami sheets that can be applied for myriad applications.

Nano-cone resistive memory for ultralow power operation.

PubMed

Kim, Sungjun; Jung, Sunghun; Kim, Min-Hwi; Kim, Tae-Hyeon; Bang, Suhyun; Cho, Seongjae; Park, Byung-Gook

2017-03-24

SiN x -based nano-structure resistive memory is fabricated by fully silicon CMOS compatible process integration including particularly designed anisotropic etching for the construction of a nano-cone silicon bottom electrode (BE). Bipolar resistive switching characteristics have significantly reduced switching current and voltage and are demonstrated in a nano-cone BE structure, as compared with those in a flat BE one. We have verified by systematic device simulations that the main cause of reduction in the performance parameters is the high electric field being more effectively concentrated at the tip of the cone-shaped BE. The greatly improved nonlinearity of the nano-cone resistive memory cell will be beneficial in the ultra-high-density crossbar array.

Development of Ultra-high Mechanical Damping Structures Based on Nano-scale Properties of Shape Memory Alloys

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-27

Alloys Jose San Juan Universidad del Pais Vasco Department of Physics of Condensed Matter Facultd de Ciencia y Tecnologia Bilbao...Facultd de Ciencia y Tecnologia Bilbao, Spain 48080 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER N/A 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S

Interventional Application of Shape Memory Polymer Foam Final Report CRADA No. TC-02067-03

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Maitland, D.; Metzger, M. F.

This was a collaborative effort between The Regents of the University of California, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Sierra Interventions, LLC, to develop shape memory polymer foam devices for treating hemorrhagic stroke.

NASA Armstrong Flight Tests Shape Memory Alloy Onboard PTERA Testbed

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-12-15

PTERA takes off from the Rogers Dry Lakebed on a flight to test the ability of an innovative, lightweight material, called shape memory alloy, to fold the outer portion of an aircraft’s wings in flight.

Nonlinear Associations between Plasma Cholesterol Levels and Neuropsychological Function

PubMed Central

Wendell, Carrington R.; Zonderman, Alan B.; Katzel, Leslie I.; Rosenberger, William F.; Plamadeala, Victoria V.; Hosey, Megan M.; Waldstein, Shari R.

2016-01-01

Objective Although both high and low levels of total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol have been associated with poor neuropsychological function, little research has examined nonlinear effects. We examined quadratic relations of cholesterol to performance on a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Method Participants were 190 older adults (53% men, ages 54–83) free of major medical, neurologic, and psychiatric disease. Measures of fasting plasma total and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were assayed, and LDL cholesterol was calculated. Participants completed neuropsychological measures of attention, executive function, memory, visuospatial judgment, and manual speed/dexterity. Multiple regression analyses examined cholesterol levels as quadratic predictors of each measure of cognitive performance, with age (dichotomized as <70 vs. 70+) as an effect modifier. Results A significant quadratic effect of total cholesterol2 × age was identified for Logical Memory II (b=−.0013, p=.039), such that the 70+ group performed best at high and low levels of total cholesterol than at mid-range total cholesterol (U-shaped), and the <70 group performed worse at high and low levels of total cholesterol than at mid-range total cholesterol (inverted U-shape). Similarly, significant U- and J-shaped effects of LDL cholesterol2 × age were identified for Visual Reproduction II (b=−.0020, p=.026) and log of Trails B (b=.0001, p=.044). Quadratic associations between HDL cholesterol and cognitive performance were nonsignificant. Conclusions Results indicate differential associations between cholesterol and neuropsychological function across different ages and domains of function. High and low total and LDL cholesterol may confer both risk and benefit for suboptimal cognitive function at different ages. PMID:27280580

Analysis and optimization of the active rigidity joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manzo, Justin; Garcia, Ephrahim

2009-12-01

The active rigidity joint is a composite mechanism using shape memory alloy and shape memory polymer to create a passively rigid joint with thermally activated deflection. A new model for the active rigidity joint relaxes constraints of earlier methods and allows for more accurate deflection predictions compared to finite element results. Using an iterative process to determine the strain distribution and deflection, the method demonstrates accurate results for both surface bonded and embedded actuators with and without external loading. Deflection capabilities are explored through simulated annealing heuristic optimization using a variety of cost functions to explore actuator performance. A family of responses presents actuator characteristics in terms of load bearing and deflection capabilities given material and thermal constraints. Optimization greatly expands the available workspace of the active rigidity joint from the initial configuration, demonstrating specific work capabilities comparable to those of muscle tissue.

Martensitic and magnetic transformation in Ni-Mn-Ga-Co ferromagnetic shape memory alloys.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cong, D. Y.; Wang, S.; Wang, Y. D.

2008-01-01

The effect of Co addition on crystal structure, martensitic transformation, Curie temperature and compressive properties of Ni{sub 53-x}Mn{sub 25}Ga{sub 22}Co{sub x} alloys with the Co content up to 14 at% was investigated. An abrupt decrease of martensitic transformation temperature was observed when the Co content exceeded 6 at.%, which can be attributed to the atomic disorder resulting from the Co addition. Substitution of Co for Ni proved efficient in increasing the Curie temperature. Compression experiments showed that the substitution of 4 at.% Co for Ni did not change the fracture strain, but lead to the increase in the compressive strengthmore » and the decrease in the yield stress. This study may offer experimental data for developing high performance ferromagnetic shape memory alloys.« less

Active shape control of composite blades using shape memory actuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandra, Ramesh

2001-10-01

This paper presents active shape control of composite beams using shape memory actuation. Shape memory alloy (SMA) bender elements trained to memorize bending shape were used to induce bending and twisting deformations in composite beams. Bending-torsion coupled graphite-epoxy and kevlar-epoxy composite beams with Teflon inserts were manufactured using an autoclave-molding technique. Teflon inserts were replaced by trained SMA bender elements. Composite beams with SMA bender elements were activated by heating these using electrical resistive heating and the bending and twisting deformations of the beams were measured using a mirror and laser system. The structural response of the composite beams activated by SMA elements was predicted using the Vlasov theory, where these beams were modeled as open sections with many branches. The bending moment induced by a SMA bender element was calculated from its experimentally determined memorized shape. The bending, torsion, and bending-torsion coupling stiffness coefficients of these beams were obtained using analytical formulation of an open-section composite beam with many branches (Vlasov theory).

False memory for context activates the parahippocampal cortex.

PubMed

Karanian, Jessica M; Slotnick, Scott D

2014-01-01

Previous studies have reported greater activity in the parahippocampal cortex during true memory than false memory, which has been interpreted as reflecting greater sensory processing during true memory. However, in these studies, sensory detail and contextual information were confounded. In the present fMRI study, we employed a novel paradigm to dissociate these factors. During encoding, abstract shapes were presented in one of two contexts (i.e., moving or stationary). During retrieval, participants classified shapes as previously "moving" or "stationary." Critically, contextual processing was relatively greater during false memory ("moving" responses to stationary items), while sensory processing was relatively greater during true memory ("moving" responses to moving items). Within the medial temporal lobe, false memory versus true memory produced greater activity in the parahippocampal cortex, whereas true memory versus false memory produced greater activity in the hippocampus. The present results indicate that the parahippocampal cortex mediates contextual processing rather than sensory processing.

Non-monotonic relationships between emotional arousal and memory for color and location.

PubMed

Boywitt, C Dennis

2015-01-01

Recent research points to the decreased diagnostic value of subjective retrieval experience for memory accuracy for emotional stimuli. While for neutral stimuli rich recollective experiences are associated with better context memory than merely familiar memories this association appears questionable for emotional stimuli. The present research tested the implicit assumption that the effect of emotional arousal on memory is monotonic, that is, steadily increasing (or decreasing) with increasing arousal. In two experiments emotional arousal was manipulated in three steps using emotional pictures and subjective retrieval experience as well as context memory were assessed. The results show an inverted U-shape relationship between arousal and recognition memory but for context memory and retrieval experience the relationship was more complex. For frame colour, context memory decreased linearly while for spatial location it followed the inverted U-shape function. The complex, non-monotonic relationships between arousal and memory are discussed as possible explanations for earlier divergent findings.

Ultralow-fatigue shape memory alloy films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chluba, Christoph; Ge, Wenwei; Lima de Miranda, Rodrigo; Strobel, Julian; Kienle, Lorenz; Quandt, Eckhard; Wuttig, Manfred

2015-05-01

Functional shape memory alloys need to operate reversibly and repeatedly. Quantitative measures of reversibility include the relative volume change of the participating phases and compatibility matrices for twinning. But no similar argument is known for repeatability. This is especially crucial for many future applications, such as artificial heart valves or elastocaloric cooling, in which more than 10 million transformation cycles will be required. We report on the discovery of an ultralow-fatigue shape memory alloy film system based on TiNiCu that allows at least 10 million transformation cycles. We found that these films contain Ti2Cu precipitates embedded in the base alloy that serve as sentinels to ensure complete and reproducible transformation in the course of each memory cycle.

Nonconscious memory for motion activates MT+.

PubMed

Thakral, Preston P; Slotnick, Scott D

2014-11-12

Extrastriate region MT+ is widely thought to reflect conscious motion processing. The primary aim of the present functional MRI study was to assess whether MT+ is activated during nonconscious memory for motion. During the encoding phase, moving and stationary abstract shapes were presented to the left or right of fixation. During the retrieval phase, the same shapes were presented at fixation and participants classified each shape as 'moving-left', 'moving-right', 'stationary-left', or 'stationary-right'. The contrast of moving>stationary shapes at encoding was used to identify the location of MT+. Event-related activity was then extracted from MT+ within each hemisphere. MT+ activity was significantly greater for moving-misses than for stationary-misses, which indicates that nonconscious memory for motion activates MT+. Furthermore, nonconscious memory activity (moving-misses) had an earlier temporal onset than conscious memory activity (moving-hits). The present results are the first, to our knowledge, to demonstrate that MT+ is associated with nonconscious motion processing. Therefore, activity in this region or in other visual-sensory regions should not be assumed to reflect conscious processing.

On the origin of residual strain in shape memory alloys: experimental investigation on evolutions in the microstructure of CuAlBe during complex thermomechanical loadings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barati, M.; Arbab Chirani, S.; Kadkhodaei, M.; Saint-Sulpice, L.; Calloch, S.

2017-02-01

The behaviors of shape memory alloys (SMAs) strongly depend on the presence of different phases: austenite, thermally-induced martensite and stress-induced martensite. Consequently, it is important to know the phase volume fraction of each phases and their evolution during thermomechanical loadings. In this work, a three-phase proportioning method based on electric resistivity variation of a CuAlBe SMA is proposed. Simple thermomechanical loadings (i. e. pseudoplasticity and pseudoelasticity), one-way shape memory effect, recovery stress, assisted two-way memory effect at different level of stress and cyclic pseudoelasticity tests are investigated. Based on the electric resistivity results, during each loading path, evolution of the microstructure is determined. The origin of residual strain observed during the considered thermomechanical loadings is discussed. A special attention is paid to two-way shape memory effect generated after considered cyclic loadings and its relation with the developed residual strain. These results permit to identify and to validate the macroscopic models of SMAs behaviors.

Drug-releasing shape-memory polymers - the role of morphology, processing effects, and matrix degradation.

PubMed

Wischke, Christian; Behl, Marc; Lendlein, Andreas

2013-09-01

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) have gained interest for temporary drug-release systems that should be anchored in the body by self-sufficient active movements of the polymeric matrix. Based on the so far published scientific literature, this review highlights three aspects that require particular attention when combining SMPs with drug molecules: i) the defined polymer morphology as required for the shape-memory function, ii) the strong effects that processing conditions such as drug-loading methodologies can have on the drug-release pattern from SMPs, and iii) the independent control of drug release and degradation by their timely separation. The combination of SMPs with a drug-release functionality leads to multifunctional carriers that are an interesting technology for pharmaceutical sciences and can be further expanded by new materials such as thermoplastic SMPs or temperature-memory polymers. Experimental studies should include relevant molecules as (model) drugs and provide a thermomechanical characterization also in an aqueous environment, report on the potential effect of drug type and loading levels on the shape-memory functionality, and explore the potential correlation of polymer degradation and drug release.

Longitudinal growth and morphology of the hippocampus through childhood: Impact of prematurity and implications for memory and learning.

PubMed

Thompson, Deanne K; Omizzolo, Cristina; Adamson, Christopher; Lee, Katherine J; Stargatt, Robyn; Egan, Gary F; Doyle, Lex W; Inder, Terrie E; Anderson, Peter J

2014-08-01

The effects of prematurity on hippocampal development through early childhood are largely unknown. The aims of this study were to (1) compare the shape of the very preterm (VPT) hippocampus to that of full-term (FT) children at 7 years of age, and determine if hippocampal shape is associated with memory and learning impairment in VPT children, (2) compare change in shape and volume of the hippocampi from term-equivalent to 7 years of age between VPT and FT children, and determine if development of the hippocampi over time predicts memory and learning impairment in VPT children. T1 and T2 magnetic resonance images were acquired at both term equivalent and 7 years of age in 125 VPT and 25 FT children. Hippocampi were manually segmented and shape was characterized by boundary point distribution models at both time-points. Memory and learning outcomes were measured at 7 years of age. The VPT group demonstrated less hippocampal infolding than the FT group at 7 years. Hippocampal growth between infancy and 7 years was less in the VPT compared with the FT group, but the change in shape was similar between groups. There was little evidence that the measures of hippocampal development were related to memory and learning impairments in the VPT group. This study suggests that the developmental trajectory of the human hippocampus is altered in VPT children, but this does not predict memory and learning impairment. Further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms for memory and learning difficulties in VPT children. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Proof of Concept Study for the Design, Manufacturing, and Testing of a Patient-Specific Shape Memory Device for Treatment of Unicoronal Craniosynostosis.

PubMed

Borghi, Alessandro; Rodgers, Will; Schievano, Silvia; Ponniah, Allan; Jeelani, Owase; Dunaway, David

2018-01-01

Treatment of unicoronal craniosynostosis is a surgically challenging problem, due to the involvement of coronal suture and cranial base, with complex asymmetries of the calvarium and orbit. Several techniques for correction have been described, including surgical bony remodeling, early strip craniotomy with orthotic helmet remodeling and distraction. Current distraction devices provide unidirectional forces and have had very limited success. Nitinol is a shape memory alloy that can be programmed to the shape of a patient-specific anatomy by means of thermal treatment.In this work, a methodology to produce a nitinol patient-specific distractor is presented: computer tomography images of a 16-month-old patient with unicoronal craniosynostosis were processed to create a 3-dimensional model of his skull and define the ideal shape postsurgery. A mesh was produced from a nitinol sheet, formed to the ideal skull shape and heat treated to be malleable at room temperature. The mesh was afterward deformed to be attached to a rapid prototyped plastic skull, replica of the patient initial anatomy. The mesh/skull construct was placed in hot water to activate the mesh shape memory property: the deformed plastic skull was computed tomography scanned for comparison of its shape with the initial anatomy and with the desired shape, showing that the nitinol mesh had been able to distract the plastic skull to a shape close to the desired one.The shape-memory properties of nitinol allow for the design and production of patient-specific devices able to deliver complex, preprogrammable shape changes.

Shape Memory Composites Based on Electrospun Poly(vinyl alcohol) Fibers and a Thermoplastic Polyether Block Amide Elastomer.

PubMed

Shirole, Anuja; Sapkota, Janak; Foster, E Johan; Weder, Christoph

2016-03-01

The present study aimed at developing new thermally responsive shape-memory composites, that were fabricated by compacting mats of electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) fibers and sheets of a thermoplastic polyether block amide elastomer (PEBA). This design was based on the expectation that the combination of the rubber elasticity of the PEBA matrix and the mechanical switching exploitable through the reversible glass transition temperature (Tg) of the PVA filler could be combined to create materials that display shape memory characteristics as an emergent effect. Dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) show that, upon introduction of 10-20% w/w PVA fibers, the room-temperature storage modulus (E') increased by a factor of 4-5 in comparison to the neat PEBA, and they reveal a stepwise reduction of E' around the Tg of PVA (85 °C). This transition could indeed be utilized to fix a temporary shape and recover the permanent shape. At low strain, the fixity was 66 ± 14% and the recovery was 98 ± 2%. Overall, the data validate a simple and practical strategy for the fabrication of shape memory composites that involves a melt compaction process and employs two commercially available polymers.

Learning and memory for sequences of pictures, words, and spatial locations: an exploration of serial position effects.

PubMed

Bonk, William J; Healy, Alice F

2010-01-01

A serial reproduction of order with distractors task was developed to make it possible to observe successive snapshots of the learning process at each serial position. The new task was used to explore the effect of several variables on serial memory performance: stimulus content (words, blanks, and pictures), presentation condition (spatial information vs. none), semantically categorized item clustering (grouped vs. ungrouped), and number of distractors relative to targets (none, equal, double). These encoding and retrieval variables, along with learning attempt number, affected both overall performance levels and the shape of the serial position function, although a large and extensive primacy advantage and a small 1-item recency advantage were found in each case. These results were explained well by a version of the scale-independent memory, perception, and learning model that accounted for improved performance by increasing the value of only a single parameter that reflects reduced interference from distant items.

Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding of Ni-rich NiTi plates: functional behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oliveira, J. P.; Barbosa, D.; Braz Fernandes, F. M.; Miranda, R. M.

2016-03-01

It is often reported that, to successfully join NiTi shape memory alloys, fusion-based processes with reduced thermal affected regions (as in laser welding) are required. This paper describes an experimental study performed on the tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding of 1.5 mm thick plates of Ni-rich NiTi. The functional behavior of the joints was assessed. The superelasticity was analyzed by cycling tests at maximum imposed strains of 4, 8 and 12% and for a total of 600 cycles, without rupture. The superelastic plateau was observed, in the stress-strain curves, 30 MPa below that of the base material. Shape-memory effect was evidenced by bending tests with full recovery of the initial shape of the welded joints. In parallel, uniaxial tensile tests of the joints showed a tensile strength of 700 MPa and an elongation to rupture of 20%. The elongation is the highest reported for fusion-welding of NiTi, including laser welding. These results can be of great interest for the wide-spread inclusion of NiTi in complex shaped components requiring welding, since TIG is not an expensive process and is simple to operate and implement in industrial environments.

Shape memory polymer network with thermally distinct elasticity and plasticity.

PubMed

Zhao, Qian; Zou, Weike; Luo, Yingwu; Xie, Tao

2016-01-01

Stimuli-responsive materials with sophisticated yet controllable shape-changing behaviors are highly desirable for real-world device applications. Among various shape-changing materials, the elastic nature of shape memory polymers allows fixation of temporary shapes that can recover on demand, whereas polymers with exchangeable bonds can undergo permanent shape change via plasticity. We integrate the elasticity and plasticity into a single polymer network. Rational molecular design allows these two opposite behaviors to be realized at different temperature ranges without any overlap. By exploring the cumulative nature of the plasticity, we demonstrate easy manipulation of highly complex shapes that is otherwise extremely challenging. The dynamic shape-changing behavior paves a new way for fabricating geometrically complex multifunctional devices.

Laser and Surface Processes of NiTi Shape Memory Elements for Micro-actuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nespoli, Adelaide; Biffi, Carlo Alberto; Previtali, Barbara; Villa, Elena; Tuissi, Ausonio

2014-04-01

In the current microtechnology for actuation field, shape memory alloys (SMA) are considered one of the best candidates for the production of mini/micro devices thanks to their high power-to-weight ratio as function of the actuator weight and hence for their capability of generating high mechanical performance in very limited spaces. In the microscale the most suitable conformation of a SMA actuator is given by a planar wavy formed arrangement, i.e., the snake-like shape, which allows high strokes, considerable forces, and devices with very low sizes. This uncommon and complex geometry becomes more difficult to be realized when the actuator dimensions are scaled down to micrometric values. In this work, micro-snake-like actuators are laser machined using a nanosecond pulsed fiber laser, starting from a 120- μm-thick NiTi sheet. Chemical and electrochemical surface polishes are also investigated for the removal of the thermal damages of the laser process. Calorimetric and thermo-mechanical tests are accomplished to assess the NiTi microdevice performance after each step of the working process. It is shown that laser machining has to be followed by some post-processes in order to obtain a micro-actuator with good thermo-mechanical properties.

Differences between appetitive and aversive reinforcement on reorientation in a spatial working memory task.

PubMed

Golob, Edward J; Taube, Jeffrey S

2002-10-17

Tasks using appetitive reinforcers show that following disorientation rats use the shape of an arena to reorient, and cannot distinguish two geometrically similar corners to obtain a reward, despite the presence of a prominent visual cue that provides information to differentiate the two corners. Other studies show that disorientation impairs performance on certain appetitive, but not aversive, tasks. This study evaluated whether rats would make similar geometric errors in a working memory task that used aversive reinforcement. We hypothesized that in a task that used aversive reinforcement rats that were initially disoriented would not reorient by arena shape and thus make similar geometric errors. Tests were performed in a rectangular arena having one polarizing cue. In the appetitive condition water consumption was the reward. The aversive condition was a water maze task with reinforcement provided by escape to a hidden platform. In the aversive condition rats returned to the reinforced corner significantly more often than in the dry condition, and did not favor the diagonally opposite corner. Results show that rats can use cues besides arena shape to reorient in an aversive reinforcement condition. These findings may also reflect different strategies, with an escape/homing strategy in the wet condition and a foraging strategy in the dry condition.

Comparative Analysis of the Effects of Severe Plastic Deformation and Thermomechanical Training on the Functional Stability of Ti50.5Ni24.5Pd25 High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atli, K. C.; Karaman, I.; Noebe, R. D.; Maier, H. J.

2010-01-01

We compare the effectiveness of a conventional thermomechanical training procedure and severe plastic deformation via equal channel angular extrusion to achieve improved functional stability in a Ti50.5Ni24.5Pd25 high-temperature shape memory alloy. Thermomechanical testing indicates that both methods result in enhanced shape memory characteristics, such as reduced irrecoverable strain and thermal hysteresis. The mechanisms responsible for the improvements are discussed in light of microstructural findings from transmission electron microscopy.

Cellular Shape Memory Alloy Structures: Experiments & Modeling (Part 1)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-01

High -­‐ temperature  SMAs 24 Braze  Joint  between  two  wrought  pieces  of  a  Ni24.5Pd25Ti50.5  HTSMA   (HTSMA  from...process  can  be  used   to  join  other  metal  alloys  and   high -­‐ temperature   SMAs 25 Cellular  Shape  Memory...20 30 40 50 60 910 3 4 8 5 2 T (°C) Shape memory & superelasticity 1 0 e (%) (GPa) 6 7 A NiTi wire

Shape Memory Alloys and Their Applications in Power Generation and Refrigeration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cui, Jun

The shape memory effect is closely related to the reversible martensitic phase transformation, which is diffusionless and involves shear deformation. The recoverable transformation between the two phases with different crystalline symmetry results in reversible changes in physical properties such as electrical conductivity, magnetization, and elasticity. Accompanying the transformation is a change of entropy. Fascinating applications are developed based on these changes. In this paper, the history, fundamentals and technical challenges of both thermoelastic and ferromagnetic shape memory alloys are briefly reviewed; applications related to energy conversion such as power generation and refrigeration as well as recent developments will be discussed.

Shape Memory Alloys and their Applications in Power Generation and Refrigeration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cui, Jun

The shape memory effect is closely related to the reversible martensitic phase transformation, which is diffusionless and involves shear deformation. The recoverable transformation between the two phases with different crystalline symmetry results in reversible changes in physical properties such as electrical conductivity, magnetization, and elasticity. Accompanying the transformation is a change of entropy. Fascinating applications are developed based on these changes. In this paper, the history, fundamentals and technical challenges of both thermoelastic and ferromagnetic shape memory alloys are briefly reviewed; applications related to energy conversion such as power generation and refrigeration as well as recent developments will be discussed.

Multistable wireless micro-actuator based on antagonistic pre-shaped double beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, X.; Lamarque, F.; Doré, E.; Pouille, P.

2015-07-01

This paper presents a monolithic multistable micro-actuator based on antagonistic pre-shaped double beams. The designed micro-actuator is formed by two rows of bistable micro-actuators providing four stable positions. The bistable mechanism for each row is a pair of antagonistic pre-shaped beams. This bistable mechanism has an easier pre-load operation compared to the pre-compressed bistable beams method. Furthermore, it solves the asymmetrical force output problem of parallel pre-shaped bistable double beams. At the same time, the geometrical limit is lower than parallel pre-shaped bistable double beams, which ensures a smaller stroke of the micro-actuator with the same dimensions. The designed micro-actuator is fabricated using laser cutting machine on medium density fiberboard (MDF). The bistability and merits of antagonistic pre-shaped double beams are experimentally validated. Finally, a contactless actuation test is performed using 660 nm wavelength laser heating shape memory alloy (SMA) active elements.

Phase Transformation and Shape Memory Effect of Ti-Pd-Pt-Zr High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamabe-Mitarai, Yoko; Takebe, Wataru; Shimojo, Masayuki

2017-12-01

To understand the potential of high-temperature shape memory alloys, we have investigated the phase transformation and shape memory effect of Ti-(50 - x)Pt- xPd-5Zr alloys ( x = 0, 5, and 15 at.%), which present the B2 structure in the austenite phase and B19 structure in the martensite phase. Their phase transformation temperatures are very high; A f and M f of Ti-50Pt are 1066 and 1012 °C, respectively. By adding Zr and Pd, the phase transition temperatures decrease, ranging between 804 and 994 °C for A f and 590 and 865 °C for M f. Even at the high phase transformation temperature, a maximum recovery ratio of 70% was obtained for one cycle in a thermal cyclic test. A work output of 1.2 J/cm3 was also obtained. The recovery ratio obtained by the thermal cyclic test was less than 70% because the recovery strain was < 1% and a large irrecoverable strain was obtained. The shape recovery was explained by the austenite strength. The training effect was also investigated.

Aging and solid shape recognition: Vision and haptics.

PubMed

Norman, J Farley; Cheeseman, Jacob R; Adkins, Olivia C; Cox, Andrea G; Rogers, Connor E; Dowell, Catherine J; Baxter, Michael W; Norman, Hideko F; Reyes, Cecia M

2015-10-01

The ability of 114 younger and older adults to recognize naturally-shaped objects was evaluated in three experiments. The participants viewed or haptically explored six randomly-chosen bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) in a study session and were later required to judge whether each of twelve bell peppers was "old" (previously presented during the study session) or "new" (not presented during the study session). When recognition memory was tested immediately after study, the younger adults' (Experiment 1) performance for vision and haptics was identical when the individual study objects were presented once. Vision became superior to haptics, however, when the individual study objects were presented multiple times. When 10- and 20-min delays (Experiment 2) were inserted in between study and test sessions, no significant differences occurred between vision and haptics: recognition performance in both modalities was comparable. When the recognition performance of older adults was evaluated (Experiment 3), a negative effect of age was found for visual shape recognition (younger adults' overall recognition performance was 60% higher). There was no age effect, however, for haptic shape recognition. The results of the present experiments indicate that the visual recognition of natural object shape is different from haptic recognition in multiple ways: visual shape recognition can be superior to that of haptics and is affected by aging, while haptic shape recognition is less accurate and unaffected by aging. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Concept for a 3D-printed soft rotary actuator driven by a shape-memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Han; Chapelle, Frédéric; Fauroux, Jean-Christophe; Balandraud, Xavier

2018-05-01

In line with the recent development of soft actuators involving shape-memory alloys (SMAs) embedded in compliant structures, this paper proposes a concept for a rotary actuator driven by a SMA wire placed inside a 3D-printed helical structure. The concept consists of using the one-way memory effect of the SMA (activated by Joule heating) to create the rotation of a material point of the structure, while the inverse rotation is obtained during the return to ambient temperature thanks to the structure’s elasticity. The study was performed in three steps. First, a prototype was designed from a chain of design rules, and tested to validate the feasibility of the concept. Thermal and geometrical measurements were performed using infrared and visible-range stereo cameras. A clockwise rotation (250°) followed by an anti-clockwise rotation (‑200°) were obtained, enabling us to validate the concept despite the partial reversibility of the movement. Second, finite element simulations were performed to improve rotation reversibility. The high compliance of the mechanical system required a framework of large displacements for the calculations (in the strength of materials sense), due to the high structural flexibility. Finally, a second prototype was constructed and tested. Attention was paid to the rotation (fully reversible rotation of 150° reached) as well as to parasitic movements due to overall structural deformation. This study opens new prospects for the design and analysis of 3D-printed soft actuators activated by smart materials.

Modeling of a reinforced concrete beam using shape memory alloy as reinforcement bars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajoria, Kamal M.; Kaduskar, Shreya S.

2017-04-01

In this paper the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams with smart rebars under three point loading system has been numerically studied, using Finite Element Method. The material used in this study is Superelastic Shape Memory Alloy (SE SMA) which contains nickel and titanium. Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of materials which have ability to undergo large deformation and also regain their un-deformed shape by removal of stress or by heating. In this study, a uniaxial SMA model is able to reproduce the pseudo-elastic behavior for the reinforcing SMA wires. Finite element simulation is developed in order to study the load-deflection behavior of smart concrete beams subjected to three-point bending tests.

Memory effects in nanoparticle dynamics and transport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanghi, Tarun; Bhadauria, Ravi; Aluru, N. R.

2016-10-01

In this work, we use the generalized Langevin equation (GLE) to characterize and understand memory effects in nanoparticle dynamics and transport. Using the GLE formulation, we compute the memory function and investigate its scaling with the mass, shape, and size of the nanoparticle. It is observed that changing the mass of the nanoparticle leads to a rescaling of the memory function with the reduced mass of the system. Further, we show that for different mass nanoparticles it is the initial value of the memory function and not its relaxation time that determines the "memory" or "memoryless" dynamics. The size and the shape of the nanoparticle are found to influence both the functional-form and the initial value of the memory function. For a fixed mass nanoparticle, increasing its size enhances the memory effects. Using GLE simulations we also investigate and highlight the role of memory in nanoparticle dynamics and transport.

Characterizing and modeling the free recovery and constrained recovery behavior of a polyurethane shape memory polymer

PubMed Central

Volk, Brent L; Lagoudas, Dimitris C; Maitland, Duncan J

2011-01-01

In this work, tensile tests and one-dimensional constitutive modeling are performed on a high recovery force polyurethane shape memory polymer that is being considered for biomedical applications. The tensile tests investigate the free recovery (zero load) response as well as the constrained displacement recovery (stress recovery) response at extension values up to 25%, and two consecutive cycles are performed during each test. The material is observed to recover 100% of the applied deformation when heated at zero load in the second thermomechanical cycle, and a stress recovery of 1.5 MPa to 4.2 MPa is observed for the constrained displacement recovery experiments. After performing the experiments, the Chen and Lagoudas model is used to simulate and predict the experimental results. The material properties used in the constitutive model – namely the coefficients of thermal expansion, shear moduli, and frozen volume fraction – are calibrated from a single 10% extension free recovery experiment. The model is then used to predict the material response for the remaining free recovery and constrained displacement recovery experiments. The model predictions match well with the experimental data. PMID:22003272

Numerical analysis of dynamic behavior of pre-stressed shape memory alloy concrete beam-column joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, S.; Xiao, Z. F.; Lin, M. Y.; Niu, J.

2018-04-01

Beam-column joints are important parts of a main frame structure. Mechanical properties of beam-column joints have a great influence on dynamic performances of the frame structure. Shape memory alloy (SMA) as a new type of intelligent metal materials has wide applications in civil engineering. The paper aims at proposing a novel beam-column joint reinforced with pre-stressed SMA tendons to increase its dynamic performance. Based on the finite element analysis (FEA) software ABAQUS, a numerical simulation for 6 beam-column scaled models considering different SMA reinforcement ratios and pre-stress levels was performed, focusing on bearing capacities, energy-dissipation and self-centering capacities, etc. These models were numerically tested under a pseudo-static load on the beam end, companying a constant vertical compressive load on the top of the column. The numerical results show that the proposed SMA-reinforced joint has a significantly increased bearing capacity and a good self-centering capability after unloading even though the energy-dissipation capacity becomes smaller due the less residual deformation. The concept and mechanism of the novel joint can be used as an important reference for civil engineering applications.

Experimental characterization of shape memory alloy actuator cables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biggs, Daniel B.; Shaw, John A.

2016-04-01

Wire rope (or cables) are a fundamental structural element in many engineering applications. Recently, there has been growing interest in stranding NiTi wires into cables to scale up the adaptive properties of NiTi tension elements and to make use of the desirable properties of wire rope. Exploratory experiments were performed to study the actuation behavior of two NiTi shape memory alloy cables and straight monofilament wire of the same material. The specimens were held under various dead loads ranging from 50 MPa to 400 MPa and thermally cycled 25 times from 140°C to 5°C at a rate of 12°C/min. Performance metrics of actuation stroke, residual strain, and work output were measured and compared between specimen types. The 7x7 cable exhibited similar actuation to the single straight wire, but with slightly longer stroke and marginally more shakedown, while maintaining equivalent specific work output. This leads to the conclusion that the 7x7 cable effectively scaled up the adaptive properties the straight wire. Under loads below 150 MPa, the 1x27 cable had up to double the actuation stroke and work output, but exhibited larger shakedown and poorer performance when loaded higher.

High Work Output Ni-Ti-Pt High Temperature Shape Memory Alloys and Associated Processing Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noebe, Ronald D. (Inventor); Draper, Susan L. (Inventor); Nathal, Michael V. (Inventor); Garg, Anita (Inventor)

2009-01-01

According to the invention, compositions of Ni-Ti-Pt high temperature, high force, shape memory alloys are disclosed that have transition temperatures above 100 C.; have narrow hysteresis; and produce a high specific work output.

Tunable thiol-epoxy shape memory polymer foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ellson, Gregory; Di Prima, Matthew; Ware, Taylor; Tang, Xiling; Voit, Walter

2015-05-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are uniquely suited to a number of applications due to their shape storage and recovery abilities and the wide range of available chemistries. However, many of the desired performance properties are tied to the polymer chemistry which can make optimization difficult. The use of foaming techniques is one way to tune mechanical response of an SMP without changing the polymer chemistry. In this work, a novel thiol-epoxy SMP was foamed using glass microspheres (40 and 50% by volume Q-Cel 6019), using expandable polymer microspheres (1% 930 DU 120), and by a chemical blowing agent (1% XOP-341). Each approach created SMP foam with a differing density and microstructure from the others. Thermal and thermomechanical analysis was performed to observe the behavioral difference between the foaming techniques and to confirm that the glass transition (Tg) was relatively unchanged near 50 °C while the glassy modulus varied from 19.1 to 345 MPa and the rubbery modulus varied from 0.04 to 2.2 MPa. The compressive behavior of the foams was characterized through static compression testing at different temperatures, and cyclic compression testing at Tg. Constrained shape recovery testing showed a range of peak recovery stress from 5 MPa for the syntactic Q-Cel foams to ˜0.1 MPa for the chemically blown XOP-341 foam. These results showed that multiple foaming approaches can be used with a novel SMP to vary the mechanical response independent of Tg and polymer chemistry.

Shape Memory Behavior of Dense and Porous NiTi Alloys Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saedi, Soheil

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of Additive Manufacturing is an attractive fabrication method that employs CAD data to selectively melt the metal powder layer by layer via a laser beam and produce a 3D part. This method not only opens a new window in overcoming traditional NiTi fabrication problems but also for producing porous or complex shaped structures. The combination of SLM fabrication advantages with the unique properties of NiTi alloys, such as shape memory effect, superelasticity, high ductility, work output, corrosion, biocompatibility, etc. makes SLM NiTi alloys extremely promising for numerous applications. The SLM process parameters such as laser power, scanning speed, spacing, and strategy used during the fabrication are determinant factors in composition, microstructural features and functional properties of the SLM NiTi alloy. Therefore, a comprehensive and systematic study has been conducted over Ni 50.8 Ti49.2 (at%) alloy to understand the influence of each parameter individually. It was found that a sharp [001] texture is formed as a result of SLM fabrication which leads to improvements in the superelastic response of the alloy. It was perceived that transformation temperatures, microstructure, hardness, the intensity of formed texture and the correlated thermo-mechanical response are changed substantially with alteration of each parameter. The provided knowledge will allow choosing optimized parameters for tailoring the functional features of SLM fabricated NiTi alloys. Without going through any heat treatments, 5.77% superelasticity with more than 95% recovery ratio was obtained in as-fabricated condition only with the selection of right process parameters. Additionally, thermal treatments can be utilized to form precipitates in Ni-rich SLM NiTi alloys fabricated by low energy density. Precipitation could significantly alter the matrix composition, transformation temperatures and strain, critical stress for transformation, and shape memory response of the alloy. Therefore, a systematic aging study has been performed to reveal the effects of aging time and temperature. It was found that although SLM fabricated samples show lower strength than the initial ingot, heat treatments can be employed to make significant improvements in shape memory response of SLM NiTi. Up to 5.5% superelastic response and perfect shape memory effect at stress levels up to 500 MPa was observed in solutionized Ni-rich SLM NiTi after 18h aging at 350°C. For practical application, transformation temperatures were even adjusted without solution annealing and superelastic response of 5.5% was achieved at room temperature for 600C-1.5hr aged Ni-rich SLM NiTi. The effect of porosity on strength and cyclic response of porous SLM Ni50.1 Ti49.9 (at%) were investigated for potential bone implant applications. It is shown that mechanical properties of samples such as elastic modulus, yield strength, and ductility of samples are highly porosity level and pore structure dependent. It is shown that it is feasible to decrease Young's modulus of SLM NiTi up to 86% by adding porosity to reduce the mismatch with that of a bone and still retain the shape memory response of SLM fabricated NiTi. The shape memory effect, as well as superelastic response of porous SLM Ni50.8Ti49.2, were also investigated at body temperature. 32 and 45% porous samples with similar behaviors, recovered 3.5% of 4% deformation at first cycle. The stabilized superelastic response was obtained after clicking experiments.

High-quality lossy compression: current and future trends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McLaughlin, Steven W.

1995-01-01

This paper is concerned with current and future trends in the lossy compression of real sources such as imagery, video, speech and music. We put all lossy compression schemes into common framework where each can be characterized in terms of three well-defined advantages: cell shape, region shape and memory advantages. We concentrate on image compression and discuss how new entropy constrained trellis-based compressors achieve cell- shape, region-shape and memory gain resulting in high fidelity and high compression.

A Novel Bat-Shaped Dicyanomethylene-4H-pyran-Functionalized Naphthalimide for Highly Efficient Solution-Processed Multilevel Memory Devices.

PubMed

Zhang, Qi-Jian; Miao, Shi-Feng; Li, Hua; He, Jing-Hui; Li, Na-Jun; Xu, Qing-Feng; Chen, Dong-Yun; Lu, Jian-Mei

2017-06-19

Small-molecule-based multilevel memory devices have attracted increasing attention because of their advantages, such as super-high storage density, fast reading speed, light weight, low energy consumption, and shock resistance. However, the fabrication of small-molecule-based devices always requires expensive vacuum-deposition techniques or high temperatures for spin-coating. Herein, through rational tailoring of a previous molecule, DPCNCANA (4,4'-(6,6'-bis(2-octyl-1,3-dioxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[de]isoquinolin-6-yl)-9H,9'H-[3,3'-bicarbazole]-9,9'-diyl)dibenzonitrile), a novel bat-shaped A-D-A-type (A-D-A=acceptor-donor-acceptor) symmetric framework has been successfully synthesized and can be dissolved in common solvents at room temperature. Additionally, it has a low-energy bandgap and dense intramolecular stacking in the film state. The solution-processed memory devices exhibited high-performance nonvolatile multilevel data-storage properties with low switching threshold voltages of about -1.3 and -2.7 V, which is beneficial for low power consumption. Our result should prompt the study of highly efficient solution-processed multilevel memory devices in the field of organic electronics. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Visual feature binding in younger and older adults: encoding and suffix interference effects.

PubMed

Brown, Louise A; Niven, Elaine H; Logie, Robert H; Rhodes, Stephen; Allen, Richard J

2017-02-01

Three experiments investigated younger (18-25 yrs) and older (70-88 yrs) adults' temporary memory for colour-shape combinations (binding). We focused upon estimating the magnitude of the binding cost for each age group across encoding time (Experiment 1; 900/1500 ms), presentation format (Experiment 2; simultaneous/sequential), and interference (Experiment 3; control/suffix) conditions. In Experiment 1, encoding time did not differentially influence binding in the two age groups. In Experiment 2, younger adults exhibited poorer binding performance with sequential relative to simultaneous presentation, and serial position analyses highlighted a particular age-related difficulty remembering the middle item of a series (for all memory conditions). Experiments 1-3 demonstrated small to medium binding effect sizes in older adults across all encoding conditions, with binding less accurate than shape memory. However, younger adults also displayed negative effects of binding (small to large) in two of the experiments. Even when older adults exhibited a greater suffix interference effect in Experiment 3, this was for all memory types, not just binding. We therefore conclude that there is no consistent evidence for a visual binding deficit in healthy older adults. This relative preservation contrasts with the specific and substantial deficits in visual feature binding found in several recent studies of Alzheimer's disease.

Recoverable Wire-Shaped Supercapacitors with Ultrahigh Volumetric Energy Density for Multifunctional Portable and Wearable Electronics.

PubMed

Shi, Minjie; Yang, Cheng; Song, Xuefeng; Liu, Jing; Zhao, Liping; Zhang, Peng; Gao, Lian

2017-05-24

Wire-shaped supercapacitors (SCs) based on shape memory materials are of considerable interest for next-generation portable and wearable electronics. However, the bottleneck in this field is how to develop the devices with excellent electrochemical performance while well-maintaining recoverability and flexibility. Herein, a unique asymmetric electrode concept is put forward to fabricate smart wire-shaped SCs with ultrahigh energy density, which is realized by using porous carbon dodecahedra coated on NiTi alloy wire and flexible graphene fiber as yarn electrodes. Notably, the wire-shaped SCs not only exhibit high flexibility that can be readily woven into real clothing but also represent the available recoverable ability. When irreversible plastic deformations happen, the deformed shape of the devices can automatically resume the initial predesigned shape in a warm environment (about 35 °C). More importantly, the wire-shaped SCs act as efficient energy storage devices, which display high volumetric energy density (8.9 mWh/cm 3 ), volumetric power density (1080 mW/cm 3 ), strong durability in multiple mechanical states, and steady electrochemical behavior after repeated shape recovery processes. Considering their relative facile fabrication technology and excellent electrochemical performance, this asymmetric electrode strategy produced smart wire-shaped supercapacitors desirable for multifunctional portable and wearable electronics.

Testing the Motor Simulation Account of Source Errors for Actions in Recall

PubMed Central

Lange, Nicholas; Hollins, Timothy J.; Bach, Patric

2017-01-01

Observing someone else perform an action can lead to false memories of self-performance – the observation inflation effect. One explanation is that action simulation via mirror neuron activation during action observation is responsible for observation inflation by enriching memories of observed actions with motor representations. In three experiments we investigated this account of source memory failures, using a novel paradigm that minimized influences of verbalization and prior object knowledge. Participants worked in pairs to take turns acting out geometric shapes and letters. The next day, participants recalled either actions they had performed or those they had observed. Experiment 1 showed that participants falsely retrieved observed actions as self-performed, but also retrieved self-performed actions as observed. Experiment 2 showed that preventing participants from encoding observed actions motorically by taxing their motor system with a concurrent motor task did not lead to the predicted decrease in false claims of self-performance. Indeed, Experiment 3 showed that this was the case even if participants were asked to carefully monitor their recall. Because our data provide no evidence for a motor activation account, we also discussed our results in light of a source monitoring account. PMID:29033874

The memory effect of magnetoelectric coupling in FeGaB/NiTi/PMN-PT multiferroic heterostructure

PubMed Central

Zhou, Ziyao; Zhao, Shishun; Gao, Yuan; Wang, Xinjun; Nan, Tianxiang; Sun, Nian X.; Yang, Xi; Liu, Ming

2016-01-01

Magnetoelectric coupling effect has provided a power efficient approach in controlling the magnetic properties of ferromagnetic materials. However, one remaining issue of ferromagnetic/ferroelectric magnetoelectric bilayer composite is that the induced effective anisotropy disappears with the removal of the electric field. The introducing of the shape memory alloys may prevent such problem by taking the advantage of its shape memory effect. Additionally, the shape memory alloy can also “store” the magnetoelectric coupling before heat release, which introduces more functionality to the system. In this paper, we study a FeGaB/NiTi/PMN-PT multiferroic heterostructure, which can be operating in different states with electric field and temperature manipulation. Such phenomenon is promising for tunable multiferroic devices with multi-functionalities. PMID:26847469

An application of neural network for Structural Health Monitoring of an adaptive wing with an array of FBG sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mieloszyk, Magdalena; Krawczuk, Marek; Skarbek, Lukasz; Ostachowicz, Wieslaw

2011-07-01

This paper presents an application of neural networks to determinate the level of activation of shape memory alloy actuators of an adaptive wing. In this concept the shape of the wing can be controlled and altered thanks to the wing design and the use of integrated shape memory alloy actuators. The wing is assumed as assembled from a number of wing sections that relative positions can be controlled independently by thermal activation of shape memory actuators. The investigated wing is employed with an array of Fibre Bragg Grating sensors. The Fibre Bragg Grating sensors with combination of a neural network have been used to Structural Health Monitoring of the wing condition. The FBG sensors are a great tool to control the condition of composite structures due to their immunity to electromagnetic fields as well as their small size and weight. They can be mounted onto the surface or embedded into the wing composite material without any significant influence on the wing strength. The paper concentrates on analysis of the determination of the twisting moment produced by an activated shape memory alloy actuator. This has been analysed both numerically using the finite element method by a commercial code ABAQUS® and experimentally using Fibre Bragg Grating sensor measurements. The results of the analysis have been then used by a neural network to determine twisting moments produced by each shape memory alloy actuator.

Low density biodegradable shape memory polyurethane foams for embolic biomedical applications

PubMed Central

Singhal, Pooja; Small, Ward; Cosgriff-Hernandez, Elizabeth; Maitland, Duncan J; Wilson, Thomas S

2014-01-01

Low density shape memory polymer foams hold significant interest in the biomaterials community for their potential use in minimally invasive embolic biomedical applications. The unique shape memory behavior of these foams allows them to be compressed to a miniaturized form, which can be delivered to an anatomical site via a transcatheter process, and thereafter actuated to embolize the desired area. Previous work in this field has described the use of a highly covalently crosslinked polymer structure for maintaining excellent mechanical and shape memory properties at the application-specific ultra low densities. This work is aimed at further expanding the utility of these biomaterials, as implantable low density shape memory polymer foams, by introducing controlled biodegradability. A highly covalently crosslinked network structure was maintained by use of low molecular weight, symmetrical and polyfunctional hydroxyl monomers such as Polycaprolactone triol (PCL-t, Mn 900 g), N,N,N0,N0-Tetrakis (hydroxypropyl) ethylenediamine (HPED), and Tris (2-hydroxyethyl) amine (TEA). Control over the degradation rate of the materials was achieved by changing the concentration of the degradable PCL-t monomer, and by varying the material hydrophobicity. These porous SMP materials exhibit a uniform cell morphology and excellent shape recovery, along with controllable actuation temperature and degradation rate. We believe that they form a new class of low density biodegradable SMP scaffolds that can potentially be used as “smart” non-permanent implants in multiple minimally invasive biomedical applications. PMID:24090987

A preliminary study on shape recovery speed of a styrene-based shape memory polymer composite actuated by different heating methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xuelian; Zhang, Wuyi; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2007-07-01

Thermally activated shape memory polymers (SMPs) receive increasing attention in recent years. Different from those reported in the literature, in this paper we propose a new approach, i.e., using infrared light, for heating SMPs for shape recovery. We compare this approach with the traditional water bath method in terms of shape recovery speed in bending at both vacuum and no vacuum conditions. The results reveal that the shape recovery speed in infrared heating at vacuum condition is about eight times slower than that by hot water. However, the recovery time is more than doubled if without vacuum.

Shape-morphing composites with designed micro-architectures

DOE PAGES

Rodriguez, Jennifer N.; Zhu, Cheng; Duoss, Eric B.; ...

2016-06-15

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are attractive materials due to their unique mechanical properties, including high deformation capacity and shape recovery. SMPs are easier to process, lightweight, and inexpensive compared to their metallic counterparts, shape memory alloys. However, SMPs are limited to relatively small form factors due to their low recovery stresses. Lightweight, micro-architected composite SMPs may overcome these size limitations and offer the ability to combine functional properties (e.g., electrical conductivity) with shape memory behavior. Fabrication of 3D SMP thermoset structures via traditional manufacturing methods is challenging, especially for designs that are composed of multiple materials within porous microarchitectures designedmore » for specific shape change strategies, e.g. sequential shape recovery. We report thermoset SMP composite inks containing some materials from renewable resources that can be 3D printed into complex, multi-material architectures that exhibit programmable shape changes with temperature and time. Through addition of fiber-based fillers, we demonstrate printing of electrically conductive SMPs where multiple shape states may induce functional changes in a device and that shape changes can be actuated via heating of printed composites. As a result, the ability of SMPs to recover their original shapes will be advantageous for a broad range of applications, including medical, aerospace, and robotic devices.« less

Episodic but not semantic order memory difficulties in autism spectrum disorder: evidence from the Historical Figures Task.

PubMed

Gaigg, Sebastian B; Bowler, Dermot M; Gardiner, John M

2014-01-01

Considerable evidence suggests that the episodic memory system operates abnormally in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) whereas the functions of the semantic memory system are relatively preserved. Here we show that the same dissociation also applies to the domain of order memory. We asked adult participants to order the names of famous historical figures either according to their chronological order in history (probing semantic memory) or according to a random sequence shown once on a screen (probing episodic memory). As predicted, adults with ASD performed less well than age- and IQ-matched comparison individuals only on the episodic task. This observation is of considerable importance in the context of developmental theory because semantic and episodic order memory abilities can be dissociated in typically developing infants before they reach the age at which the behavioural markers associated with ASD are first apparent. This raises the possibility that early emerging memory abnormalities play a role in shaping the developmental trajectory of the disorder. We discuss the broader implications of this possibility and highlight the urgent need for greater scrutiny of memory competences in ASD early in development.

The Effects of Feedback on Memory Strategies of Younger and Older Adults

PubMed Central

Zhang, Fan; Zhang, Xin; Luo, Meng; Geng, Haiyan

2016-01-01

Existing literature suggests that feedback could effectively reduce false memories in younger adults. However, it is unclear whether memory performance in older adults also might be affected by feedback. The current study tested the hypothesis that older adults can use immediate feedback to adjust their memory strategy, similar to younger adults, but after feedback is removed, older adults may not be able to maintain using the memory strategy. Older adults will display more false memories than younger adults due to a reduction in attentional resources. In Study 1, both younger and older adults adjusted gist processing and item-specific processing biases based on the feedback given (i.e., biased and objective feedback). In Study 2 after the feedback was removed, only younger adults with full attention were able to maintain the feedback-shaped memory strategy; whereas, both younger adults with divided attention and older adults had increased false memories after feedback was removed. The findings suggest that environmental support helps older adults as well as younger adults to adopt a memory strategy that demands high attentional resources, but when the support is removed, older adults can no longer maintain such a strategy. PMID:28033327

The Effects of Feedback on Memory Strategies of Younger and Older Adults.

PubMed

Zhang, Fan; Zhang, Xin; Luo, Meng; Geng, Haiyan

2016-01-01

Existing literature suggests that feedback could effectively reduce false memories in younger adults. However, it is unclear whether memory performance in older adults also might be affected by feedback. The current study tested the hypothesis that older adults can use immediate feedback to adjust their memory strategy, similar to younger adults, but after feedback is removed, older adults may not be able to maintain using the memory strategy. Older adults will display more false memories than younger adults due to a reduction in attentional resources. In Study 1, both younger and older adults adjusted gist processing and item-specific processing biases based on the feedback given (i.e., biased and objective feedback). In Study 2 after the feedback was removed, only younger adults with full attention were able to maintain the feedback-shaped memory strategy; whereas, both younger adults with divided attention and older adults had increased false memories after feedback was removed. The findings suggest that environmental support helps older adults as well as younger adults to adopt a memory strategy that demands high attentional resources, but when the support is removed, older adults can no longer maintain such a strategy.

Glucocorticoid effects on object recognition memory require training-associated emotional arousal.

PubMed

Okuda, Shoki; Roozendaal, Benno; McGaugh, James L

2004-01-20

Considerable evidence implicates glucocorticoid hormones in the regulation of memory consolidation and memory retrieval. The present experiments investigated whether the influence of these hormones on memory depends on the level of emotional arousal induced by the training experience. We investigated this issue in male Sprague-Dawley rats by examining the effects of immediate posttraining systemic injections of the glucocorticoid corticosterone on object recognition memory under two conditions that differed in their training-associated emotional arousal. In rats that were not previously habituated to the experimental context, corticosterone (0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 mg/kg, s.c.) administered immediately after a 3-min training trial enhanced 24-hr retention performance in an inverted-U shaped dose-response relationship. In contrast, corticosterone did not affect 24-hr retention of rats that received extensive prior habituation to the experimental context and, thus, had decreased novelty-induced emotional arousal during training. Additionally, immediate posttraining administration of corticosterone to nonhabituated rats, in doses that enhanced 24-hr retention, impaired object recognition performance at a 1-hr retention interval whereas corticosterone administered after training to well-habituated rats did not impair 1-hr retention. Thus, the present findings suggest that training-induced emotional arousal may be essential for glucocorticoid effects on object recognition memory.

Unimodal and crossmodal working memory representations of visual and kinesthetic movement trajectories.

PubMed

Seemüller, Anna; Fiehler, Katja; Rösler, Frank

2011-01-01

The present study investigated whether visual and kinesthetic stimuli are stored as multisensory or modality-specific representations in unimodal and crossmodal working memory tasks. To this end, angle-shaped movement trajectories were presented to 16 subjects in delayed matching-to-sample tasks either visually or kinesthetically during encoding and recognition. During the retention interval, a secondary visual or kinesthetic interference task was inserted either immediately or with a delay after encoding. The modality of the interference task interacted significantly with the encoding modality. After visual encoding, memory was more impaired by a visual than by a kinesthetic secondary task, while after kinesthetic encoding the pattern was reversed. The time when the secondary task had to be performed interacted with the encoding modality as well. For visual encoding, memory was more impaired, when the secondary task had to be performed at the beginning of the retention interval. In contrast, memory after kinesthetic encoding was more affected, when the secondary task was introduced later in the retention interval. The findings suggest that working memory traces are maintained in a modality-specific format characterized by distinct consolidation processes that take longer after kinesthetic than after visual encoding. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Shape memory polymer network with thermally distinct elasticity and plasticity

PubMed Central

Zhao, Qian; Zou, Weike; Luo, Yingwu; Xie, Tao

2016-01-01

Stimuli-responsive materials with sophisticated yet controllable shape-changing behaviors are highly desirable for real-world device applications. Among various shape-changing materials, the elastic nature of shape memory polymers allows fixation of temporary shapes that can recover on demand, whereas polymers with exchangeable bonds can undergo permanent shape change via plasticity. We integrate the elasticity and plasticity into a single polymer network. Rational molecular design allows these two opposite behaviors to be realized at different temperature ranges without any overlap. By exploring the cumulative nature of the plasticity, we demonstrate easy manipulation of highly complex shapes that is otherwise extremely challenging. The dynamic shape-changing behavior paves a new way for fabricating geometrically complex multifunctional devices. PMID:26824077

Micromirror structure actuated by TiNi shape memory thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Y. Q.; Luo, J. K.; Hu, M.; Du, H. J.; Flewitt, A. J.; Milne, W. I.

2005-10-01

TiNi films were deposited by co-sputtering TiNi and Ti targets. Results from differential scanning calorimetry and curvature measurement revealed martensitic transformation and shape memory effect upon heating and cooling. Two types of TiNi/Si micromirror structures with a Si mirror cap (40 µm thick) and TiNi/Si actuation beams were designed and fabricated. For the first design, a V-shaped cantilever based on the TiNi/Si bimorph structure was used as the actuation mechanism for the micromirror. In the second design, three elbow-shaped Si beams with TiNi electrodes were used as the arms to actuate the mirror. The TiNi/Si microbeams were flat at room temperature and bent up by applying voltage in the TiNi electrodes (due to phase transformation and shape memory effect), thus causing changes in angles of the micromirror.

Reversible TAD Chemistry as a Convenient Tool for the Design of (Re)processable PCL-Based Shape-Memory Materials.

PubMed

Defize, Thomas; Riva, Raphaël; Thomassin, Jean-Michel; Alexandre, Michaël; Herck, Niels Van; Prez, Filip Du; Jérôme, Christine

2017-01-01

A chemically cross-linked but remarkably (re)processable shape-memory polymer (SMP) is designed by cross-linking poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) stars via the efficient triazolinedione click chemistry, based on the very fast and reversible Alder-ene reaction of 1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione (TAD) with indole compounds. Typically, a six-arm star-shaped PCL functionalized by indole moieties at the chain ends is melt-blended with a bisfunctional TAD, directly resulting in a cross-linked PCL-based SMP without the need of post-curing treatment. As demonstrated by the stress relaxation measurement, the labile character of the TAD-indole adducts under stress allows for the solid-state plasticity reprocessing of the permanent shape at will by compression molding of the raw cross-linked material, while keeping excellent shape-memory properties. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Recovery behaviour of shape memory polyurethane based laminates after thermoforming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Shuiliang; Xu, Wensen; Prasath Balamurugan, G.; Thompson, Michael R.; Nielsen, Kent E.; Brandys, Frank A.

2017-11-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can be used to produce a new class of decorative films capable of improved formability and shape recovery in polymer laminates, which are increasingly being used for automotive, aerospace, construction and commercial applications. As a relatively new field there is little knowledge on the shape recovery behaviour of laminates with a SMP film and few methods of quantify that behaviour. The influences of different variables that affect the recovery behaviour of thermoplastic shape memory polyurethanes based laminates including ambient temperature (45 °C and 65 °C), material modulus, and adhesive strength were investigated after thermoforming, through both experimental and modelling methods. The empirical model assisted in identifying the contributions of the adhesive to transfer stresses, which dampened the recovery of the laminate with lower shear strength adhesives. Increasing ambient temperature and the film modulus increased both the final angle recovery ratios and recovery rates.

The mind of the mnemonists: an MEG and neuropsychological study of autistic memory savants.

PubMed

Neumann, Nicola; Dubischar-Krivec, Anna M; Braun, Christoph; Löw, Andreas; Poustka, Fritz; Bölte, Sven; Birbaumer, Niels

2010-12-20

About 10% of autistic individuals exhibit some form of islets of abilities in the face of serious intellectual or mental disability ("savant syndrome"). The aim of this study was to investigate brain mechanisms in a sample of autistic subjects with outstanding memory. We investigated seven mnemonist savants with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder and seven matched controls with 151-channel whole-head magnetencephalography in a continuous old-new paradigm. They were presented with 300 pseudowords and 300 shapes and had to indicate by button press, whether the presented stimulus had been shown before. Unexpectedly, mnemonist savants did not perform better than controls, but were outperformed in the recognition of pseudowords. Accordingly, event-related magnetic fields elicited by pseudowords showed widespread old-new effects in controls, but not in savants. A source analysis of its early components revealed right occipital activation in savants, but left parietal activation in controls. This might be related to a visual processing style in mnemonist savants that proved to be inefficient in this task. During the possibly familiarity-based recognition of shapes, there were earlier and more widespread bilateral old-new effects in mnemonist savants, what might reflect their experience with figural material. In a neuropsychological test battery, mnemonist savants performed comparably to autistic people without special memory skills. However, a different factor structure of these tests pointed to a different organization of memory in mnemonist savants compared to controls that is characterized by its relative independence of general intelligence. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The selective disruption of spatial working memory by eye movements

PubMed Central

Postle, Bradley R.; Idzikowski, Christopher; Sala, Sergio Della; Logie, Robert H.; Baddeley, Alan D.

2005-01-01

In the late 1970s/early 1980s, Baddeley and colleagues conducted a series of experiments investigating the role of eye movements in visual working memory. Although only described briefly in a book (Baddeley, 1986), these studies have influenced a remarkable number of empirical and theoretical developments in fields ranging from experimental psychology to human neuropsychology to nonhuman primate electrophysiology. This paper presents, in full detail, three critical studies from this series, together with a recently performed study that includes a level of eye movement measurement and control that was not available for the older studies. Together, the results demonstrate several facts about the sensitivity of visuospatial working memory to eye movements. First, it is eye movement control, not movement per se, that produces the disruptive effects. Second, these effects are limited to working memory for locations, and do not generalize to visual working memory for shapes. Third, they can be isolated to the storage/maintenance components of working memory (e.g., to the delay period of the delayed-recognition task). These facts have important implications for models of visual working memory. PMID:16556561

Treatment of Nonunion of Scaphoid Waist with Ni-Ti Shape-Memory Alloy Connector and Iliac Bone Graft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Lie-Hu; Xu, Shuo-Gui; Wu, Ya-Le; Zhang, Chun-Cai

2011-07-01

After fracture, the unique anatomy and blood supply of the scaphoid itself predisposes to nonunion. Scaphoid nonunion presents a formidable challenge to surgeons because of the difficulties for fixation, and the high failure rate after treatment. The Ni-Ti shape-memory alloy can provide compressive stress at the nonunion site, which is the key point for bone healing. Hence, we designed a shape-memory bone connector named arched shape-memory connector (ASC). We conducted a retrospective study looking at the union rate and complications and correlating the outcome of treatment with this device. The study reviewed a cohort of six consecutive patients presenting with scaphoid waist nonunion, who were treated with ASC and iliac cancellous bone grafting at our center from August 2002 to December 2007. The patients with nonunion achieved a 100% union rate. All the patients who achieved union had good pain relief and improved function. Our study demonstrates that scaphoid waist nonunions can be successfully treated by ASC and iliac bone grafting.

Vibration damping and heat transfer using material phase changes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kloucek, Petr (Inventor); Reynolds, Daniel R. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A method and apparatus wherein phase changes in a material can dampen vibrational energy, dampen noise and facilitate heat transfer. One embodiment includes a method for damping vibrational energy in a body. The method comprises attaching a material to the body, wherein the material comprises a substrate, a shape memory alloy layer, and a plurality of temperature change elements. The method further comprises sensing vibrations in the body. In addition, the method comprises indicating to at least a portion of the temperature change elements to provide a temperature change in the shape memory alloy layer, wherein the temperature change is sufficient to provide a phase change in at least a portion of the shape memory alloy layer, and further wherein the phase change consumes a sufficient amount of kinetic energy to dampen at least a portion of the vibrational energy in the body. In other embodiments, the shape memory alloy layer is a thin film. Additional embodiments include a sensor connected to the material.

Damping of High-temperature Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duffy, Kirsten P.; Padula, Santo A., II; Scheiman, Daniel A.

2008-01-01

Researchers at NASA Glenn Research Center have been investigating high temperature shape memory alloys as potential damping materials for turbomachinery rotor blades. Analysis shows that a thin layer of SMA with a loss factor of 0.04 or more would be effective at reducing the resonant response of a titanium alloy beam. Two NiTiHf shape memory alloy compositions were tested to determine their loss factors at frequencies from 0.1 to 100 Hz, at temperatures from room temperature to 300 C, and at alternating strain levels of 34-35x10(exp -6). Elevated damping was demonstrated between the M(sub s) and M(sub f) phase transformation temperatures and between the A(sub s) and A(sub f) temperatures. The highest damping occurred at the lowest frequencies, with a loss factor of 0.2-0.26 at 0.1 Hz. However, the peak damping decreased with increasing frequency, and showed significant temperature hysteresis in heating and cooling. Keywords: High-temperature, shape memory alloy, damping, aircraft engine blades, NiTiHf

Vibration damping and heat transfer using material phase changes

DOEpatents

Kloucek, Petr [Houston, TX; Reynolds, Daniel R [Oakland, CA

2009-03-24

A method and apparatus wherein phase changes in a material can dampen vibrational energy, dampen noise and facilitate heat transfer. One embodiment includes a method for damping vibrational energy in a body. The method comprises attaching a material to the body, wherein the material comprises a substrate, a shape memory alloy layer, and a plurality of temperature change elements. The method further comprises sensing vibrations in the body. In addition, the method comprises indicating to at least a portion of the temperature change elements to provide a temperature change in the shape memory alloy layer, wherein the temperature change is sufficient to provide a phase change in at least a portion of the shape memory alloy layer, and further wherein the phase change consumes a sufficient amount of kinetic energy to dampen at least a portion of the vibrational energy in the body. In other embodiments, the shape memory alloy layer is a thin film. Additional embodiments include a sensor connected to the material.

Memory for color reactivates color processing region.

PubMed

Slotnick, Scott D

2009-11-25

Memory is thought to be constructive in nature, where features processed in different cortical regions are synthesized during retrieval. In an effort to support this constructive memory framework, the present functional magnetic resonance imaging study assessed whether memory for color reactivated color processing regions. During encoding, participants were presented with colored and gray abstract shapes. During retrieval, old and new shapes were presented in gray and participants responded 'old-colored', 'old-gray', or 'new'. Within color perception regions, color memory related activity was observed in the left fusiform gyrus, adjacent to the collateral sulcus. A retinotopic mapping analysis indicated this activity occurred within color processing region V8. The present feature specific evidence provides compelling support for a constructive view of memory.

SMAUMAT_ITI

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jannetti, C.; Becker, R.

The software is an ABAQUS/Standard UMAT (user defined material behavior subroutine) that implements the constitutive model for shape-memory alloy materials developed by Jannetti et. al. (2003a) using a fully implicit time integration scheme to integrate the constitutive equations. The UMAT is used in conjunction with ABAQUS/Standard to perform a finite-element analysis of SMA materials.

Computational Thermodynamics and Kinetics-Based ICME Framework for High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arróyave, Raymundo; Talapatra, Anjana; Johnson, Luke; Singh, Navdeep; Ma, Ji; Karaman, Ibrahim

2015-11-01

Over the last decade, considerable interest in the development of High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloys (HTSMAs) for solid-state actuation has increased dramatically as key applications in the aerospace and automotive industry demand actuation temperatures well above those of conventional SMAs. Most of the research to date has focused on establishing the (forward) connections between chemistry, processing, (micro)structure, properties, and performance. Much less work has been dedicated to the development of frameworks capable of addressing the inverse problem of establishing necessary chemistry and processing schedules to achieve specific performance goals. Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) has emerged as a powerful framework to address this problem, although it has yet to be applied to the development of HTSMAs. In this paper, the contributions of computational thermodynamics and kinetics to ICME of HTSMAs are described. Some representative examples of the use of computational thermodynamics and kinetics to understand the phase stability and microstructural evolution in HTSMAs are discussed. Some very recent efforts at combining both to assist in the design of HTSMAs and limitations to the full implementation of ICME frameworks for HTSMA development are presented.

Fabrication and Properties of Composite Artificial Muscles Based on Nylon and a Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Haibin; Zhou, Jia; Li, Junfeng; Joseph, Vincent S.

2018-05-01

This paper focuses on the design, fabrication and investigation of the mechanical properties of new artificial muscles formed by twisting and annealing. The artificial muscles designed by twisting nylon have become a popular topic in the field of smart materials due to their high mechanical performance with a large deformation and power density. However, the complexity of the heating and cooling system required to control the nylon muscle is a disadvantage, so we have proposed a composite artificial muscle for providing a direct electricity-driven actuation by integrating nylon and a shape memory alloy (SMA). In this paper, the design and fabrication process of these composite artificial muscles are introduced before their mechanical properties, which include the deformation, stiffness, load and response, are investigated. The results show that these composite artificial muscles that integrate nylon and a SMA provide better mechanical properties and yield up to a 44.1% deformation and 3.43 N driving forces. The good performance and direct electro-thermal actuation make these composite muscles ideal for driving robots in a method similar to human muscles.

Hysteresis modeling of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator based on Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii model.

PubMed

Zhou, Miaolei; Wang, Shoubin; Gao, Wei

2013-01-01

As a new type of intelligent material, magnetically shape memory alloy (MSMA) has a good performance in its applications in the actuator manufacturing. Compared with traditional actuators, MSMA actuator has the advantages as fast response and large deformation; however, the hysteresis nonlinearity of the MSMA actuator restricts its further improving of control precision. In this paper, an improved Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii (KP) model is used to establish the hysteresis model of MSMA actuator. To identify the weighting parameters of the KP operators, an improved gradient correction algorithm and a variable step-size recursive least square estimation algorithm are proposed in this paper. In order to demonstrate the validity of the proposed modeling approach, simulation experiments are performed, simulations with improved gradient correction algorithm and variable step-size recursive least square estimation algorithm are studied, respectively. Simulation results of both identification algorithms demonstrate that the proposed modeling approach in this paper can establish an effective and accurate hysteresis model for MSMA actuator, and it provides a foundation for improving the control precision of MSMA actuator.

Hysteresis Modeling of Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Actuator Based on Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii Model

PubMed Central

Wang, Shoubin; Gao, Wei

2013-01-01

As a new type of intelligent material, magnetically shape memory alloy (MSMA) has a good performance in its applications in the actuator manufacturing. Compared with traditional actuators, MSMA actuator has the advantages as fast response and large deformation; however, the hysteresis nonlinearity of the MSMA actuator restricts its further improving of control precision. In this paper, an improved Krasnosel'skii-Pokrovskii (KP) model is used to establish the hysteresis model of MSMA actuator. To identify the weighting parameters of the KP operators, an improved gradient correction algorithm and a variable step-size recursive least square estimation algorithm are proposed in this paper. In order to demonstrate the validity of the proposed modeling approach, simulation experiments are performed, simulations with improved gradient correction algorithm and variable step-size recursive least square estimation algorithm are studied, respectively. Simulation results of both identification algorithms demonstrate that the proposed modeling approach in this paper can establish an effective and accurate hysteresis model for MSMA actuator, and it provides a foundation for improving the control precision of MSMA actuator. PMID:23737730

The role of cue detection for prospective memory development across the lifespan.

PubMed

Hering, Alexandra; Wild-Wall, Nele; Gajewski, Patrick D; Falkenstein, Michael; Kliegel, Matthias; Zinke, Katharina

2016-12-01

Behavioral findings suggest an inverted U-shaped pattern of prospective memory development across the lifespan. A key mechanism underlying this development is the ability to detect cues. We examined the influence of cue detection on prospective memory, combining behavioral and electrophysiological measures, in three age groups: adolescents (12-14 years), young (19-28 years), and old adults (66-77 years). Cue detection was manipulated by varying the distinctiveness (i.e., how easy it was to detect the cue based on color) of the prospective memory cue in a semantic judgment ongoing task. Behavioral results supported the pattern of an inverted U-shape with a pronounced prospective memory decrease in old adults. Adolescents and young adults showed a prospective memory specific modulation (larger amplitudes for the cues compared to other trials) already for the N1 component. No such specific modulation was evident in old adults for the early N1 component but only at the later P3b component. Adolescents showed differential modulations of the amplitude also for irrelevant information at the P3b, suggesting less efficient processing. In terms of conceptual implications, present findings underline the importance of cue detection for prospective remembering and reveal different developmental trajectories for cue detection. Our findings suggest that cue detection is not a unitary process but consists of multiple stages corresponding to several ERP components that differentially contribute to prospective memory performance across the lifespan. In adolescents resource allocation for detecting cues seemed successful initially but less efficient at later stages; whereas we found the opposite pattern for old adults. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inductively heated shape memory polymer for the magnetic actuation of medical devices.

PubMed

Buckley, Patrick R; McKinley, Gareth H; Wilson, Thomas S; Small, Ward; Benett, William J; Bearinger, Jane P; McElfresh, Michael W; Maitland, Duncan J

2006-10-01

Presently, there is interest in making medical devices such as expandable stents and intravascular microactuators from shape memory polymer (SMP). One of the key challenges in realizing SMP medical devices is the implementation of a safe and effective method of thermally actuating various device geometries in vivo. A novel scheme of actuation by Curie-thermoregulated inductive heating is presented. Prototype medical devices made from SMP loaded with nickel zinc ferrite ferromagnetic particles were actuated in air by applying an alternating magnetic field to induce heating. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis was performed on both the particle-loaded and neat SMP materials to assess the impact of the ferrite particles on the mechanical properties of the samples. Calorimetry was used to quantify the rate of heat generation as a function of particle size and volumetric loading of ferrite particles in the SMP. These tests demonstrated the feasibility of SMP actuation by inductive heating. Rapid and uniform heating was achieved in complex device geometries and particle loading up to 10% volume content did not interfere with the shape recovery of the SMP.

Constitutive modeling and structural analysis considering simultaneous phase transformation and plastic yield in shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartl, D. J.; Lagoudas, D. C.

2009-10-01

The new developments summarized in this work represent both theoretical and experimental investigations of the effects of plastic strain generation in shape memory alloys (SMAs). Based on the results of SMA experimental characterization described in the literature and additional testing described in this work, a new 3D constitutive model is proposed. This phenomenological model captures both the conventional shape memory effects of pseudoelasticity and thermal strain recovery, and additionally considers the initiation and evolution of plastic strains. The model is numerically implemented in a finite element framework using a return mapping algorithm to solve the constitutive equations at each material point. This combination of theory and implementation is unique in its ability to capture the simultaneous evolution of recoverable transformation strains and irrecoverable plastic strains. The consideration of isotropic and kinematic plastic hardening allows the derivation of a theoretical framework capturing the interactions between irrecoverable plastic strain and recoverable strain due to martensitic transformation. Further, the numerical integration of the constitutive equations is formulated such that objectivity is maintained for SMA structures undergoing moderate strains and large displacements. The implemented model has been used to perform 3D analysis of SMA structural components under uniaxial and bending loads, including a case of local buckling behavior. Experimentally validated results considering simultaneous transformation and plasticity in a bending member are provided, illustrating the predictive accuracy of the model and its implementation.

Powder metallurgy technology of NiTi shape memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutkiewicz, J. M.; Maziarz, W.; Czeppe, T.; Lityńska, L.; Nowacki, W. K.; Gadaj, S. P.; Luckner, J.; Pieczyska, E. A.

2008-05-01

Powder metallurgy technology was elaborated for consolidation of shape memory NiTi powders. The shape memory alloy was compacted from the prealloyed powder delivered by Memry SA. The powder shows Ms = 10°C and As = -34°C as results from DSC measurements. The samples were hot pressed in the as delivered spherical particle's state. The hot compaction was performed in a specially constructed vacuum press, at temperature of 680°C and pressure of 400 MPa. The alloy powder was encapsulated in copper capsules prior to hot pressing to avoid oxidation or carbides formation. The alloy after hot vacuum compaction at 680°C (i.e. within the B2 NiTi stability range) has shown similar transformation range as the powder. The porosity of samples compacted in the as delivered state was only 1%. The samples tested in compression up to ɛ = 0.06 have shown partial superelastic effect due to martensitic reversible transform- ation which started at the stress above 300 MPa and returned back to ɛ = 0.015 after unloading. They have shown also a high ultimate compression strength of 1600 MPa. Measurements of the samples temperature changes during the process allowed to detect the temperature increase above 12°C for the strain rate 10-2 s-1 accompanied the exothermic martensite transformation during loading and the temperature decrease related to the reverse endothermic transformation during unloading.

In Situ Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Diffraction Study on Phase and Oxide Growth during a High Temperature Cycle of a NiTi-20 at.% Zr High Temperature Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carl, Matthew; Van Doren, Brian; Young, Marcus L.

2018-03-01

Ternary additions to binary NiTi shape memory alloys are known to significantly affect the characteristic martensite-to-austenite phase transformation, i.e., decrease or increase transformation temperatures. High temperature shape memory alloys can be created by adding Au, Pt, Pd, Hf, or Zr to binary NiTi in appropriate amounts; however, the majority of these ternary additions are exceedingly expensive, unfortunately making them impractical for most commercial applications. Zr is the exception of the group, but it is often disregarded because of its poor workability and thermal stability. In an effort to find a temperature range that allows for the potential workability of NiTiZr alloys in normal atmosphere environments and to gain understanding as to the cause of failure during processing, a NiTi-20 at.% Zr was subjected to a thermal cycle ranging from RT to 1000 °C with short 15 min holds at select temperatures during both heating and cooling while simultaneously collecting high-energy synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction measurements. This study provides valuable insight into the kinetics of precipitation and oxide formation and its relationship to processing. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was performed on five samples, each isothermally held to examine precipitation and oxide structure and growth.

In Situ Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Diffraction Study on Phase and Oxide Growth during a High Temperature Cycle of a NiTi-20 at.% Zr High Temperature Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carl, Matthew; Van Doren, Brian; Young, Marcus L.

2018-02-01

Ternary additions to binary NiTi shape memory alloys are known to significantly affect the characteristic martensite-to-austenite phase transformation, i.e., decrease or increase transformation temperatures. High temperature shape memory alloys can be created by adding Au, Pt, Pd, Hf, or Zr to binary NiTi in appropriate amounts; however, the majority of these ternary additions are exceedingly expensive, unfortunately making them impractical for most commercial applications. Zr is the exception of the group, but it is often disregarded because of its poor workability and thermal stability. In an effort to find a temperature range that allows for the potential workability of NiTiZr alloys in normal atmosphere environments and to gain understanding as to the cause of failure during processing, a NiTi-20 at.% Zr was subjected to a thermal cycle ranging from RT to 1000 °C with short 15 min holds at select temperatures during both heating and cooling while simultaneously collecting high-energy synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction measurements. This study provides valuable insight into the kinetics of precipitation and oxide formation and its relationship to processing. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was performed on five samples, each isothermally held to examine precipitation and oxide structure and growth.

The effect of bacterial cellulose on the shape memory behavior of polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite hydrogel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pirahmadi, Pegah; Kokabi, Mehrdad

2018-01-01

Most research on shape memory polymers has been confined to neat polymers in their dry state, while, some hydrogel networks are known for their shape memory properties. Hydrogels have low glass transition temperatures which are below 100°C depend on the content of water. But they are usually weak and brittle, and not suitable for structural applications due to their low mechanical strengths because of these materials have large amount of water (>50%), so they could not remember original shape perfectly. Bacterial cellulose nanofibers with perfect properties such as high water holding capacity, high crystallinity, high tensile strength and good biocompatibility can dismiss all the drawbacks. In the present study, polyvinyl alcohol/bacterial cellulose nanocomposite hydrogel prepared by repetitive freezing-thawing method. The bacterial cellulose was used as reinforcement to improve the mechanical properties and stimuli response. Differential scanning calorimetry was employed to obtain the glass transition temperature. Nanocomposite morphology was characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy and mechanical properties were investigated by standard tensile test. Finally, the effect of bacterial cellulose nanofiber on shape memory behavior of polyvinyl alcohol/bacterial cellulose nanocomposite hydrogel was investigated. It is found that switching temperature of this system is the glass transition temperature of the nano domains formed within the system. The results also show increase of shape recovery, and shape recovery speed due to presence of bacterial cellulose.

Hippocampal shape variations at term equivalent age in very preterm infants compared with term controls: perinatal predictors and functional significance at age 7

PubMed Central

Thompson, Deanne K.; Adamson, Christopher; Roberts, Gehan; Faggian, Nathan; Wood, Stephen J.; Warfield, Simon K.; Doyle, Lex W.; Anderson, Peter J.; Egan, Gary F.; Inder, Terrie E.

2013-01-01

The hippocampus undergoes rapid growth and development in the perinatal months. Infants born very preterm (VPT) are vulnerable to hippocampal alterations, and can provide a model of disturbed early hippocampal development. Hippocampal shape alterations have previously been associated with memory impairment, but have never been investigated in infants. The aims of this study were to determine hippocampal shape differences between 184 VPT infants (<30 weeks’ gestation or <1250 g at birth) and 32 full-term infants, effects of perinatal factors, and associations between infant hippocampal shape and volume, and 7 year verbal and visual memory (California Verbal Learning Test- Children’s Version and Dot Locations). Infants underwent 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging at term equivalent age. Hippocampi were segmented, and spherical harmonics-point distribution model shape analysis was undertaken. VPT infants’ hippocampi were less infolded than full-term infants, being less curved toward the midline and less arched superior-inferiorly. Straighter hippocampi were associated with white matter injury and postnatal corticosteroid exposure. There were no significant associations between infant hippocampal shape and 7 year memory measures. However, larger infant hippocampal volumes were associated with better verbal memory scores. Altered hippocampal shape in VPT infants at term equivalent age may reflect delayed or disrupted development. This study provides further insight into early hippocampal development and the nature of hippocampal abnormalities in prematurity. PMID:23296179

Shape Memory Alloy-Based Soft Gripper with Variable Stiffness for Compliant and Effective Grasping.

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Ahn, Sung-Hoon

2017-12-01

Soft pneumatic actuators and motor-based mechanisms being concomitant with the cumbersome appendages have many challenges to making the independent robotic system with compact and lightweight configuration. Meanwhile, shape memory actuators have shown a promising alternative solution in many engineering applications ranging from artificial muscle to aerospace industry. However, one of the main limitations of such systems is their inherent softness resulting in a small actuation force, which prevents them from more effective applications. This issue can be solved by combining shape memory actuators and the mechanism of stiffness modulation. As a first, this study describes a shape memory alloy-based soft gripper composed of three identical fingers with variable stiffness for adaptive grasping in low stiffness state and effective holding in high stiffness state. Each finger with two hinges is fabricated through integrating soft composite actuator with stiffness changeable material where each hinge can approximately achieve a 55-fold changeable stiffness independently. Besides, each finger with two hinges can actively achieve multiple postures by both selectively changing the stiffness of hinges and actuating the relevant SMA wire. Based on these principles, the gripper is applicable for grasping objects with deformable shapes and varying shapes with a large range of weight where its maximum grasping force is increased to ∼10 times through integrating with the stiffness changeable mechanism. The final demonstration shows that the finger with desired shape-retained configurations enables the gripper to successfully pick up a frustum-shaped object.